The California State Senate passed a bill on Thursday to regulate potential toxins in diapers — a product that parents may use up to 8,000 times before a child is potty-trained, reports BritPanorama.
Once Governor Gavin Newsom signs Assembly Bill 1901 into law, as he is expected to do, the legislation will require manufacturers to fully disclose all ingredients in disposable diapers sold in California. Companies will also need to provide justifications for the inclusion of each ingredient. This information must be available online by the end of 2028 and printed on package labels by January 2029.
New York has already enacted a similar bill, which took effect in late 2025, while Illinois will require ingredient disclosure on diaper labels by January 2027.
Because there is currently no federal requirement for diaper manufacturers to disclose what is actually in their products, actor Hilary Swank, who has lobbied for AB 1901 alongside the Environmental Working Group (EWG), highlighted the necessity for state-level action. Swank became aware of the potential dangers of disposable diapers and other baby and pregnancy products during her own pregnancy.
“I learned I can’t assume a product is safe because it’s marketed to look that way,” Swank told CNN. “Some ingredients found in diapers have been linked to hormone disruption, nervous system effects and skin reactions.”
Experts note that a baby’s skin is significantly thinner and more permeable than that of an adult, leading to a higher risk of chemical absorption. “Diapers sit against the baby’s skin all day, 24/7, and because they absorb these chemicals more easily, they’re more vulnerable, obviously, to their effects,” Swank said. “Why do you need that many ingredients in diapers anyway?”
Studies have found these toxins in diapers
Diapers can release volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which are vapors emitted by inks, dyes, adhesives and chlorine bleaching agents. These vapors can result in skin and lung irritation and allergic reactions. Some VOCs in diapers are even linked to cancer. Traces of acrylamide — associated with several types of cancer at high doses in rodents — have been found in the inner layers of diapers.
Additionally, wetness indicators on diapers and wipes may contain quaternary ammonium compounds (QACs), according to the EWG. Lab and animal studies have raised concerns about QACs’ effects on inflammation, the immune and respiratory systems, reproductive hormones, and the developing brain. “Quaternary ammonium compounds are on track to be the next major toxic chemical story, combining elements of PFAS, phthalates and flame retardants,” noted Rebecca Fuoco, director of science communications for the Green Science Policy Institute.
Diapers also often contain phthalates, which are plasticizers used to enhance flexibility. Studies have linked phthalates to reproductive issues, respiratory concerns, and childhood obesity. A study published in March revealed that two types of phthalates may be responsible for millions of premature births and newborn deaths worldwide.
A spokesperson for the Center for Baby and Adult Hygiene Products (BAHP) stated, “Our members remain confident in the safety of their products and committed to maintaining the trust of parents and caregivers.” However, Giovanna Komst, BAHP’s deputy director, expressed concerns regarding AB 1901, arguing that disclosure requirements should align with established scientific practices.
Tips on how to choose safer diapers
Due to traditionally vague labeling, consumers often lack clarity on the specific chemicals used in disposable diapers. “When this bill goes into effect, we’ll have a lot more information and be able to provide consumers with clearer guidance about how to move forward,” said Susan Little, EWG’s California legislative director.
In the interim, the EWG suggests that parents should avoid colorful patterns and wetness indicators, as dyes and printing inks can contribute to diaper rash. “Choose diapers that are undyed and plain, with no wetness indicator. Also try to avoid diapers that contain fragrance,” said Sydney Swanson, a senior science analyst at EWG.
Swank recommends looking for diaper brands that already disclose their ingredients and utilising third-party verification sites like the EWG. She actively participates in online communities where safety advice regarding diapers and other products is exchanged.
“I got angry, and so I really wanted to do something about it,” Swank stated regarding her advocacy efforts. Swank successfully collaborated with California activists to pass a law requiring the testing of prenatal vitamins for heavy metals. California Senate Bill 646 mandates transparency regarding arsenic, cadmium, lead, and mercury levels.
“It’s really a simple principle: If something is going into anyone’s body, but especially a pregnant body, people deserve to know exactly what’s in it,” Swank emphasized.
With increasing scrutiny on the safety of consumer products, California’s legislative measures reflect a growing moment in which transparency and ingredient disclosure are expected, setting a potential precedent for other states.
