One of the easiest ways to protect your family is by reading recycling codes on the bottom of your plastic tubs, bottles, and children’s toys. These “plastic numbers” can help you find plastics that are safe.
Plastic is everywhere. While we can’t completely avoid all man-made chemicals, we can make safer choices by knowing which plastics we’re using and what kinds of chemicals are in it.
Some, but not all, plastics have additives like bisphenols, phthalates, and/or other “plasticizers” to increase flexibility. Unfortunately, these chemicals are very toxic.
Recycling code 3: Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC or vinyl). When heated or stressed (like when it’s chewed on by your teething baby), it can leach out phthalates or other harmful plasticizers.
Plastic code 6: Polystyrene (PS). While polystyrene works well for keeping your coffee hot, it can also can leach styrene, a possible human carcinogen.
Plastic number 7: All others (including polycarbonate). One of the biggest offenders is polycarbonate, which contains BPA.Be careful not to use old baby bottles or sippy cups for your own child.
Plastic number 5: Polypropylene. Polypropylene is safe for baby. For this reason, polypropylene is used for everything from yogurt cups, baby bottles, and Tupperware.
Recycling code 1: Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET or PETE). Commonly known as polyethylene or polyester, and it’s another food-safe plastic, used for everything from water bottles to clothing.