Vintage purse, apprx. 6,060 ppm lead. Purses are not regulated for the presence of toxic chemicals (including lead.) Period. The amount of lead that is considered unsafe for a child (in consumer goods) is 90 ppm lead.
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While I am not saying “This purse will poison you,” I am saying there are hidden toxic chemicals in everyday household items and it is important to be aware. IF we can make informed choices (because we are given information) we will make better (safer / non-toxic) choices for our families. IF we know about the potential for toxic chemicals in everyday household items, we will choose safe items instead and thereby influence both retail and manufacturing… voting with our $ for a cleaner and healthier planet for future generations.
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For #SaferChoices for your family, click here.
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Hello! Does it mean its not generally safe to buy vintage bags? What about leather bags from celine or Dior from the 80s? Is the lead content on the metal hardware or on the leather itself? Thank you!
If you have a concern for Lead exposure (which everyone should) I do not recommend vintage bags. Click the “Purse” tab at the top of this post to see more purses I have tested. The Lead can be in the fabric, in the leather, in the hardware and in the decorative elements. If it is in the fabric or leather it is very likely to wear off on to your hands. My biggest concern is for babies carried on their mother’s hip – where they might chew or suck on the strap of a bag over mama’s shoulder – I’ve seen that countless times.
Tamara