Chemicals released from infant mattresses

Infant mattresses release 21 different types of chemicals into indoor air – that’s the finding of new Canadian research that measured levels of a class of chemicals known as semi volatile organic compounds (SVOCs).  

A sample of 16 low price, non-sprung mattresses were tested. Researchers found 21 types of SVOCs were released into surrounding air, raising concerns about how healthy children’s sleeping environments where they typically spend up to 19 hours a day during their early years. The levels of chemicals released increased with body contact with the mattress, by raising the mattress temperature and speeding up the release of SVOCs into indoor air. Movement also increased level of chemicals detected, and sped up the process of chemical release.

Once airborne, children are exposed to the chemicals by inhalation, skin contact, and mouthing of items from microparticles that settle as dust, raising concerns and child health. 

What are semi volatile organic compounds – SVOCs? 

SVOCs are substances that release microparticles from a wide range of everyday products such as plastics into ambient air. Semi volatile organic compounds release more slowly than VOCs widely used as solvents, and can linger for longer periods of time. In this study, chemicals were consistently detected in mattress foam and covers, and migration from one source to the other was also detected. For example, phthalates, a group of chemicals used as plasticisers were the most common SVOC detected in this study. 

What are the health concerns? 

There is evidence that exposure to chemicals can harm children’s brains, childhood development, and adverse affects on child sexual development.  

How to avoid this type of exposure 

Finding a mattress that is chemical free is quite challenging as UK law requires that infant mattresses come under the Furniture and Furnishings (Fire) (Safety) Regulations 1988 (FFRs). But these regulations are due to be updated, and it’s probable that mattresses and a range of other items intended for use by babies and children such as car seats will be removed from the regulations. 

If you have any concerns about the use of chemicals in children’s mattresses, avoid products with foam fillings which use to fire retardant chemicals. Choose a mattress with a natural, organic, chemical free filling, and an organic cotton cover that can be removed for washing.

Other sources of semi volatile organic compound chemicals in everyday settings include: 

• Household dust and inside cars.  

• PVC used in building materials releases SVOCs and has a negative impact on indoor air quality.

• People living in the vicinity of industrial plants are more susceptible to SVOC exposure where particles travel from the source into outdoor air.

More information 

Read the full study here 

UK Government Policy Paper aims to review fire safety regulations for domestic upholstered furniture, in part, to recognise health concerns about chemicals use. It will “address concerns about chemical flame retardants in baby and children’s products, without compromising on fire safety.” 

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