ANNOUNCEMENT FROM DEBRA: After 40 years of providing information on toxic-free products, I am moving on to write about the next step beyond nontoxic. To continue my work, I’ve passed the torch to Lisa Powers, who will carry on with great enthusiasm. Learn more about Lisa here
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Question from Stacey

 

I’m wondering if cowhide rugs are toxic, or if the end product is toxic to touch. I am aware that the tannins used in the process of leather-making are toxic, so I avoid leather furniture.
Would a cowhide rug be safe for my home?

Lisa’s Answer

 

Most cowhide rugs are made with a chrome tanning process, similar to leather.  It is toxic.  Some of the more toxic chemicals are Chrome VI, AZO-dyes, and formaldehyde.  Like leather, cowhide can be made with a vegetable tanning process which doesn’t use chrome VI or some of the other harsher chemicals, but it does use chemicals.  If you are interested in a vegetable tanned product, you would need to understand the chemicals used for the particular item.

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