Dr. Barry Jarvis
The convenient mattress in a box category has exploded in popularity in recent years. Cutting out the middleman allows many online mattress brands to ship beds in compact boxes directly to your door for easy setup. But some consumers have raised health concerns about mattresses packaged and compressed this way.
This article will dive into potential mattress in a box health issues like off-gassing and fiberglass exposure. We’ll outline safety certifications to look for, unpack studies on VOCs, and provide tips to minimize risks. That way you can enjoy the simplicity of a bed in a box while making informed choices for your health.
Background on Mattresses in a Box
Mattresses in boxes refer to bed-in-a-box models where the mattress gets compressed down to fit into a small box for direct shipping. Here’s a quick refresher:
- Compression usually done by roll-packing or folding
- Reduces mattress height by up to 75%
- Allows couriers like UPS to deliver to your home
- Convenient setup – unpack, unroll on frame, mattress expands rapidly
- Sold primarily online and competitively priced
Understanding how mattresses in boxes work provides context on where potential concerns can arise.
Potential Health Issues with Mattresses in a Box
Here are the main health concerns related to mattresses in boxes:
1. Off-Gassing from Compressed Foams
What it is: When compressed in packaging, foams can emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs) which create an odor as they off-gas. Memory foam is most associated with initial smells.
Concerns: VOCs may cause eye, nose and throat irritation, headaches, nausea and fatigue in some. Unclear if prolonged exposure poses health risks.
Minimizing exposure: Allow new mattresses to fully air out in a well-ventilated room for up to 72 hours. Look for certifications of low VOCs.
2. Allergic Reactions to Fire Retardant Chemicals
What it is: The CPSIA requires mattresses meet federal flammability standards. Manufacturers meet standards by treating foams, fabrics and fibers with potentially sensitizing flame retardant (FR) chemicals.
Concerns: FR chemicals like antimony, boric acid and formaldehyde can cause allergic reactions in those sensitive to chemicals. Questionable if prolonged exposure poses health risks.
Minimizing exposure: Verify mattresses pass flammability tests through safer means like inherently fire-resistant materials over topical chemical FR treatment.
3. Fiberglass Irritation from Mattress Fibers
What it is: To meet federal flammability standards, some mattress brands use fiberglass as a flame barrier between upholstery layers. Tiny shards may be released when the mattress is unpacked.
Concerns: Airborne fiberglass can be inhaled or temporarily irritate eyes and skin during unpacking. Studies indicate not typically associated with serious lung disease.
Minimizing exposure: Wear protective gloves, mask and glasses when unpacking. Wrap mattress in plastic immediately if fiberglass felt until aired out. Most irritation is temporary.
While these concerns exist, taking smart shopping precautions greatly minimizes risks of mattresses in boxes.
Tips for Buying a Safer Mattress in a Box
Experts recommend looking for these hallmarks of quality and safety when mattress in a box shopping:
Quality Materials – Higher density foams with CertiPUR certification off-gas less. Natural latex, wool, cotton, and other materials also minimize VOCs.
Safer Fire Barriers – Look for safer fire barriers like silica rayon, charcoal bamboo, wool and Kevlar versus topical FR chemicals. Natural flame resistance is best.
Certifications – CertiPUR-US, GREENGUARD Gold, Eco Institut, and MADE SAFE certify lower emissions and safer materials.
Organic Materials – GOLS, GOTS certifications validate use of organic materials produced without toxic pesticides and chemicals.
Product Research – Dig into the brand’s policies on responsible sourcing, chemical use, and transparent manufacturing. Reputable brands share.
Asking the right questions helps you identify quality, eco-friendly mattress in a box brands using safer practices and materials.
Studies on Mattress Off-Gassing and VOCs
Scientific studies evaluating mattress VOC emissions are limited. But here is some of the latest research:
- A 2021 study on crib mattresses found VOC levels tested were below thresholds expected to produce symptoms or concerns in children.
- A 2018 study on mattresses found VOC emissions tested were generally at levels not expected to cause health risks, including carcinogens. But results varied widely by mattress.
- Studies indicate foam density and quality has the greatest impact on VOC levels. Denser foams off-gas less. Most VOCs emitted within 3-4 days after unpacking.
- Testing shows latex and plant oil-based foams emit fewer VOCs than petroleum-based polyurethane foams.
While more research is needed, studies so far show off-gassing emissions are generally within safe levels if given time to properly air out after unboxing.
Certifications Related to Mattress Materials and Safety
Here are the major certifications to look for signaling mattresses meet safer material and low emission standards:
CertiPUR-US®
Independent testing program audits foams for:
- Low VOC emissions
- No PBDEs, TDCPP or TCEP (“Tris”) flame retardants
- No mercury, lead, heavy metals
- No formaldehyde
- Made without ozone depleters
Compliance means foams meet criteria using safer materials and manufacturing.
GREENGUARD Gold
UL certification verifies products meet stringent standards for:
- Low chemical emissions – tested for over 10,000 chemicals
-Limits on formaldehyde, phthalates, VOCs
- Safer for sensitive groups like children and elderly
OEKO-TEX
Globally uniform testing and certification for textiles including mattress fabrics and fibers:
- Tests for over 300 harmful substances
- Ensures certified materials contain no hazardous chemicals
- Guarantees products are high-quality and safe for human use
GOTS and GOLS
Strict standards for organic material handling and processing:
- GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard) covers organic textiles
- GOLS (Global Organic Latex Standard) covers certified organic latex
- Validates sourcing, manufacturing and labeling of organics
Seeking out mattresses certified under one or more of these respected programs helps identify safer, healthier options.
Tips for Minimizing Mattress Off-Gassing
While new mattress smells dissipate quickly for most people, you can take proactive steps to further minimize exposure to VOC off-gassing:
- Unbox and allow mattress to fully expand in a well-ventilated room for up to 3 days.
- Keep pets and infants away until any smells dissipate. Pregnant women may also wish to exercise caution.
- Open windows and place a fan to circulate air around the mattress.
- Remove all plastic and outer packaging immediately so gases don’t get trapped.
- Vacuum the mattress surface to remove any condensed gases or fibers.
- Use an activated charcoal air purifier near the mattress to speed absorption of odors.
- Spot clean any stains or spills rather than risking voiding warranties with premature washing.
Simple sensible precautions give new foams time to breathe and vocs to dissipate before use.
Mattress In a Box Alternatives
If you have severe chemical sensitivities or remain concerned about bed in a box health issues like off-gassing, consider these alternative options:
Natural Mattresses
All-natural mattresses made from materials like latex, wool, cotton, and other organics have ultra-low VOC emissions and avoid chemicals. However, cost is higher.
Solid Wood Mattresses
Amish mattresses constructed from solid wood avoid foams and glues. But may be heavy, costly, and not for those with allergy to natural materials.
Custom Local Mattresses
Support local mattress makers using quality materials like latex. Without compressing foams, there is immediate off-gassing. Pay a premium.
DIY Natural Mattresses
Make your own all-natural mattress from components sourced online. But this takes effort and expertise.
While more expensive and challenging to obtain, for those highly concerned, natural and custom mattress alternatives may ease peace of mind.
The Bottom Line
Understanding the facts around mattresses in a box allows you to take reasonable safety precautions while still enjoying the superb convenience and pricing they provide. Look for high density CertiPUR foams, alternative fire barriers like wool, and safer material certifications to minimize risks. Allow new mattresses a few days to air out before use. With sensible selection and handling, you can appreciate the simplicity of bed in a box delivery combined with quality materials and peace of mind.
Originally posted on September 19, 2023 @ 8:31 pm
Author
Dr. Barry Jarvis
Dr. Barry Jarvis is a renowned sleep specialist, dedicating their illustrious career to the intricate world of sleep medicine. Holding a medical degree from a prestigious institution, Dr. Jarvis has cultivated a deep understanding of the complex mechanisms that govern sleep and its pivotal role in overall health and well-being. With a compassionate approach and a meticulous eye for detail, Dr. Jarvis has helped countless individuals reclaim restful nights and vibrant days. Beyond their clinical expertise, they have contributed to groundbreaking research in sleep medicine, unraveling the mysteries of sleep disorders and pioneering innovative treatments that stand at the forefront of the field.
