Artificial Christmas trees are a popular holiday choice, offering convenience and reusability over natural options. However, many consumers have valid concerns about the materials used in these decorations and their potential health implications. The toxicity concern is primarily linked to the type of plastic used in the majority of artificial trees, which can release chemical compounds into the indoor air and household dust. Understanding the specific chemical composition and the process by which these substances are released is necessary to assess any long-term risks.
Chemical Composition of Artificial Trees
The foundational material for most artificial Christmas trees is Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC), a synthetic, chlorinated plastic chosen for its durability and low cost. Since PVC is a rigid material, manufacturers must incorporate various chemical additives to create the soft, pliable needles characteristic of a Christmas tree.
A significant concern involves heavy metal stabilizers, which are mixed into the PVC compound to prevent the plastic from becoming brittle and degrading quickly. Lead has been used for this stabilization purpose. As the PVC ages, the lead is not chemically bound to the plastic and can leach out or shed as fine dust particles. This lead-containing dust can then settle on surfaces, posing an exposure risk, especially to small children. Other toxic elements like cadmium have also been utilized in PVC formulations as stabilizers.
Volatile Organic Compounds and Phthalates
When a new artificial tree is unboxed, a distinct, plastic-like scent is often noticeable, which is a result of Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) off-gassing from the materials. VOCs are a class of chemicals that easily evaporate at room temperature and include substances like formaldehyde and benzene derivatives, which are often byproducts of the manufacturing process. Exposure to these airborne compounds can cause short-term health effects such as irritation of the eyes, nose, and throat, or trigger headaches in sensitive individuals. The highest levels of VOCs are typically released shortly after a tree is first removed from its packaging.
Phthalates are another major chemical additive found in PVC trees, serving as plasticizers to give the “pine needles” their soft, flexible texture. These compounds are not permanently bonded to the plastic and can leach out over time into the air and household dust. Phthalates are known to act as endocrine disruptors. Exposure to phthalates has been linked to a range of potential health effects, including reproductive harm, asthma, and developmental issues.
Fire Retardants and Other Environmental Hazards
To meet flammability standards and reduce fire risk, most artificial trees are treated with chemical fire retardants. These chemicals, which can include compounds like polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs), are added to the plastic. Fire retardants are not permanently bound and can migrate out of the plastic and accumulate in house dust. This chronic exposure is associated with potential health issues, including endocrine disruption and developmental impairment.
Beyond chemical exposure, artificial trees can harbor physical hazards related to their annual storage. If a tree is stored in a damp or humid location, such as a basement or garage, it can become a breeding ground for mold and mildew. While the PVC material itself does not support mold growth, the mold can thrive on the dust and debris that collect on the branches. When the tree is brought out and set up, disturbing the branches releases mold spores, dust, and other allergens into the air, potentially triggering respiratory issues.
Minimizing Exposure and Ensuring Safety
To reduce potential chemical and allergenic exposure from an artificial tree, a new tree should be unboxed and allowed to air out for several days in a well-ventilated area, like a garage or porch, to allow the initial burst of VOCs to dissipate before bringing it inside. For older trees, wipe down the branches with a damp cloth before assembly to remove accumulated lead-containing dust or settled fire retardants. Washing hands immediately after handling and decorating the tree minimizes ingestion of surface contaminants.
Proper storage is crucial for managing non-chemical hazards. The tree should be kept in a cool, dry area and sealed within a plastic bag or rigid container to prevent the accumulation of dust, dirt, and pet dander, which limits the potential for mold growth. When purchasing a new tree, look for alternatives:
- Made from polyethylene (PE) or polypropylene (PP), which are considered safer than PVC and are less likely to contain added lead.
- Explicitly advertised as “PVC-free.”
- Explicitly advertised as “lead-free.”