Is it possible to remove "Flame Resistant" chemicals from sleepwear?

[Lucy Alden]

My mom just bought my DD a bunch of new PJs. Even though most of them are 100% cotton they state that they are flame resistant. I'm assuming that means they have some serious chemicals in them. I can't even imagine what they might be. Just know I don't want my DD anywhere near them. Is is possible to remove/wash out the flame retardants?

[JamieCatheryn]

Maybe after many many many washes, but not easily or quickly, I don't think so.

[Magelet]

I doubt it. they are supposed to keep the pj's flame resistant even after they've been spit on, peed on, and just generally gotten dirty (and thus washed) many many many times, so I'm sure the flame retardant chemicals are not going to just wash out easily.

[talia rose]

if they are cotton you can wash with 1 1/2 cups white vinegar which helps remove some of the chemicals....the poly has the chemicals built into the fiber...

[Lucy Alden]

Thanks mamas, that's what I figured. i guess the poly/cotton mix ones will have to get "lost" in the laundry. Not sure about the cotton yet. Even if I soak them in vinegar there are no guarantees the chemicals will be gone. I wish she had bought one nice cotton pair instead of 5 chemical laced ones.

[kyndmamaof4]

The tags usually say "Do not use fabric softner, it reduces the flame resistance of these pjs." or something to that effect. would suppose a few washes with downy or something would help, then maybe a few with the white vinegar?

[Bluegoat]

Originally Posted by kyndmamaof4

The tags usually say "Do not use fabric softner, it reduces the flame resistance of these pjs." or something to that effect. would suppose a few washes with downy or something would help, then maybe a few with the white vinegar?

I suspect it doesn't take it out, it just covers the fibers with the softener.