Phthalates are a chemical compound used to make vinyls (chiefly polyvinyl chloride) softer and more flexible. Phthalates are used as softeners of plastics, in perfumes, as an additive to hairsprays, lubricants, and wood finishers. They are also used to create enteric coatings for pharmaceuticals, Humans are widely exposed to phthalates because vinyl is a ubiquitous plastic used to make anything from home furnishings (flooring, wallpaper), medical devices (for example, catheters, IV- and blood bags), children's items (infant feeding bottles, squeeze toys, changing mats, teethers) to packaging (for example, disposable bottles, food wrap). Beyond vinyl, humans are further exposed to phthalates in cosmetics and scented products such as perfumes, soaps, lotions and shampoos. Phthalates are also added to insecticides, adhesives, sealants and car-care products.
In short, phthalates are practically everywhere.
One widely-used phthalate, DEHP, has been classified as a "probable human carcinogenic" by the EPA and also by the Department of Health and Human Services. It is thought to cause reproductive system damage to highly-exposed infant and toddler boys. In addition, animal studies show evidence of increased stillbirths and birth deformities to exposed females. The European Union has banned the use of certain phthalates in toys designed for children under the age of three, and in 1996 the U.S. the CPSC asked for a voluntary ban on the sale of teethers and other toys containing the phthalate DINP.
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