California Legislation Targets Transparency of Toxic Chemicals in Disposable Diapers

California lawmakers have introduced legislation mandating that diaper manufacturers disclose the full list of toxic chemicals used in disposable diapers, often referred to as a ‘mystery cocktail’ of hazardous substances.

Diapers frequently contain some of the most concerning toxic substances, including phthalates, lead, PFAS, quats, arsenic, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs), as well as ‘fragrance’ blends that may comprise up to 1,200 individual compounds suspected of posing health risks.

The concern is heightened given that diapers remain in prolonged contact with an infant’s skin for years. Because babies’ skin is thinner and more permeable than adults’, it is more susceptible to absorbing harmful chemicals; certain substances, such as phthalates, can disrupt the endocrine system, potentially interfering with hormones critical for brain and reproductive development.

Although manufacturers are not currently obligated to fully disclose diaper ingredients in most states—with New York being an exception—the proposed California measure goes significantly further. The legislation passed the Assembly with a 68-1 vote and is now poised for Senate consideration in the coming weeks.

Advocates argue the measure would wield significant market pressure, compelling diaper manufacturers to reformulate products with less toxic alternatives.

Assemblymember Marc Berman, the bill’s author, stated, ‘Parents deserve better than a guessing game, especially regarding a product that touches their babies’ skin constantly during the first two or three years of life.’ The legislation enjoys backing from a coalition of at least 150 public health organizations.

The bill would mandate that companies disclose all intentionally added ingredients and their specific functions on a publicly accessible website by 2028, with the requirement extending to product packaging by January 1, 2029.

Manufacturers incorporate toxic chemicals for various purposes: PFAS serve as moisture barriers, formaldehyde may function as a preservative, phthalates enhance plastic flexibility, and lead or other heavy metals are sometimes used in inks and dyes.

Testing by the public health advocacy group Mamavation detected PFAS in numerous popular diaper brands. French regulatory bodies have identified widespread use of chemicals including formaldehyde, pesticides, and dioxins, while additional peer-reviewed studies have identified numerous volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in disposable hygiene products and diapers.

Nevertheless, research on the health impacts of chronic exposure remains limited. A 2025 study in China analyzed diapers and urine samples from 66 infants, detecting several phthalate compounds and finding correlations in exposure levels.

The study also identified markers of DNA damage in urine samples, with researchers estimating that phthalate absorption likely contributes significantly to overall levels. While the findings suggest a potential risk, the study does not confirm that diaper use causes DNA damage or disease.

‘California parents shouldn’t need a chemistry degree to purchase a diaper,’ said Susan Little of the Environmental Working Group, which helped craft the legislation. Parents deserve to know exactly what touches their child’s skin.

The Center for Baby and Adult Hygiene Products, a trade group representing many leading manufacturers, maintains that diapers are designed and manufactured to meet strict safety standards, and that decades of real-world use support their safety for infants and children.

Advocates note that the industry has claimed ingredients are protected under confidential business information laws designed to shield formulas from competitors, arguing such exemptions do not apply to diaper ingredients.

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