Despite the supportive data and growing awareness about harmful chemicals in mattresses, they continue to lurk as we sleep. Worse yet, a new round of research focusing on children's mattresses shows how the very place little ones should be safest could be exposing them to brain-harming toxins.
What Research Says
Two recent studies, published in April 2025, shed light on this issue. In the first study, researchers measured chemicals in 25 children's bedrooms, focusing on an age group spanning 6 months to 4 years. Results show unsettling levels of semi-volatile organic compounds (SVOCs) in the air, with the highest concentration near the bed.
Another round of research was done to probe further. This time, the researchers tested 16 new mattresses for kids. They found 21 out of 45 targeted SVOCs on the foam and covers. Moreover, they found no relationship between the concentration of SVOCs and the cost of the mattresses.
Now, how exactly do these chemicals make their way into the air? Through simulations, researchers found that a child's body heat and weight on the mattress could trigger the release or "off-gassing" of these chemicals, which are, according to the study, "known to be associated with numerous adverse effects such as reproductive, neurological, hormonal, and other health harms."
The Usual Suspects
What are the common harmful chemicals found in mattresses? Here's a closer look at the SVOCs found in children's mattresses and why they're a problem:
Ortho-phthalates
Ortho-phthalates are often added to plastic to make the material more pliable and durable. In mattresses, they are present in foam adhesives to enhance flexibility or on covers to make them tougher for everyday use.
Phthalates are known endocrine disruptors. When they leach into the air and dust, they infiltrate our system and may interfere with our hormones. Exposure to phthalates may contribute to reduced sperm count and poor sperm motility in men, and fertility issues, even miscarriages, in women.
Compared to adults, children are more sensitive and vulnerable to phthalate exposure, showing links to how it affects thyroid function, anogenital distance, metabolism, and neurodevelopment, among others.
Organophosphate esters (OPEs)
Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) are infamous flame retardants banned in many countries. So, mattress manufacturers have stopped using them to meet safety standards. However, some have simply replaced PBDEs with still potentially harmful organophosphate esters.
Although OPEs are intended to improve safety by making mattresses less flammable, the health trade-off is also steep. Like phthalates, OPEs can be endocrine disruptors and may impact reproductive health. They also increase the risk of asthma, allergic rhinitis, and eczema.
Benzophenones and Salicylates
Benzophenones, like benzophenone-3, are primarily used in UV filters—yes, they're in sunscreens, too. Their use in mattresses is less common but could be found in textile treatments to prevent discoloration and degradation from light exposure. Like OPEs and ortho-phthalates, benzophenone exposure shows increased risks for certain health issues as it is linked to endocrine disruption.
Salicylates, meanwhile, are derivatives of salicylic acid. As they have antimicrobial and antifungal properties, they might be added to some mattresses and fabrics to inhibit the growth of mold and mildew. Although they are considered less toxic than the other chemicals mentioned, they may trigger skin irritation and allergic reactions in people who are sensitive to them.
Photo by Ron Lach via Pexels
What Parents Can Do
It's natural to feel concerned and overwhelmed hearing about the potential chemical exposures, and it certainly isn't fair that parents have to go the extra mile (and beyond) to ensure mattresses are safe. However, a few actionable steps may be worth doing to help limit your child's exposure to harmful chemicals.
1. Go for Certified Organic Mattresses
Prioritize mattresses with certifications like Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS), Global Organic Latex Standard (GOLS), and Greenguard GOLD. These certifications help verify that the entire mattress meets stringent standards for low chemical emissions. Exploring reputable brands like Naturepedic is a great starting point.
Instead of polyurethane foam, organic mattresses are made from inherently natural materials like cotton, wool, and more natural latex, like Talalay latex. These materials often possess natural flame-retardant properties, reducing the need for added chemicals.
Here's an interesting read about natural latex: What’s the Difference Between Dunlop and Talalay Latex? 2024 | The Strategist
2. Opt for Untreated, Neutral-Colored Fabrics
While vibrant colors are appealing, the dyes and treatments used to achieve them may need additional chemicals. One example, as mentioned above, is benzophenone, which prevents color from fading in textiles. Choose undyed or naturally dyed, neutral-toned beddings and mattress protectors to minimize exposure to this chemical.
3. Maintain a Regular Washing Schedule for Bedding
Sheets, blankets, and pajamas can act as a first line of defense and trap some volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and dust that may carry chemicals. Frequent washing with mild, unscented detergent helps remove these potential contaminants.
4. Allow New Mattresses to Off-Gas Before Use
It may be a hassle, but it might be worth your while to air out new items before using them. New mattresses, cribs, and bedding can release VOCs initially. So, make sure to unpack them in a well-ventilated space, ideally outdoors with indirect sunlight. Let them sit for several days, even weeks, before placing them in the bedroom.
5. Vacuum and Air Out Bedroom Regularly
Routine vacuuming helps remove dust that can also harbor harmful chemicals. Regularly open windows to allow fresher air to circulate, which also helps reduce the concentration of airborne chemicals.
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At the end of the day, parents shouldn't have to bear the burden of meticulously checking mattress components when these items should have been safe in the first place. But until stricter standards are in place, choosing high-quality organic products, like those from Naturepedic, and following a few safety habits can help make a difference.
Sources
- Brain-harming chemicals released from mattresses while children sleep, study says | CNN
- Are Sleeping Children Exposed to Plasticizers, Flame Retardants, and UV-Filters from Their Mattresses? | Environmental Science & Technology
- Young Children’s Exposure to Chemicals of Concern in Their Sleeping Environment: An In-Home Study | Environmental Science & Technology Letters
- Phthalates and Their Impacts on Human Health - PMC
- Organophosphate Esters: Are These Flame Retardants & Plasticizers affecting Children’s Health? - PMC
- Safety of benzophenone-type UV filters: A mini review focusing on carcinogenicity, reproductive and developmental toxicity - PubMed
- Salicylic acid and some of its derivatives as antibacterial agents for viscose fabric - ScienceDirect
- What’s the Difference Between Dunlop and Talalay Latex? 2024 | The Strategist
Featured photo by cottonbro studio via Pexels