The Safety of Tempur-Pedic Beds

Chemicals

• According to the experts at Chem-tox, Tempur-Pedic mattresses -- along with other mattresses today -- have heavy concentrations of petroleum, plastics and flame retardant materials. Their studies, combined with multiple personal accounts, claim Tempur-Pedic mattresses might not be the best solution for individuals suffering from autoimmune disorders or serious health problems, because of the heavy concentration of chemicals within the mattresses. However, the Tempur-Pedic website and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration say that the chemicals are not dangerous, insisting that the chemicals are not inflaming consumer health problems. Although there is a strong chemical scent detected when opening the mattress for the first time, that scent dissipates over the following weeks. Despite the manufacturer and FDA claims of safety, however, many consumers remain skeptical.

Flame Retardant

• In 2007, the United States Consumer Product Safety Commission voted for new fire resistance standards for all mattresses. Even though Tempur-Pedic mattresses came pre-treated with flame retardant material before the vote, the Tempur-Pedic factory added new chemical additives after the vote, improving flame resistance compliant with the CPSC standards and California's technical bulletin 603. Despite the addition of the fire retardant chemicals, Tempur-Pedic does not recommend using heating pads or heated blankets with Tempur-Pedic mattresses because they damage or melt the foam.

Infants

• Tempur-Pedic mattresses are not designed to fit in a crib, for good reason. Because the memory foam used in Tempur-Pedic mattress molds itself around the body, infants could have a difficult time rolling over on it and/or potentially suffocate if placed on their stomachs.

Considerations

• Individuals suffering from severe allergies or autoimmune disorders can still purchase and use a Tempur-Pedic mattress if they purchase a heavy-duty mattress cover that envelops the entire width and span of the mattress, protecting them from inhalation of harmful chemicals or skin sensitivities.