Chemicals in Mattresses?

Chemicals are common in U.S. mattresses

The bedroom is our sanctuary, and we count on our bed to provide a safe place for relaxation, restful sleep, and rejuvenation. Unfortunately, many conventional mattresses harbor chemicals and allergens that can adversely affect our sleep and health. Chemical substances, which can remain in the mattress from the manufacturing process or be deliberately added, reduce sleep quality by impairing breathing, and synthetic materials trap moisture in the mattress causing allergens such as molds, mildews, and dust mites to thrive. Adequate oxygen intake is essential to a good night's sleep.

Most mattresses made in the U.S. are composed of polyester fiberfill, polyurethane, and tempered steel coils. A few are made of visco-elastic "memory" foam. Many of these mattresses contain chemical residues, which are the by-products of material processing or the use of solvent-based glues, dyes, and fire retardant treatments during manufacturing. These chemicals can out-gas over time and cause breathing and potential health problems-especially for people with allergies, asthma, or sleep apnea. Some chemicals found in beds pose serious health risks. PBDE (polybrominated diphenyl ether) is added to polyurethane foams as a fire-retardant. PBDE has been linked to numerous health risks for children and adults as well as being an environmental toxin.

Mattresses and bedding can trigger allergies

As we sleep, the heat and perspiration we produce create the ideal environment for allergens like dust mites, molds, and mildews. Thus, the construction of a mattress should ideally consist of breathable, natural materials that allow air to circulate and moisture to evaporate. Mattresses comprised of synthetic materials trap moisture and become havens for such allergens, contributing to allergic symptoms, poor breathing, and worsening asthma in many people. And according to a study published in the New England Journal of Medicine, dust-mite covers for mattresses did not alleviate symptoms.

Our mattresses promote healthy sleep

At European Sleep Design our mattress system is designed and built with clean and natural materials free from harmful chemical off-gassing (or out-gassing) to promote healthy sleep. Every component we use in our beds, including our natural latex, is tested and rated environmentally safe by Oeko-Tex, a European testing board with stringent environmental standards. We never use PBDE's or other chemical flame retardants, and we refuse to buy from companies that do. Our cover is made from organic cotton quilted to natural wool for breathability and reduced humidity for a more comfortable, healthier sleeping environment. And we offer a full line of natural bedding, including The Oxygen Pillow, Cotton Stretch Mattress Protector made from organic cotton, breathable organic cotton sheets, and natural wool-filled comforters that are eco-certified.