We all need a good night’s sleep for our physical and mental health, but what if the very mattress we’re sleeping on is causing us harm? Many people experiencing toxic mattress symptoms or memory foam toxic symptoms are unaware that their mattress could be the culprit. Here, we’ll shed light on the issue, helping you identify materials and chemicals to avoid, the regulations in place, studies backing up the potential risks of toxic mattresses and practical solutions to reduce the risks in mattresses you already own.
What Are Toxic Mattress Symptoms?
Toxic mattress symptoms can be caused by exposure to harmful chemicals, dust mites or mould found in certain mattresses. These symptoms can manifest in various ways, including:
- Respiratory issues: Persistent coughing, sneezing, congestion or shortness of breath.
- Skin irritation: Rashes, itching, or redness.
- Headaches and migraines: Often triggered by strong chemical odours.
- Sleep disturbances: Difficulty falling or staying asleep due to discomfort or reactions.
- Unexplained fatigue or dizziness: Potentially caused by prolonged chemical exposure.
- Allergic reactions and asthma flare-ups: Can be exacerbated by the presence of dust mites in mattresses, which thrive in humid environments and feed on dead skin cells.
- Mould-related symptoms: Exposure to mould growth within a mattress due to excessive humidity can cause respiratory problems, sinus congestion, and skin irritation.
These symptoms can be caused by chemicals, such as volatile organic compounds (VOCs), emitted by some mattresses, particularly those made from synthetic materials, as well as allergens like dust mites and mould that accumulate over time.
What about Memory Foam Toxic Symptoms?
Memory foam has gained a lot of popularity in recent years due to its comfort and support, but it’s not without its problems. Memory foam is made from polyurethane and often treated with additional chemicals to increase durability or meet fire safety standards. These can result in specific symptoms, including:
- Irritation of eyes, nose, or throat: Especially during the initial “off-gassing” phase when the mattress is new.
- Increased sensitivity to odours: The chemical smell can be overwhelming and unbearable for some people.
- Worsening of pre-existing conditions: Allergies and asthma symptoms can get worse due to exposure to VOCs and other chemicals.
- Exposure to dust mites: Memory foam, while resistant to dust mites compared to traditional inner-sprung mattresses, can still harbour allergens if not properly maintained.
- Mould growth: The density of memory foam can trap moisture, leading to mould development if the mattress is not properly ventilated or kept dry.
The primary culprit of chemically-induced toxic mattress symptoms is off-gassing, where VOCs like formaldehyde, benzene, and toluene are released into the air, potentially causing short and long-term health issues.

Chemicals and Their Effects on Health
You might be wondering which harmful chemicals are used in mattress production and what their health effects are, so we’re giving a run-down of the main ones below:
Formaldehyde
- Used for: Used in adhesives and as a binding agent in some foam mattresses.
- Health Effects: Can cause irritation of the eyes, nose, and throat. Prolonged exposure has been linked to increased risks of cancer, particularly some types of nasal cancer.
Benzene
- Used for: Found in some petroleum-based foams and adhesives.
- Health Effects: Known to suppress the immune system, cause dizziness and headaches, and is classified as a carcinogen linked to leukaemia and other blood disorders.
Toluene
- Used for: Used as a solvent in the manufacturing of polyurethane foam.
- Health Effects: Can cause neurological symptoms such as memory loss, fatigue, and dizziness. Long-term exposure may damage the liver and kidneys.
Phthalates
- Used for: Commonly used as plasticizers in mattress covers and other components.
- Health Effects: Phthalates are known endocrine disruptors that can interfere with hormone functioning and are linked to developmental and reproductive issues. They can disrupt the regulation of hormones like estrogen, testosterone, and thyroid hormones. This can lead to issues such as reduced fertility, delayed puberty, abnormal reproductive development, and metabolic disorders.
Flame Retardants (PBDEs, TCPP, TDCPP)
- Used for: Added to meet fire safety standards.
- Health Effects: Linked to hormonal disruptions, decreased fertility, and developmental delays in children. Some flame retardants are also considered potential carcinogens. They can interfere with thyroid hormone regulation, essential for metabolism, growth, and brain development. Flame retardants may also impact adrenal and gonadal hormone balance, leading to reproductive and developmental issues.
Studies Supporting Concerns Around the use of Toxic Chemicals and Dust Mite and Mould build-up
Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)
Research published in Environmental Science & Technology found that body heat increases the emission rates of VOCs from polyurethane mattresses. Prolonged exposure to high VOC levels can lead to respiratory irritation and neurological symptoms.
Another study published in the same journal found that VOCs are released by crib or cot mattresses and are particularly prevalent in the “microenvironment” where the infant sleeps. Polyurethane foam released a greater range of VOCs than polyester foam.
Flame Retardants
Studies have linked polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) to thyroid hormone disruption and neurodevelopmental deficits in children. These effects are very concerning given the widespread use of PBDEs in mattresses to meet flammability standards.
Phthalates
A 2021 study found that exposure to phthalates is associated with endocrine disruption, particularly impacting reproductive hormones and particularly impacting young children and adolescents. These findings and those of similar studies have led to regulatory bans on certain phthalates in children’s products in regions like the EU and the US. However, the authors of the study recommend further bans.
Dust Mites
Studies suggest that dust mites are a significant cause of allergic reactions and asthma flare-ups. While dust mites do not release harmful chemicals, their waste products can trigger respiratory symptoms, including wheezing and nasal congestion, particularly in individuals with allergies or asthma.
Mould Exposure
Research has linked mould exposure to various health issues, including respiratory infections, allergic reactions, and skin irritation. Mould spores thrive in humid environments, and mattresses with poor ventilation or moisture retention can become a breeding ground for mould growth, worsening indoor air quality.
Regulations Governing Mattress Chemicals
You might (rightly) wonder what governments are doing about these toxicity issues and how assured you can be when buying a new mattress under current legislation where you live. Here, we’ve rounded up some of the regulations worldwide that affect mattress materials and production:
European Union (EU)
- REACH Regulation: Introduced in 2007, this mandatory regulation requires registration and evaluation of chemicals. Substances like specific phthalates and flame retardants are restricted or banned.
- EU Ecolabel: Established in 1992, this is a voluntary certification that limits hazardous substances and ensures reduced VOC emissions.
United Kingdom (UK)
- Furniture and Furnishings (Fire) (Safety) Regulations 1988: This mandatory regulation sets flammability standards but allows non-toxic alternatives. Discussions are ongoing about reducing chemical flame retardant use.
- UK REACH: Implemented post-Brexit in 2021, this is a compulsory regulation that mirrors EU REACH, requiring strict regulation of harmful substances.
United States (US)
- Flammable Fabrics Act (FFA): Brought in in 1953, this is a mandatory act that sets flammability standards. Unfortunately it often leads to the use of chemical flame retardants.
- State Regulations: States including California and Washington now have mandatory bans on some flame retardants due to health concerns.
- CPSIA: Enacted in 2008, this mandatory act limits hazardous chemicals in children’s mattresses, including specific phthalates and heavy metals.
Other Regions
- Australia: The AS/NZS 4088 fire safety standards, introduced in 1996, are voluntary but encourage non-toxic compliance.
- Canada: The CCPSA, enacted in 2011, is a mandatory regulation that prohibits harmful chemicals in mattresses and provides VOC guidelines.
- Japan: The JIS standards, established in 1949 and updated regularly, are mandatory and limit VOC emissions and require chemical disclosures.
- China: GB Standards are mandatory and regulate chemical use while encouraging compliance with global safety certifications for exports.
Upcoming Changes: Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation (ESPR)
The Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation (ESPR), introduced in 2024, is a mandatory EU regulation set to make sustainability a central focus in product design. Mattresses are included as a priority product, with new requirements for durability, recyclability, and reduced hazardous substances. The introduction of Digital Product Passports (DPPs), which are expected to apply to mattresses by 2030, will further increase transparency in mattress production. This means customers will be able to access detailed information about materials and environmental impact.

Long-Term Health Risks of Toxic Mattresses
While some symptoms may seem mild, prolonged exposure to a toxic mattress can lead to more severe health problems, such as:
- Chronic respiratory issues: Persistent exposure to VOCs can harm lung function.
- Hormonal disruptions: Certain chemicals, like phthalates and flame retardants, can interfere with endocrine functions such as growth, metabolism and sexual function.
- Neurological symptoms: Exposure to neurotoxic chemicals like toluene can affect memory, concentration, and mood.
- Increased sensitivity in children and pets: Chemical exposure is more dangerous due to their smaller size and developing bodies.
Identifying a Toxic Mattress
If you’re wondering if your mattress might be toxic, look out for these signs:
- A strong chemical odour that persists for months.
- Symptoms such as headaches, respiratory issues, or skin irritation that improve when you sleep elsewhere.
- Labels that indicate the use of flame retardants or other synthetic chemicals without certifications for safety.
- Increased allergy or asthma symptoms, which dust mite infestations could cause in older mattresses.
- Visible mould growth or a musty smell, which may indicate excessive moisture retention within the mattress.
Safer Alternatives to Help Avoid Toxic Mattress Symptoms
If you suspect your mattress is causing health issues, consider switching to a safer alternative. Here are some tips:
Opt for Organic and Natural Materials
- Organic cotton: This is free from synthetic pesticides and fertilizers.
- Natural latex: Derived from rubber trees, natural latex is free from harmful chemicals.
- Wool: A natural flame retardant, meaning that chemicals are not always required.
- Hypoallergenic mattress covers: Protects against dust mites, mould, and allergens.
Look for Certifications
Certifications can help ensure you’re buying a non-toxic mattress. Look for labels like:
- GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard): Ensures organic materials are used and certifies the whole supply chain.
- GOLS (Global Organic Latex Standard): Certifies natural rubber that is organically grown.
- Greenguard Gold: Verifies low chemical emissions.
- OEKO-TEX Standard 100: Tests for harmful substances in textiles.
- CertiPUR: Certifies polyurethane foam (only, does not cover glues, zips, mattress cover etc.)
Improve Mattress Ventilation and Hygiene
Even with a non-toxic mattress, proper maintenance and ventilation can reduce exposure to any lingering allergens and chemicals:
- Use an air purifier and ensure your bedroom is well-ventilated.
- Consider investing in an organic or natural mattress topper, such as one made from wool or natural latex, that can help provide a barrier between the mattress and you.
- Similarly, look for a non-toxic pillow as this is where your head has the most contact.
- Wash bedding frequently in hot water to eliminate dust mites.
- Vacuum and air out the mattress when changing sheets.
- Use a dehumidifier in humid climes to prevent mould growth.
- Ensure the mattress is placed on a breathable surface, for example, a slatted bed base, and avoid directly placing it on the floor where moisture can accumulate.

Healthy Sleep
Toxic mattress symptoms and memory foam toxic symptoms can severely impact your health and quality of life. By understanding which chemicals have been used in the making of your mattress, you can make informed decisions when buying a new, non-toxic one. You can also take steps to improve the ventilation of existing synthetic mattresses and reduce the risk of dust mites and mould accumulating.
We hope this guide will help you explore safer alternatives and solutions to prioritize your well-being and sleep soundly and healthily.
Check out some of our guides to help you find a new non-toxic mattress:
- 19 non-toxic and natural UK mattress brands for a sound sleep
- 9 eco-friendly brands for organic wool mattresses
- 11 best certified organic natural latex mattress brands to know
- The ultimate organic children’s mattress for a sound sleep