*Plain Speak
*talking in a frank, outspoken, or blunt manner

There are dozens of mattresses made with gel foams, visco-elastic foam and either high density base foam or coils ranging in price from $200 to $8000. Avoid brands with fiberglass flame retardant

What the brands above have in common:

Massive expenditure on marketing and analysis. As a consumer, you pay for this... built into the price of the mattresses, reducing value.

Planned obsolescence ....  conventional mattress manufacturers are known to develop products that need to be

replaced every 3 to 7 years. Not good for consumers!

Treating consumers like numbers... just because something is well-advertised, it doesn't mean it's good! Algorithms have got your number!

Say off gas is normal and dissipates.  Off gas goes on constantly, releasing forever chemicals that you absorb on a nightly basis.

Claims of cooling properties...  more chemicals to cool you at first.  Lots of hype. Synthetic foam is known to feel warm.

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Synthetic foam, including polyurethane foam and other petroleum-based foams, can potentially contain various toxins and chemicals. These substances can be a concern for human health, especially with prolonged exposure. Here are some of the potential toxins found in synthetic foam:

1. Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs): Synthetic foams, particularly polyurethane foam, can emit VOCs, which are gases released from certain solids or liquids. VOCs like formaldehyde, toluene, and benzene can contribute to indoor air pollution. Prolonged exposure to high levels of VOCs may lead to respiratory issues, headaches, and can exacerbate allergies and asthma.

2. Flame Retardants: To meet flammability standards, synthetic foams are often treated with flame retardant chemicals. Historically, certain flame retardants like polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) have been used, which are harmful and have been linked to health problems such as hormone disruption, developmental issues, and cancer. While some of these chemicals have been phased out due to health concerns, it's essential to check for the presence of safer alternatives in the foam products.

3. Isocyanates: Isocyanates are chemicals used in the production of polyurethane foam. Exposure to isocyanates can cause respiratory problems and skin irritation, especially for workers involved in the foam manufacturing process.

4. Formaldehyde: Formaldehyde is sometimes used in the production of synthetic foam and can be released as a gas over time. Formaldehyde exposure can cause respiratory issues and has been classified as a carcinogen by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC).

5. Phthalates: Phthalates are plasticizers that can be found in some foam products, making them softer and more flexible. Certain phthalates have been linked to hormonal disruption and other health issues, especially in vulnerable populations such as pregnant women and children.

It's important for consumers to be aware of these potential toxins and make informed choices when purchasing products made with synthetic foam.  Additionally, reading product labels, asking manufacturers about their materials and production processes, and choosing products that prioritize low VOC emissions and non-toxic alternatives can help minimize exposure to harmful substances.

Regenerate

Certipur Facts

CertiPUR  assures consumers that the foam is free of flame retardants. But that doesn’t mean they’re not found in other mattress layers. Flame retardants show up in sneaky places. They started being added to mattresses in an era when smoking in bed was considered glamorous, not the first step in a particularly depressing way to die. They are bioaccumulative and persistent, meaning once they make their way into your house, they tend to stick around, in its dust and then in your body. They have been linked to hormone disruption,     asthma, immune system suppression, cancer, reproductive and developmental toxicity, and impacted neurological function. 

Sources:

Vox

Certiupur

Oekotek

GOTS