What's Up With the Scary Tags on Children's Jammies?

As the founder and executive director of the Green Science Policy Institute, Blum is dedicated to reducing harmful chemicals in everyday products and the environment. Her commitment to this cause is fervent; she compares the challenge to her past experiences climbing some of the world's most treacherous mountains with an all-woman team, stating that her current efforts are even more crucial and risky.

The introduction of regulations banning certain harmful chemicals, like flame retardants in children's sleepwear, shifted industry practices, although the ban was eventually revoked. In 2017, journalist Elisabeth Leamy sought to uncover whether these chemicals were still being used, conducting tests on nearly 30 pairs of pajamas. The results were promising—none of the tested pajamas were found to contain flame retardants. Nathaniel Sponsler, director of AFIRM, noted that such findings align with expectations from the working group's chemical management efforts.

AFIRM provides guidance to apparel and footwear companies, including those that produce children's sleepwear, assisting them in avoiding unsanctioned chemicals. Sponsler highlighted that it is exceedingly rare for brands within the group to detect flame retardants in their testing programs, emphasizing their ongoing vigilance in ensuring suppliers do not use these chemicals.

One pressing question arises: how did pajama manufacturers comply with strict flammability standards without added flame retardants? The solution lies in the use of synthetic fabrics, particularly polyester, which are often inherently flame-resistant. This shift toward synthetic materials allowed for greater compliance without the risks associated with chemical treatments.

As consumer awareness of environmental issues grew, parents began seeking alternatives to synthetic fabrics, decoupling traditional associations of comfort and safety with materials like polyester. This movement reflects a broader trend in prioritizing health and sustainability in children's clothing, prompting manufacturers to explore greener options while maintaining safety standards.