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Questions about fire retardants in mattresses

Duncan asked
4th September 2014

Hi, i’ve spent endless hours researching mattresses to realise i want a memory or latex top with pocket springs.

What I then came across was articles about the toxicity of mattress due to fire retardants.

Obviously not wanting to get cancer whilst i slept i was hoping you had some thoughts otherwise as all i seem to find are mostly “greene” sites or “scared mothers.com” trying to steer away from them.

I’d prefer natural if there is less risk, but would appreciate your take.

I’ll trust your honesty given the amount of positive feedback, and if the answer is that there is risk, i don’t need this published on your site.

Cheers Duncan >

1 Answer
Lee Staff
answered 10 years ago

Hi Duncan,

You’ve hit upon an interesting subject about whats in a memory foam mattress and its components.

I wrote an article on what’s in memory foam and a debate on the chemicals contained.

There are a number of sites that will tell you they are toxic and others that will claim there is minimal to no risk.

I’m going to simply provide you with some of the facts around memory foam and let you make your own mind up.

I always say that some people may have reactions to a memory foam mattress as similarly some people have a adverse reaction to certain washing up powders, food groups, smells, tv channels and celebrities!

In all seriousness, the only way to reduce the contact with any synthetic chemicals is to opt for a more natural component such as 100% natural latex or natural wool and horse hair.

You will however always have exposure to some chemicals, whether it be cleaning solutions, adhesives or galvanised spring coatings etc when buying a mattress.

As you can see its almost impossible to completely avoid chemicals, even painting a wall in your home will release VOC (Volitile organic compounds) I’ve also written on VOC and their effects on John Ryan Contemporary.

The aim to keep these to a minimum if you want to avoid synthetic products.

If you want to discuss further please give us a call Duncan on 0161 437 4419

Lee

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