Simple Ideas for a Less-Toxic Home

Creating safer surroundings for your baby or toddler

By BabyZone and ParentZone Editors

Sure, you can comb your playroom for lead-laden toys and read simple ways to reduce your family�s carbon footprint. But how can you protect your young children on a daily basis? From eating organic to paying attention to plastics, here are easy ways to make your family�s home less toxic.

Perils of Plastics

What's the problem with plastics? In a word: Phthalates. These chemicals are used in toys and bottles to make plastics flexible. A February 2008 study published by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) found elevated levels of these chemicals in infant urine.

Although there is no conclusive evidence that phthalates are harmful to people (phthalates are monitored, but not regulated, by the FDA), there may be cause for concern. Evidence obtained from animal studies shows that phthalates may be associated with premature puberty development in girls and eventual fertility problems in boys.

The bottom line? We don't yet know how harmful these chemicals are to our kids, but many parents would rather be safe than sorry.

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