Mattress quality is important for getting a good night’s sleep, yet selecting the right mattress is challenging because there are so many different manufacturers and products in the marketplace. While weighing the various options such as comfort, cost and durability is daunting enough, it is also important to evaluate the chemicals that may be emitted from the mattress and the effects they have on our personal health.
Mattress manufacturers often appeal to consumers with guarantees for the best sleeping comfort. Others even claim that individual body types require unique mattress composition or configuration. However, in selling the comfort of the product, many manufacturers neglect to mention the impact that the materials may have on the air you breathe. Many commercial mattresses are manufactured using polyurethane, synthetic fabrics, chemical fire retardants, toxic dyes, formaldehyde and stain-resistant chemicals. These chemicals are outgassed over time, and can expose skin and lungs to potentially toxic substances, causing allergic reactions and other health problems.
Concerned with the harmful affects these chemicals may impose, many consumers are buying organic mattresses, such as those made from pure certified organic cotton, natural rubber, and wool, and are manufactured without polyurethane foam, chemical flame retardants, formaldehyde, anti-fungicides, pesticide-treated cotton, or other harmful chemicals.
As demand for organic mattresses continues to rise, many manufacturers are making environmental product claims. The benefit of this trend is consumers have a better selection; however these environmental claims are not always supported by sound, scientific evidence. To verify green claims, consumers should make sure the product is certified by an authorized program or organization. By getting products certified, manufacturers can differentiate their products in the marketplace, while demonstrating a commitment to the environment and to the health of their customers.
In October 2006, GREENGUARD certified the first bedding products for low chemical emissions. GREENGUARD Certified products must undergo rigorous testing and meet recognized standards for low chemical emissions. For more information and to search the database of GREENGUARD Certified products, visit www.greenguard.org.
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