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Carcinogenic Cribs and Changing Tables?
Jennifer Taggart
Thursday, May 08, 2008
Environment California has documented high levels of formaldehyde emissions from baby furniture commonly found in the nursery. Environment California’s report shows that cribs and changing tables can emit high levels of formaldehyde. When these sources are added to other sources likely to be found in the home, the levels may exceed those shown to have adverse health effects on children.
Formaldehyde in cribs and changing tables shouldn’t be a surprise. It is common for composite wood products – like particle board and medium density fiberboard (MDF) – are held together with formaldehyde based resins. Unfortunately, the formaldehyde escapes from these products, polluting indoor air. And formaldehyde can be released for many years. But, you might not have thought that a crib or changing table could contribute significantly to formaldehyde emissions in the home. Unfortunately, Environment California’s testing shows that cribs and changing tables can be significant sources. And when you consider that your baby spends a lot of time in that nursery, you might want to look for alternatives. A bit of good news? The California Air Resources Board has enacted a regulation that will start to limit formaldehyde emissions from composite wood products beginning in 2009.
Why is formaldehyde emitted from baby furniture? Wood has naturally occurring formaldehyde. But, more formaldehyde is added to composite wood products to hold together the wood particles. And baby cribs and baby changing tables, along with other similar furniture and cabinets, are typically made of these products. The California Air Resources Board (CARB) reports that formaldehyde off gasses (or escapes) from these products, often for many years. Formaldehyde is released from unreacted formaldehyde present in the resin and as a result of chemical degradation over time. And, unfortunately, porous materials and furnishings, such as upholstered furniture, carpets, walls, and window coverings, can absorb formaldehyde and then re-emit it later. Basically, they act as formaldehyde sinks. So that comfy nursing chair may be absorbing formaldehyde, and the can re-emit it later.
Why do we care about exposure to formaldehyde? Unlike bisphenol A (BPA) in polycarbonate plastic, there isn't much debate about the health effects associated with exposure to formaldehyde. Formaldehyde is a carcinogen. Chronic exposure to formaldehyde is linked to an increased risk for developing allergy sensitization and/or asthma. Several studies have documented that children exposed to elevated levels of formaldehyde are at high risk of developing asthma and other respiratory diseases.
What did Environment California do? It took baby furniture purchased from major retailers such as Target and put the furniture in an enclosed environmental chamber. An independent laboratory measured the formaldehyde emissions from each piece of furniture. Then, the emission rate from the furniture was extrapolated to determine how much the products contributed to the indoor air concentrations of formaldehyde in a typical house.
The results? Of the products tested, the highest emitter, the Child-Craft Oak Crib (purchased at Target), would result in an indoor air concentration of formaldehyde at 20 ppb if it was the only source in the house. Since an elevated risk of asthma has been found in children exposed to indoor air concentrations of formaldehyde at 50 ppb, this is significant. Most homes have many formaldehyde sources, from cabinets to other furniture. Other high formaldehyde emitters were the Bridget 4 in 1 Crib by Delta (Wal Mart), Kayla II Changing Table by Storkcraft (Babies R Us), Berkely Changing Table by Jardine Enterprises (Babies R Us), Country Style Changing Table by South Shore Furniture (Target) and Rochester Cognac Crib by Storkcraft (Target).
So what can you do?
Try these Smart Mama Simple Steps:
- Skip composite wood products.
- Go for non-toxic finishes. If you are buying wood furniture, make sure the coating is non-toxic. Look for natural finishes made with plant oils (although this includes d-limonene), tree resins, minerals and beeswax, or low or no-VOC finishes.
- Just say no to formaldehyde. If you are buying furniture made with manufactured wood products, look for formaldehyde free products. Avoid bare, uncoated urea-formaldehyde pressed wood products that can emit relatively high amounts of formaldehyde.
- Let it off-gas outside. Buying green can be expensive, and sometimes difficult to find. If you can’t find formaldehyde-free particleboard, then let the furniture off gas outside of the nursery, and preferably the home, before bringing the furniture inside. Make sure that the area has fresh air passing by so the formaldehyde will be removed.
- Control climate. The amount of formaldehyde released is increased with increasing temperature and humidity. Keep the humidity and temperature low, and you can reduce the amount of formaldehyde released.
- Seal bare urea-formaldehyde wood products with multiples layers of water resistant sealants. Research indicates that sealing bare urea-formaldehyde wood products can reduce formaldehyde emissions for months to years after application. Seal all unfinished edges of finished furniture. Of course, the sealants themselves may release other VOCs, so check labels carefully. Use a no or low VOC sealant.
- Ventilate. Since babies spend 90% of their time indoors, make sure to keep the home well ventilated. Opening windows and using fans to move and circulate the air will lower formaldehyde levels inside.
- Go green (literally). Some plants have shown an ability to remove pollutants from the air based upon a study by NASA to maintain air quality in confined spaces. Plants shown to remove formaldehyde are those with large leaf surface areas, including Azalea Aloe Vera, Bamboo Palm, Boston ferns, Corn Plant, Chinese evergreen, Chrysanthemum, Date Palm, Dieffenbachia, Golden Pothos, Mini-Schefflera, Peace lily, Peperomia, Mother-in-law's tongue, Philodendron (Heart-leaf, Lacy tree, or Elephant ear), Poinsettia, Snake Plant, and Spider Plant. But, I would consider avoiding those plaints considered poisonous to infants. Also, indoor plants can be problematic. Mold can grow in potted soils and release spores into the air. Houseplants add moisture, thereby fostering the growth of mold and dust mites. No study confirms that houseplants remove significant quantities of pollutants in the home environment, but they may help remove some.
The opinions expressed here are solely those of the author and not necessarily those of Healthy Child Healthy World.
Posted by gloria on 10/23/2010 at 10:50 AM
As a grandmother I am blown away reading this info. I has no idea that there was this kind of issue out there. My mind just is buzzing with all the implications of this problem with formaldehyde. I have two daughters that have small children. I am going to give them this site so they will be made aware. Thank-you !
Posted by Janelle Sorensen on 08/17/2010 at 07:36 AM
Furniture Manufacturer - If there’s still any sort of “new” smell - I recommend letting it air out outside until the smell dissipates. After that, you can find a polyethylene mattress cover that encloses the entire mattress and traps the VOCs inside. Polyethylene is one of the safest plastics and in this application can reduce the greater risks posed by the components of the mattress.
Posted by Furniture Manufacturer on 08/15/2010 at 01:46 AM
I have read so much about what chemicals are used in mattresses. Without having to purchase new mattresses right away, is there anything we can do to protect ourselves and our daughter from the chemicals in the mattress or the off-gassing? What if we encase the mattress in a protective cover? Will that help?
Posted by Janelle Sorensen on 03/15/2010 at 01:46 PM
Nina- Your Ikea crib should be just fine. Good choice!
Posted by Nina Abramova on 03/10/2010 at 10:38 PM
This is a new subject for me and since I am in the market for a new bed for myself and my 7 months old son. I was wondering if an IKEA bed frame with the following characteristics would be a good choice to hold my (recently ordered) Naturepedic mattress:
Key features:
* Untreated solid wood can be treated with lacquer, wax, stain or oil for a more durable surface.
* Solid pine. Can be sanded and treated again and again.
* Solid wood, a hardwearing natural material.
Designer:
K Hagberg/M Hagberg
I really hope someone with knowledge about this subject can reply to me soon, because my mattress should arrive soon and I’d like to know before then. Thanks in advance.
Posted by Stephanie on 02/15/2010 at 09:36 PM
I bought the Chanderic Michelle Convertible Fixed Rail Crib - Black Walnut from Babies r us in Canada - and the matching dresser. It smells really strong of varnish - I have it airing out in the other room. The dresser says in is in compliance of the California code of regulations phase 1, but I’m still concerned - will this be safe for my baby?
Posted by Rick on 12/05/2009 at 10:09 PM
I have read so much about what chemicals are used in mattresses. Without having to purchase new mattresses right away, is there anything we can do to protect ourselves and our daughter from the chemicals in the mattress?
Posted by Alexis on 10/17/2009 at 01:12 PM
Hi, I have been trying to do some research on MOTHER HUBBARD’S CUPBOARDS, BUMBLE BEE collection. They say the finish is 100% Lead free. Is there any way to find out if the nursery furniture contains formaldehyde? Any info that you may be able to inquire about would be very much appreciated. Thank you so very much.
Concerned mom to be,
Alexis
Posted by Jane Church on 04/23/2009 at 03:46 AM
That’s great, I never thought about Carcinogenic Cribs and Changing Tables like that before.
Posted by Janelle Sorensen on 12/16/2008 at 04:02 PM
Thanks Ginny - You are right that textile covers will not prevent off-gassing, it’s only an added layer to reduce exposure. Food grade PET can seal the mattress to prevent off-gassing (but it has to be a particular thickness I can’t recall right now), but, as you point out, you are simply introducing a new exposure.
It’s a tough decision to make when you can’t afford the “perfect” mattress. I recommend that parents try to make an informed decision (so thanks for adding this new info about PET), and to embrace the responsibility that ultimately it’s up to them which risks they choose to take on (we all have to deal with at least some).
At the end of the day, pat yourself on the back for trying, kiss your child good night, and rest peacefully knowing you’re doing the best you can.
Posted by Ginny Turner on 12/16/2008 at 01:37 PM
We are the manufacturer of those above items and we sell to several of those sites. But these items do not prevent offgassing. The toxins still will get in your baby’s lungs. You can get a pure food grade polyethylene cover or make one yourself. This will prevent that as it is air tight. The only problem there might be a low exposure to plastic which disrupts hormones. But it is the safest of the plastics that exist.
Posted by Jennifer Taggart, The Smart Mama on 12/16/2008 at 01:03 PM
Danielle - There are several less costly mattress options available. I’ve found organic mattresses free of chemical flame retardants available on line for significantly less, some with free shipping.
Posted by Janelle Sorensen on 12/16/2008 at 12:00 PM
Danielle, try a mattress cover to help reduce your daughter’s exposure to off-gassing and allergens. Organic cotton or wool are the purest choices, but almost anything’s better than the typical PVC cover.
In general, I tend to look for products that are created for people with allergies or chemical sensitivities.
No endorsements here, but these are some of the covers I found:
http://www.allergyguarddirect.com/100_Pure_Organic_Cotton_s/82.htm?gclid=CNrJypL0xZcCFSJIagod1BNvRw
http://www.theorganicmattressstore.com/moisture-pads.html
http://www.gaiam.com/category/eco-home-outdoor/bedroom/mattress-toppers.do?gcid=S18376x028&keyword=organic mattress pads
http://www.nontoxic.com/orgmattresspads/orgquilted.html
Also, like Jennifer says above, improve the air quality in your daughter’s room by growing a plant and opening the window (even a crack) for a bit of fresh air every day.
Posted by Danielle on 12/16/2008 at 10:47 AM
Thank you so much for your reply! I did opt for alternative options for her Christmas gift and have found some great organic and safer toys this year. I have one more question about mattresses. I have read so much about what chemicals are used in mattresses. Without having to purchase new mattresses right away, is there anything we can do to protect ourselves and our daughter from the chemicals in the mattress or the off-gassing? What if we encase the mattress in a protective cover? Will that help? I also have researched organic mattresses and they are definitely more expensive. I want what is best for my daughter, but I am wondering what my options are outside of buying a new $700 twin organic mattress. Thanks for your help! Love this site!!!
Happy Holidays!
Danielle
Posted by Janelle Sorensen on 12/08/2008 at 09:45 AM
Danielle,
Unless otherwise specified, all MDF is manufactured using urea formaldehyde glue. Even though Pottery Barn is trying to appease you by saying they pay attention to safety standards, unless they can tell you it’s formaldehyde free, they are still using formaldehyde. Also, the lamination process for attaching the veneer usually involves the use of solvent based adhesives. These solvent-based adhesives may off gas toluene, benzene or other VOCs.
Since a wooden kitchen set is sizable investment, look for a natural hard wood set on-line or at a local natural toy store. Or, find a different non-toxic toy to give your daughter.
Sorry to be a kill-joy - Pottery Barn stuff is sooo adorable. Hope you can find something comparable that’s safe and healthy for your daughter. Happy holidays!
Posted by Danielle Lavis on 12/08/2008 at 07:00 AM
Hi,
I noticed a post above with my same question, but I did not see an answer. I am looking to purchase a kitchen set for my daughter for xmas. I saw one at Pottery Barn and it says that the panels are made of MDF, but with solid birch wood veneers. Is this safer for off-gassing? I asked the company and they said that their products conform to high standards and they have been tested for toxic chemicals. I wanted to see what you would have to say before I spend the money to purchase the items. Most of the kitchen sets have “wood like materials” in the description or solid wood veneers…Thanks in advance for a quick response as xmas is rapidly approaching!!!
Warm Regards
Danielle
Posted by Jennifer Taggart, TheSmartMama on 12/01/2008 at 02:18 PM
Ginny - Healthy Child Healthy World is also concerned about the flame retardants and other chemicals found in mattresses, and the phthalates, VOCs and even sometimes lead found in the vinyl mattress covers. This blog was just focused on formaldehyde - not to say that it is the only concern when purchasing baby products for the home. Thanks for the reminder!
You may also want to participate in HCHW’s upcoming conference call on greenwashing - I believe it is scheduled for December 18.
Posted by Jennifer Taggart, TheSmartMama on 12/01/2008 at 02:16 PM
Dave - I’m a bit concerned about the NokOut product - the MSDS provided by the manufacturer is, well, not particularly helpful. But, what is the odor? I’m concerned that something else is going on in your house . . .
Posted by Janelle Sorensen on 12/01/2008 at 01:30 PM
Dave- I found some info that may help alleviate your situation. Check out http://www.greenhomeguide.com/index.php/knowhow/entry/1169/
Hope this helps!
Posted by Ginny Turner on 11/26/2008 at 02:46 PM
I see so much info on the wood cribs and such. It is strange that no one has mentioned that the formaldehyde, although bad, is not nearly as bad as the chemicals that are in the mattresses themselves. The regulation in the industry is weak and the items of danger to babies are: synthetic mattresses, mdf, plywood, plastic finishes used on wood furniture, and any stuffed items (especially foams) that are anywhere near baby. Also to note is even though the pthalates in baby toys were finally banned in February, the retailers are allowed to sell those toxic items until they run out. It was even on the news this morning.
One last note: be careful. There is so much misinformation within the eco industries-from Babies R us selling “organic cotton crib mattresses” that still have the fire retardant chemicals in them to companies stating their materials are all natural. Make sure they can show you test results.
Posted by Dave on 11/22/2008 at 08:02 PM
I’m concerned about the health of my children and me after installing pressed-wood shelves purchased from Home Depot. I installed the shelves in my bedroom closet and in the baby’s closet several months ago. About one month ago, I started noticing a dreadful smell coming from the shelves (only the top of the shelves had been painted). I had no idea why the shelves reeked so badly, but I thought if I painted them with oil-based KILZ it would halt the noxious odor. I put two coats of KILZ on all surfaces of all the shelves and let them air dry for 24 hours. I was shocked when this had absolutely no effect on the odor, and I then removed the shelves (again) and put them in the garage. Despite having aired out my house numerous times, the closet areas still stink. Not only that, but my clothes and my little daughter’s clothes also stink. I’ve tried odor-fighting liquids from Home Depot and Lowe’s; I also tried using generous amounts of vinegar in the laundry, but absolutely nothing I’ve done makes the stink go away. It’s so bad that regardless of what I wear to work, by the end of the day I am almost nauseous and have to change my clothes as soon as I get home. I did some Web-searching and discovered a product called NokOut (www.nokout.com) which supposedly works on a molecular level to remove all odors, including formaldehyde. Keep in mind, I don’t know if the shelves contained formaldehyde, but I have to believe all clues lead to that conclusion. So I’ve ordered a gallon of NokOut and will try it on my clothes as soon as I get it. A NokOut representative said I’ll also need to spray all the walls in both closets with the product, let it soak in pretty well, then paint all surfaces with KILZ because the odor probably has permeated every surface in both closets. It’s almost like someone set off a stink bomb in my house. Or perhaps the smell is some evil presence! I wish I knew exactly what was going on. But in the meantime, I cannot wear my clothes or walk near either closet without getting sick. If anybody has a suggestion as to how I can get my clothes smelling OK again, or any other advice on how to address this problem, I would be most grateful.
Posted by simone on 10/29/2008 at 06:21 PM
Hi Jennifer,
I bought a Serelle crib (Sherri 2 in 1). The company tells me that it is solid birch, but I’ve seen it sold on the web as solid wood with wood veneers. Are veneers safe? What about stains? Do I need to worry about fomaldehyde? and if so how long does it typically take a crib to offgas?
Posted by Janelle Sorensen on 10/06/2008 at 12:18 PM
Tiffanie-
As far as I can tell, IKEA’s fiberboard still has some formaldehyde present, but it is very low and their products adhere to the strongest environmental regulation of the material in the world (Germany).
Posted by Jocelyn on 08/26/2008 at 07:55 AM
Hi Jennifer,
I understand that metal cribs generally do not pose the same off-gassing problem as do most wooden cribs (assuming the mattress support is not made of particle board). This being the case, I’ve all but decided to buy the Simmons Antique Silver Monaco metal crib (Simmons is subsidiary of Delta Enterprises. I’ve also included the various ID numbers of the crib at the end of this email). My only problem is that I’ve yet to get a response from Simmons regarding the type of paint used on the crib which I want to be sure is truly non-toxic (I also called Delta but they referred me to Simmons). If I don’t get a response, I’m wondering whether it would make sense to apply a non-toxic, water based sealant to the entire crib to prevent any potential VOC emissions from the paint? What do you think? I’d also love to hear your thoughts on the environmental healthy safety of metal v. wood cribs. Thanks!!
(p.s. My baby boy is due November 13th and so I’m hoping to make my crib decision very soon!)
Babies-R-Us Item #: 615245
SKU: 055CB705
UPC/EAN/ISBN: 761139954922
Manufacturer #: 26906040
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Posted by Jill on 01/13/2012 at 03:03 PM
My daughter’s PBTeen bed and desk were delivered this week. After two days of an awful odor (I mean strong in this small bedroom) I searched “how to get rid of furniture odor”. To my surprise and disgust I’ve learned more than I want to know about VOCs. I immediately called PBTeen to come to pick up their furniture and give me a refund. I was told that the only $ I wouldn’t be refunded is the $250 delivery charge b/c it was already delivered. The minute I explained exactly why I was returning & my disappointment, you wouldn’t believe how the tone changed. They obviously know their fault here. I was immediately given a merchandise credit for the delivery charge. I too am so disappointed b/c I am dealing with lack of space & the storage bed was so ideal. I will never buy from PB again and now know what to look for. I’m having trouble finding something similar so if you know of any green storage beds PLEASE let me know. My next step is finding someone who will make this for me out of natural wood!