Don't Get Tricked This Halloween
Trick or Treat!? Costumes and candy are two fun ways to celebrate, but unfortunately, they can be loaded with harmful chemicals. Luckily, choosing safe products this Halloween has never been easier.
Growing Up Green
October 2009
Trick or Treat!? Costumes and candy are two fun ways to celebrate, but unfortunately, they can be loaded with harmful chemicals. Luckily, choosing safe products this Halloween has never been easier. There are many fun and easy ways to create your own safe alternatives. Follow these simple tips to keep the Halloween season toxic-free.
Avoid PVC costumes and masks.
Costumes made of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) are dangerous because they have been found to contain lead and phthalates. These two chemicals are known to harm children's learning and behavior and have also been linked to birth defects and asthma. By choosing safer materials, you can look scary without any scares to your health. It is always more fun to make your own costume by heading to the local fabric store! The Green Halloween website has some great ideas and also has links for purchasing safer toddler and baby costumes.
Make your own face paint!
The danger with most face paints is that manufacturers are not required to list out ingredients for consumers. How will we know if they are safe for children to be wearing? The answer is that there is no way to be sure. This year, learn how to mix up your own Halloween makeup. Check out Smart Mama's Website for some great homemade recipes. You can make your own wounds, warts and blood that are safe enough to eat!
Avoid Costume Jewelry.
Costume jewelry is another place that dangerous chemicals can be found. Recent testing has found lead in a high percentage of costume jewelry. Try instead to accessorize with materials you know are safe, like paper or fabric.
Choose your treats wisely.
It is always important to make sure that trick-or-treat candy is safe before you satisfy your sweet tooth. The FDA issued a warning on some candies imported from Mexico that have been found to contain lead. Watch for certain ingredients such as chili powder and tamarind as these have been identified as possible sources of exposure.
Follow these simple suggestions above to help enjoy all the treats of this holiday without any harmful surprises. Join WTC in our efforts to keep toxins away from our children this Halloween.
But always remember to have fun,
Happy Halloween!
