are latex mattresses toxic

Generally, off-gassing has not been found to be harmful to human beings in any lasting way, but research has shown that continual exposure to VOCs could potentially lead to increased risk of cancer, nervous system damage, and liver or kidney damage. It depends on the mattress in question. In the end, a latex mattress that has been made with only latex and small amounts of chemicals is less toxic than a memory foam mattress; even though both are very comfortable, memory foam uses a more traditional mattress manufacturing process. Benzene can be found in polyurethane foams used in many types of mattresses, including memory foam and some hybrids or innerspring mattresses. The Talalay method involves vacuuming the latex for expansion into the mold. However, if you’re stuck between a synthetic latex mattress and a memory foam blend, it’s a toss-up as far as toxicity is concerned. Both of these are VOCs and can do serious harm. However, upholstered furniture (such as mattresses, comforters, mattress pads, bed pillows) are not subject to TB117 revisions, and therefore can still contain these chemicals for the time being. The reason we suggest avoiding these chemicals, despite their popularity, is due to recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC). Specifically, it aims to limit VOCs, and a product can only receive a Greenguard Gold certification if it has very low amounts of VOCs. Main image: ‘Bedroom Elegance’ by Rpsycho (Getty Images Signature) – used with permission under the terms of Canva’s One Design Use License Agreement.eval(ez_write_tag([[300,250],'bedroomstylereviews_com-large-mobile-banner-1','ezslot_7',115,'0','0'])); Dan is the founder and head content creator at Bedroom Style Reviews. At first, this sounds like a good thing, but PBDEs are actually very dangerous and have been banned in the United States and many other countries. . According to the CDC’s Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry, repeated, long-term, heavy exposure to toluene can result in serious effects, like seizures, cognitive impairment, hearing loss, and developmental delays in children or babies born to women exposed to high levels of toluene during pregnancy. Natural mattresses typically contain fewer synthetic materials than a non-natural mattress, but they still contain some synthetics, and could potentially contain them in unhealthy amounts. However, DMF is not absorbed through the skin with a mattress because it is only released into the air as a VOC, but it can also be inhaled. All of these mattresses off-gas volatile organic compounds (VOCs) over time. Since 2004, by law, the U.S. requires all mattresses to be fireproof to a specific temperature point and ever since the toxicity levels in foam memory mattresses have increased. The CDC has announced that both propylene oxide and TDI are associated with increased tumor risk in mice and rats. Once we absorb PBDEs, they remain in our tissue and they can continue to build up over a lifetime. Unfortunately, you’ll need to be prepared to spend a bit more if you want an all-natural bed. Synthetic latex, on the other hand, is made from petroleum-based ingredients and may release toxic chemicals into the air that are responsible for that unpleasant “new mattress” smell and can cause problems in people with allergies or other sensitivities. A non-toxic memory foam mattress is a CertiPUR-US Certified green mattress that is made without using harsh chemicals. According to the CDC, DMF causes the most damage when absorbed through the skin. Because there are a number of toxic chemicals used to create synthetic latex mattresses, making these types of mattresses unsafe to sleep on. Bedroom Style Reviews is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. In order to qualify for this standard, a textile product must be made of at least 70% organic fibers, and 30% of non-organic fibers still have to meet stringent environmental and toxicological standards. Single, low exposure to toluene is unlikely to be harmful, but repeated exposure could be associated with health concerns. The Pure Echo only comes in medium-firm. How do you find a mattress that won’t be detrimental to your health? The best mattress that you can get in the United States if you want something comfortable, long-lasting and non-toxic is an organic latex mattress, such as the Birch mattress. The Amazon logo are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc, or its affiliates. It is also highly resistant to mold and dust mites, and is more durable than petroleum-based foam. Mattress shopping can be exciting but it can also be overwhelming. The goal of Greenguard is to help consumers identify products with low emissions, to improve the air quality of your home. He also holds several college and university-level qualifications in health sciences, psychology, mathematics, art, and digital media creation – which helps him to publish well researched and informative product reviews as well as articles on sleep, health, wellbeing, and home decor. The best strategy is to look for trusted certifications from independent companies that seek to identify safe products for your home, like the ones below. The CDC has announced that both. Dan is a qualified NVQ Level 2 Fitness Instructor with 6 years’ experience helping clients improve their health through diet, exercise, and proper sleep hygiene. Although these effects aren’t as severe as some of the effects caused by other chemicals on this list, we sleep on our mattress every night and having a headache every single day would get old very quickly. This is a relatively safe substance until the polyurethane and other chemicals are released in off-gassing. Chemical Coatings. *. When shopping for a non-toxic mattress, look for the GOTS logo. , like seizures, cognitive impairment, hearing loss, and developmental delays in children or babies born to women exposed to high levels of toluene during pregnancy. | Contact | Affiliate Notice | Editorial Policy | Privacy and Cookie Policy | Terms of Use |, This post has been quality checked in line with our, © 2021 - Bedroom Style Reviews - All Rights Reserved. These chemicals are dissolved into other materials, and as a result, they can easily escape said materials and make their way into you and me. Typically, those who experience excessive exposure to polyols experience allergic-type reactions. If you are allergic to latex, then staying away from any of the other latex options listed here is advisable. As such, the manufacturing process is a bit more involved, and thus raises the cost of the mattress. Concern about toxicity in your mattress is a serious matter. The reason we suggest avoiding these chemicals, despite their popularity, is due to recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC). Latex mattresses can only become toxic when chemicals are added during the mattress creation process. Initial off-gassing can create a strong smell and may even give you a headache or make you feel dizzy at first, but all of these effects should fade within a few days or possibly a week or so. It is one of the most common VOCs typically released from mattresses through off-gassing. When inhaled in small amounts, it is less likely to cause liver damage, but if you want to be safe, it may be best to look for a mattress without DMF. The best way to be sure that your mattress is good for both you and the environment is to buy a new, completely organic mattress. As such, you should try and find a latex mattress that uses as few polyurethane-like chemicals as possible during the molding and baking process. Even some innerspring mattresses contain foam made of propylene oxide and TDI. When latex mattresses are made, despite a small number of latex mattresses not having added chemicals, most are aided by the inclusion of polyurethane, which is a compound that is used for binding and forming substances – in this case, latex. are associated with increased tumor risk in mice and rats. One term that frequently pops up in discussions of mattresses and chemicals is “off-gassing.” This is the phenomenon that occurs when a mattress and its associated materials release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) into the air. Note: It’s not enough to trust the “100% natural” label. According to the CDC, DMF causes the most damage when absorbed through the skin. Non-toxic mattresses are generally free of memory foam and chemical fire retardants. Finally, eco-friendly mattresses are more concerned with how the mattress affects the world rather than how it affects human beings. 100% natural. If you tend to be very sensitive to various chemicals, or if you’ve noticed that you tend to get a headache on days when you’re cooped up in your house, you might be ready to make the switch to a non-toxic mattress. He has been working as a professional online product reviewer since 2015 and was inspired to start this website when he ended up sleeping on a memory foam mattress that was too soft and gave him backache. Non-toxic mattress brands include Avocado, Happsy, My Green Mattress, Naturepedic, Plush Beds & Soaring Heart. Latex is a substance that is formed from the sap of a rubber tree (hevea brasiliensis). Although natural latex mattresses run at a higher price, they are well worth the investment and have proven themselves to … Prices for safe, chemical-free mattresses start at 899 USD. This is because a latex mattress needs to be breathable and durable to hold up as a viable mattress for long-term use. eval(ez_write_tag([[300,250],'bedroomstylereviews_com-box-4','ezslot_8',110,'0','0']));eval(ez_write_tag([[300,250],'bedroomstylereviews_com-box-4','ezslot_9',110,'0','1'])); Note: The term “VOCs” actually refers to a group of compounds. When this happens, there can be a host of negative health effects. 100% natural latex mattresses are not toxic and are not known to off-gas when you unwrap them. Unfortunately, it can’t protect you from the harmful longterm effects of the VOCs, but it can help reduce the smell, which in turn could reduce your headaches or dizziness. All-latex mattresses made with synthetic latex are cheaper, but these beds have a shorter lifespan, are less breathable, and often have a strong, chemical smell when brought indoors. It is typically released through off-gassing. One hundred percent natural latex mattresses are made with absolutely no petrochemicals. However, latex mattresses that use synthetic chemicals are prone to off-gassing: a process that releases volatile organic compounds, which are known to be toxic. Because of this potential risk, some people prefer a mattress with limited off-gassing. If you are able to find a latex mattress that has “all-natural” in its title, there is a good chance that only a tiny amount of chemicals were used in the production process, if at all. A high-quality mattress with a latex foam comfort layer and a pocketed spring … See: Guide To Natural, Non-Toxic Bedroom Products. The best organic mattresses are typically hybrids that include latex or a full-latex mattress because all-natural latex is a great organic material for the environment, your health, and your sleep quality. A 100% botanical mattress is made using 100% natural materials. Avoid products with a blend natural and synthetic latex. Wool is often used as a cover on mattresses to prevent burning, which can eliminate the need for those nasty flame retardants. Bottom Line: A line of highly-rated and affordable latex mattresses and latex mattress toppers, made in Chicago and containing only organic cotton, organic New Zealand wool, and high-quality 100% natural latex sourced from Sri Lanka. You’re going to spend a third of your life on your mattress; therefore, it’s a smart idea to make sure the material you’re sleeping on isn’t going to make you sick. We’ve done the research and created this handy guide to help you avoid potentially dangerous chemicals, find organic mattresses that are good for your health, and explain the nitty-gritty of safe mattress buying. If you are exposed to small amounts for a short period of time, this causes short-term dizziness or headaches, but long-term exposure can lead to anemia or immune system dysfunction. The extraction and forming process to make latex mattresses will also be explored to further discover if any chemicals used could cause toxicity. You can find polyols in any mattress that contains polyurethane foam, which typically includes memory foam mattresses, many hybrid mattresses, and even some innerspring mattresses. And it doesn’t help that there are so many different labels attached to latex mattresses in the first place, meaning that deceptive advertising is common with this type of mattress. Latex mattresses are an ideal choice for those with back pain or joint pain.Many health professionals such as osteopaths, physical therapists and chiropractors recommend latex mattresses for pain relief.This is because of the comfort and cushioning properties of the latex, as well as its ability to promote natural spine alignment. NATURAL MATTRESS. Organic and natural latex mattresses are made with non-toxic materials that have a minimal amount of toxic chemicals and off-gassing effects. By simply filling the molds with latex and baking it, the latex has difficulty expanding and molding properly into a typical mattress structure. It can enter the human body through the air, through water, or even through the soil. Many people suggest latex mattresses as a “nontoxic” alternative to polyurethane foam mattresses. So, there are two types of latex mattresses to look for to avoid the least amount of potential toxins during off-gassing: Going with a synthetic latex mattress will give you the same level of comfort at a lower price, but you might be trading your health in return. Among the general population, sleeping on a latex mattress has not been shown to cause allergies. It depends on the mattress in question. Some materials that break down easily and are good for the environment are not as good for people, so be sure to do your research when looking at mattresses labeled as “eco-friendly.”. Consumers also can choose mattresses made of materials other than polyurethane foam, Evans said. So by now, we know all about the nasty toxic chemical cocktails that are present in the vast majority of mattresses on the market, and we also know what to look out for in a non-toxic (or less toxic) product. But for me, I just didn’t want to risk spending $4,000 on an organic mattress and risk sacrificing comfort. eval(ez_write_tag([[250,250],'bedroomstylereviews_com-banner-1','ezslot_11',111,'0','0'])); As mentioned above, not all latex mattresses will contain VOCs that contribute to off-gassing. However, this is misleading since chemical agents are needed to help the latex form properly in the mold. Plus, you need to worry about the safety of your mattress. Non toxic mattresses are natural latex foam mattresses manufactured without the use or inclusion, of any toxic materials. So many products in our bedrooms contain harmful toxic chemicals that we are breathing in each and every day. Best of all, the Oeko-Tex Standard 100 looks out for harmful chemicals, even if they haven’t been regulated by government bodies yet. Natural mattresses have a foot in both worlds. Most mattresses now are either entirely memory foam or hybrid mattresses containing memory foam and coils. Look for a product that has 100 percent natural latex. Only latex liquid can currently be certified organic in the U.S. If you think that gel memory foam is toxic and dangerous to your health, there are possible alternatives you can choose from. The Dunlop method is the most common method, which involves whipping and pouring the latex into a mold where the latex is then baked. Polyvinyl chloride, formaldehyde, boric acid, antimony trioxide and different types of petrochemicals. However, it’s not all bad news. There are also mattresses that may be using natural latex but don’t use certified organic wool as a natural flame barrier or don’t have a GOTS-certification for their finished product. The main concern is that all of the aforementioned VOCs are linked to the formation of cancer, and that any babies who use synthetic latex mattresses will have an increased risk of cancer later in life. However, DMF is not absorbed through the skin with a mattress because it is only released into the air as a VOC, but it can also be inhaled. Also, additional toxic chemicals may be used during processing. For example, latex mattresses that do not use polyurethane and opt for 100% latex will not emit off-gassing to noticeable levels of toxicity. Although new items cannot be produced using PBDEs, there are still plenty of old items in our houses and on the market that still contain this dangerous chemical. . The finished foam and mattress cannot be. Organic Latex This is because toluene has been found to be even more harmful to people’s health than TDI. Since we spend so much time on our mattresses, it is not recommended to use a mattress containing these chemicals. I discuss that in the article as well as the top alternatives. No newly manufactured mattress should be allowed to contain PBDEs at this point in time, but if you are buying your mattress used, or buying a very old model, be sure to do your research carefully. Polyols are chemicals used to create polyurethane foam, which as we’ve mentioned, is a major component of most modern mattresses. This milky white sap is completely natural and can even be categorized as organic if the growing process of the rubber tree is free of insecticides and chemical fertilizers. PBDEs used to be included in the foam part of the mattress, and could also sometimes be found in the mattress cover or topper. When you’re shopping for a non-toxic mattress, be sure that it uses 100% natural latex. Latex mattresses offer more than enhanced sleep health and eco-friendliness, they also provide customizable comfort, extreme support, and durability. eval(ez_write_tag([[300,250],'bedroomstylereviews_com-medrectangle-3','ezslot_0',108,'0','0']));eval(ez_write_tag([[300,250],'bedroomstylereviews_com-medrectangle-3','ezslot_1',108,'0','1'])); There are two ways to make latex mattresses: a wholly natural process and a process that uses additional chemicals. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases on Amazon. Although these findings have not yet been replicated in humans, the CDC recommends that we limit our exposure to both chemicals. An organic latex mattress is manufactured and processed with near 100% natural latex – which is a fancy way of saying that it contains no blended foams, no toxic fillers, no dyes, no carcinogenic adhesives, no toxic chemicals and no pesticides. Mattresses containing cotton, wool and natural latex will all produce lower levels of gases. If you go with a reputable brand, you shouldn’t have an issue finding a genuine 100% natural latex mattress. How Can Synthetic Latex Affect Your Health? This is interesting, but where does toxicity come into play? If you are exposed to small amounts for a short period of time, this causes short-term dizziness or headaches, but long-term exposure can lead to anemia or immune system dysfunction. Synthetic Latex is made from two petroleum-based compounds, styrene and butadiene. Dan also has direct personal experience with insomnia, anxiety, misophonia (hypersensitivity to sounds), and pain from both acute and long-standing sporting injuries – he enjoys writing insightful articles around these subjects to help fellow sufferers of such conditions. It’s not enough to trust that because something is labeled as “natural” or “eco-friendly” that it’s actually safe for your sleep. See the best latex mattresses sold online and learn the benefits of sleeping on a natural Talalay or Dunlop mattress. Since we spend so much time on our mattresses, it is not recommended to use a mattress containing these chemicals. Their Gold certification is the most stringent one that they offer because it aims to protect more vulnerable populations, like children and those with allergies and sensitivities. So what are the qualities of a nontoxic mattress? If you are starting to wonder how safe the materials in your mattress are, you are not alone. 2. There are so many options out there, and it’s nearly impossible to tell which one is the best for your sleep needs. I’m sure there are some great, comfortable, non-toxic mattresses out there. Many natural latex manufacturers claim that no additives are included in the production process. 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