For those who celebrate it, Christmas is just around the corner. But unfortunately so are the potential risks of exposure to harmful chemicals that can accompany the festive season. CHEM Trust believes that the burden of avoiding harmful chemicals should not be placed on the general public, and stronger regulations are needed to protect us. However, while we wait for these, here are some tips to help you reduce your risk this Christmas!

Gifts Galore

From toys to toiletries, harmful chemicals may be lurking in the presents you buy at this time of year.

Children are especially vulnerable to the harmful effects of toxic chemicals because they are still developing. So, when buying for little ones, always purchase from reputable shops and online stores. Avoid soft plastic toys and those that are heavily scented or smell strongly of chemicals. Read more in our recent news story – ‘Keep chemicals out of your stockings this Christmas’.

Many gifts, like cosmetics and toiletries, may contain perfumes and fragrances. There is no legal requirement for manufacturers to list the ingredients in the fragrances, making it difficult to determine if products contain harmful chemicals. So, opt for fragrance-free products where possible.

When gifting cosmetics, avoid those that contain ingredients such as parabens, triclosan, and PFAS, sometimes written as PTFE or ‘fluoro-‘. There are apps that can help you identify if a product may contain harmful chemicals, such as Yuka, Tox Fox, Clean Beauty, and Impact Score Shopping. Additionally, opt for products with ecolabels, such as the EU ecolabel, Blue Angel and Nordic Swan, as these have stricter rules about what ingredients are allowed in them.

Festive Food

Studies have found that packaging used to wrap food can contain harmful chemicals. So try to buy loose fruits and vegetables – whether you include Brussels sprouts in that is up to you!

Where possible, opt for organic foods for your festive feasts this year. This can help to reduce your risk of exposure to pesticides used to grow food.

While cooking for your family and friends, try not to scratch or overheat the surface of your non-stick pan, as these can contain PFAS. Or take it one step further and add a stainless steel or ceramic pan to your Christmas wish list!

Some cooking utensils may also contain harmful chemicals. Avoid using black plastic utensils as they may contain toxic flame retardants from recycled electronic waste plastic.

Store your lip-smacking leftovers in glass or stainless steel containers, and avoid reheating them in plastic containers or packaging, as this may allow harmful chemicals in the plastic to leach into your food. Instead, reheat food in a glass container in the microwave or in a stainless steel pan on the hob.

Winter Walks

If you’re feeling brave enough to face the frosty air this Christmas, make sure to wrap up warm. However, some waterproofs have been treated with PFAS, so opt for those labelled PFAS (or PFC) free.

You may want a hot drink to keep you warm on your outings. If so, using a reusable cup made from glass or stainless steel is a good idea. Some reusable cups that are made from plastic or bamboo can contain harmful chemicals that may leach into your drink.

Christmas Cleanup

When it comes to tackling the merry mess, try to ensure the cleaning products you use are free from harmful chemicals. An easy way to reduce your risk of exposure is to cut down on the number and quantity of cleaning products you use, and only use products and amounts that are proportionate for the job.

Avoid using air fresheners as they may contain harmful chemicals, and instead open windows to increase ventilation. This can also help to reduce the chance you and your festive guests will be exposed to harmful chemicals in household dust.

Relax and Recharge

While this may seem like a lot to consider, it should not be down to the individual to try to avoid harmful chemicals. CHEM Trust will continue to push for better protections from these chemicals in 2025. So, take the time this holiday to relax and spend valuable time with your nearest and dearest.

CHEM Trust wishes you and all your loved ones a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

Find more simple suggestions to reduce your risk in our Instagram series.

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