US children''s mattresses could be harmful
18/11/2011
Mattresses used in children's beds in the US may not be as safe as some parents think, a new study has identified.
A significant proportion of mattresses were found to contain at least one harmful chemical, claimed Clean and Healthy New York, while some manufacturers are accused of not disclosing their choice of materials.
Results of the study reveal that 52 per cent of mattress models were made with conventional materials, yet included toxic chemicals.
However, only 20 per cent of those surveyed were made without chemicals of concern, but nevertheless contained potential allergens.
Clean and Healthy New York also suggested that some manufacturers in the US are not being upfront about the safety of their products, as only 17 of the 28 assessed provided full information about materials.
Additional statistics show that 40 per cent of mattresses use vinyl coverings, while 22 per cent use proprietary formulas for waterproofers, flame retardants or antibacterials.
Posted by Michael Ewing
