The Health Risks of Fiberglass in Mattresses Like Allswell

The Potential Risks of Fiberglass in Mattresses

Recently there has been growing concern about the use of fiberglass as insulation in bedding products like mattresses. Brands such as Allswell mattresses have come under scrutiny for potentially using these tiny glass fibers that could pose health hazards.

What is Fiberglass?

Fiberglass refers to small strands of glass that are woven into mattress fabrics to provide thick, plush cushioning. The microscopic size of the glass fibers enables them to be woven tightly into materials.

However, with normal use over time, the glass strands can loosen and shed out of the fabric. Since the particles are too tiny to be seen by the naked eye, you may be unknowingly breathing them in or getting them on your skin.

Why Manufacturers Use Fiberglass

Fiberglass is added to mattresses to provide certain performance qualities that customers find desirable:

• Plush cushioning - Tiny glass strands interwoven with fabric create a soft, pillowy feel when compressed.
• Shape retention - The structure of fiberglass prevents indentations and sagging over years of continuous body pressure in the same sleeping spot.
• Inexpensive insulation - Fiberglass battens are a much more affordable way to meet flammability standards than safer alternatives like wool or plant-based fibers.

Given these benefits for the manufacturer, many brands opt to include fiberglass composites in their mattresses despite potential customer health consequences.

Health Risks of Fiberglass Exposure

The tiny size of fiberglass particles enables them to be easily inhaled and absorbed through the skin. Inside the body, these glass fibers can cause significant health issues.

Skin Irritation and Itching

Sharp fiberglass shards have an abrasive texture that can irritate and inflame skin tissues. When lodged in the skin, they make you itch relentlessly. Scratching leads to further embedding of the glass material under the skin surface. Red, flaky skin patches develop which may ooze fluid and be prone to infection.

Eye Injury

If microscopic pieces of fiberglass enter the eyes, they can severely irritate the cornea and conjunctiva membranes causing inflammation, pain, light sensitivity, tearing, impaired vision and recurrent infection.

Respiratory Problems

When inhaled, the needle-like structure of fiberglass fragments easily penetrates deep into the tender lung tissues. This triggers persistent coughing and difficulty breathing as the body tries to expel the foreign matter. Long term inhalation also raises the risk of serious respiratory disease and lung cancer.

Weakened Immune System

Research indicates that fiberglass exposures over time can lower immune function and cripple your bodys ability to fight infection from bacteria, viruses and other microbes trying to invade it.

Legislation Around Fiberglass Safety

Due to rising awareness of the dangers of fiberglass used in mattresses and other upholstered products, lawmakers have begun taking action to protect consumers.

U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission

While there are currently no federal laws in the U.S. specifically restricting or banning fiberglass, the Consumer Product Safety Commission strongly urges manufacturers to ensure all materials meet rigid health and flammability standards.

California Prop 65 Cancer Warnings

California law Prop 65 enforces labeling of products with cancer-causing materials. Since fiberglass meets carcinogen risk criteria, any products sold in California containing it must display a warning message.

California AB 646 Banning Fiberglass

A recent bill in California, AB 646, proposes prohibiting the use of fiberglass as insulation in bedding and upholstered furniture by July 1, 2023. If passed, it would impose hefty penalties to manufacturers still utilizing this dangerous substance.

How to Check if Your Mattress Has Fiberglass

Since brands are not yet legally mandated to disclose fiberglass as an ingredient, how can you find out if your mattress contains it?

Examine the Label

Carefully read all labeling, even the fine print indications on law tags. Phrases like NG PF refer to non-glue polyfiber which is an alternative term for fiberglass used to meet flammability standards.

Contact the Manufacturer

Check the company website and reach out to customer service directly to inquire about materials used in your specific mattress model. Some brands openly confirm or deny fiberglass, but transparency varies.

Observe Skin and Respiratory Reactions

Pay attention to any skin, eye or breathing issues that seem to flare up after purchasing a new mattress. This may indicate an allergic inflammatory reaction to fiberglass exposure. Respiratory symptoms may also emerge over time.

How to Remove Fiberglass From Your Mattress

If you've determined your mattress contains fiberglass that is impacting your or your family's health, you may consider attempting to remove it.

Vacuum Thoroughly

Use a vacuum with a HEPA filter designed to capture microscopic particles. Slowly vacuum all surfaces of your mattress including top, sides and underside as fiberglass may spread.

Seal With a Mattress Encasement

Fiberglass may continue shedding from your mattress over time. Covering with an airtight encasement seals remaining glass fibers inside away from contact with your body.

Replace the Mattress Entirely

In some cases fiberglass removal attempts fail or health symptoms persist. Purchasing a new mattress made with safer, non-toxic materials may be necessary.

Be an informed consumer and carefully examine any new mattresses to avoid unwittingly buying another one with lurking fiberglass again.

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.