What we screen out

PFAS ('forever chemicals')

Persistent chemicals linked to thyroid disruption, immune changes, pregnancy complications, and certain cancers.

Found in: Nonstick cookware, stain-resistant fabrics, water-repellent outerwear, fast-food wrappers, some period underwear and dental floss.

Microplastics & plasticizers

Tiny plastic particles carrying endocrine-disrupting chemicals linked to inflammation and cardiovascular risk.

Found in: Microbead scrubs, some toothpastes, glitter cosmetics, synthetic-fiber clothing, plastic tea bags.

VOCs (volatile organic compounds)

Gases causing eye, nose, and throat irritation short-term. Long-term high exposure linked to organ damage and cancer risk.

Found in: Fresh paint, new furniture, particleboard, conventional mattresses, cleaning and air-freshening products.

Heavy metals (lead, mercury, cadmium, arsenic)

Can damage the brain, kidneys, nerves, and cardiovascular system. Lead is especially harmful for children's brain development.

Found in: Old paint and pipes, contaminated water, cheap jewelry, some cosmetics, imported cookware and ceramics.

BPA & other bisphenols (BPS, BPF)

Hormone-disrupting chemicals that mimic estrogen, studied for links to metabolic issues, heart disease, and fertility problems.

Found in: Plastic bottles and food containers, can linings, thermal receipts, some baby bottles.

Phthalates

Endocrine disruptors associated with reduced fertility, hormone disruption, and metabolic disease.

Found in: Soft PVC plastics, shower curtains, vinyl flooring, toys, fragranced personal care, some food packaging.

Parabens

Preservatives that act like weak estrogens. Research exploring links to hormone disruption and breast-cancer biology.

Found in: Lotions, shampoos, conditioners, makeup, conventional moisturizers, some baby products.

Synthetic fragrance / parfum

Can hide dozens of chemicals including endocrine disruptors and allergens. Linked to headaches, asthma, and skin irritation.

Found in: Perfume, deodorant, laundry detergent, air fresheners, scented candles, cleaning and baby products.

Nylon / polyester

Synthetic fibers that shed microplastics linked to inflammation and cardiovascular risk.

Found in: Fast-fashion clothing, synthetic athletic wear, polyester bedding, plush toys, upholstery, fleece.

Formaldehyde & formaldehyde releasers

Respiratory irritant and known carcinogen. Releasers slowly emit small amounts over time.

Found in: Pressed-wood furniture, some nail polish, hair-smoothing treatments, certain shampoos and baby products.

Flame retardants (PBDEs, OPFRs)

Build up in the body. Linked to thyroid hormone disruption and adverse effects on brain development.

Found in: Foam furniture, mattresses, carpet pads, some kids' pajamas, car seats, electronics casings.

Pesticide & herbicide residues

Linked to nervous-system toxicity, hormone disruption, and higher cancer risk with chronic exposure.

Found in: Conventional fruits and vegetables, grains, teas, wines, packaged snacks from non-organic crops.

PVC / vinyl

Often softened with phthalates which leach out and act as endocrine disruptors.

Found in: Vinyl flooring, shower curtains, inflatable toys, some rain gear and tablecloths.

SLS / SLES

Detergent surfactants that can strip oils and irritate skin and eyes, especially with frequent use.

Found in: Conventional shampoos, body washes, toothpastes, foaming household cleaners.

PEGs (polyethylene glycols)

Solvents and penetration enhancers with concern around potential contamination with ethylene oxide or 1,4-dioxane.

Found in: Creams, serums, body lotions, cleansers, hair products.

Talc (asbestos-contaminated)

Contamination with asbestos fibers linked to ovarian and lung cancers.

Found in: Baby powder, some pressed powders, eyeshadows, blushes.

Triclosan / antimicrobial additives

Can contribute to antibiotic-resistant bacteria and may disrupt thyroid and reproductive hormones.

Found in: Antibacterial soaps, some toothpastes, antimicrobial cutting boards, treated textiles.

Artificial blue light (at night)

Suppresses melatonin and disrupts circadian rhythms, leading to poor recovery and metabolic issues.

Found in: Standard daylight LED bulbs used in the evening, phone and laptop screens, bright digital alarm clocks.

EMFs (electric & magnetic fields)

Linked to oxidative stress, sleep disruption, and interference with cellular voltage channels.

Found in: Unshielded extension cords near beds, Bluetooth headphones, smart appliances, Wi-Fi routers in bedrooms.

Invisible light flicker

Stresses the nervous system, causes eye strain and headaches, even if too fast to consciously see.

Found in: Low-quality LED bulbs, incompatible dimmer switches, cheap holiday lighting.