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Chemicals/Polyester fiber residue

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Expert: - 9/18/2005


Question
Hello thanks for your help in the past. I have a question. Dose polyester fill such as the the stuffing used in blankets and pillows leave a residue on your hands when touched? The reason and background for the querry, I am just curious because if I touch it it seems to irritate my skin slightly thanks.  

Answer
It can depending on the processing.  It will normally be a type of oil similar to detergents (very very thin layer).  But even if all is removed, the polyester itself could be slightly irritating.  Only an allergist can tell you for sure.  If you are handling the polyester, such as running it through your hands, you might be getting microscopic rub burns,  Any fabric can cause this.  Were cotton or disposable gloves to prevent this.

However, you mention the fill.  My guess is the outside fabric would be more of a concern, unless you are handling the fill directly.

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Henry Boyter

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Chemistry (non-biochemistry), environmental science, occupational health and safety, environmental regulation and management, environmental engineering, and wastewater engineering. I'm the Director of Environmental, Health, and Safety and the Director of Research at the Institute of Textile Technology.

Experience

Chemistry (non-biochemistry), environmental science, occupational health and safety, environmental regulation and management, environmental engineering, and wastewater engineering. I'm the Director of Environmental, Health, and Safety and the Director of Research at the Institute of Textile Technology.

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