A new study reveals a deeply troubling truth: children’s mattresses may be silently polluting the air they breathe while they sleep. Researchers from the University of Toronto measured the air in 25 bedrooms of children aged 6 months to 4 years. They discovered alarming levels of toxic chemicals—over two dozen phthalates, flame retardants, and UV filters—concentrated near the beds.
The culprit? The mattresses themselves.
A companion study tested 16 new children’s mattresses and found them to be key sources of these emissions. Even a child’s body heat and weight can accelerate the release of these toxins, intensifying exposure during sleep.
These substances—many linked to hormonal disruption, reproductive issues, and cognitive damage—were present in mattresses purchased from major retailers. The chemicals appeared regardless of brand, price, or origin. One mattress even exceeded legal safety limits for a banned carcinogen.
Despite bans on some dangerous flame retardants like PBDEs, newer replacements, such as organophosphate esters (OPFRs) are now widespread. These, too, are linked to developmental and nervous system harm, especially in toddlers.
Parents are urged to take action:
- Choose mattresses and bedding made from natural materials like cotton, wool, or latex.
- Avoid bright colors, which often contain UV filters.
- Wash sheets and sleepwear frequently to reduce skin contact with contaminants.
- Let new products off-gas outdoors before use.
- Limit synthetic personal care items and avoid unnecessary bedding extras like mattress pads and stuffed toys.
Ultimately, experts say stronger regulations are needed. “Parents can’t shop their way out of this,” warns Healthy Babies, Bright Futures. Until companies phase out toxic chemicals entirely, vigilance at home is critical. Your child’s health depends on it.