Welcome to Atom Score!
This website is part science blog, part consumer advocacy, and part deep dive into the regulations that target (or ignore!) toxic products in our homes and communities.
Did you know that vintage and antique items often contain added lead or cadmium? Old toys can create lead dust and are a potential source of lead exposure for kids. Old dishes can leach lead in excess of Prop 65 and FDA regulations.
Churches, daycares, and charity shops regularly accept, reuse, or resell older products that are unsafe and don’t meet modern safety standards.
American consumers are often in the dark when it comes to toxic heavy metals in their products. Generations of Americans were lead poisoned due to the addition of lead to paint, gasoline, and consumer goods. Although we have made significant progress to reduce childhood lead exposure, more work needs to be done on behalf of the public.
We test stuff for lead, cadmium, and other elements using a handheld X-ray fluorescence (XRF) analyzer, which can rapidly and accurately screen products without damaging them. We use a Thermo Scientific Niton XL3t x-ray tube instrument which is precisely calibrated to test a wide range of consumer goods.
We post the results on our blog for free so readers can use this information to make meaningful choices about their stuff.
XRF testing is a well-established, scientifically valid method of detecting restricted elements in consumer goods. This technology is widely used by manufacturers, distributors, regulatory agencies, and in scientific research. Handheld XRF instruments are used by the Consumer Product Safety Commission to screen for lead in children’s products coming through our nation’s ports. XRF readings can be taken in any place, at any time, and are non-destructive.
We support our business through advertising and recommending non-toxic products via affiliate links. The products we like are based on our testing, personal preferences, research into materials and regulatory standards, and communications with brands.
Heavy metals are only one area of concern in consumer goods. When possible, we recommend products free from added lead, cadmium, PVC, flame retardants, and PFAS.
Atom Score is a small business run by a mom. You can help support our business by starting your next shopping trip using one of our affiliate links or checking out Shop with Us. Anything purchased within a 24-hour window, even your regular purchases, nets a small commission for us and helps support ongoing testing and equipment-related costs.
Thanks for visiting! We are grateful for your support.