Dutch consumer group steps up warnings over headphones containing harmful chemicals

The Dutch Consumers’ Association has issued new warnings about headphones containing harmful substances, including bisphenol A (BPA), which can enter the body and weaken the immune system.

The organization urged users to limit prolonged skin contact with affected headphones. “Keep the headphones off your neck when not in use, and do not put them in your mouth. Do not suck on the cable while wearing the headphones,” the association said.

The European Union-backed ToxFree Life for All project tested 81 headphones, including models from Apple, JBL, Bose, and Samsung. Results showed that many devices contain substances that can be absorbed through the skin.

High-end gaming headsets from Sony, Samsung, and Sennheiser scored poorly, as did children’s models, including HEMA’s nijntje headphone.

Retailers Bol.com and MediaMarkt previously confirmed they had pulled some of the affected models from sale following the report.

The Consumers’ Association specifically warned parents to monitor children’s use of headphones. “If a child puts the headphone in their mouth, we advise discontinuing use,” the group said.