Kids' Pajamas
*Originally posted August 2019, updated May 2024.
Under US law, kids' pajamas from 9 months to size 14 must be flame resistant or tight fitting, both subject to specific standards.
Why? A law that dates back to the 70s, to protect kids from burns by candles and space heaters, which were common back then and more dangerous with billowy nightgowns.
In addition to being outdated, the law does not seem to consider the fact that the majority of fire injury and death is due to inhalation of carbon monoxide and other gases.
Are Your Kids’ Pajamas Safe?
To comply, manufacturers treat fabrics with flame retardants or use synthetic fabric that is flame resistant. Flame resistant chemicals include halogenated hydrocarbons (chlorine and bromine), inorganic flame retardants (antimony oxides), and phosphate based compounds. These chemicals are associated with the following health effects:
reproductive toxicity
immune system impacts
endocrine and thyroid disruption
cancer
adverse effects on fetal and child development and neurologic function
Children are believed to be at higher risk of exposure than adults because their brains are still developing.
““Chemicals cannot simply be “washed” out of pajamas. The law requires garments to remain flame retardant after 50 washes.””
Chemicals cannot simply be “washed” out of pajamas. The law requires garments to remain flame retardant after 50 washes.
In addition to containing flame retardants, polyester and other synthetic fabrics are far from ideal for sleepwear because they are not breathable and do not absorb water. Kids may experience skin irritation or dermatitis, overheating and rashes. Even if the label says ‘not treated,’ flame retardants may be chemically inserted into fibers during the manufacturing process, making it inherently flame resistant.
Safest Option
100% cotton snug-fitting pajamas are best for safety and comfort. Look for the big yellow tags that clearly state the pajamas are not flame resistant. Also, garments with the OEKO-TEX Standard 100 certification have been third party tested for numerous harmful chemicals and dyes.
How to Buy
For pajamas that will become hand-me downs, choose Hanna Andersson which only uses 100% organic cotton without flame retardants. Hanna Andersson uses OEKO-TEX Standard 100 for all pajamas.
Gap sells SOME pajamas that do not have flame retardants added to them. Look for the 100% cotton and also checked the detailed description to ensure the garment is not flame resistant.
Carters sells SOME 100% cotton snug-fitting pajamas without flame retardants. Be sure to check the item description to ensure the garment is not flame resistant.
References and Resources
[1] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21268442/
[2] https://www.cpsc.gov/Business--Manufacturing/Business-Education/Business-Guidance/Childrens-Sleepwear-Regulations
[3] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27755165/
[4] https://www.oeko-tex.com/fileadmin/user_upload/Marketing_Materialien/STANDARD_100/FAQs/FAQ_STANDARD_100_EN_ES_01.2019.pdf
