Fiberglass in Zinus Mattresses - Health Risks and Removal Tips

Concerns Over Fiberglass in Zinus Mattresses

Zinus is one of the most popular budget-friendly online mattress brands. However, there have been growing concerns over recent years regarding fiberglass found in some Zinus mattress models. Here is a comprehensive look at the potential risks of fiberglass exposure from Zinus mattresses and what concerned consumers can do.

What is Fiberglass and Why is it Used in Mattresses?

Fiberglass refers to extremely fine glass fibers that are combined with plastic polymers to create a cotton-candy-like insulating material. This lightweight and flexible fiberglass is used as a fire retardant and insulator in various products, including some mattresses.

By layering fiberglass between other materials, mattress brands like Zinus aim to meet flammability standards and regulations. Fiberglass is also cheaper than other fire retardants and allows mattresses to feel softer and more flexible.

Potential Health Risks of Fiberglass Exposure

While embedded between other mattress layers, fiberglass itself is not usually exposed. However, movement and compression over time can cause fiberglass particles to poke through the outer mattress cover.

When fiberglass becomes airborne or comes into contact with skin, it can cause a range of concerning health issues:

• Skin irritation, rashes, and itchiness
• Eye irritation and damage
• Respiratory issues from inhaling fibers
• Digestive problems from accidentally ingesting fibers

Ongoing exposure to fiberglass can also increase risks of lung cancer and other respiratory diseases. These risks make fiberglass an alarming choice as a mattress ingredient.

Zinus Mattress Models Reported to Contain Fiberglass

While not all Zinus mattress models contain fiberglass, many budget foam and hybrid options from Zinus use fiberglass as a fire retardant. According to Zinus, the following current or recently discontinued models have fiberglass in their composition:

• Green Tea Memory Foam Mattress
• Cooling Copper Adaptive Hybrid Mattress
• Pressure Relief Euro Top Hybrid Mattress
• Hybrid Spring Mattress
• Gel Memory Foam Mattress
• Cloud Memory Foam Mattress

Lawsuits and Complaints Against Zinus Over Fiberglass

Thousands of Zinus mattress owners have reported experiencing skin irritation, respiratory issues, eye problems, and headaches after their mattresses allegedly exposed them to fiberglass particles.

As of January 2023, over 1,300 complaints related to fiberglass in Zinus mattresses have been filed with the Consumer Product Safety Commission. The mattress brand is also facing several lawsuits alleging it failed to warn consumers about the dangers of fiberglass and knowingly sold hazardous products.

Steps Zinus Has Taken to Address Fiberglass Concerns

In response to backlash over fiberglass, Zinus has communicated several steps it is taking to make its mattresses safer:

• Adding warnings about fiberglass to product listings and manuals
• Reformulating mattress covers to better contain fibers
• Working on phasing out fiberglass from its foam mattresses
• Providing concerned customers with refunds or exchanges

However, many customers report still finding exposed fiberglass in newer models or replacement mattresses from Zinus. The brand has also declined to issue a recall of affected mattresses.

Checking if Your Zinus Mattress Has Fiberglass

If you own a Zinus mattress, especially an older foam or hybrid model, check to see if it could contain fiberglass:

• Refer to Zinus product manuals and listings for materials info
• Contact Zinus customer service to ask about your specific mattress
• Inspect the mattress cover seams for thin fibers poking through
• Wear gloves and gently pull back the cover to look for fiberglass inside

Be very careful not to disturb any fiberglass during inspection to avoid inhaling particles. Stop immediately if you experience any skin or eye irritation.

Steps to Take if Your Zinus Mattress Has Fiberglass

If you confirm or suspect your Zinus mattress contains fiberglass, you have several options:

• Request a refund or exchange - Zinus may provide replacements for newer mattresses
• File a complaint with the CPSC or consider joining a class action lawsuit
• Add a fiberglass-proof cover over the mattress to seal in particles
• Properly dispose of the mattress according to local regulations

Regardless of the action you take, be sure to thoroughly clean your bedroom to remove any lingering fiberglass that could cause health issues.

How to Clean After Fiberglass Exposure

If fiberglass particles have escaped from your mattress, take the following steps to decontaminate your home:

• Vacuum carefully with a HEPA filter vacuum
• Wipe all surfaces with damp microfiber cloths
• Wash all linens, bedding, and upholstered furniture covers
• Shower and change clothes after cleaning to wash off fibers
• Use air purifiers with HEPA filters to capture airborne particles

Wear protective gloves, eyewear, and masks during the cleaning process. Bag contaminated textiles tightly before disposal.

Choosing a Fiberglass-Free Mattress

To avoid fiberglass exposure when mattress shopping, look for brands that use safer fire retardant materials like:

• Natural wool
• Plant-based fibers
• Silica-based compounds
• rayon/viscose treated with boric acid

Carefully read through product details and contact companies to verify no fiberglass is used. Be wary of vague "proprietary blends" of fire retardants.

The Bottom Line

Fiberglass in mattresses raises alarming health concerns. Many Zinus customers report issues after fiberglass exposure from the brand's mattresses. While Zinus claims to be addressing complaints, many consumers feel the company's response has been inadequate.

Check your Zinus mattress for fiberglass and take prompt action if found. Thoroughly rid your home of particles and consider a non-toxic mattress alternative to ensure your safety.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.