The phthalates and flame retardants identified are known to disrupt hormonal systems and have been linked to learning disorders, reduced IQ, behavioural issues, and memory problems in children
Mattresses used by babies and young children may be exposing them to harmful brain-damaging chemicals, according to new research from the University of Toronto, Canada. The study found that children’s mattresses often contain plasticisers called phthalates, flame retardants, and other harmful compounds that may be inhaled or absorbed through the skin while sleeping — a time that is especially crucial for brain development.
The researchers noted that these chemicals are known to be associated with a range of health issues including neurological and reproductive problems, asthma, hormone disruption, and even cancer.
“Sleep is vital for brain development, particularly for infants and toddlers. However, our research suggests that many mattresses contain chemicals that can harm kids’ brains,” said Professor Miriam Diamond, one of the lead researchers from the University of Toronto. “This is a wake-up call for manufacturers and policymakers to ensure our children’s beds are safe and support healthy brain development,” she added.
The research findings were published across two companion studies in the journals Environmental Science and Technology and Environmental Science and Technology Letters. In the first study, researchers examined the bedroom environments of 25 children between the ages of six months and four years. They measured the concentration of more than two dozen chemicals in the air and found particularly high levels near the beds. These included phthalates, organophosphate flame retardants, and UV filters, many of which are known endocrine disruptors.
The second study focused on 16 newly purchased children’s mattresses. The team simulated body heat and weight similar to a child’s and observed that chemical emissions increased significantly under these conditions — in some cases, several-fold. This strongly indicated that children’s mattresses are a major source of harmful chemical exposure during sleep.
The phthalates and flame retardants identified are known to disrupt hormonal systems and have been linked to learning disorders, reduced IQ, behavioural issues, and memory problems in children. Certain flame retardants have no proven fire-safety benefit when used in mattresses but are still widely present. Many UV filters used in mattress materials are also known hormone disruptors.
Children are particularly vulnerable to these exposures due to their still-developing bodies, higher breathing rates (up to ten times that of adults), and hand-to-mouth behaviours. Additionally, their skin is more permeable and they have a greater surface area relative to body weight than adults, increasing their absorption of these chemicals.
The researchers urged manufacturers to reassess the use of potentially toxic substances in children’s bedding and adopt safer materials. They also called for stricter regulations and testing protocols to ensure the safety of products intended for young children.
As a precaution, the researchers advise parents to declutter their children’s sleeping areas by limiting the number of pillows, soft toys, and blankets, which can act as reservoirs for chemical accumulation. Regularly washing and airing out bedding and bed clothing is also recommended to reduce exposure.
