Faux fur is a textile engineered to imitate animal fur, providing a cruelty-free alternative to natural pelts. This imitation fur is constructed primarily from synthetic, petroleum-based fibers. The core question is whether the synthetic compounds used to create the plush texture pose a risk to human health, requiring an evaluation of potential chemical exposure and physical hazards.
The Synthetic Materials Used in Faux Fur
Faux fur is a pile fabric where the “hairs” are created from synthetic polymers to achieve the desired softness, warmth, and durability. The two main fibers used are acrylic and polyester, which often form a blend to maximize the fur-like properties. Acrylic fibers are favored for the plush, fluffy texture that resembles the animal hair. Polyester is frequently used for the base fabric due to its strength and resilience. Modacrylic is another common fiber, often blended in to enhance colorfastness and add flame-resistant properties to the final product.
Potential Chemical Contaminants and Health Risks
Synthetic textiles like faux fur introduce chemicals that can be retained in the final product, posing a risk through direct contact or inhalation. New faux fur items may release Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) into the air through off-gassing, often characterized by the distinct “new product” smell. Prolonged exposure to VOCs emitted by polyester and acrylic fabrics can lead to symptoms like headaches, respiratory irritation, and skin rashes. To achieve a soft and flexible feel in the dense backing material, plasticizers such as phthalates may be used in coatings or prints; these can disrupt the endocrine system and leach out upon skin contact. The coloration of faux fur also uses dyes, including azo dyes, some of which are classified as hazardous and can break down into carcinogenic aromatic amines.
The Risk of Microplastic Fiber Shedding
A physical hazard specific to synthetic textiles is the continuous shedding of microscopic plastic fibers, often referred to as microplastic fibers. Faux fur, being a dense pile fabric, is a source of these particles through normal wear and friction, causing them to become airborne and contribute significantly to household dust. Once inhaled, these synthetic fibers can settle deep within the lungs, raising concerns about chronic inflammation and respiratory diseases. Research has shown that synthetic fibers are present in human lung tissue, and washing synthetic garments also releases microfibers into the environment.
Safety Standards and Consumer Precautions
Regulatory bodies worldwide have established standards to limit hazardous chemicals in textiles, applying to faux fur products. For example, the EU’s REACH regulation and the US Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act (CPSIA) set strict limits on substances like heavy metals, dyes, and phthalates, especially in children’s products. Despite these regulations, consumer vigilance remains a practical method for reducing potential exposure to chemical residues and microplastic fibers. New faux fur items should be aired out, ideally outdoors, for several days before use to allow VOCs to off-gas, and washing items before the first use can help remove surface residues and loose fibers. Consumers can also look for products certified by third-party standards, such as OEKO-TEX, which test for the presence of hundreds of restricted substances.