Are Vinyl Shower Curtains Toxic?
AOL
Posted: 2008-06-12 19:03:49
(June 12) - That new vinyl shower curtain with the fun rubber ducks sure has a powerful smell -- but could it be toxic?
Yes, according to a national environment group.
Tim Sloan, AFP / Getty Images
Chemicals in Plastics
Spark Safety Concerns
That "new shower curtain smell" might be giving off toxic chemicals linked to serious health problems, according to a new study. A national environmental group tested vinyl shower curtains sold at major retailers nationwide and found they contained high concentrations of phthalates.
The Center for Health, Environment and Justice, based in Washington, tested five brand curtains and liners sold at major retailers nationwide, including Bed Bath & Beyond, Kmart, Sears, Target and Wal-Mart, the New York Daily News reported.
Researchers said all of the curtains contained phthalates, chemical substances used to make plastics soft and flexible, and varying amounts of organotins, which are compounds based on tin and hydrocarbons. Studies have linked such chemicals to damage to the liver and the central nervous, respiratory and reproductive systems.
"The familiar 'new curtain smell' may be toxic to your health," said Mike Schade, the center's PVC campaign coordinator. "It's really surprising that retailers are manufacturing products that contain and release harmful chemicals in our homes."
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