Which Relevant Institutions Have Proven That Memory Foam and Polyurethane Are Harmful to Human Health?
Memory foam and polyurethane are popular materials often used in the production of mattresses and furniture due to their comfortable and adaptive properties. However, many international and European institutions have proven that these materials can release harmful chemicals with serious consequences for human health. Because of these chemicals, memory foam mattresses are often referred to as toxic.
One of the key issues is a process known as incomplete polymerization. This refers to a situation during the production of memory foam and polyurethane where chemicals do not fully bond. As a result, certain substances remain free and are released into the air as volatile organic compounds (VOCs). These compounds not only pollute indoor air but can also have severe health consequences, especially with prolonged exposure.
Many reputable institutions have conducted research on the harmful effects of these materials. Below, we highlight some supported by scientific evidence!
International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC):
Formaldehyde and benzene, present in memory foam and polyurethane, are classified as carcinogenic to humans (Group 1).
Report: IARC Monographs on the Evaluation of Carcinogenic Risks to Humans.
World Health Organization (WHO):
VOCs (volatile organic compounds) released from polyurethane can cause respiratory diseases and neurological damage.
Report: WHO Air Quality Guidelines – Global Update.
United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA):
VOCs from memory foam can cause respiratory irritation, headaches, dizziness, and long-term increased cancer risk.
Report: EPA – Indoor Air Quality.
European Chemicals Agency (ECHA):
Flame retardants (PBDE, TDCPP) and phthalates in memory foam disrupt hormone function and are linked to reproductive issues.
Report: ECHA Substances of Very High Concern.
National Institutes of Health (NIH):
Phthalates and isocyanates can cause hormonal imbalances, asthma, and allergic reactions.
Report: NIH – Endocrine Disruptors.
Green Science Policy Institute:
Flame retardants in polyurethane are associated with neurotoxicity and increased cancer risk.
Report: Flame Retardants in Consumer Products.
Which Chemicals Are Found in Memory Foam and Polyurethane?
Formaldehyde
Source: Adhesives and binders in memory foam.
Risk: Carcinogenicity (leukemia, lung cancer), respiratory irritation.
Benzene
Source: Polyurethane foam.
Risk: Leukemia, damage to blood cells.
Flame Retardants (PBDE, TDCPP)
Source: Added for fire resistance.
Risk: Hormonal disruptions, infertility, neurotoxicity.
Phthalates
Source: Used to soften synthetic materials.
Risk: Hormonal imbalances, reproductive problems, developmental issues in children.
Cyanide
Source: Released during polyurethane decomposition.
Risk: Acute poisoning, respiratory damage.
Toluene
Source: Adhesives and foams.
Risk: Brain and liver damage.
Isocyanates (TDI, MDI)
Source: Used in polyurethane production.
Risk: Asthma, respiratory diseases, allergic reactions.
Styrene
Source: Synthetic foams.
Risk: Neurological problems, carcinogenicity.
Heavy Metals (Lead, Mercury, Arsenic)
Source: Traces in chemical additives and dyes.
Risk: Neurological damage, systemic poisoning.
Dioxins
Source: Byproducts of industrial processing.
Risk: Cancer, immune disorders, liver damage.
What Diseases Can These Materials Cause?
- Cancer, including leukemia, lung tumors, and nasopharyngeal carcinoma.
- Respiratory diseases such as asthma, chronic airway irritation, and bronchitis.
- Hormonal disorders like reduced fertility and thyroid dysfunction.
- Neurological issues, including nervous system damage, memory loss, and headaches.
- Allergic reactions, rashes, irritations, and swelling.
- Developmental disorders in children caused by exposure to phthalates.
Conclusion
While memory foam and polyurethane offer comfort, the health risks posed by these chemicals are significant and well-documented by numerous international institutions. It is precisely because of such scientific findings that these materials do not belong in your bedroom.
An alternative exists! NATURIA mattresses are 100% natural and safe for human health, crafted from the finest natural and organic materials: merino wool, organic cotton, natural latex, and horsehair. These materials contain no harmful chemicals, provide perfect body support, and promote healthy, restorative sleep.
Choose wisely, as you spend a third of your life in bed.
And remember! What you sleep on is not just a mattress.