If you’re like most people, you probably don’t give much thought to the materials your mattress is made of. But if you knew that the bed you were sleeping on was made with dangerous flame retardant chemicals, you may think twice before laying your head down at night.
These chemicals can off-gas into the air, causing serious health problems and are a poor choice for our planet. They’ve been linked to cancer, endocrine disruption, and reproductive toxicity. Additionally, they can accumulate in dust and enter your body through inhalation or skin contact. If you are concerned about your exposure to these chemicals, you should look for a mattress that is made without them.
US Legislation regarding flame retardants in Mattresses
The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) requires that all mattresses sold in the USA meet certain flammability standards. As a result, many manufacturers use flame retardant chemicals in their products as an inexpensive way to pass required burn and smolder tests and to slow the spread of flames. While the CPSC has determined that these chemicals are safe for use in mattresses, there is growing evidence that they may be harmful to human health.
What types of flame retardants are found in mattresses?
There are many different types of flame retardants that can be found in mattresses. Some of the most common include brominated flame retardants, chlorinated flame retardants, and phosphate flame retardants. Each of these chemicals can pose serious health risks to those who are exposed to them.
Brominated flame retardants are some of the most common types of flame retardants used in mattresses. They are often added to polyurethane foam, which is a type of material commonly used in mattresses. Chlorinated flame retardants are often added to the fabric of mattresses, as well as to the filling. Phosphate flame retardants are yet another type of flame retardant that is often added to the padding of mattresses.
What are some alternatives to chemical flame retardants for mattresses?
If you are looking for a mattress that is free from chemical flame retardants look for an organic mattress made with organic wool. At My Green Mattress we don’t use any harmful chemical flame retardants in our mattresses. We are able to pass both the 1633 open flame test and 1632 cigarette test by quilting organic wool into the organic cotton cover of your mattress. Wool is a natural flame retardant and will not off-gas toxic chemicals.
How can you reduce your exposure to flame retardants in mattresses?
The best way to reduce your exposure to flame retardants in mattresses is to shop for an organic mattress that is made without them. If you already have a conventional mattress in your home and you are concerned about flame retardants, you can try to reduce your exposure by using a mattress cover and washing your bedding regularly. Keep your bedroom well-ventilated by opening your windows regularly or use an air purifier to help filter these chemicals from the air. By taking these steps, you can help protect yourself from the health hazards associated with sleeping on a mattress made with flame retardants.
Conclusion
Sleeping on a mattress made with chemical flame retardant may not be worth the risk to your health. When you choose a mattress that is made without these dangerous chemicals, you will breathe easier knowing you are doing what you can to protect yourself and your family. My Green Mattress is proud to make chemical free mattresses, using only organic wool to pass flame retardant testing so you should have no trouble finding one that meets your needs.
