What is the least toxic artificial Christmas tree?

Polyethylene and polypropylene are safer materials than PVC. Closer to non-toxic Christmas tree options. You can reduce exposure to real tree and artificial tree toxic chemicals.

Are there PVC free Christmas trees?

Are There Any Non-Toxic, PVC-Free Christmas Trees? Unfortunately, there actually aren't any completely non-toxic artificial Christmas trees that we can find (yet). Some options, however, are better than others.

Do fake Christmas trees give off toxins?

Artificial trees are typically made with PVC (polyvinyl chloride) which is extremely toxic and polluting to produce, can result in exposures to harmful chemicals when used, and are toxic to dispose of. PVC is hard and rigid, so to make it soft, pliable, and moldable, softeners like lead and/or phthalates are added.

Do all artificial Christmas trees contain lead?

Artificial trees are made of polyvinyl chloride, or PVC, in which lead is used as a stabilizer and softener. Research has shown that lead dust tends to leach out from fake trees over time, so if yours is more than a dozen years old, be careful.

Are all artificial Christmas trees flame retardant?

Flame retardants are chemicals that are applied to many materials (including Christmas trees) to prevent the start or slow the growth of a fire. While many flame retardants have been taken off the market, we could find no artificial trees that didn't include flame retardants of some kind.

Debate over real vs. fake Christmas trees heats up

Do Balsam Hill trees have lead?

-based Balsam Hill, which provides high-end fake trees that mimic natural varieties, claim their products are flame-retardant, long-lasting and allergy-free "with no messy needles and cleanup," says Thomas Harman, Balsam Hill's founder and CEO. "Our trees do not contain lead.

Are Balsam Hill trees fire retardant?

Balsam Hill™ Christmas trees are made from fire-retardant materials, and are less likely to be a fire risk with proper diligence and precaution.

Are PVC trees toxic?

An artificial tree made of PVC is not a non-toxic Christmas tree. Polyethylene and polypropylene are safer materials than PVC. Closer to non-toxic Christmas tree options. You can reduce exposure to real tree and artificial tree toxic chemicals.

Are fake Christmas trees safer?

Between 2013-2017, U.S. fire departments responded to an average of 160 home fires that started with a Christmas tree ever year, according to data from the National Fire Protection Association. So we can Verify, yes, a fake tree is safer—that's as long as your artificial tree is labeled "fire-resistant."

What is the difference between PE and PVC Christmas trees?

Unlike PVC Christmas trees which are made using cut-out PVC material, PE trees are injection moulded and completely 3 dimensional using branches from real trees, resulting in an instant realistic-looking Christmas tree. Therefore, the 3D needles are much more life-like than the average flat PVC needles.

Can artificial Christmas trees make you sick?

As a result, a study from 2004 even found traceable amounts of lead in artificial trees. “PVC also releases gases known as volatile organic compounds, which are gases that can irritate the eyes, nose, and lungs,” Dr. Harnett says.

Is PE safer than PVC?

Now, PE itself is considered a safer plastic than PVC, since it's not stabilized with lead and other heavy metals and isn't quite as polluting to manufacture. Of course, it's still virgin-petroleum-based, but it's a step in the right direction.

Are flocked trees toxic?

Flocking. A popular tree decoration called flocking, or imitation snow, can also cause serious problems when significant amounts of it are swallowed. If you are going to have a tree in your home, it is best to at least get a non-flocked tree.

Can you be allergic to fake Christmas tree?

Unfortunately, these storage areas are prone to dust and mold. That being said, artificial trees may also trigger allergy symptoms such as coughing, wheezing, a runny or stuffy nose, itchy or watery eyes.

What are Balsam Hill Christmas trees made of?

Our most cost-effective trees feature 100% Classic Needle (PVC) foliage.

Are aluminum Christmas trees toxic?

On their own, artificial aluminum trees don't pose any threats, but some early adopters of the all-metal trees were in for a shock when they ignored warnings not to add electric string lights.

Are Christmas trees treated with chemicals?

According to the Center for Biological Diversity, eight pesticides make up 85 percent of all uses on Christmas trees: chlorothalonil, atrazine, simazine, glyphosate, hexazinone, carbaryl, chlorpyrifos, and dimethoate.

Are Christmas trees toxic?

Live Trees: Fir, spruce, and pine trees make excellent Christmas trees and are generally non-toxic to pets. The needles, however, can cause oral irritation and in excessive amounts, gastrointestinal upset.

Are there lead free Christmas lights?

Environmental Lights makes lead free Christmas lights. The lights are much more expensive than traditional lights but in my mind it is worth it. Nothing like stringing lights on your tree that have lead on them.

Are Costco Christmas trees toxic?

2008) Christmas tree from Costco: 5,896 ppm Lead [90 ppm is unsafe for kids.]

What is an organic Christmas tree?

Whose Organic Christmas Trees – grown organically, no chemicals used anywhere on their property.

Are LED Christmas trees safe?

Don't leave lights plugged in

Just as you would flip off the kitchen light before bed, do the same to the tree. Even an artificial tree can catch fire as a result of tree lights. Christmas lights can get hot, and in some instances, start fires. Even the popular LED lights can overheat.

What Christmas trees are used in Hallmark movies?

Against a beautiful backdrop of Balsam Hill's Vermont White Spruce Trees and foliage decorated with our Crystal Palace Ornaments, she discovers the true meaning of Christmas through the bonds of family. HALLMARK MOVIES AND MYSTERIES — Nov 2016.

Are artificial Christmas trees toxic to cats?

Artificial Christmas trees aren't toxic to dogs or cats so they are technically safer than live Christmas trees, but they can still be dangerous. Artificial needles can still fall off of the tree and pose a threat to your pet if ingested, however they are considered much safer than real trees overall.

What company makes the best artificial Christmas trees?