Children's clothes that contain flame retardants were designed to keep children safe in the event of a fire. All new children's sleepwear is regulated by the Consumer Product Safety Commission from sizes 9 months through size 14 (children's large). Other types of clothing might also have flame retardants.

On the Other: Not For Everyone

The flame retardants contained in children's sleepwear and other clothing might be irritating to children who have certain conditions such as asthma or nervous system disorders. An article by Dr. Theresa Warner in "The Chiropractic Journal" urges parents to choose natural fabrics, free of excessive dyes and decorations, for children's sleepwear and bedding. Breathing the toxins contained in the flame retardants, according to Johnson, can cause "headaches, dizziness, scratchy eyes and throat, nasal congestion, coughing and immune system abnormalities."

Bottom Line

It is up to each parent to decide whether to buy flame-resistant clothing for their children. Though all new sleepwear is required to contain the flame retardants, chemical-free alternatives are available by shopping secondhand or by using non-pajama items (such as plain T-shirts and sweatpants) for sleepwear. Washing new clothes several times before wearing can also reduce irritation caused by breathing chemicals in clothing.

Source:

CPSC

Environmental Illness Resource