Children's Mattresses Found to Emit Harmful Chemicals, Study Warns

University of Toronto research reveals elevated chemical emissions from children's mattresses, prompting urgent calls for stricter safety regulations and manufacturing reforms.

New studies confirm that children's mattresses emit harmful chemicals, including phthalates, flame retardants, and UV-filters, which increase under simulated body conditions.
The chemicals are linked to neurological, reproductive, and hormonal issues, as well as asthma and cancer, posing significant health risks to developing children.
High levels of flame retardants were detected despite their lack of necessity for meeting Canadian and U.S. flammability standards and no proven fire-safety benefits.
The global supply chain of mattress materials extends the exposure risk across North America, as mattresses tested in Canada contained materials from the U.S. and Mexico.
Researchers urge policymakers to strengthen safety regulations and advise parents to reduce exposure by decluttering sleep areas and frequently washing bedding.