• Mattress Guides
    • Best Mattresses

    • Best Mattresses of 2023
    • For Side Sleepers
    • For Back Pain
    • Mail Order Mattress
    • Cooling Mattresses
    • Eco-Friendly Mattresses
    • Mattress Types

    • Fiberglass Free Mattresses
    • Memory Foam Mattresses
    • Hybrid Mattresses
    • Innerspring Mattresses
    • Soft Mattresses
    • Firm Mattresses
    • Mattress Reviews

    • Amerisleep Review
    • Zoma Review
    • Vaya Review
    • Avocado Review
    • Eight Sleep Review
    • Mattress Guides

    • Mattress Buying Guide
    • Mattress Sizes
    • Mattress Foundation Sizes
    • Bed Frame Sizes
  • Bedding Guides
    • Comforters & Blankets

    • Best Comforters
    • Best Down Comforters
    • Best Duvets
    • Best Blankets
    • Pillows

    • Best Pillows
    • Best Memory Foam Pillows
    • Best Pillows for Side Sleepers
    • Best Body Pillows
    • Comparisons

    • Cotton vs. Microfiber
    • Duvet vs. Comforter
    • FAQs

    • How to Wash Pillows?
    • How Often to Replace Every Type of Pillow
    • How Long Does it Take to Dry Clean a Comforter?
  • Mattress Resources
    • Mattress Comparison

    • Memory Foam vs. Pillow Top
    • Memory Foam vs. Spring
    • Memory Foam vs. Latex
    • Hybrid vs. Memory Foam
    • Gel Memory Foam vs. Latex
    • Size Comparison

    • King vs. California King
    • King vs. Queen
    • Queen vs. Full
    • Full vs. Twin
    • Twin vs. Twin XL
    • Solutions

    • Mattress Quiz
    • How to Fix a Sagging Mattress
    • How to Fix a Too Soft or Too Firm Mattress
    • How to Dispose of an Old Mattress
  • Sleep Health
    • How-To

    • How to Power Nap
    • How to Stop Snoring
    • How To Wake Up Early: 8 Benefits To Waking Up Early
    • How to Sleep on Your Back
    • Dreams

    • How to Lucid Dream: Techniques, Benefits, and Risks
    • Night Terrors vs. Nightmares
    • What is a Fever Dream?
    • Natural Sleep

    • Natural Herbs For Sleep
    • Essential Oils for Sleep
Home / Mattress Resources / Are Memory Foam Mattresses Safe?
Mattress Resources

Are Memory Foam Mattresses Safe?

by Kiera Pritchard 6 Comments
are-memory-foam-mattresses-safe

Eachnight may earn commissions for products you purchase through our links. Our articles and reviews include affiliate links and advertisements, including amerisleep advertising. Learn more

Updated July 16, 2022

The memory foam mattress trend has picked up speed in recent years because of the “mattress in a box” phenomenon, making quality mattresses readily available to anyone with an internet connection. Memory foam is one of the most popular types of mattress-in-a-boxes because they are easy to compress and roll up into a box.

Memory foam is a favorite material for mattresses because it conforms closely to the body and relieves pressure points, making it the top choice for anyone with chronic pain. It’s virtually noiseless, too, and its responsive structure means it isolates motion much better than traditional innerspring beds.

Despite memory foam’s versatility, some shy away from buying it because they are worried about exposure to toxic chemicals.  Today, most mattress companies produce their memory foam using natural manufacturing processes, and their foams are certified by various organizations to ensure they are “clean.”

This article will go over the basic structure of memory foam, how it’s made, and what to look for in non-toxic memory foam mattresses.

What is Memory Foam?

Memory foam was invented in 1966 by Charles Yost, who was attempting to create seat cushions for NASA spacecrafts that were padded enough to withstand the pressure caused by G-forces at takeoff. While NASA didn’t end up using his design, it began to appear in other products, like car seats, medical equipment, and eventually mattresses.

Memory foam is also known as “viscoelastic” foam— this word belies memory foam’s basic properties: it takes on viscous and elastic qualities when heat and/or weight are applied to it. That makes it excellent for easing pressure on sensitive parts of the body like the back, shoulders, hips, and spine.

Memory Foam Components

memory foam components

The basic components of memory foam can help us determine how “safe” it is. All memory foam contains polyurethane foam, which is composed of three different chemical components: polyols, diisocyanates, and a carbon-based blowing agent. When these three components combine, they create a chemical reaction, which then produces a liquid. When that liquid cools, it hardens and becomes foam.

Polyols

Polyols come from petroleum, and when they react with isocyanates, polyurethane foam is created. Polyols are responsible for the foam’s “bulk.”

Diisocyanates

Diisocyanates are most often used to create rigid and flexible foams (like memory foam products), sealants, adhesives, and more. Essentially, there are two different “types” of diisocyanates used to make memory foam: MDIs and TDIs. You’ve probably seen MDIs in home insulation, sealants, weather-resistant materials, or binders.

TDIs are more common in furniture, bedding, and packaging. Both TDIs and MDIs are thought to be carcinogenic, but only in large quantities not found in mattresses.

Carbon-based blowing agents

Blowing agents are used in the process of converting liquid to foam. The most common blowing agents used to make memory foam are chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs). However, many mattress makers are using safer alternatives for blowing agents now, such as water.

The three materials listed above produce volatile organic compounds, or VOCs. A newly opened memory foam mattress often emits a chemical smell— these are VOCs. While exposure to VOCs is not harmful, it can cause irritation for those with allergies or respiratory problems. Off-gassing odors typically dissipate after a day or two, but if they seem to linger, you can open your windows and air out your room.

Other Memory Foam Byproducts

Memory foam mattresses can contain other materials that may be harmful to the user. If a company claims their mattresses are “green,” that usually means the mattress was made without these toxic compounds— but always double-check to be sure.

The following compounds may be present in foam mattresses without any “green” or “clean” certifications and can cause certain side effects:

Methyl benzene

Methyl benzene occurs naturally in petroleum (used to make polyurethane). Benzene has been classified by the World Health Organization (WHO) as a carcinogen.

Acetone

While it’s not found in mattresses, it can be used to clean labs and equipment where mattresses are manufactured, so trace amounts may appear in the foam. Exposure to acetone in high quantities can cause nausea, headaches, and burning or itchiness in the eyes.

Formaldehyde

Formaldehyde is a preservative— if you ever took a biology class, you’re probably familiar with it. In mattresses, it acts as an adhesive, and it can irritate the nose, throat, or skin. Fortunately, you won’t often find formaldehyde in foam mattresses today.

Dimethylformamide

Dimethylformamide is a solvent used for chemical reactions. It is not present in the mattress itself, but it can pose a health risk during manufacturing.

Methylene chloride or DCM

Like dimethylformamide, DCM is also used as a solvent in the manufacturing process. Exposure to it can cause mucous membrane irritation.

If you’re worried about exposure to these or other harmful chemicals in your foam, invest in a mattress with CertiPUR-US® or other green certifications.

Flame Retardants

Polyurethane memory foam is highly flammable unless it’s coated with flame retardants (and all memory foam mattresses are). These flame retardant chemicals can pose a health risk, which is why many companies have started using alternatives, such as wool, kevlar, or rayon.

As of 2007, all mattresses are required to contain enough fire retardant to withstand a two-foot-wide blowtorch open flame for 70 seconds. The fire retardants commonly used can cause heart and lung damage, memory and hair loss, or lung and kidney damage.

PBDEs (polybrominated diphenyl ethers) are a common flame retardant linked to hormone disruption, cognitive impairment, delayed puberty, and even cancer. Polylactic acid, or PLA, is a safer alternative.

If a mattress company uses alternative flame retardants, they should clearly state what those alternatives are. Look for foam beds that are Oeko-Tex Standard 100, CertiPUR-US, or Greenguard Gold certified, ensuring they are made without these toxic flame retardants.

are-memory-foam-mattresses-safe

What about VOCs?

VOCs, or Volatile Organic Compounds, are gases emitted from solids or liquids, including foam. Exposure to VOCs in high quantities can result in eye, nose, and throat irritation, headaches, nausea, and possibly cancer.

Fortunately, most mattresses today are made with low VOCs— not enough to cause any irritation or problems. What’s more, many companies have begun to replace VOC-emitting materials with plant-based materials, reducing the chance of your new mattress producing off-gassing odors.

The Federal Trade Commission has come after mattress companies in recent years for claiming their mattresses were made without VOCs, or volatile organic compounds, when they actually did contain VOCs. Look for the trademark symbol next to their certifications and legitimate logos, such as the CertiPUR-US® or Greenguard Gold certification logo.

Choosing a Safe Memory Foam Mattress

The truth is, you can’t create memory foam without polyurethane. However, companies can substitute some of the petroleum in polyurethane with plant-based materials to minimize off-gassing and other potentially harmful effects.

If the mattress adheres to certain certifications, you can rest assured knowing your bed is clean of toxins. Online mattresses may include links to their certifications, making it easy to double-check claims.

The following are the most common foam mattress certifications:

oeko-tex certified

Oeko-Tex

This certification is attached to textiles and fabrics, and it means the materials are free of over 100 harmful chemicals. Companies with this certification have to qualify for it each year via thorough testing.

certipur US certified

CertiPUR-US®

The CertiPUR-US® certification ensures foam has been made without the following: ozone depleters, PBDEs, TDCPP, or TCEP flame retardants, mercury, lead, and heavy metals, formaldehyde, phthalates regulated by the Consumer Product Safety Commission and low VOC emissions for indoor air quality.

gots certified

GOTS

Materials that are GOTs-certified (Global Organic Textile Standard) are made without toxic bleaches, dyes, and other chemicals during manufacturing. In order to obtain this certification, the product has to contain at least 95% organic fiber, be colored with non-toxic dyes, not be treated with formaldehyde, and must be produced in an environmentally-friendly mill or plant. This certification extends beyond the United States (hence the “global” in the name).

greenguard gold certified

Greenguard Gold

Products with this certification have been tested for indoor use. They must meet chemical emissions limits and are tested for over 10,000 chemicals, including VOCs.

 

Other Non-Toxic Alternatives

Besides choosing mattresses with non-toxic certifications, we recommend choosing clean bedding, toppers, and protectors. If you’re interested in a memory foam pillow, check for those same certifications to ensure it’s safe for sleeping.

Avoid any toppers or bedding made with chemical antimicrobial treatments— instead, opt for 100% natural materials, such as organic cotton, wool, or bamboo.

Additionally, look for mattresses made without glue between the foam layers (or, if they do use glue, make sure it’s water-based). Avoid mattresses or covers made with PVCs or vinyl, which can contain phthalates that negatively affect the reproductive system. Instead, look for waterproof protectors made with alternatives like polyurethane laminate.

If you’re still wary of memory foam, you can opt for 100% natural latex foam, which is naturally antimicrobial, dust-mite resistant, and made without all the other chemicals present in memory foam. The chance of off-gassing is also much lower with latex foam. Keep in mind that your latex mattress must be 100% natural and not synthetic, or it will not come with these same benefits.

Saving on Memory Foam Mattresses

You don’t have to overspend to find a safe memory foam mattress. The mattress sales that re-occur throughout the year are excellent ways to pick up an inexpensive memory foam mattress.

  • Best Presidents Day Mattress Sales
  • Best Memorial Day Mattress Sales
  • Best 4th of July Mattress Sales
  • Best Labor Day Mattress Sales
  • Best Columbus Day Mattress Sales
  • Best Black Friday Mattress Sales
  • Best Cyber Monday Mattress Sales

FAQs

Is it safe to sleep on memory foam?

Yes, memory foam is safe. Studies have shown memory foam does not cause cancer or other health issues, although that is a common misconception. The chemical smell that comes with memory foam often dissipates within a few days.

Are mattresses really toxic?

The flame retardants used in old mattresses are toxic, but today, those chemicals have largely been discontinued in mattress manufacturing. If you’re unsure, check for CertiPUR-US® certifications.

Are memory foam mattresses good?

Yes, memory foam mattresses are popular for their pressure-relief, responsiveness, and motion isolation.

Can memory foam cause health problems?

For some, memory foam can cause mild irritation like runny nose, red, itchy eyes, or trouble breathing, but these symptoms are relatively rare.

Conclusion

Everyone wants to sleep on a safe, clean surface— especially if they are pregnant, nursing, choosing a mattress for their child, or you have health problems that could be exacerbated by exposure to toxic chemicals. The EPA has declared memory foam safe, but if you need extra assurances, choose organic mattresses or brands with green certifications.

Additionally, you can look for customer reviews mentioning any off-gassing or chemical smells to make sure the mattress won’t emit any. You deserve the best sleep possible on a clean, non-toxic mattress.

About the author
Kiera Pritchard

Kiera Pritchard’s curiosity about dreams and dreaming sparked her passion for sleep science. In addition to writing for eachnight, Kiera is also a physical trainer and strives to help others lead healthy lives while asleep and awake. Since joining our team, Kiera has compiled multiple sleep health guides offering our readers advice on how to improve their days and evenings. 

Find more articles by Kiera

CommentsLeave a comment

  1. ...
    Lisa Randazzo July 7, 2020 at 8:33 pm
    Reply

    R they flame resistant

    1. ...
      eachnight July 8, 2020 at 11:16 pm
      Reply

      Hello Liza,

      Good question! Memory foam mattresses are flame resistant. All mattresses must contain a fireguard to meet federal flammability standards.

  2. ...
    Jeff July 10, 2020 at 2:24 pm
    Reply

    Just to note: We’ve had to had to get rid of two brand name Certi-pur certified mattresses because of the noxious outgassing that did not die down, even after 3 months. And, these weren’t even memory foam mattresses. They just had foam layers on top of coils… Buyer beware. We finally found and bought C.P. Rogers mattresses, which are completely clean of toxins and incredibly comfortable.

    1. ...
      eachnight July 10, 2020 at 6:27 pm
      Reply

      Hi Jeff,

      We’re sorry to hear about your unpleasant experience with off-gassing mattresses. While the CertiPUR-US® certification is certainly helpful for finding better-quality beds, it only requires mattresses to be low in VOCs — so, unfortunately, what you experienced does sometimes happen. With that, we thank you for sharing your experience for other readers!

      We’re happy to know you’ve found a better mattress and hope it’s bringing you great sleep!

  3. ...
    Martha Joyner September 2, 2020 at 7:06 am
    Reply

    Every morning I get out of bed I’m nauseated very bad headache its not worth the problems to own a gel mattress

  4. ...
    KH September 29, 2020 at 8:29 pm
    Reply

    So I just went to a foam co and am having a mattress made. 3″ lux foam and topped with 1″ memory foam and a “baby” vinyl cover made for it also. I put deposit down and now they call me today and told me by law they have to coat it in retardant and so its more $$$. I don’t like the sounds of “coating” it with retardant. Really considering calling them tomorrow to cancel order. Any opinions?

Leave a comment
Cancel reply

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

What’s the best mattress?

Best Mattress

We’ve spent countless hours finding the best mattresses out there so you don’t have to hunt for them.

See Our Best Mattress Picks

Mattress Resources

What is GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard)?
Kiera Pritchard
Do Tuft and Needle Mattresses Have Fiberglass?
Jasmin Lee
How-to-Clean-a-Memory-Foam-Mattress
How to Clean a Memory Foam Mattress
Rosie Osmun

EachNight Fact-Checking Standards and Processes

The EachNight writing team is devoted to creating articles that are not only entertaining and easy to understand but also as impartial, accurate, and well-sourced as possible. Whenever possible, we strive to have our articles fact-checked by our independent review board. We also do not tolerate plagiarism or ill intent from our contributors.

Here are the medical and factual guidelines that a EachNight article must adhere to:

  • We draw upon only reputable and respectable sources when researching our articles’ topics and endeavor to only link to highly authoritative sources. Such sources would include peer-reviewed medical and academic journals, medical and academic associations in good standing, and interviews with or blog posts from certified medical professionals.
  • We may link to news articles or peer-reviewed medical blog posts about studies when appropriate, but always attempt to connect directly to the studies these pages discuss.
  • Our scientific information, conclusions, and analysis are always supported by at least one reputable source.
  • We strive to make any potential conflicts of interest attached to any studies or sources clear to our readers. When applicable, we also try to include conflicting research or questions that may throw a study’s conclusion into doubt to clarify that scientific understandings often change and progress over time.
  • Our articles typically link to other articles and resources on our site. This is solely for easier navigation, and we do not promote our website as a medical resource. Try to speak with your physician if you have medical concerns.
  • Any necessary background information on a topic will be included when appropriate.
  • Our goal is for every one of our medical-related articles to be reviewed by our independent board of experts. Should they spot any medical or health-related misinformation or errors, we will strike it out from the final published article.

What’s a Certified Sleep Coach?

Our writers are sleep coaches certified by the Spencer Institute, which has been training coaches since 1992. Becoming a certified sleep coach means that our writers are well-versed in various sleep science matters, taking us beyond being just a group of mattress reviewers. The certification allows us an in-depth understanding of what we’re talking about when it comes to advising readers on better sleep habits.

About Us

Our simple goal is to provide the information you need to get better sleep each night. We provide a full-circle approach to sleep and wellness that incorporates mental, physical, and environmental well-being.

Company

  • About Us
  • Contact Us
  • Privacy Policy
  • Disclosure
  • Expert Review Board

Our Guides

  • Mattress Guides
  • Mattress Reviews
  • Best Mattress
  • Mattress Quiz
  • Sleep Health
  • Sleep Calculator
  • Mattress Sizes

Newsletter

Subscribe to our monthly newsletter to find out about content, features and more happening at eachnight.

You must enter a valid email.
Each Night Logo

Copyright © 2023 eachnight. All rights reserved.