Numerous products sold in Bed Bath & Beyond, as well as in the company's Harmon beauty products division, contain materials known to cause or have been associated with cancer, developmental harm to children, and other health and environmental impacts. These chemicals include: polyvinyl chloride (PVC), perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA - sometimes referred to as "the Teflon chemical"), phthalates, and bisphenol A (BPA).

As You Sow filed a ‘Toxic Chemicals in Products’ shareholder resolution with the company in 2007, calling for a report on company products that use PVC, PFOA, phthalates, formaldehyde, and other toxic ingredients. The resolution received a 22% vote which is considered a high vote for a first year social/environmental resolution.

In 2008, As You Sow’s shareholder group – including outside experts on alternative products – spoke with company senior managers directly responsible for product purchasing and product safety assessment. As a result, Bed Bath & Beyond: