Nonfat milk (casein) binds formaldehyde in the wash

Formaldehyde most definitely can be a cause of reactions to clothing!

It can be adult and children’s clothing – pants, shirts, underwear and bras. In an interview on bra reactions Dr. Joel Dekoven said “…in fact most physicians don’t know that…” (4:11)

 

So what can be done?  Wash clothes at least twice before wearing.  Select 100% cotton (or single fiber – no blends), except no RAYON!

What else can be done?

Treat your wash with non-fat milk!

Back in 1974, Dr. Subbart describe a method for binding free formaldehyde that was released in the wash:
F. James Stubbart, MD  Nonfat Dry Milk Helps Prevent Formaldehyde Dermatitis.  August 1, 1974, Vol 110, No. 2

“Formaldehyde present in clothing and sheets can produce allergic reactions. Most frequently, it is an irritant, especially to dry skin and areas exposed to increased friction or perspiration.Casein is an innocuous compound that, when added to formaldehyde, produces insoluble compounds used to make items, such as buttons, billiard balls, and water-proof adhesives. A small handful of nonfat dry milk added to the laundry rinse water precipitates free formaldehyde, this results in reduction of the skin irritation. This process also makes clothing and sheets feel softer. In some fabrics, the formaldehyde continues to be released, and after a few days the rinsing must be repeated.Excessive quantities of harsh laundry detergents may cause the same problem of itching.”

Available at http://archderm.jamanetwork.com/article.aspx?articleid=534309

 

~1/4 cup of non-fat dry milk into the wash…