What You Need To Know

Most of us use window coverings for privacy and decoration. They hardly seem like a possible health threat. But here are some things to consider:

AVOID 

• Some window coverings are made of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) plastic, derived from petroleum, a non-renewable resource. To soften PVC, phthalates are added. These are a class of synthetic chemicals that are highly volatile. This means they get released into the air and are inhaled. Phthalates are linked to reproductive health issues, neurodevelopment problems, liver cancer, birth defects, asthma and allergies.
• Fabric coverings made of conventionally-produced cotton, hemp and linen are usually sprayed heavily with organophosphate pesticides. These pesticides are intended to kill pests that might damage the crops, but they can be poisonous to other insects, birds and mammals too – including humans! Often pesticide residues stay in cloth fibers and are released when the fibers degrade. Exposure to pesticides can impact neurodevelopment and exposure is associated with lower IQs, birth defects and developmental delays.
• Flame retardants, particularly polybrominated diphenyl ethers have not only been found to be toxic to humans but they aren’t even useful in deterring flames. Exposure to PBDEs in utero and early childhood has been linked to poorer attention, lower fine motor skills and lower IQs as well as a reproductive birth defect in boys, hypospadias.
• Polyester, which is made of multiple synthetic, petroleum-based chemicals, may result in skin problems, such as rashes, itching and dermatitis, irritate the respiratory system, and contribute to certain cancers. 
• Perfluorochemicals (PFCs) are added to fabric for durability, stain resistance and wrinkle resistance. These chemicals can be inhaled when released into the air or leach into sensitive skin. Exposure to PFCs may impact neurodevelopment, reproductive health and the immune system. 

BETTER CHOICES

• Look for shades made from untreated (and ideally organic) materials, such as cotton, hemp, bamboo, flax, and solid wood (ideally sustainably harvested) or bamboo.  
• IF you want a plastic option, make sure you are not buying PVC, which is plastic number 3. Remember: "5, 4, 1, 2. All the rest are bad for you."

DIY

• Express yourself creatively by making your own window coverings. Lots of DIY suggestions can be found online. Just make sure the materials you use are free of harmful chemicals.