When was the last time you thought about what’s inside your mattress? If you’re like most people, probably not recently. But here’s something worth considering: if your mattress isn’t made with natural materials, there’s a good chance you’re sleeping on chemical flame retardants every night.
Let’s break down why they’re used, why it matters, and what to look for instead.
Why Are Flame Retardants Used in the First Place?
In the 1970s, flammability standards were introduced to slow the spread of fires caused by cigarettes and open flames. To meet those regulations, many manufacturers started adding chemical flame retardants—substances designed to make materials less likely to catch fire—to everything from furniture to mattresses.
Mattresses, in particular, must meet federal flammability standards. But how they meet those standards makes all the difference.
The Problem With Chemical Flame Retardants
For decades, synthetic flame retardants were seen as a safety measure. But research has since revealed that many of these chemicals come with potential health risks.
Some of the concerns linked to common flame retardants include:
- Hormone disruption
- Neurodevelopmental issues in children
- Respiratory irritation
- Increased cancer risk
Worse still, these chemicals don’t stay put. Over time, they can break down and release into the air and dust in your home—meaning you can inhale or absorb them without even realizing it. And since most of us spend roughly a third of our lives in bed, long-term exposure matters.
A Safer Solution: Natural Flame Resistance
At My Green Mattress, we believe your bed should be a safe place—not a source of exposure to harmful chemicals.
That’s why we use GOTS-certified organic wool as the only flame barrier in all of our mattresses. Wool is inherently flame-resistant, allowing our products to pass safety regulations without the use of synthetic chemicals. It’s a time-tested, effective, and a non-toxic alternative.
Here’s what sets our flame barrier apart:
- No chemical flame retardants, fiberglass, sprays, or synthetic barriers
- 100% GOTS-certified organic wool, ethically sourced
- Naturally breathable to help regulate temperature and moisture
- Safe for sensitive sleepers and kids
What to Look For When Shopping
If you’re in the market for a safer mattress, here are some quick tips:
- Look for GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard), GOLS(Global Organic Latex Standard) and GREENGUARD Gold certifications
- Ask if the mattress uses chemical flame retardants or synthetic barriers
- Choose brands that use organic wool, cotton, or latex over petroleum-based foams
Ready to make the switch? Explore our organic, chemical-free mattresses here and rest easy knowing you’re making a safer choice for you and your family.
