Question from Donna L

I’m confused. I read a while back that washing clothes in vinegar removes flame retardants. Today, I read that vinegar actually helps to keep fire retardants in tact. Do you know if either is the case or if there is any way to wash flame retardants out of clothes? I have a four year old and even though I make sure his clothes, bed linens, etc. are 100% cotton, I’ve been washing all new purchases in vinegar…just in case. Thank you!

Debra’s Answer

I haven’t read either about flame retardants.

My understanding is that flame retardants cannot be removed from clothing. They are designed to make the fabric flame retardant for the life of the fabric, to conform with federal flammability laws.

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