What toxins are in vinyl flooring?

A recent study found that most vinyl flooring, made from reprocessed plastic, contained toxic phthalates, lead, cadmium, brominated flame retardants, and other toxic chemicals. These chemicals can contribute to indoor air pollution by drifting out of the flooring and into the air and dust inside homes.

Are vinyl flooring toxic?

Vinyl flooring is made from phthalates mixed with additives; plasticizers, stabilizers, pigments, and fillers. Thus, Vinyl plank flooring is toxic and easily contaminates indoor air, water, and surfaces.

What is called for the chemicals which are made with vinyl floors?

Environment Management Questions and Answers – Environment and Human Health. Explanation: Due to the addition of contaminates to the environment, it is discovered that children who lives in homes with vinyl floors which can emit hazardous chemicals called phthalates.

Does vinyl flooring contain formaldehyde?

Vinyl chloride, which makes up PVC found in vinyl flooring, is a known carcinogen and a volatile organic compound (VOC). Older vinyl flooring or some flooring products made in China have even been known to contain formaldehyde.

Does all vinyl flooring contain phthalates?

Driving phthalates out of flooring In 2015, 58\% of 65 vinyl floor tiles we tested contained elevated levels of phthalate plasticizers, including 100\% of samples collected from Lumber Liquidators, 70\% from The Home Depot, and 48\% from Lowe’s. Over half of the top layers, made of virgin vinyl, contained phthalates.

What is the healthiest flooring?

Healthier Flooring

• Use solid surface flooring instead of carpet.
• Choose FSC-certified solid wood.
• Use natural linoleum or tile made in the U.S.
• Choose low-VOC finishes and sealants.
• Look for NAF-certified products.
• Install without glue; use nail-down or click-lock.
• Avoid laminate, vinyl flooring and synthetic carpeting.

Does vinyl flooring emit VOCs?

Due to the materials used in the production process of vinyl, it will sometimes emit various levels of VOCs into the air for a short amount of time after installation. These toxic chemicals can be harmful to air quality of the immediate environment it’s installed in and may cause respiratory problems over time.

What is phthalate free vinyl?

Non-phthalate vinyls are PVC products that do not contain phthalate plasticizers, which can be harmful to human and animal health.