Question from Ron
I am reading from some sources that even natural mattresses are now required to add some sort of flame resistant chemical to their beds because even wool can no longer pass the open flame test that is used. The article claims that these manufacturers are not required by law to show what chemicals they are using or even admit that they do so. Is there some place to find information that would confirm or refute this claim? Since the source I read it from is actually selling mattresses, I am concerned that it may be in his own best interest to disseminate such information whether true or not.
Debra’s Answer
There are new flammability laws. To make a complicated story short, there are flame retardant materials of various kinds used in natural mattresses, and they are not the toxic flame retardants of the past. There are many new flame retardant materials that are completely nontoxic used by natural mattress companies.
It would be interesting to survey all the natural mattress companies and make a list of flame retardants used.
If anyone would like to go to websites or call around and get the information, you can post it here and I’ll explain the different types of flame retardants you find.
In general, be skeptical of claims made about other products made by people wanting to sell their own product. The best way to sell a good product is to tell the truth about the benefits of your own product.
