New Study Finds Market Progress and New Chemical Hazards in Kids Car Seats, Motivates Action -

Most children’s car seats, a legally required kids’ safety product, contain hazardous chemicals used as flame retardants and stain treatments. On December 3, the Ecology Center released its report Hidden Hazards: Flame Retardants & PFAS in Children's Car Seats. Our scientists have tracked chemicals in car seats since 2006, and our 2018 report delivers historic results. We found encouraging market progress, but we also saw lingering problems with known toxic chemicals in most products and discovered the presence of a new flame retardant chemical.

Our report concludes that manufacturers use these chemicals as an inexpensive way to meet outdated fire safety standards, and we’re calling for new standards to help keep all infants and small children safe in the car, no matter what car seat they’re in.

In a sign that consumer pressure for flame retardant-free seats is working, we found three fire retardant-free car seats for the first time - offered by UPPAbaby, Clek, and Nuna. We applaud these manufacturers’ efforts. But despite positive steps in some car seats, most children remain at risk of exposure to hazardous chemicals. 83% of car seats tested contain toxic chemicals used as flame retardants, and not all families can afford new flame retardant-free car seat options.

CONTINUE ON www.ecocenter.org