Dear Chicky,
I just started to read your book (and I subscribe to the blog) and I love it! I do have a question, though: I’m curious about plastic container’s safety if you don’t put them in the dishwasher or use them for hot foods. Is this ok? Also, should I be handwashing the lids from the glass containers? Can these leach chemicals too?
Thanks for your time!
Spastic about Plastic
Dear Spastic,
Though the debate is still raging about the safety of chemicals like Bisphenol A and phthalates, you’re definitely better off safe than sorry. Both chemicals have been linked with health issues like endocrine disruption and breast cancer, and those are just the chemicals in plastic we know about – who knows what others lurk in our plastic food containers, baby bottles and other items.
Since you’re not microwaving plastic containers or using them for hot foods, you’re definitely on the right track. BPA leaches out of plastics 55 times faster when exposed to hot liquids than it does under normal conditions. But, even when they’re not heated, they’re risky. Personally, I switched my plastic containers out for glass, porcelain and stainless steel just for peace of mind. (I’m in the process of getting rid of ALL the plastic in my life slowly but surely- ed.)
You may want to avoid polycarbonate and PVC plastic containers altogether – they’re generally marked with a number 3 (may contain phthalates) or 7 (may contain BPA) in a triangle on the bottom. Plastics marked with a 1,2 or 5 are considered safe. Check the lowdown on plastics safety and numbers here.
As for washing the lids of your glass containers, the best thing to do is use lukewarm water, whether hand washing or sticking them in the dishwasher. If you’re using your dishwasher’s energy-efficient settings anyway – turning off the hot air drying phase and setting the water to ‘warm’ – putting the lids in the dishwasher is just fine. Chances are the lids on your glass containers aren’t worrisome, since they’re most likely made of polypropylene, but caution isn’t a bad thing when it comes to your health.
Safely Yours,
Chicky
Have a question for Chicky? Email starre (at) eco (dash) chick (dot) com or leave your question in the comments section below. Cheers to curiosity!!
Hi, I am in the process of reading your book. I am very interested in this subject. I have been researching eco-friendly baby products and safe (or safer) products for the past three months. I was wondering if you know anything about the “organic” line found at babies r us called nature’s purest. I can’t get anything useful from the website. They say they don’t use chemicals and dyes, but they don’t explain their “processing.” They just claim that they process. Have you heard anything about their products? Are they chemical free truly? No formaldehyde, polyurethane, etc. Or am I better off going with a more expensive sheet set from a truly organic/natural website. Thank you for your time.
Rebecca Renzette
11/18/08 » 8:58 am »
Great Organic Baby Products!!! “Baby-Safe Plastic” No BPA or pthalates in the plastic. 95% USDA Certified Organic line. Lots of baby products out there but not all are safe because what goes on your body goes into your body.
Shampoo/Gentle Wash
Bug Repellent
Massage Oil
And a great lotion close to 95%.
Check out http://www.lafes.com
11/21/08 » 10:15 am »
hi chicky,
I love your eco blog, and wondered if it would be possible for you to add my company to your list of eco fashion companies.
We are an eco friendly bag and accessory company, all our bags are handmade from the finest quality naturally sourced materials and fabrics from around the world.
Our products are not sold anwhere else in the u.k, and are exclusive to ascizi.com.
Look forward to hearing from you,
kind regards
cathy murphy
Director
Ascizi.com
email: info@ascizi.com
11/25/08 » 3:19 am »
Would you have any info about OXO products(gagets and plastic contains for kitchen use)?
05/01/09 » 7:16 pm »