With the holidays just around the corner, you might already be thinking about pulling the decorations out. If you’re “Team Fake Christmas Tree”, there are a few things you should know about artificial trees and creating a healthier indoor environment this holiday season.
There are two main considerations when choosing an artificial tree: Flame retardants (PBDE) and off-gassing phthalates (DEHP) from PVC, as well as aluminum and lead heavy metals.
Flame retardants might sound like a good thing, the problem is these SVOC chemicals are endocrine disruptors and incredibly toxic for humans and animals.
Off-gassing is another problem with artificial trees. The materials that make the life-like needles are made from semi-soft PVC.
So how do you find a truly toxic-free alternative for the holidays?
Currently, IKEA makes the only artificial tree option with neither flame retardants nor phthalates and no BPA free. Although IKEA’s option is reportedly more of a Charlie Brown-type tree, they don’t carry the health risks of other artificial trees. Balsam Hill’s "True Needles" do not contain PVC but are treated with flame retardants.
Other good options include non-traditional wood trees on Etsy or a real tree from an organic farm that isn’t sprayed with known-carcinogenic chemicals, such as Roundup. In Michigan check out Candy Cane Christmas Tree farm in Oxford.
Whether your tree is artificial or real, you don’t have to choose between cheery holiday decorations and a safe, non-toxic environment to celebrate the season with your loved ones. Wearing gloves while decorating the tree as well as regular HEPA vacuuming is your best bet to reduce exposure with the family.