New Delhi: In a concerning revelation, Canadian researchers have identified the presence of hazardous chemicals such as phthalates, flame retardants, and UV filters in mattresses used by babies and young children. These substances, often absorbed or inhaled during sleep, may pose serious health risks, particularly affecting brain development and hormonal health.
A team from the University of Toronto conducted two studies published in Environmental Science & Technology and Environmental Science & Technology Letters. The findings suggest that common children’s mattresses are a significant source of chemical exposure, especially during sleep—a critical period for brain development in infants and toddlers.
“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,” stated Dr. Miriam Diamond, Professor at the University of Toronto. She emphasized the urgency of regulatory action, adding, “This is a wake-up call for manufacturers and policymakers to ensure our children’s beds are safe and support healthy brain development.”
In the first part of the research, air samples were collected from the bedrooms of 25 children aged six months to four years. The analysis revealed elevated concentrations of over two dozen chemicals—including phthalates and flame retardants—especially around beds. The companion study tested 16 new children’s mattresses and confirmed them as a major source of these airborne toxins.
Further simulation of a child’s body temperature and weight on the mattresses demonstrated that heat and pressure significantly increased the rate of chemical emissions—sometimes by several folds. These compounds, particularly phthalates and organophosphate ester flame retardants, are known endocrine disruptors and have been linked to developmental disorders, reduced IQ, memory impairment, and behavioral issues. Some are also associated with asthma and cancer.
The study warns that young children are especially vulnerable due to their developing bodies, higher respiratory rates, greater skin permeability, and hand-to-mouth habits.
Despite their intended purpose, the researchers noted that flame retardants offer little to no proven fire-safety benefit in mattresses while posing known health risks.
To reduce exposure, the authors recommend parents minimize items in children’s sleep areas—such as pillows and stuffed toys—and regularly wash bedding and sleepwear to act as a protective barrier. They also urge stricter oversight of chemicals used in children's bedding products to safeguard health.