Like strollers, car seats are rife with issues especially when it comes to the covers. Couple this with the enclosed space and car interiors can be an extremely toxic environment. Materials have tended to be coated or imbued with chemicals whose ubiquitous risks outweigh the targeted risks, potential benefits or conveniences (stain resistance, for instance). Furthermore, car seats are often made more comfortable by the addition of foam padding, which is non-recyclable and infamous for its toxic content.
• Avoid fabrics that contain pesticides and phthalates and create VOC emissions. Look for certifications like GREENGUARD or Oeko-Tex® Standard 100.
• Investigate whether they are free of brominated and chlorinated (halogenated) fire retardants. Since car seats are still required to possess some sort of retardant, halogen-free, phosphate chemicals can be better choices. The Ecology Centre reports that three out of four car seats tested by healthystuff.org “...contained hazardous halogenated flame retardants and over half contained non-halogenated organophosphate flame retardants, some of which are hazardous as well.” Check out the full (& very helpful!) HealthyStuff.org Children's Car Seat Study 2015.
• Wool and cotton are naturally flame retardant so you may be able to consider making or acquiring a replacement cover. Note that this will probably void your warranty, and may have a negative impact on safety, so make absolutely sure you know what you’re doing before you go making any changes!
• Remember some of the biggest, most “trusted” names in car seats can be some of the worst offenders.
• Of course, for safety, make sure your car seat is Transport Canada compliant. Transport Canada does not endorse particular seats, but it does issue notices when defects occur or safety standards are not met.
• Recycling car seats is extremely difficult but check your area to see if there are specialty recyclers like Kidseat Recyclers in Alberta or Pacific Mobile Depots in BC. You can also check to see if the manufacturer has its own recycling program.
*Originally published February 13, 2017
EcoParent is a quarterly magazine for families that want to make healthier, greener lifestyle choices. Fun and inspirational in tone – and never judgmental – we appeal to the already eco-savvy, but remain accessible to the newly eco-curious. Food, fashion, books, travel, health & beauty, home & garden, and so much more!
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