Formaldehyde in textiles–what dermatologists need to know about the relationship to contact dermatitis: A review of the US Government Accountability Office's Report to Congressional Committees

Abstract

does not contain recommendations. 1 However, pertinent information can be gleaned for dermatologists caring for patients with contact dermatitis that may be related to formaldehyde resins found in many types of textiles. The GAO report tested 180 items for formaldehyde release, using two different tests that have been developed and used by the textile industry. The most frequently used is the Japanese Industrial Standard L 1041 Test, which was developed to measure the amount of formaldehyde that may be released by clothing and other textiles that come into contact with the skin. The American Association of Textile Chemists and Colorists 112 Test, which was developed to measure the amount of formaldehyde that may be released from clothing and other textiles during extended storage or hot and humid conditions, 2 is also used in 5 of the 14 studies analyzed in the GAO report. The United States does not have regulations on detectable limits for textiles made in this country, but the majority of items tested would have met the American Apparel and Footwear Association’s most stringent regulations in other countries. 3 Of the 180 items tested, 10 exceeded the acceptable limits defined as less than 75 ppm for products that come into direct contact with the skin, as minimum elicitation thresholds may be as low as 30 ppm in some individuals. Of these, half indicated ‘‘easy care’’ characteristics such as: wrinkle free, stain resistant, and no iron. As expected, all were either 100% cotton or a cotton/polyester or cotton/nylon blend. The most problematic items were adult pillowcases (3/12 released excessive formaldehyde), and men’s and boy’s dress shirts (3/15). Additional itemstestingpositiveincludedapairofmen’skhakis, a child’s hat, a crib sheet, and a pair of US military combat pants. A total of 25 additional items released formaldehyde at a level that was below the lowest acceptable limit, and 145 items released no detectable formaldehyde.