In the early 1990s, because of their impact on ozone depletion, the Montreal Protocol restricted the use of many chlorine-containing blowing agents, such as trichlorofluoromethane (CFC-11). The Polyurethane Foam Association, an industry group, as well as the Environmental Protection Agency both say that finished memory foam is inert and does not represent a health hazard. Create a non toxic environment for yourself and your family. Avoid petroleum-based materials, like synthetic latex, vinyl, and polyurethane foam. But, the reality is not that gloomy. Naturally flame resistant. Avoid using polyurethane foam as your bed mattress and steer clear in your home where such job is still ongoing. Organic mattresses are made of all natural materials, so there is virtually no risk of chemical off-gassing. People with the weaker immune system are first to show symptoms. The nature of the process of using compounds to make memory foam is troublesome. Need nontoxic living simplified for yourself? The only issue with chemicals and flame retardants is with low-end memory foam based products. As it is, memory foam is an excellent shock absorbing material. Several chemicals listed above can be found on the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s list of Hazardous Air Pollutants (HAPs) or fall into the group of chemicals known as volatile organic compounds (VOCs). This ability to spread pressure over entire its surface helps people with back pain. Finished with as few chemicals as possible. Generally, the thick layers of foam which make up the core mattress are wrapped in a fabric cover , typically natural bamboo cotton or perhaps a New Zealand wool blend which is then flameproofed to meet the federal safety laws for mattresses. Polyurethane foam emits toxic fumes if burned. by Angela Cummings and Sophia Ruan Gushée. A lab in Atlanta analyzed several memory foam mattresses manufactured in the US. Inquire about adhesives used and any other chemical treatments. Urethane Foam Health Effects. Extracted during the refinement process of crude oil. Usually from those made from polyurethane. We can hardly say that it is meant for use as a mattress. No regulatory commission tracks the safety standards. Irritation to lungs was so bad that it reduced the air flow to lungs of the mice by the fifth of total intake capacity. It found them to emit 61 different types of chemicals. A lab in Atlanta analyzed several mattresses made of memory foam material. Finally, do an independent research about polyurethane. Many adults reported reduced intellectual performance and recurring respiratory problems. And so they too got treated with harmful fire retardant compounds. This off-gassing can be more than just an offense to the olfactories, it can cause adverse health effects. There is little research on VOCs’ harmful effects, and none of the research shows memory foam is unsafe. But then people began to associate health problems with their polyurethane foam furniture. Especially, since the materials used in making memory foam mattresses (learn more) are artificially made. Even if you are on a budget, there are many good choices, so make sure to take a look at our reviews, and I'm sure you will find one that you like. In summary, here’s what’s in standard foam mattresses: These chemicals in polyurethane foam do not necessarily stay contained in your mattress and can be adopted by your home and body. Organic wool , however, is a soft, natural material that not only can allow a mattress to pass the mandated flame test but adds a layer of airy cushioning to the top of your mattress. Some manufacturers opt for not using harmful compounds. Doctors are unable to diagnose people coming in with some of the symptoms. Researchers were using lab mice to measure the effects of breathing VOCs. During the process of making a memory, foam polyurethane is often mixed. Free of VOCs and HAPs. Polyols are binding compounds that are essential to creating the polyurethane foam. According to the EPA ’s review of MDI and TDI , “Completely cured products are fully reacted and therefore are considered to be inert and non-toxic.” Especially in those that have been using memory foam beddings. Polyurethane foam is made from petroleum-byproducts and is highly flammable. Urethane foam is everywhere — it’s under your carpet, in your furniture and your bed, in your walls, on the soles of your shoes and in your athletic helmet. This is why it's so popular in conventional mattresses and the main attraction in memory foam mattresses. What they discovered was that even the brief exposure caused damage. We also encourage you to read about how we may research and/or test Products here. This happens only in certain conditions during use. Our Saatva Mattress Review for 2020 – Are There Valid Complaints Out There? Are memory foam mattresses toxic for my family? Especially since more and more homeowners opt to replace their regular spring mattresses with brand new memory foam ones as a result of that law enacted in 2004. Some of the isocyanates found in memory foam mattresses can cause harm to the skin. Isocyanate compounds irritate skin and are harmful to human health. Polyurethane foam contains chemicals that may adversely affect a baby's health. These include morning headaches muscle pain, frequent nausea and the lack of concentration. Best Mattresses for Hip & Shoulder Pain (Bursitis) – 2020 Review, Highest Rated Hypoallergenic Beds for Allergy Sufferers – 2020 Reviews, The 7 Highest Rated Beds for Arthritis – 2020 Reviews and Ratings. Adhered with low toxic options. At a cost of about £200 each, they are widely used across the NHS. Is memory foam toxic? Are We Safe? Benzene and naphthalene are considered to be carcinogenic. So, even the manufacturers do not pay attention to the long-term effects their products will have on their consumers. EPA (Environmental Protection Agency)findings confirm the toxicity of these materials. Those included isocyanates. Even though VOCs are more stable in finished products such as memory foam they can still release. Wool and natural latex are natural flame retardants and can therefore avoid flame retardant chemicals. Mattresses made of cotton, wool, and natural latex dramatically produce less VOC emissions than their foam counterparts. This was first announced by Walter Bader, the author of the book “Toxic Bedrooms”. Consumers are now on their own and what is even worse, most of the public – are unaware. But, in order to learn why cheap products can be harmful, we have to get to the bottom of this issue. Given no testing was conducted only time will tell on how effects of their use impact human health. In 2020, we're deconstructing our home, habits, and things to reconstruct a practical nontoxic and healing lifestyle. Mattresses are required by law to be flame resistant. Below are a few guidelines for choosing safer mattresses. They show harm in using industrial waste- grade chemicals for furniture and accessories. Chemical breaking down of volatile organic compounds causes a toxic buildup in humans. They suffer from the lack of concentration, frequent headaches, and respiratory issues. Manufacturers of safer mattresses follow a few tried-and-true general guidelines in order to keep chemicals out of mattresses and out of our bedroom air. Dyed with natural whiteners and coloring agents. This makes foam mattresses very harmful. Most of the cheaper memory mattresses come from polyurethane foam. If you'd like help getting started with detoxing your home, then consider Home Detox 101. All memory foam comes from using various heavy industrial chemicals. The air we inhale during our sleep each night should be of special focus. From figuring out how to buy a mattress online, suggesting ones that are good for different needs and body types, or breaking down the newest science behind technology and wellness breakthroughs, Sleep Advisor has you covered. Memory foam mattresses often contain chemical flame retardants which have been linked to a litany of health problems, including developmental brain disorders, cancer, and obesity. Ask if the mattress materials are generally free of VOC and HAPs. Their incredible popularity seems to be unstoppable. They are usually detected by strong odor found in the air around the products. 2. (1). These studies show the negative effects. You can recognize the symptoms of exposure to the harmfulness of foam mattresses. A to Z of D-Toxing provides a detailed overview of chemicals that can be found in polyurethane foam and their possible health effects. It is remarkable that no one is actually letting the public know about this information. This harkens back to a California law from the 1970’s that required foam furnishings meet certain flammability requirements. Most mattresses on the market are full of chemicals that can pollute your bedroom air and harm your body. You definitely want to avoid mattresses made with polyurethane foam, but the plastic is a different story. Toxic Materials in Foam Mattresses? Exposure to this product can cause a long list of side effects, including asthma attacks and lung irritation. The structure of memory foam displaces under pressure or applied force. It is mind boggling how this law creates both ecological and health concerns. Parents must choose wisely to pick a pad made from a safe material. Are these synthetically based mattresses safe for human use? These volatile organic compounds make their way in almost all manufactured household products, including carpets, furniture and of course mattresses and even pillows. These byproducts get dispersed into the air of the bedroom and can build up. There’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to better health and better rest, but no one has time to sleep, let alone figure out how to upgrade the sleep they’re getting. And by themselves can be harmful to human health. This is especially true for infants that sleeping on a new mattress. Most of the materials go through the off-gassing phase during the time of their use. Groundbreaking hacks for practical nontoxic living. Those fumes become part of the air we breathe (and even the dust we inhale or ingest). This causes harm to breathing and induces many allergic reactions. Some blowing agents in polyurethane produce greenhouse gases that have negative effects on the atmosphere. They are highly reactive compounds. Memory foam pillows are made with polyurethane, which is considered highly combustible. People suffering from migraines should keep away from polyurethane fumes. Conventional mattresses meet this Federal requirement with chemical flame retardants, some of which are known to be toxic. Diisocyanates react with polyols to produce the flexible memory foam. HAPs and VOCs can pollute your bedroom and the rest of the home and could easily cause home health problems over time. So, this is when side effects of the use of toxic compounds start to show. Given its purpose of increasing safety for citizens' homes. Not to mention the harm that these gases cause to the lungs and the rest of the respiratory system. Even some innerspring mattresses contain foam made of propylene oxide and TDI. Seeing how most of the homeowners are switching to foam mattresses – we have to stop and ask ourselves. This is a main reason why it's important to look for an affordable non toxic mattress and a quality non toxic crib when purchasing one for your infants or children. You also find polyurethane foam in pillows, couches, and chair cushions. This is because of its design to prevent serious injury to humans. The government even appears to turn a blind eye to the many studies. It is no wonder it is unfit for human use. And from the four different mattress manufacturers, the results showed that all the memory foam mattresses caused respiratory problems. The lab found the mattresses emit 61 different types of chemicals, some of which are highly toxic. This works great for spreading the force throughout its surface area. Or any type of product where humans would be longer exposed to it, for that matter. Sleeping on a polyurethane foam mattress puts you at the biggest risk for VOC inhalation. The 8 Highest Rated Blue Light Blocking Glasses in 2020 Reviewed. Urethane Foam Health Effects | Livestrong.com Cushy and squishy, polyurethane foam gives us comfortable mattresses. As for the main ingredient polyurethane, its use isn't monitored at all. Your mattress should be a place of rejuvenation, comfort, and sanctuary. Polyurethane is petroleum-basend and contains VOCs, causing immediate health effects like headaches, eye, nose and throat irritation, loss of coordination, asthma exacerbation and nausea. ... HEALTH HAZARDS TO CHILDREN. It was not regulated by OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administrations), even though it is well known that it can be dangerous when combined with other chemicals. Consider ones that are: Polyurethane foam mattresses, dubbed “solid gasoline”, can give off toxic fumes that may be linked to short- and long- term health conditions. What is the best non toxic mattress to buy? “In fact, fire marshals refer to polyurethane foam as “solid gasoline,” according to the National Association of State Fire Marshals (2015) as cited in A to Z of D-Toxing. Its primary function was to keep astronauts safe during missions in space. In a world where profit matters more than human health, this does not come as too surprising. Well, memory foam mattresses are typically made using two core components which are polyurethane foam, and then the fabric cover. During the home use, these substances can release their gaseous compound derivatives. In this article, we will explain the main components of cheap foam mattresses. How do they exactly affect human health? This is a reaction to the developing of lung infections. SleepAdvisor.org 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. (1) (2)A to Z of D-Toxing, Works Cited Part 2, (3) (4)A to Z of D-Toxing, Works Cited Part 3 and 4. The isocyanates found in the memory foam mattresses can be very harmful. We do not recommend that you opt for any mattress that's below $400 or pillow that costs less than $50. High-quality, foam-based products are now available for way less money than before and with “green” and eco-friendly manufacturing process. Go figure. It makes sense that a material made from more natural products would contain less hazardous materials. It adds padding and coziness while providing the support and structure needed for a good night’s sleep. Many gel and traditional memory foam mattresses need to be aired out in a well-ventilated space away from living areas prior to use. The Polyurethane Foam Association and Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) both agree that finished memory foam does not present a health hazard because completely cured memory foam has fully reacted and, therefore, is inert and non-toxic. We have to conclude our findings with a wholehearted warning for low-quality products. It is not surprising at all that these health issues are starting to increase in scope. And if that alone isn’t bad enough they are carcinogenic to humans. So most patients with these symptoms are ill without any solution in sight. But did you know that polyurethane foam can be a source of toxic fumes and toxic dust? The guidelines above for choosing a safer mattress or non toxic mattress topper can help determine which mattresses are made from natural and non toxic materials instead of those made from chemicals or synthetics. Memory foam was first designed for NASA space program. #1 New Releases: Home Detox Workbook & EMF Detox Workbook , A to Z of D-Toxing, Works Cited Part 3 and 4. Learn budget-friendly tips to detox your home and habits of toxic chemicals, heavy metals, and electromagnetic fields from your technology. According to the United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA), exposure to some of the main ingredients of polyurethane foam – isocyanates – can cause a range of negative health effects, including asthma, lung damage and respiratory problems and damage and skin and eye irritation. Polyurethane foam (including foam rubber) is sometimes made using small amounts of blowing agents to give less dense foam, better cushioning/energy absorption or thermal insulation. After choosing a safer mattress, let the mattress air out and breathe for a few hours before making the bed. The health concerns are great. Unfortunately, scientists found polyurethane contains isocyanates, a compound that can potentially harm your lungs. This can have serious consequences for human health. Polyurethane foam has been one of the materials for crib mattress pads for many year but questions remain about its safety. In their raw forms, these can cause respiratory and skin damage. Recognizing the Side Effects of Your Memory Foam Mattress You can recognize the symptoms of exposure to the harmfulness of foam mattresses. The thing is if you opt for higher-end products you will get eco-friendly materials and production process, better cooling and airflow and overall comfort and support. Most mattresses now are either entirely memory foam or hybrid mattresses containing memory foam and coils. The isocyanate compounds researched were acetone, benzene, ethylene oxide, formaldehyde, methylene chloride and 1,1,1 -trichloroethane. During the study, scientists utilized lab rats to breath in the fumes for a certain period of time. To learn more, please read our full disclosure page here. Avoid waterproof- and stain resistant- mattress finishes. This question is sound and logical. The small cavities inside of it compress and change shape. Even the more expensive brands contain some of the most toxic substances. Are mattresses toxic? This substance is not safe for use in the U.S. since 2004 due to health concerns. It also helps people with injury to sleep with great comfort. Studies found that commonly used flame retardants were carcinogenic. These can also cause respiration problems. Polyvinyl chloride, formaldehyde, boric acid, antimony trioxide and different types of petrochemicals. 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. Some polyurethane foam contains non-renewable fossil fuels that adversely affect the environment. The main ingredient of memory foam is polyurethane. Even these standard spring-based mattresses needed to follow fire safety regulations. Polyurethane foam is used in most mattresses on the market. Covered with natural materials: organic wool or cotton. If you see a waterproof mattress protector made with polyurethane plastic, you’ll need to dig deeper to … These unstable substances are the main cause for the rapid degradation of health. Let alone long exposure over time. The core of the mattress should be comprised of natural latex instead of memory foam, polyurethane foam, or any number of blended foams. This compound comes from petroleum as a byproduct. Safer mattress choices are growing in popularity; especially ones that use safer toxin free products in their production. Even the minimal amount of toxicity of these compounds causes asthmatic attacks. It offers safety in helmets, pads and plenty of other equipment. We are facing a serious health threat, and it seems no one from the industry is taking notice. Some of these materials were carcinogens including benzene and naphthalene. The reduced cognitive ability is most often reported in young children. Avoid chemical flame retardants. One flame retardant, polybrominated diphenyl ether (PBDE), contributes to lowered IQ , increased hyperactivity in young children, and disrupted hormones during pregnancy. During the manufacturing process, many compounds mix together. Nor does it perform checkups of the manufacturers and their practices. We're bringing consciousness to unconscious choices. Health effects associated with VOCs range from eye, nose and throat irritation to headaches and organ damage, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Therefore, when looking for a new mattress, the filling and padding materials are one of the first concerns because they might contain some toxic chemicals and additives that may pose a health risk. Transparency Disclosure – We may receive a referral fee (at no additional cost to the buyer) for products purchased through the links on our site or other applicable pages. Mattress companies advertise memory foam mattresses as being great for pain relief. Flame Retardant – may cause learning disabilities, lower IQ levels, reproductive and nervous system damage, thyroid and other hormone disruption and cancer as well as damage to a cell’s DNA. Furthermore, experts have discovered it can irritate skin and cause heavy breathing after extended exposure. Diisocyanates are also found as ingredients that increase flame resistance in foam mattresses. We agree that it does work wonders for those that experience pain. The number of other toxic chemicals include many harmful compounds. But, this doesn’t change the fact that it contains compounds which are unfit for human use. We will question their safety and expose possible concerns about their use. This fact is often used for marketing purposes. Polyurethane foam, for example is highly toxic due to additives to make it into a foam. Specialist foam mattresses are made of high-quality polyurethane and viscoelastic foam and are designed to cradle the patient to reduce pressure on the skin. This causes the appearance of bad odors and obnoxious smell during use. Especially on the health of the more sensitive individuals. (4) Then enjoy a restful night’s sleep knowing you chose a safer toxic free mattress. A new study has shown that breathing the chemicals from polyurethane foam can be dangerous. These have been known to cause swelling of th… Propylene oxide and TDI are found in polyurethane foam and memory foam, which is present in nearly all mattresses on the market today. Duke University completed clinical evaluations researched certain components used in memory foams. These chemicals in polyurethane foam do not necessarily stay contained in your mattress and can be adopted by your home and body. These include morning headaches muscle pain, frequent nausea and the lack of concentration. Polyurethane foam is the most common filling material used to make mattresses for adults and crib mattresses and is often found in couches, armchairs, and other types of furniture. Open all windows and doors and make sure that the room where wood finishes and varnishes are being done is well ventilated. Some flame retardants use chemicals that have been linked to endocrine disruption, neurological damage and cancer. Some can exhibit allergic problems too. Check certifications Adhesives used to bind the various mattress components can use zero- or low-VOC products, and (if possible) be free of Hazardous Air Pollutants (HAPs). 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