Unfortunately, govt. regulations are often minimal and ingredients cannot always be documented as they come from many different countries. Those who "manufacture" the ingredients are not always honest and often are concerned only with the profit. So, do not rely on others (govt.) to always keep you safe... be cautious and use good protective sense.

I worked in a quilt shop for several years. I developed a severe rash down the middle of my back, then my knees, then my arms. Hands didn't get it. Went to two derm.docs and they had no idea. Finally after 6 mo. of bleed and itch it subsided. Three yrs now and the middle of my back still itches daily but no visible rash. We always thought it was the fabric but now I am sure after reading your posts.

I always pre-wash..but usually just once. Guess I need to do more. Thanks for this post and all the info!

Prhaps government should be regulating more rather than less. froggyintexas

Read the blog mentioned above and got quite a shock! Now I also understand why my hands have been so dry all the time after quilting. Have been out of the sewing room for a week and voila! No dry hands. :!:

That's a good one. :lol:

I normally prewash and whenever I don't, I can't stop sneezing. I finally figured out that it must be the fabric. Now I know why!

The fabric doesn't affect my skin, but I worked around formaldehyde for 30 years at levels much stronger than you would get from fabric. I was diagnosed about two years ago with COPD and I'm sure it is from all the formaldehyde I breathed in. Formaldehyde is also in new carpet.

I've been using Woolite, guess I better start using something stronger.

And wash hands more often when working with fabric.

my daughter gave me Renew intensive skin therapy cream and it really helps with skin problems. My neighbor had really bad hands and was using gloves on her hands. When she started using this lotion it cleared up. Hope it helps some of you. melaleuca .com