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Chemicals are common in U.S. mattresses
The bedroom is our sanctuary, and we count on our bed to provide a safe place for relaxation, restful sleep, and rejuvenation. Unfortunately, many conventional mattresses harbor chemicals and allergens that can adversely affect our sleep and health. Chemical substances, which can remain in the mattress from the manufacturing process or be deliberately added, reduce sleep quality by impairing breathing, and synthetic materials trap moisture in the mattress causing allergens such as molds, mildews, and dust mites to thrive. Adequate oxygen intake is essential to a good night’s sleep. |
Most mattresses made in the U.S. are composed of polyester fiberfill, polyurethane, and tempered steel coils. A few are made of visco-elastic “memory” foam. Many of these mattresses contain chemical residues, which are the by-products of material processing or the use of solvent-based glues, dyes, and fire-retardant treatments during manufacturing. These chemicals can outgas over time and cause breathing problems for many people with allergies, asthma, or sleep apnea. Some chemicals found in beds pose serious health risks. PBDEs (polybrominated diphenyl ethers) are sometimes added to polyurethane foams as fire-retardants. PBDEs have been linked to numerous health risks, and California has banned their use beginning in 2008.
Mattresses and bedding can trigger allergies
As we sleep, the heat and perspiration we produce create the ideal environment for allergens like dust mites, molds, and mildews. Thus, the construction of a mattress should ideally consist of breathable, natural materials that allow air to circulate and moisture to evaporate. Mattresses comprised of synthetic materials trap moisture and become havens for such allergens, contributing to allergic symptoms, poor breathing, and worsening asthma in many people. And according to a recent study published in the New England Journal of Medicine, dust-mite covers for mattresses did not alleviate symptoms.
The European Sleep Works Solution
Our system is designed and built with clean materials to promote deep sleep. Every component we use is tested and rated environmentally safe by Eco-Tex, a German testing board with stringent environmental standards. We never use PDBE’s or chemical flame retardant, and we refuse to buy from companies that do. Our stretch cotton cover is quilted to wool for breathability and reduced humidity and is treated with Bioneem, a natural oil that dramatically reduces dust mites. And we offer a full line of natural bedding, including The Oxygen Pillow, stretch cotton mattress pads, organic cotton sheets, and wool-filled comforters that are Eco-Tex certified.
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