Are Artificial Christmas Trees Actually Toxic to Humans and Pets?

Families are increasingly opting for artificial Christmas trees. As they do not shed needles and can be used again and again, people find them convenient and most preferable. Several of them come with built-in lights and they help you bypass the hassle of setting up. But is it worth it to have artificial Christmas trees in the home?  Are they really safe to buy?

Well, relax.

Our guide on artificial Christmas trees and all that they contain will help you have a healthy and memorable Christmas. Enjoy!

What are Artificial Christmas Trees Made Of?

Nearly all artificial trees are made from polyvinyl chloride (PVC), an inferior plastic. It is a major source of phthalates, an endocrine disruptor (they upset hormones in the body). It softens plastic (think soft pine needles), but has a number of detrimental health effects.

For a fact, PVC might asthmatic symptoms, neurological issues, cancer, obesity, type II diabetes, or reproductive problems. Phthalates are so dangerous that many of them are banned from kids’ products.

It is possible for them to leach out of plastics and be incorporated into your household dust, which you inhale or eat and become exposed to.

To make PVC more workable, lead is often added to stabilize it. The artificial trees can also release lead particles over time. Artificial trees are less likely to cause exposure than natural trees, but there is still a possibility of exposure. Children and adults are at risk for numerous health problems when exposed to lead; there is no safe level.

So, Are Artificial Christmas Trees Safe?

To prevent fires, artificial trees are sprayed with flame retardants. Even though we do not want fires, chemical flame retardants have been linked to cancer, diminished fertility in both men and women, delays in the production of hormones, lower IQ, and hyperactivity in children.

Indeed, the health risks of artificial Christmas trees are real, and they’re more real if you’ve got pets or kids around!