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Are you sleeping on a health hazard? ☠️
Many of us don’t realize that the mattresses we trust for a good night’s sleep could be filled with fiberglass. Fine glass fibers next to our eyes and mouth for 8 hours daily. Fiberglass poses health risks and environmental concerns.
Why on earth would any mattress brands put fiberglass in a mattress?
In this article, we’ll reveal the hidden dangers of fiberglass, share compelling stories of how some discovered fiberglass in their mattress, and how to tell if your mattress has fiberglass. We will also introduce you to safer, greener alternatives.
If you’re committed to living a healthy, sustainable life and making the best choices for your family, it’s time to reconsider what you’re sleeping on.
Get ready to transform your sleep experience for the better!
Jump to a full review on each of our top picks here:
| Best Fiberglass Free Mattress (Click to Jump to Review) | Best For… | Shop Now |
| Bear Elite Hybrid | Overall Winner | Bearmattress.com |
| Puffy Lux Mattress | Side Sleepers | Puffy.com |
| Saatva | Back Sleepers | Saatva.com |
| Helix Dawn | Stomach & Back | Helixsleep.com |
| Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid | Combo Sleepers & Couples | Brooklynbedding.com |
| Nolah Evolution | Hot Sleepers | nolahmattresss.com |
| Bear Mattress: Original | Affordable | Bearmattress.com |
| Sunrising | On Amazon | amazon.com |
| Cocoon | In a Box | cocoonbysealy.com |
What is Fiberglass?
Why is it Used in Mattresses?
Definition of Fiberglass
Fiberglass is a synthetic material made from fine fibers of glass. In the context of mattresses, it’s often used as a fire barrier to meet safety regulations. Some people also refer to fiberglass as glass wool.
Composition and Properties
Fiberglass comprises silica, alumina, and other elements that melt together and spin into fine fibers. These fibers are woven into mats used as fire-retardant layers in some mattresses.
Fiberglass is known for being strong, durable, and resistant to heat and fire. However, if the fibers are disturbed, they can become airborne and potentially pose health risks.
Fiberglass: Reasons for Use in Mattresses
Fire Retardant Qualities
According to Poison Control, one of the main reasons fiberglass is used in mattresses is its flame retardant properties. Mattresses need to meet specific flammability standards.
Fiberglass effectively slows the spread of flames, providing an added layer of safety in case of a fire.
Cost-effectiveness
Fiberglass is often used in mattresses due to its cost-effectiveness. It’s a more affordable option compared to materials like wool or specialized chemical treatments that provide fire-retardant properties.
This allows manufacturers to produce mattresses at a lower cost, making them more affordable for consumers.
Are Fiberglass Mattresses Safe? Health Risks
Skin Irritation
If the fiberglass layer in a mattress is disturbed, the fine fibers can become airborne and settle on the skin.
This can cause irritation, itchiness, and even minor rashes for some folks. It’s particularly concerning for those with sensitive skin or existing skin conditions.
Respiratory Issues
Breathing in airborne fiberglass fibers can be risky for your respiratory system. It can cause symptoms like coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath.
If you’re already dealing with asthma or COPD, you’ll want to be extra cautious, as long-term exposure could worsen things.
Indoor Air Quality
When the fine fibers of fiberglass become airborne, they can circulate throughout your home, contaminating the air you breathe.
Bad indoor air quality can worsen allergies and cause other health problems like headaches and tiredness. Plus, once those fibers settle, they’re a pain to eliminate completely. It will take a lot of cleaning or even some professional help.
This poses a long-term risk, especially for households with children, elderly members, or pets more susceptible to air quality issues.
How to tell if you have a Fiberglass Mattress
Check the Label
The most straightforward way to determine if your mattress contains fiberglass is to check the label.
Manufacturers are required to list the materials used in the mattress, including any fire-retardant materials like fiberglass.
How to read a Mattress Tag
Focus on the section that lists the materials used in the mattress. This is often found under headings like “Materials,” “Contents,” or “Made From.”
If you come across terms like “glass fiber” or “fiberglass,” it clearly indicates that your mattress contains this material.
Research the Mattress Brand
If the label is unclear or you’ve discarded it, research the brand and model of your mattress online.
Many manufacturers provide detailed information about the materials used in their products on their websites.
Contact Customer Service
When in doubt, contact the mattress manufacturer’s customer service for clarification. They should be able to provide information on whether your specific mattress model contains fiberglass.
Regulations and Standards
Federal Regulations on Flammability Standards
One key federal regulation impacting mattress manufacturing is the flammability standard set by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). This standard, known as 16 CFR Part 1633, requires that all mattresses sold in the United States must resist the spread of fire to a certain extent.
This is often why some mattresses use materials like fiberglass as fire barriers. However, alternative materials meet these standards without posing the health risks associated with fiberglass.
Where to find Federal Regulations
You can find more information on mattress regulations
- https://www.cpsc.gov/FAQ/Mattresses
- https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-16/chapter-II/subchapter-D/part-1632
Research and Data on Fiberglass Mattresses
Incidence of health issues related to fiberglass mattresses
Although exact numbers are hard to come by, anecdotal evidence and individual case studies suggest a correlation between health issues and exposure to fiberglass from mattresses.
These health issues range from mild skin irritation to more severe respiratory problems, emphasizing the need for caution when choosing a mattress with a fiberglass fire barrier.
Class Action Lawsuit
There are ongoing legal investigations into the health risks and property damage caused by fiberglass in mattresses. Lawsuits are being considered against manufacturers for not adequately warning consumers.
Issues range from respiratory problems to widespread home contamination. Zinus is notably facing multiple class action lawsuits for such concerns.
What is an Eco-friendly Mattress?
In a world increasingly concerned with sustainability and health, the term “eco-friendly” has become more than just a buzzword.
Definition of Eco-Friendly
An eco-friendly mattress is one that is made from sustainable, renewable resources and is free from harmful chemicals.
Non-Toxic
A non-toxic mattress is free from harmful chemicals like formaldehyde, phthalates, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs).
The mouthful of works are just substances that can off-gas and pollute your indoor air, posing health risks.
Organic
Organic mattresses are made from materials that are grown without the use of synthetic pesticides or fertilizers.
Fiberglass-Free
A fiberglass-free mattress is one that uses alternative fire-retardant materials.
Materials to look for in Eco-Friendly and Organic Mattresses
- Organic Cotton: Grown without synthetic pesticides or fertilizers. It is soft, breathable, and biodegradable.
- Latex: Harvested from rubber trees. It is a renewable and biodegradable material that offers excellent support.
- Organic Wool: Often sourced from sheep raised under ethical conditions. Wool is natural, renewable, and biodegradable and has natural fire-retardant properties.
- Hemp: Plant-based material that is durable, breathable, and grown without pesticides.
- Coconut Coir: Made from the husk of coconuts, it is renewable and biodegradable. It is often used as a firmer layer in organic mattresses.
- Organic Flax: Flax is a sustainable, biodegradable material often used as a fire barrier.
- Bamboo: It’s soft, breathable, and grows rapidly without pesticides.
9 Best Fiberglass-Free Mattresses
Here is our list of the best mattresses without fiberglass. The options are from various mattress manufacturers, with most utilizing organic materials.
#1 Fiberglass Free Mattress
Best Overall: Bear Elite Hybrid
Overview
This mattress combines memory foam with encased coils and is ideal for back and side sleepers.
Features
- Cooling Mattress
- Ergonomic Support
- Balanced Support with Coils
- Edge Support
Pros
- It offers a balanced combination of foam and coils, making it comfortable and supportive.
- High-quality materials like copper-infused memory foam and individually wrapped coils offer durability and longevity.
Cons
- It may not be the most affordable mattress option for budget-conscious mattress shoppers.
- The mattress is optimized for back and average-weight side sleepers, so stomach sleepers may not enjoy this mattress.
#2 Fiberglass Free Mattress
Best for Side Sleepers: Puffy Lux Mattress
Overview
The Puffy Lux Hybrid Mattress is perfect for side sleepers prioritizing comfort and quality. This medium-firm mattress is crafted with a special blend of foam layers and pocketed coils to make it a firm yet soft mattress.
Features
- Cooling Cloud Foam
- Pressure point alleviation
- Firm Core Support and Coils
- Stain-Resistant and Hypoallergenic
Pros
- Exceptional cooling features like Cooling Cloud Foam make it an ideal choice for hot sleepers.
- Built with softer layers for effective Pressure point alleviation in hips, shoulders, and knees.
Cons
- It may not be suitable for stomach sleepers or those looking for a firm mattress, as it leans toward a softer medium feel.
- Heavier individuals weighing over 230 pounds might find this mattress less supportive, leading them to consider a firmer option.
#3 Fiberglass Free Mattress
Best for Back Sleepers: Saatva Classic Mattress
Overview
The Saatva Classic mattress is an innerspring mattress, customizable to your preferences, with three firmness levels (Plush Soft, Luxury Firm, and Firm). It also comes in two heights (11.5 inches and 14.5 inches). It offers excellent edge support and extra lumbar support for your back, making it a great choice for all sleepers.
Features
- Organic Cotton Cover
- Comfort Layer
- Support Layers
- Zoned Support
Pros
- Multiple firmness and height options allow you to tailor your sleep experience.
- Made with dual-coil design and quality materials, it promises long-lasting use without sagging issues.
Cons
- The traditional innerspring mattress feel may result in noticeable motion transfer, which could be a drawback for couples or light sleepers.
- Some users have reported signs of wear after a few years, despite the mattress’s overall durability.
#4 Fiberglass Free Mattress
Best for Best Stomach & Back Sleepers: Helix Dawn
Overview:
The Helix Dawn is perfect for stomach and back sleepers, especially if you’re heavier. The mattress has five layers of foam and coils, which gives it a nice balance of durability, support, and comfort.
Features
- High Firmness Level
- Motion Isolation
- Cooling Properties
- Weight Capacity
Pros:
- It is ideal for heavy sleepers and those with back pain, providing a stable surface.
- Built with firm coils and reinforced edges for a longer lifespan.
Cons:
- The mattress offers little contouring.
- It is less suitable for side sleepers, some back sleepers, and lighter individuals due to its
- high firmness level.
#5 Fiberglass Free Mattress
Best for Couples or Combo Sleepers: Brooklyn Bedding Signature Mattress
Overview
The Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid mattress is a blend of foam and innerspring technology, perfect for couples and combination sleepers. This mattress aims to provide the right balance of support, comfort, and pressure point alleviation.
Features
- Multi-Firmness Options
- Cooling Technologies
- Edge Support
- Customizable Comfort
Pros
- The TitaniumGel and airflow through the coil layer ensure that the mattress remains cool, which is particularly beneficial for hot sleepers.
- The reinforced perimeter allows couples or single sleepers to utilize the entire surface of the bed without worrying about sagging edges.
Cons
- Though it includes foam layers, this mattress doesn’t offer the same deep hug as other memory foam types..
- While a firm option is available, those weighing over 230 pounds may not find adequate support and may need to opt for Brooklyn Bedding’s Titan Plus.
#6 Fiberglass Free Mattress
Best for Hot Sleepers: Nolah Evolution Mattress
Overview:
This mattress has all the coolness, pressure point alleviation, and edge support you could request. You’ve got three options for firmness—Plush, Luxury Firm, and Firm. It’s perfect for all kinds of sleepers.
Features:
- Cooling Euro Topper
- Support Coils
- Multiple Firmness Options
- Organic Cotton Cover
Pros:
- Designed with a soft Euro-style cover and 4 inches of comfort foam, the mattress offers ideal pressure point alleviation suitable for most body types.
- Whether sitting or lying on the edge, this mattress offers just 3.25″ of sinkage compression, ensuring you can utilize the full surface of the bed.
Cons:
- The mattress had higher-than-expected motion transfer, which might concern couples or those who share their bed with pets.
- At 15 inches, the mattress is a little tall.
#7 Fiberglass Free Mattress
Best Affordable or Best Value: Bear Original
Overview
Bear’s Original mattress stands out in the foam bed market with cool features like a special Celliant-infused cover that boosts your body’s natural recovery. It’s a great deal with a range of features, perfect for most sleepers weighing under 230 pounds.
Features
- Multiple Foam Layers
- More Responsive than Traditional Memory Foam
- Medium-Firm Feel
- Temperature Neutral for body heat concerns
Pros
- For the price point, finding another mattress that offers the special features of Celliant technology and responsiveness is difficult.
- The foam construction absorbs movement, ensuring motion is not transferred across the bed. This makes it a good choice for couples or co-sleepers.
Cons
- Since it’s made entirely of foam, it may not offer adequate support for people who weigh more than 230 pounds.
- If you’re a petite side sleeper seeking a plush mattress, the Bear Original might feel too firm for you.
#8 Fiberglass Free Mattress
Best Fiberglass Free Mattress on Amazon: Sunrising Mattress
Overview
The Sunrising Bedding features 100% natural latex and plant-based memory foam for optimal health and comfort. With no fiberglass or toxic chemicals, this mattress combines medium-firm Talalay latex foam and high-carbon steel coils for support, all wrapped in a soft cashmere wool cover.
Features
- Non-Toxic & Healthy Materials
- Perfect Sleep-Life Balance
- Industry Leading Standards
- Natural and organic mattress materials
Pros
- It is one of the most affordably priced and best latex mattresses online.
- It provides targeted support for back and stomach sleepers and proper spinal alignment.
Cons
- If you weigh over 250 pounds, you may need to opt for a thicker mattress like the Cedar, Avocado Green, or the Luma for better support and pressure relief.
- At 8 inches, it lacks pressure point alleviation potential compared to thicker competitors like the Brentwood Home Cedar, Birch Mattress, or the Avocado Green Pillowtop.
#9 Fiberglass Free Mattress
Best Fiberglass Free Mattress in a Box: Cocoon by Sealy
Overview
The Cocoon by Sealy Classic is one of the memory foam mattresses in bed-in-a-box. Ideal for back sleepers and those in transitional living situations, this mattress offers a variety of features designed for support, comfort, and cooling. Sealy’s longstanding reputation in the mattress industry adds to its credibility as one of the well-known mattress companies.
Features
- Added Edge Support
- Responsive Coils
- Increased Airflow
- Cooling Cover
Pros
- It is exceptional for back sleepers, as it offers good weight distribution and effectively fills the space beneath your lower back.
- Strong edge support and minimized motion transfer suit couples sharing the bed.
Cons
- Side sleepers wanting a softer mattress may find the mattress too firm, causing pressure points on hips and shoulders.
- The mattress has good motion isolation but lacks bounce, which may not suit couples seeking responsiveness.
How to get rid of a Fiberglass Mattress
If you’ve discovered that your mattress contains fiberglass and are concerned about the associated risks, you may wonder how to dispose of it safely.
Here are some options:
Donation
Donating a fiberglass mattress can be tricky due to the potential health risks. However, some specialized organizations may accept them for repurposing or recycling. Always disclose that the mattress contains fiberglass when considering this option.
Recycling
Recycling is a more eco-friendly way to dispose of a fiberglass mattress. Many recycling centers have the capability to separate the materials and recycle them appropriately. This keeps the mattress out of a landfill and allows the materials to be reused safely.
FAQ
What type of mattress does not have fiberglass?
Mattresses made from organic cotton, natural latex, and wool often do not contain fiberglass
Which companies sell fiberglass-free mattresses?
Brands like Avocado, Saatva, and Naturepedic offer fiberglass-free mattresses. Always check the materials list and certifications for assurance.
How do I know if my luxury mattress is fiberglass-free?
Check the mattress tag for materials to ensure the word “glass,” or consult the manufacturer’s website. Certifications like GOTS or OEKO-TEX can also indicate a fiberglass-free mattress.
Do all mattresses use fiberglass?
No, not all mattresses use fiberglass. Organic and natural mattresses often use alternative fire-retardant materials.
Is it OK if my mattress has fiberglass?
It depends on individual comfort and health concerns. Some have added a mattress cover or mattress protector to minimize the risk. Consult a healthcare professional for advice.
What are the symptoms of fiberglass in a mattress?
Symptoms of a fiberglass mattress can include skin redness, itchiness, coughing, and eye irritation. If you experience these, consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment.
What is a Hybrid Mattress?
It is a multi-layer bed that combines the bounce and support of innerspring with the comfort and pressure point alleviation features of gel memory foam or latex.
What is a Latex Mattress?
A latex mattress is composed primarily of latex foam, a natural material derived from the rubber tree sap. These mattresses are also known for their hypoallergenic and temperature-regulating properties, making them an ideal choice for individuals with allergies or those who tend to sleep hot.
Do Hybrid Mattresses contain fiberglass?
Hybrid mattresses may or may not contain fiberglass as a fire retardant. It varies depending on the brand and model. To ensure, check the product description, reviews, and manufacturer’s website. If fiberglass is a concern, opt for a brand explicitly stating they do not use it in their mattresses.
Conclusion
In summary, opting for a fiberglass-free mattress is not just a choice for better sleep but a decision that impacts your health and the environment. With concerns ranging from skin irritation to home contamination, the risks of fiberglass are too significant to ignore.
We hope you found the information informative and helpful in choosing healthier options when purchasing a new mattress.
By choosing a mattress without fiberglass made from organic and sustainable materials, you invest in your well-being and a greener planet.
One Response
I have a Puffy and I love it! I wasn’t sure about buying a mattress online but it’s worked out really well. Thank you for this list! 🙂