How to Clean Fiberglass from a Mattress

Fiberglass can be an irritating problem with serious health consequences. Despite the health dangers, popular beddings such as Zinus mattresses are made using these materials. Layers of fiberglass within such mattresses operate as chemical fire retardants. This clever technology keeps the mattress from bursting into flames in the case of a fire.

While using fiberglass in mattresses makes them significantly less expensive, are the health hazards worth it? Continue reading to find out if fiberglass or a fiberglass-free mattress is the better option.

How Do I Remove Fiberglass Particles from a Mattress?

There are several methods for removing fiberglass from a mattress. As soon as you notice fiberglass on the mattress, put on a respirator, goggles, and gloves. That way you can prevent accidentally touching or inhaling fiberglass when removing it off your bed. This is quite harmful since contact with glass fibers may hurt your organs at worst and cause skin discomfort and breathing difficulties.

Before Cleaning

We recommend wearing goggles, gloves, and a respirator to avoid adverse effects when handling glass fibers. This will protect you against these harmful fibers.

Wear a protective suit as well if you can find one. It is critical to protect oneself. It is much more crucial if you are suffering from respiratory problems.

Turn off the air conditioner if you have one. This step has nothing to do with removing fiberglass, but it is a precaution. You could assume that having glass fibers on your bed is awful right now. But wait till it flies into the air and settles on your furniture and clothes. When fiberglass particles go from the bed to the AC, they spread throughout your home, making cleaning a headache.

After taking all the essential precautions, it’s time to remove the fiberglass from your mattress.

Locate the Fiberglass Leak

Identify the opening on the cover through which glass fibers are escaping. Locate any gaps in the mattress cover or spots where the cover has worn down to the point where the layer of fiberglass beneath is exposed. Otherwise, even if you clean the glass fibers, they will always escape from this place if you don’t know where it is.

You can bag up any loose fiberglass if you wish to, or you can just skip to the next step.

Cover the Mattress with a Zipped Encasement

Once you’ve determined the source of the glass fibers, the next step is to seal off the holes. A zipped encasement is an ideal answer for this.

These mattress protectors are available in most web-based retailers or from your preferred bedding maker. A zippered encasement covers the whole mattress, preventing fiberglass from spreading within the mattress and leaking into the air.

There are also mattress bags meant for moving a mattress, if you plan on getting the mattress out of the home as soon as possible.

After Covering the Mattress

Once the mattress is contained, use a lint roller on the area around the bed. If there were glass fibers on your mattress, they might have migrated to the surrounding regions. A lint roller is excellent for removing glass fibers from any surface, including mattress coverings and clothing.

Then, we recommend vacuuming the area, using a vacuum with a HEPA filter to sweep up any lingering particles. When it comes to fiberglass particles, it’s best to as thorough as possible.

Lastly, we recommend removing the mattress from your home and disposing of it totally. You must understand that once fiberglass begins to appear on the surface of your mattress, there is nothing you can do to save it. As a result, the ideal remedy is to get rid of the bed and replace it with a mattress without fiberglass.

What Exactly is Fiberglass?

For those unfamiliar, fiberglass is a composite material made of two materials: reinforced plastic and glass. This composite material is not just one of the most popular flame retardants; it is also robust, lightweight, and effortless to mold into any shape.

One common application of fiberglass is insulation, such as the soft substance that looks like cotton candy on attic walls. Some mattress makers utilize the material on the inner mattress cover since it is an excellent flame retardant and cost-effective. Remember that, while this is beneficial, it does carry certain health risks.

Where is Fiberglass in a Mattress?

Because the fiberglass is not on the exterior of the mattress, you do not generally come into direct contact with it. As previously stated, fiberglass helps prevent the mattress from catching fire. Thus the fiberglass is typically installed as an insulating layer beneath the outer shell, covering the cushioning and supportive materials.

While sleeping on a mattress with fiberglass may sound absurd, the fiberglass is there to keep us safe. Because fire may cause the mattress to go up in flames, particularly if the bed is made of synthetic poly-foams, fiberglass is prevalent in many memory foam mattresses.

Do Mattresses Need to be Flame-Retardant?

In 2007, the Consumer Product Safety Commission established new rules for mattress flammability in the United States. According to the CPSC, all mattress manufacturers in the country must guarantee that their mattresses pass flammability testing before releasing them to the public.

In addition, for compliance considerations, all mattresses must pass all testing processes. Mattresses that pass these tests must say on their labels that they meet all federal flammability tests and regulations.

Before the advent of fiberglass, most mattresses had chemical fire retardants such as benzene and antimony. On the other hand, the CPSC judged these compounds hazardous to human health.

With chemical fire retardants being viewed as dangerous now, fiberglass is one of the more inexpensive ways to meet these testing guidelines. For example, Zinus mattresses are often made of fiberglass, which is why they are significantly less expensive than other fiberglass-free mattresses.

In mattresses, fiberglass creates a protective layer that keeps the mattresses from burning if they catch fire. A fiberglass mattress features fiberglass woven into it, a typical characteristic of Nectar, Ashley, and Zinus beds. On the other hand, the stretch-knit outer cover is free of fiberglass and, hence, safe to sleep on.

How Can You Tell if Mattresses have Fiberglass?

Buying a mattress is a significant choice. So, if you’ve had a bad experience with fiberglass mattresses in the past, you need to know which mattress has fiberglass.

Fiberglass is a finer material directly woven into mattresses and is scarcely apparent to the human eye. So, how can you determine whether a mattress has fiberglass in it? The primary criteria that will lead you on the proper route are product labels, descriptions, and reviews.

“Made in China” Labels

Many businesses benefit significantly from China’s manufacturing industry, including mattress manufacturers. And, because of lax rules overseas, it is always at the customers’ expense, causing severe health hazards.

Overall, even if a mattress isn’t made overseas, you should be cautious with brands and manufacturers that aren’t transparent about their production process and the materials they use in their mattresses.

SEE ALSO: Best Mattresses Made in the USA

Mattresses Made of Polyfoam

While memory foam is a type of polyfoam, not all polyfoam mattresses are memory foam mattresses. Typically, polyfoam is a cheaper material that doesn’t release heat as well as memory foam does.

Because many of the most luxurious memory foam mattresses are somewhat pricey, other mattress producers may choose polyfoam for a budget-priced mattress. They may combine this polyfoam with fiberglass and other less expensive ingredients.

Low Price

Cheaper mattresses that cost $500 or less are likely to include fiberglass. In addition, some less-priced mattresses composed of potentially hazardous materials use cost-cutting tactics to reduce the price. That’s not to say an affordable mattress is inherently bad, but it is smart to be wary of any deal that sounds too good to be true.

SEE ALSO: How Much Does a Mattress Cost?

“Don’t Remove the Cover” Warnings

A mattress label advising that the mattress cover should not be removed can mean doing so risks fiberglass exposure. Remember, exposure to these glass fibers may pose serious health hazards.

Greenwashing Terms

What is greenwashingVerified Source National Library of Medicine (NIH)World’s largest medical library, making biomedical data and information more accessible.View source? Essentially, it’s when a manufacturer or seller tries to make their product sound more eco-friendly than it actually is. For example, while “organic” is regulated and typically requires independent third-party certifications for a seller to use it, other terms like “natural” and “green” are not so carefully monitored.

Now, many sellers know that plenty of clients will reject a fiberglass mattress in favor of a high-quality fiberglass-free mattress. To get around this, some mattress manufacturers purposefully use terms like “glass wool” and “glass fibers” to deceive purchasers. Consider it a red sign if you observe this in any foam mattress.

Should I Get Rid of a Fiberglass Mattress?

Throwing away your old mattress might be disheartening, especially if your present financial situation prevents you from replacing the mattress immediately. However, there is no other way to eliminate fiberglass from your mattress completely.

If you buy a new cover or mattress protector, it may likewise wear out after a while, and you will be in the same scenario. While you may be able to do a quick clean-up in the event of leakage, you may also have to deal with spreading fiberglass contaminating the rest of your home. Furthermore, they will continue to escape as long as the cover is worn.

Is it worth it to duct tape or begin fixing a worn-out mattress cover? Using a lint roller to sweep up glass fibers? When you detect fiberglass in your bed, that should be reason enough to dispose of a mattress, let alone finding glass pieces on top of the mattress cover.

How Does Fiberglass Affect Health?

The health consequences of fiberglass exposure can vary depending on fiber size and the kind of exposure. Large fibers have been reported to irritate the eyes, skin, and upper respiratory tract. Other potential health consequences include:

• A rash might develop if the glass fibers become buried in the skin’s outermost layers. Touching fiberglass should have no long-term health consequences.
• After fiberglass exposure, the eyes may get red and inflamed.
• Fibers ingested can cause soreness in the throat and nose. Exposure to fiberglass can worsen bronchitisVerified Source Medline PlusOnline resource offered by the National Library of Medicine and part of the National Institutes of Health.View source and asthmaVerified Source Medline PlusOnline resource offered by the National Library of Medicine and part of the National Institutes of Health.View source.
• If you swallow fibers, you may get an upset stomach temporarily.
• There is little information available on the health impacts of tiny fibers. Smaller fibers can reach the lower section of the lungs, raising the risk of severe health consequences.

People who manage fiberglass projects or have worn-out AC ducting work lined with fiberglass in their houses or workplaces may be exposed to it for an extended period.

There is no proof that fiberglass will cause cancer in humans. In animals, a 1994 study demonstratedVerified Source National Library of Medicine (NIH)World’s largest medical library, making biomedical data and information more accessible.View source a higher risk of cancer when fiberglass fibers are implanted in the lung tissue of rats. These results are, however, contentious due to the method of implanting the fibers.

How to Remove Glass Fibers in the Home

Step 1: Examine all of your home’s rooms for fiberglass particles, wearing a mask to protect your nose and mouth and gloves to protect your hands. With the lights turned off, shine a flashlight into each space. Examine the area for glittering strands of dust, which indicate fiberglass contamination.

Step 2: Identify and isolate the source of contamination. The presence of fiberglass in one or two rooms shows that individual heating and cooling systems are polluted. The presence of fiberglass throughout the home suggests that the central HVAC system is the cause. Any system that looks to be circulating broken fiberglass should be turned off.

Step 3: If expert repair is impossible, replace the problematic HVAC systems. Purchase new systems that are free of fiberglass. Hire a professional to remove and install the HVAC system.

Step 4: Wrap plastic wrap around HVAC vents and contamination sources. Increase natural ventilation and circulation by opening the windows.

Step 5: Clean every room in the house, tossing everything you don’t want to retain. Saved, clean things should be stored in dry plastic containers. Vacuum each area many times, including window coverings and fabric-covered furniture. Remove fibers, strip bedsheets, clothes, and washable linens, and wash them according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.

Step 6: Clean all of the vents in the house and replace the air filters. After removing them, place the filters in a plastic bag to avoid spilling fiberglass particles on the floor during removal and repair.

Step 7: Re-inspect the residence for evidence of remaining fiberglass residue. Using the glove and flashlight approach, vacuum, clean, and wipe down any surfaces that require care. Once the pollution has been completely removed, the house may be used normally again.

Does My Mattress Have Fiberglass?

As we mentioned earlier, mattresses with an unclear construction and a non-removable cover are likely beds with a fiberglass fire barrier. If a manufacturer isn’t transparent about what the mattress’s flame barrier is, it’s best to be cautious and choose a mattress brand with more transparency.

While memory foam mattresses don’t wholly overlap with fiberglass mattresses, cautious shoppers may still want to choose a mattress without memory foam. If you do look at memory foam mattresses, investigate what they use for a flame barrier.

Also, there are a few specific brands and online marketplaces that shoppers have begun to question as fiberglass concerns have become more well-known:

• Do Zinus Mattresses Have Fiberglass?
• Do Nectar Mattresses Have Fiberglass?
• Do Lucid Mattresses Have Fiberglass?
• Do Ashley Furniture Mattresses Have Fiberglass?
• Do Big Lots Mattresses Have Fiberglass?
• Do Amazon Mattresses Have Fiberglass?
• Do Linenspa Mattresses Have Fiberglass?
• Do Olee Mattresses Have Fiberglass?
• Do Vibe Mattresses Have Fiberglass?
• Do Leesa Mattresses Have Fiberglass?
• Do Layla Mattresses Have Fiberglass?

When considering types of mattresses that likely won’t contain fiberglass, latex mattresses are the obvious choice. With many manufacturers seeking to produce an eco-friendly mattress with certified materials, most latex bed manufacturers rely on wool for flame protection.

FAQs

Should I be concerned about the presence of fiberglass in my mattress?

There is no reason to be concerned about fiberglass in your mattress if the cover is intact. While fiberglass can become trapped in your skin, it is not understood to be a long-term health danger as long as you are not directly exposed to it.

However, if you want to sleep with the utmost peace of mind, you want to shop around for a new mattress without fiberglass. Look for mattresses that rely on other flame barrier materials such as wool or plant fibers.

How can you remove fiberglass from bed sheets?

A vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter may be used to remove fiberglass from bed linens. First, by hand, remove as much of the fiberglass as feasible. To protect your skin, we would suggest brushing them off with a thick work glove, rather than using your fingers directly. Wear a dust mask as well for extra protection. Then, using the vacuum cleaner, remove the remainder.

How can I know whether my mattress has fiberglass?

Because the substance may be buried inside the upholstery, there is no guaranteed method to identify if a mattress includes fiberglass. However, there are specific indicators that a mattress may contain fiberglass. Or rather, indicators rooted in non-specific answers about what’s inside the mattres or whether it’s safe to remove the cover. If a brand refuses to be transparent about its bed’s inner workings, it’s best to pass on it and choose another mattress.

How is fiberglass contamination cleaned up?

There are several methods for removing fiberglass contamination. To remove the fibers, one approach is to use a HEPA vacuum. Another way is to soak the area with detergent and suck up the threads using a wet-dry vacuum. If there are only a few loose fibers, you may be able to get them all with a lint roller.

Can I sue for the presence of fiberglass in my mattress?

Yes, you may be able to claim for injuries caused by fiberglass in a mattress. You would have to demonstrate that the fiberglass in the mattress caused your damage. We would recommend consulting with a lawyer for further details.

Is fiberglass present in all mattresses?

No, not all mattresses are made with fiberglass. Alternative materials like wool, plant fibers, and silica can provide a flame barrier. However, all mattresses made in the USA must meet flammability guidelines.

Is it possible to wash fiberglass out of sheets?

Yes, fiberglass can be washed out of sheets and other linens. However, it is a time-consuming procedure that may not be worthwhile. To begin, soak the sheets in hot water to soften the fiberglass. The fiberglass will then need to be scrubbed out of the sheets with a scrub brush. Finally, rinse the linens with cold water.

Is it possible to remove fiberglass from garments by washing them?

Yes, washing your garments will get rid of the fiberglass. A vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter is the best technique to remove fiberglass before washing the clothes, though. You want to minimize the amount of fiberglass that you wash out of clothes.

Is fiberglass dust dangerous?

Yes, fiberglass dust is dangerous. It can potentially induce respiratory issues, skin discomfort, and eye irritation. Because of the way it can affect your breathing and digestive issues, it’s best to get rid of a mattress that’s leaking fiberglass as soon as possible and do a thorough cleaning of your bedroom and home.

What should you do if you acquire fiberglass on your skin?

If you notice fiberglass on you, you should remove it as soon as possible. To remove the fibers, use a lint brush or gloved hands. You can also try running the area under cold water to wash away the fibers.

Take care not to get the threads in your eyes. If you get them in your eyes, immediately rinse them with water and seek medical treatment.

Is it possible to vacuum fiberglass?

Yes, fiberglass can be vacuumed. However, you should avoid inhaling the fibers since they might be hazardous to your lungs. When cleaning fiberglass, always use a dust mask.

How long does fiberglass linger in the atmosphere?

Fiberglass can float in the air for an extended period. It is a very tiny particle that may readily be inhaled. It can potentially contaminate water and food supplies. Floating fiberglass particles cannot be seen with the naked eye and air tests typically can not test for its presence directly.

If your eyes start to sting and your nose gets runny or you start coughing when you enter an area of the home, it may be due to fiberglass.

Does vinegar dissolve fiberglass?

Although vinegar will dissolve fiberglass over time, it is not an effective cleanser for anything more than clothes and bedsheets. Use a professional fiberglass cleaner for the best results, and for loose particles around the home, we would recommend a vacuum with a HEPA filter. For smaller cleaning efforts, such as fiberglass in clothes or on sheets, you may also want to try a lint roller.

What relieves the itch caused by fiberglass?

There are a few items that can help relieve the itching caused by fiberglass. One is to remember that prevention is better than looking for a cure. Always use adequate safety equipment while dealing with fiberglass. This includes a dust mask to keep fibers out of your nose and mouth and safety goggles to keep your eyes safe.

If your skin is exposed to fiberglass, you may cleanse the affected region with cold water to relieve itching. If the itching is severe, you might use a topical lotion or ointment to help reduce it.

Conclusion

Getting rid of fiberglass that’s escaped from a mattress is a pain. Still, if you follow the right methods, you can clear the particles out of your home quickly.

However, the majority of the options mentioned above are temporary fixes, and you will contain to risk exposure as long as you keep a mattress with fiberglass in your home. If you have the means to purchase a new mattress, do it promptly and dispose and get rid of your old mattress.