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PaperclipPerfector  1yr ago (text post)   3261 thread views

Small-Scale Question Sunday for July 9, 2023

Do you have a dumb question that you're kind of embarrassed to ask in the main thread? Is there something you're just not sure about?

This is your opportunity to ask questions. No question too simple or too silly.

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Finally, limit or avoid wifey's exposure to phthalates, which has been called "The Everywhere Chemical."

If you're going to give advice like that, maybe add a few hints on how to avoid something called "The Everywhere Chemical"...

Fair call. From the link I posted:

Read Labels to avoid phthalates.

The most common products using phthalate compounds are:

PVC Products

Phthalates are frequently added to PVC (vinyl) products to soften and make more flexible.

If a plastic product is flexible, it probably contains phthalates unless the label specifically says it does not.

Personal Care Products

Phthalates are often added to personal care products, such as nail polish, perfumes, deodorants, hair gels, shampoos, soaps, hair sprays, and body lotions, to help lubricate other substances in the formula and to carry fragrances. Phthalates must be listed among the ingredients on product labels, unless they are added as a part of the “fragrance.” Under current law, they can then simply be labeled “fragrance,” even though they may make up 20% or more of the product.

Many companies have voluntarily removed phthalates from their products. A company will usually label its product “phthalate-free.” If unsure, call the company. If you can’t get information from the manufacturer, look for alternatives.

How can I recognize plastic toys and containers containing phthalates?

All plastics are not the same. One easy way to recognize plastic toys, clothing, bottles, food and beverage storage containers, and/or food wrap that may contain phthalate compounds is to look for the number 3 inside the universal recycling symbol usually molded into the plastic on the bottom of the product.Avoid products with the number 3 within the arrows and the letters “V” or “PVC” below the arrows.

The article has diagrams and goes on a bit more but I am on mobile and pasting from that PDF already was tedious to reformat.

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