While bed mattresses of 40-50 years ago were made mostly from untreated natural materials, the majority of mattresses and beds today are made using a variety of petroleum based chemicals, foams, plastics and controversial flame retardants. Unfortunately, these are not stable compounds and continue to evaporate into the air and are then inhaled hour upon hour by the person sleeping on the bed. Research and personal accounts suggest people can become ill after repeated and continuous exposure to these chemicals while sleeping. The situation is dramatically compounded by the fact that sleeping on a bed (or chemically manufactured pillow) places the individual in close proximity to the chemical source (inches compared to feet for most other chemical exposures). This close proximity means that concentrations of chemicals are many, many times higher for the individual. Research is now available showing that chemicals used in bed manufacturing are in fact evaporating and entering into the air. Some of these are documented carcinogenic and mutagenic compounds. Common petroleum based chemicals have been clearly shown to have the ability to weaken or damage the immune and nervous system. Autoimmune disorders have also been linked with exposure to petroleum-based chemicals and have been found to be the underlying cause of many common health problems today (soft tissue damage, organ and brain damage, arthritis, etc). If you have had any new health problems immediately after purchasing a new bed it is essential to remove the bed from the living area (ie. to the garage) and seeing if health problems stop. The permanent solution to the problem is to purchase a natural or organic bed from one of the increasing number of stores selling these types of products. Thank You ! - Chem-Tox
Below are 235 reports of inividuals and children becoming sick after purchasing a new mattress or pillow.
Research suggests the high level of chemicals evaporating from the product could be causing the problem. .
Sore Joints - Cough - Flu - Hives - All Vanish after Removing Memory Foam This concerns Memory Foam mattress pad and pillows from Sam s Club.
We went through problems for seven months. It started with minor problems and got worse - Hives, kidneys hurting, swollen lips, flu feelings, morning cough, sore joints, etc. My wife was going to the Doctor in an attempt to figure out what the problem was. We never suspected the pad and pillows. I finally ran across this site while considering what type/brand of new bed to purchase in an attempt to resolve the hurting kidneys and not feeling well in the morning. We had two memory foam pillows and a memory foam mattress pad on our bed. Took them off and within two days all problems were gone. Two months later all is well and no more memory foam.
Edgemont, South Dakota Email: harrod@gwtc,net February 22, 2006
Night Sweats
Our mattress is several years old. I am not sure it is the cause of my husband's problem, but he has this medical problem only when sleeping at home. He sweats so severely that he has to put towels down under his head and shoulders. Doctors have tried everything and cannot find a cause for it. McMinnville, TN Email: Gant@BLomand.net February 11, 2006
CHEM-TOX COMMENT: While many environmental factors can contribute to adverse health problems when sleeping (such as the petroleum based chemicals in fabric softeners, Clorox, and very strong chemical based fragrances in some detergents i.e. GAIN), the first step to determine if the bed or sheets are the cause should be to simply sleep somewhere else - couch etc. - This trial and error analysis, when repeated several times, will clearly demonstrate if the bed, detergents or bedroom is the problem.
Headaches - Nausea & Sealy Latex
The first night of sleeping on our new Sealy high end latex foam layered mattress, I awoke with a headache and nausea and noticed a horrible sickly sweet smell that permeated the mattress, the room and even penetrated the other rooms in the house. After calling the salesman (who said mine was the first complaint of mattress odor) he recommended that we air it for a few days. We then bought a Sterns Foster (very expensive). We asked that it be aired for four days before delivery, but the first night we had it - the same horrible smell caused the same symptoms. I have sprayed it with a Clorox odor remover and hope it will be better tonight. The smell does not bother my husband and other people in my family cannot smell it. The store where we bought it does not accept returns on Sterns Foster mattresses. Now What?
Starkville, Mississippi Email: bubbyland8@nctv.com February 6, 2006
Dizziness, Headache, Nausea & Memory Foam
I recently purchased a visco-elastic memory foam mattress topper pad under the brand name "Carpenter Sublime Memory Foam". Since using this pad, my wife and I have both experienced dizziness, headache, nausea, etc. Where can I get info on this product?
John Huntington honstjohn2000@yahoo.com February 2, 2006
Ringing Ears & Memory Foam Mattress
I purchased my memory foam mattress a little over a month ago. Since that time, and a horrible chemical smell to the mattress, I have had the problem of ringing in my ears, which has gotten worse over the month, and is now quite loud all the time. I have been searching for possible answer as to why (this is happening). I am quite ready to get rid of the mattress to see if this was it. No other explanation. Foam made by FOAMEX.
Oceanside, California Email: calaverasue@hotmail.com January 7, 2006
Headaches - Sore Throat - Fatigue - Flu & Memory Foam Topper I purchased a memory foam topper for my bed at Belk's store, I'm not sure now what the name brand was, but any way I am at home sick today after trying to sleep on it for the last week. At first I thought I really liked it and the smell would soon go away but now my husband and I both have noticed that we feel tried and completely drained of energy. I never get headaches or a sore throat, but now we both keep on having them. We are not sick from a cold or flu we are sick from off-gassing and cancer killing chemicals!!! I wish I could find a good healthy mattress, any suggestions? Tried of sleeping on the couch.
Asheboro, North Carolina Randolph Email: rvoncannon@hotmail.com January 6, 2006
Heart Attack Symptoms - Hospital Visit - Strange Dreams & Depression
Outgassing from our new ComfortAir Celenia adjustable air mattress ($1695.00) gave me false symptoms of a heart attack. It came on gradually over a couple days. (After going to the hospital) I felt better the next day, until I came home from the hospital. Moving the bed outside did the trick (symptoms gone). I realized a couple days later that I had more than just physical symptoms. The night before my "attack," I had brightly colored strange dreams. I was depressed for the next couple days (unusual for me), and the depression lifted within twenty-four hours of moving the mattress outside. There is a thorough discussion of "Idiopathic environmental intolerances" at the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology web site:
http://www.aaaai.org/media/resources/academy_statements/position_statements/ps35 .asp. Orlando, Florida Email: dhleake@juno.com January 4, 2006
Rashes - Sinus Problems - Autoimmunity & Tempurpedic Swedish Mattress We bought our King mattress some 9 months ago because we didn't like the pillow top that failed after one year of a 20 year warranty. We heard these were very good. The past few months my wife has been to numerous doctors for rashes, lumps and other problems related to sinus. Her autoimmune system seems to be affected. She is now scheduled for a biopsy. We thought about what has changed in our lives and the only difference is the mattress. It cost $2200 but it isn't worth her health. Did anyone have any success in dealing with the manufacturers?? Maybe time to take it back or just get rid of it.
Bethlehem, Pennsylvania Email: fkozero@aol.com January 2, 2006
Eyes Swollen - Red & Itchy
I bought a new queen mattress from a large retailer over 2 months ago. The initial smell was very strong, but I got a tightly woven pad and just assumed it would go away over a few weeks. Now, the smell is still very strong and I regularly wake up with swollen, red, itchy burning eyes. I did some research and found out that formaldehyde is the best chemical foam binder out there and so is still used by most manufacturers. Formaldehyde can off-gas for many years and has been shown to cause cancer in animals and may cause cancer in humans. Does anyone have any good recommendations for toxin-free mattress manufacturers?
San Francisco, California Email: collin@cmundo.com January 2, 2006
Rashes - Difficulty Breathing & Croydon Mattress Factory I purchased a mattress & box spring from Croydon Mattress Factory, in PA. ..... [It] emitted a horrible odor, that smelled like embalming fluid. When I inquired about the smell, I was told to open my windows for a few days and let the mattress air out, to no avail. I called Serta and Sealy and was told that the better quality mattresses have MORE chemicals!! Finally, Croydon admitted that they got a bad batch of polyester fiber and that it was accidentally put into my mattress. As for the health repercussions: I had a severe rash on my legs that finally had to be treated with prednisone. I also developed a silver-dollar sized albino-white area on my stomach with one red dot in it. It was like the dots on my legs. I had a biopsy and was told that I had been introduced to a toxic chemical. I also had difficulty breathing while I had the mattress. I appeared on two news shows and American Journal, now called, "AJ". Needless to say, I got a waterbed! There are chemical-free beds. If you surf the internet, you should be able to find them. They are not inexpensive, but I see it as an investment into one's health.
Toms River, New Jersey Email: jola7@comcast.net December 30, 2005
Breathing Problems - Enlarged Lymph Nodes - Serta Mattress I purchased a Serta Perfect Night mattress set for $1300 at America's Mattress Co. and after two nights woke up with my lymph nodes enlarged and trouble breathing. I informed the company I purchased the set from and the owner indicated it needed "airing out" but it has been over 6 weeks and I continue to have a sore throat and breathing problems and am on an antibiotic and benadryl. So if you have any chemical sensitivities I suggest not purchasing a Serta Perfect Night mattress and America's Mattress Co. has a no return policy.
Little Rock, Arkansas Email: mlipton@cc-inc.com December 29, 2005
BAD HEADACHES - Memory Foam Topper
I have a firm mattress and have tried 2 brands of memory foam toppers. One brand was very expensive and the second was a cheaper one from Wal-Mart. Both had very bad smells and the directions said to air them out for a few days and I did. The smells never went away and I tried sleeping on them after a week. The more expensive brand had a worse smell and made me sick with headaches from the first night. A few months later I tried with the cheaper one and after airing it out it was still smelly. Now after a month I have been getting bad headaches and bad dreams. This morning I am removing it and never going to try memory foam again despite it being very comfortable.
Long Island, NY Email: randycat@hellokitty.com December 29, 2005
Irregular Heartbeat - Sealy Posturepedic Moravia Ultra Plush
I purchased a queen size which had a strong chemical smell right out of the plastic wrap and stayed strong for a week. I asked customer service to send another which they did and it had the same smell but not as strong. I slept on the first mattress before the replacement and during this time I was experiencing an irregular heart beat. I had no idea what the cause could be but after doing a search based on the odor problem I found this web site with a slew of health problem one of which was similar to mine. I run 6mi each day and feel my health is sound. I'm not sure if the memory foam products and what I have share the same chemicals but I thought the pillow top mattresses might be similar. I've removed the replacement set to another bed room and closed it to see if my heart irregularity disappears. I may just return it and pay the 25% restocking fee.
Suwanee, GA Email: crow4868@bellsouth.net December 28, 2005
Sinus Infections & Smelly Simmons Beauty Rest Mattress We just purchased a Simmons Beautyrest Dreamwell Mattress about a month ago. From the moment the mattress was delivered I detected a moldy smell. I called the store 2 days later and was told it was a chemical smell and it would disappear in a week or two. Well now it's one month later. In that time, I have been extremely congested - woke up one morning with a swollen face (!!) and was diagnosed with a severe sinus infection. NEVER in my life have I had a sinus problem. In fact, I rarely ever get sick. My husband has also been waking up extremely congested every morning. The store manager said they'd have someone come out to check out the mattress. I'm really going to fight to have this replaced. I'm amazed that this site exists, since I really I thought I was the only one having this problem.
Vienna, VA December 21, 2005
Vomiting - Fever - Flu Symptoms & Memory Foam - I consider myself to be healthy and resilient, so I was surprised to wake up with flu like symptoms after the first night sleeping on a newly purchased memory foam liner. Eventually I threw up and had a mild fever for 24 hours. So I write this up to wishful thinking that this odor was harmless, there's a reason things smell bad to us, it's a warning from our body to stay away, wish I had researched this before wasting money on this sludge.
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma Email: pbdraic@yahoo.com December 21, 2005
Symptoms Immediately Improve after Removing Mattress Topper
I bought this "eggcrate" design polyurethane mattress topper for my uncomfortable futon mattress. I got it at Bed, Bath and Beyond for $19.99 on Sunday and slept on it for 4 nights. I couldn't figure out why my health was suddenly going downhill with painful throat allergies and lack of sleep. It was especially on the 3rd day I began to wonder, but thought that I must be allergic to my "room" suddenly and that maybe the steam from the radiator was making mold. I felt like my throat was constricting. I was sneezing, had a stuffy nose, watery eyes and very itchy throat. I also had to take an inhaler as I was having asthmatic symptoms - shortness of breath and the feeling that my lungs were closing in on me. On the fourth day I told someone that I was allergic to my room and he said "clean it". But, I knew something was off. That night I thought..."mmmm, I just bought this new eggcrate, what''s it made of?' POLYURETHANE! I did some research (last night) and found this website but there doesn't seem to be many websites about this issue. I took it off my bed and slept much better. I have no symptoms this morning. Today I am taking this back to the store as I would much rather need to stretch my back in the morning than be debilitated in much more serious ways and develop very serious asthma.
New York, NY Email: annajablonski@hotmail.com December 16, 2005
No response from TempurPedics Main Office I bought a Tempurpedic mattress and I am having sensitivity problems to the polyurethane material in the mattress. Tempurpedic is unwilling to help me. The mattress dealer will not refund my money and I was unsuccessful at getting my money back through my credit card. I called the Tempurpedic president's office a few times and they haven't returned my call. Do you have any suggestions since this is unfair to the consumer? Thanks in advance.
Mark K. idealu@yahoo.com December 1, 2005
Sore Throat - Nose Bleed - Nightmares & Tempsoma Pillows I also purchased the two standard Tempsoma pillows, I bought one for a Christmas gift and the other kept for myself. I have had nightmares, sore throat, and had a nose bleed today. I will take both back to Sam's if symptoms subside after not sleeping on it for a few days. The smell is what bothered me and led me to look up and see if there was a website stating that problem, I am glad that I found it! What freaks me out is the nosebleed I had today and reading about others with that problem, as I am not one to have nosebleeds.
Panama City, Florida
Email: carpetj@bay.k12.fl.us November 28, 2005
Red Eyes and Sore Throat from Serta PillowTop - Now what?
Ok, so it took me a bit longer than you folk to realize it was the mattress that was doing me in. I've had my Serta Pillowtop for 8 months and it still gives off that chemical smell. I've suspected for some time that it was the mattress giving me the red eyes and sore throat in the morning, but I'm stubborn and I paid good money for the thing so I thought I could make it work. yeah, I know, bad logic. Anyway, now I'm left with trying to figure out what to get instead. Lord knows another Serta is out of the question. But then in all reality, the three big manufacturers all make their products in the same regional shops and use like products. Currently I'm looking at going back to futons. Not the cheapo ones from college, but a high-end model..... and there are even all- organic cotton models which is another level of safety. Thanks for everyone's input.
Boulder, Colorado Email: elw22@yahoo.com November 28, 2005
Simmons Stephens Plushtop Problems - Join Class Action Suit I thought I did a lot of research before buying my Simmons Stephens (model in California) plushtop. I have had it three weeks and have had the most miserable nights sleep.
My legs and butt are constantly burning. My knees aching. The Simmons Company claims it takes 90 days for your body to conform to the contours. The store I bought it at has a 30 day comfort return policy, BUT, they charge you a $55 pick-up fee and a 10% restocking fee. I guess it is my fault that the mattress is not comfortable. I find this website to be reassuring. I thought it was all me. I am ready to join a class action suit.
Arroyo Grande, California Email: rheller200@aol.com November 23, 2005
Your Comments Prevented us from making a "Huge" mistake!
We tried a Tempur (Sweden) brand and although it relieved the sore spots, we found it too firm and it took to long to get comfy. Also after reading everyone's reports, I'm glad we didn't order one! We also looked at the Simmon's Beauty Rest which I liked, but also after reading here I'm glad I didn't go ahead. As we live in Melbourne Australia, has anyone had any experience with the Nature's Brand "Tradewinds" and is there any comfy alternative to the chemical problems? Thank you for all your comments and sharing, it saved us from making a Huge mistake!
Melbourne, Australia Email: soosh02@yahoo.com.au November 19, 2005
News Media Pay Attention
After reading the email posts here, I have asked a very well known news person to take a look. This is information that needs to be out to the public. I. too, have had a few issues with joint pain and the fact that it seems that my muscles are becoming non existent since purchasing a foam mattress topper. The greed that runs rampant in companies in this country is disgusting!
Email: apyoung69@hotmail.com November 17, 2005
Health Immediately Improves after Removing Memory Foam Mattress We bought a Sealy memory foam pillow top mattress. I loved it at first but noticed in the morning I felt as if I couldn't fully wake up. After a few days I woke up with a very, very bad headache like I have never had before. My eyes swelled up and would not stop watering. I thought, as the people in this website, that I had the flu. I decided to test the theory after finding this website and I slept on my old mattress which we had moved to the guest bedroom. I awoke with no symptoms at all. "The Flu" like symptoms have disappeared. East Peoria, Illinois
Email: Salutogenesis@gmail.com November 15, 2005
Migranes linked to Tempsoma mattress from Sam's club I am prone to migraines, bur I know they ALWAYS go away after 3 days, however after sleeping on the Tempsoma mattress from Sam's club, I have woken with a migraine everyday for 8 days. At first I thought it had nothing to do with the mattress topper, but I remembered reading articles about outgassing and looked on the internet to see if other people reported having headaches after sleeping on these mattresses- I am relieved after finding this website -that maybe this problem can be resolved by returning the mattress topper. Migraine medication helped tremendously- but that's not the answer to this problem. Chattanooga, TN
Email: jlynmartin@earthlink.net November 15, 2005
My arms feel like they are falling off after sleeping on new Tempur-Pedic! My wife complained about insomnia all her life, so I secretly went shopping for the most comfortable bed, thinking it was a discomfort issue. I bought a new $1500 Tempur-Pedic mattress after trying it in the showroom for two seconds. But ever since it came, sure, it's comfortable, we sleep a good 3-4 hours, but we awake achy and it's hard to get comfortable again. My wife does go to sleep fairly quickly, but she has "kidney" aches, and has developed a cough that hasn't gone away ever since we bought the mattress 2 months ago, and she is tired all the time. We blame the remodeling we're doing, but now I'm convinced it's the mattress. Every morning I wake up and my arms feel like they can easily "fall off" my shoulders, and I am fatigued all day long as if I've been awake for days. After reading everyone's comments, I'm sure it's the mattress and pillows and will now dispose of them. They are not even fit for the guest rooms. I would hate to donate them as they might cause someone else harm. I'd appreciate any new info as to long-term effects or class action lawsuits against manufacturers. Thanks!
Torrance, California Email: jeff-beky@socal.rr.com November 14, 2005
Tempur Pedic causes headaches and eye irritation My wife and I bought a Tempur Pedic mattress based on our comfort while sleeping on foam during our recent trip. BIG MISTAKE!. We got headaches and eye problems but couldn't trace the cause. The problem started to lessen after a month but now it is three and one half months later and we started closing the windows at night as winter sets in. The problems have returned and the "test period" is over. This product needs a big warning label.. TOXIC. I am in for a class action suit if anyone has info.
Denver, Colorado Email: kennsimon@hotmail.com November 14, 2005
What's That Smell Coming From My Mattress?
Bought Simmons mattress and first night I slept on it, it had a strong odor which I had never smelled from any mattress I had owed before. I thought it must be because it was just out of the plastic and they were using a different cover material. The next morning I woke up with a migraine headache (which I don't get), my body ached, my hips bones felt as though I had fell to the floor and landed on them, my knees hurt, my back ached. Of course I was totally mystified as to what happened. Next night same thing, till 5 nights later I couldn't sleep in the bed I hurt so much. Now I swore the Company I bought it from had mistakening sent me a reconditioned mattress. This one surely couldn't be new! So I slept in the recliner a couple of nights figuring if I gave my body a rest I might sleep better back in the bed. But no change. And the Store won't do anything about it because they say my problem has to do with Comfort Level. Too bad I don't like what I got. !
That burned me up and I got on the internet. I learned about Outgassing. I learned that my problems are more than likely a direct result of sleeping on the mattress. I don't have the money now (paid $800 for mattress) to buy a natural mattress to sleep on and I'm scared to death to continue sleeping on this TOXIC MATTRESS. I'm just beginning to learn how detrimental to my health this mattress could really be, especially over a few years.
Hendersonville, NC Email: andysmom01@earthlink.net November 4, 2005
Severe skin reaction after buying memory foam bed
The day after sleeping on our memory foam mattress set, my wife suddenly developed itchy skin rashes. The rash was like a swelling of the skin that made the skin look and feel like plastic. It might cover about 1/3 of her leg and then an hour later, her leg was better, but her stomach was covered. The rash and itching continued for several days. I was skeptical that the bed was causing it because I had never thought before of foam as having anything in it that could be harmful. However, we couldn't think of anything else that might have triggered the problem other than the arrival of the mattress. She is 34 years old and healthy, but does have sensitive skin, having had a severe case of poison ivy about six months ago. After about half a week, she slept on the couch for three nights, the skin condition reduced significantly, and she moved back to the bed. After that though, the condition worsened again and continued. I've been thinking that eventually the bed would "air out", or that her body would develop a "tolerance" to it, but now, three weeks later her rashes and itching are as bad as ever. After reading this website, she will sleep on the couch tonight and I think we will probably replace the mattress - I plan to research organic mattresses. It is too bad, because I have been very happy with the comfort of the mattress.
San Jose, CA Email: xiaolei71@hotmail.com October 27, 2005
Vomiting after one night We ordered a ComfortAir mattress and I was thrilled to receive it. We had to put it together ourselves and didn't really notice any smells until putting on the eggcrate cover that actually went under the mattress topper. I had a terrible first night's sleep...smell kept waking me up and felt sick to my stomach on and off and felt very drowsy the next day. I called the company we purchased it from and told them I didn't sleep well; they advised me to put on the alternate visco memory foam pad. I opened it up and laid it on the bed to let it air and rise (had an extremely STRONG chemical smell). Shortly after opening it, I became nauseous and vomited for well over an hour. We ended up repackaging the entire bed and putting it in the basement. It will be going back to the manufacturer and I'm now looking at organic mattresses. And, after reading the comments here, I'm planning on getting rid of our existing memory foam pad and pillows. Minneapolis, MN
Email: kimakim123@mysway.com September 26, 2005
Novafoam Mattress from Costco - Itching -
My husband and I recently bought a Novaform Mattress Topper from Costco. Shortly after I started itching all over. I have a tendency to be a little itchy, but I have never experienced anything like this. This is a violent itching that forces me to stop the car just to scratch my leg. It is terrible. I now have cold symptoms and have been sneezing all day. I realized that my itching started shortly after we put that mattress topper on our bed. It is GONE tonight. I cannot believe that something that I brought into my home and put my body on would make me feel so horrible. I have fairly sensitive skin, but this itching is insane. It a sad world where chemically harmful substances are put on the market touted as "helping" people with their sleep issues. I am now thinking that organic is the way to go.
Allen, Texas October 14, 2005
File a complaint about your toxic mattress!
File a complaint with the US Consumer Product Safety Commission at 1-800-638- 2772. They will take a report and contact the manufacturer. If enough of us do this, maybe something will change. My Tempurpedic still stinks after 2 years; I wake up groggy after sleeping on it, seem to need 9 hours of sleep and still don't feel rested, and have developed an auto immune disorder--Hashimoto's disease-- since purchasing. (no way of knowing whether this is a result of the mattress, but it happened nonetheless).
New Haven, CT Email: sarahpstrong@yahoo.com October 12, 2005
Pain in the head and back immediately after bed purchase
Within a few days after purchasing a new Simmons bed, my husband and I noticed "allergy" symptoms such as sinus troubles, headaches, and body aches. We have had the bed now for five weeks and the symptoms are lessening in severity, but continue to be present, nonetheless.
San Diego, CA Email: cbroekema@san.rr.com September 29, 2005
Tempur-Pedic Problems
We bought our Tempur-Pedic just over a month. During this month, I have had horrible itches all over my body and had developed muscle pain. Initially, I thought I was having a normal seasonal allergic reactions. Then, when we had to leave for the Rita Hurricane, the last few days I slept in the hotel at my friend's house in Dallas. I noticed a tremendous comfort NOT sleeping on the Tempur-Pedic bed. We paid almost $3,000 for our king set, I am not sure they will let me return, since we bought it from a local "Mattress Firm" retail store. I don't know what they put in the bed... Do you have any information?
Houston, TX Email: joreen.lee@peg-us.com September 29, 2005
Toxic Tempurpedic!!
I bought the Tempurpedic in 2004. My husband and I have back and hip pain. He is up every night taking pain medication for this. In the last year I have developed neck pain and see a chiropractor for this. I stopped using the thermo pillow because of neck pain, but I still get the neck pain. I also have chronic sinusitis and have had to leave my bedroom because of the closing in of my throat and severe post-nasal drip. Within five minutes of going to my sofa, I can breathe again. We found that the mattress has become softer. When we took off the cover, we found that the cover was flaking. We are having the run-around trying to get someone to take this bed away. I don't want a duplicate so like many here, I too am looking for a new mattress.
Fair Haven, Vermont Email: peguik@yahoo.com September 25, 2005
Tempurpedic Panic My husband and I purchased the Tempurpedic mattress and pillows thinking it would be extremely comfortable and an investment. The first night I woke up in the middle of the night with shortness of breath, thinking I was either having a panic attack or asthma attack (which I only had one other time as a young child). I now realize it must have been the chemicals emitting from the mattress. My husband loves it, thinks it is the best nights sleep he has ever had. Anyone know of an organic mattress that does not emit these type of chemicals (i.e. petroleum)?
Portland, Oregon Email: mccamacho@comcast.net September 22, 2005
Health problems improve greatly after removing Tempurpedic Bed Chemical ingredients - Consumer Product Safety Contact Information I purchased a Tempurpedic Classic Queen mattress (with foundation), which was in my bedroom for three weeks. When the mattress was delivered and removed from its plastic bag, I was surprised by the overwhelmingly strong chemical smell which immediately filled the entire room. After sleeping on the mattress I noticed that I awoke in the morning with burning, itching eyes and a sore throat, feeling thirsty and dehydrated. I also began to have persistent headaches and experience a a dull, foggy, "cotton-headed" sensation when I was at home. The first couple of nights I awoke with some lower back pain. This pain subsided as the mattress appeared to become softer and more "broken-in" over time. My girlfriend spent a couple of nights sleeping on the mattress, and without me telling her of my experience, she described having the same physical symptoms when waking up after sleeping on the mattress. In a few days I noticed I was feeling generally irritable, lethargic, anxious, and depressed. When I spent the entire day outside of the house, I felt much better. But after sleeping on the mattress again, the same symptoms returned.
I contacted the retailer, explained my experience and said that I would like to return the mattress. They were very helpful and told me that the Tempurpedic representative had explained to them about the "odor" and they suggested taking off the cover, washing it, and walking on the mattress to help "open up the memory cells". They told me that the smell should go away in a couple of weeks. After one week the smell was not as overwhelming, but still very much present in the mattress. I was also still experiencing the physical symptoms I described after sleeping on the mattress.
I found the following list of chemicals used to make these (poly-urethane memory foam) mattresses on this website:
http://www.comfortdirect.com/memory-foam-17.php
TDI Toluene Di-Isocynate Polyol - Poly Ether Gycol Silicone Surfactant Teritary Amine Stannous Octoate Flame Retardant Pigments/Dyes
I contacted the retailer again and they told me that they could return the mattress based on the "Tempurpedic 90-night comfort guarantee". The only cost to me would be $159 plus tax. To this I agreed. After three weeks the strong chemical smell was still coming out of the mattress. After having the bed removed from my house, I slept that night on my couch. I awoke after seven hours feeling clear-headed and energetic. What a relief!
I filed a complaint with the United States Consumer Product Safety Commission using their form located at - https://www.cpsc.gov/incident.html
I would appreciate hearing from anyone who has purchased an organic or natural materials mattress, such as latex foam based, after experiencing problems with a Tempurpedic mattress.
James McCreary Wailua, HI Email: cramer_james@hotmail.com September 22, 2005
Sensus memory foam mattress topper is a flop I got a Sensus mattress pad yesterday and have difficulty breathing, nausea, sore throat, and anxiety. As soon as I removed the mattress pad from the room I felt better. Memory Foam Canada tells me they have a no return policy...so it's too bad so sad for me. After reading this forum I'm getting the toxic mess out of my house. Almost 400 dollars later, and a bit wiser.
Delta, BC, Canada Email: bedstemore@yahoo.ca September 22, 2005
Sealy mattress is killing me! I went out and bought the most comfortable Sealy mattress I could find for my back. The good news is, my back is in great shape. The bad news is, I wake up at night gasping for air. It feels like my lungs are all congested. My eyes water and burn. Sometimes I have coughing spells. I get up in the morning feeling so tired as if I had no sleep. I covered my box spring and mattress with one of those zip up allergy bags which helped a lot, but after a few night the chemicals must have found their way through the bag. Although it's not as bad, my chest still hurts and my eyes burn. I can't put up with this any longer. Sealy won't take the mattress set back. Does anyone know of a company which makes a mattress from all natural material without the chemicals? I'm afraid this mattress is doing me great harm.
New Castle, PA Email: Grasslinn@aol.com September 20, 2005
Health problems improve after getting rid of mattress I just wanted to thank you for this website. It is the only one of its kind and without it I would still be very ill. 3 months ago I bought an Isotonic memory foam topper and pillows (Tempurpedic/Viscoelastic) from Bed Bath and Beyond. It was the best night sleep I got in a long time, although for the last 3 months I have been severely ill and never associated it with the bed. I went to the emergency room about 2 weeks after purchasing the topper. I was extremely dizzy, could not keep my balance, could not breathe through my nose, shortness of breath, sore throat, my ears felt infected and it was hard even to eat a slim slice of bread. I bought a HEPA air filter hoping that would help and after giving that a couple of weeks I was still very ill. So after being bedridden for 3 months I racked my brain for what had changed since I got sick. It came to me, the mattress topper. I immediately got on the internet and found this site and was shocked to find what I thought was causing my sickness. I got rid of the mattress and pillows 3 days ago and progressively felt better every day. Today was the first time I have been able to live life in a long time. If I can be of help to anyone please feel free to contact me.
Name: Michael Wilson Email: mike_wilson_sobe@hotmail.com September 14, 2005
Breathing Problems - Sealy Posturpedic Mattress I bought a new mattress. Ever since, I've been having trouble breathing and itchy feeling after going to bed. I have been trying to air out. We are not able to return it since it was a sale. Next time when I buy a mattress I will buy a chemical free one. Don't make the same mistake like we did.
Pasadena, MD Email: dfg@gmail.com September 14, 2005
Tempurpedic Mattresses are dangerous.
My son received a Tempurpedic mattress from his coworkers as a wedding gift. It was delivered while he and his wife were away on their honeymoon. His friends made up the bed with all new expensive pillows and linens. It was quite a surprise when they came home from their honeymoon but they both got sick from the outgassing of the bed...my daughter in law had a rash all over her body and my son found it hard to breathe. The room stunk and their eyes were burning. Fortunately after a few phone calls they realized it was their mattress as they heard similar stories from people who had the mattress or knew people that did. We are all wondering how come the mattress hasn't been taken off the market. September 9, 2005
JOINT PAIN - Evidence of Chemically Induced Autoimmune Reactions I've have had 3 different mattresses (2 Sealy 1 Sterns & Foster) over the past 5 years. I never noticed the smell or related my wife's, or my different symptoms to this. Makes me wonder if some or all of our health problems are related. I am now permanently out of work due to problems???????????????
Massachusetts - United States Email: penske3138@hotmail.com September 9, 2005
Carpets also Contain Volatile Petroleum Based Chemicals! Several years ago we replaced the carpet in our home with a high quality berber. My dogs started sneezing and getting sick, and my son kept getting sinus infections and asthma. It took me several years to make the connection, but now it makes sense since finding out that chemical companies, such as Dupont, manufacture carpets! Plastics and carpets give off fumes for years after installation. I got sick too, and had become so sensitive to chemicals that I couldn't wear perfume or even use scented shampoos. When the carpet needs replacing again, I'll switch to wood or tile.
Palm Bay, Florida Email: emscott@cfl.rr.com September 6, 2005
CHEM-TOX COMMENT: Like beds, carpets are also made with a mixture of highly volatile petroleum based chemicals, which can also cause or worsen the same health problems as those caused with new bedding.
I Now Have Asthma
My husband and I purchased 2 memory foams at a local Target store in Anaheim while visiting Disneyland 7 months ago since we had a hard time sleeping on the hotel bed...what a mistake that was! Funny how I read all these messages and I think to myself, "oh my gosh, that is how I feel!" I've been very healthy all my life, now at 33 I've been having difficulty breathing, horrible allergies like never before, flu for the first time in over 14 years, and what do you know I now have asthma! Yes, I now have a $200.00 a month inhaler to treat it! I can go on and on about the dizziness, burning throat, itchy eyes, etc... that I'm reading others have had, but the whole asthma thing burns me the most! Please if anyone knows where to begin for a suit...count me in! I can be cheated and lied to, but I don't put up with messing with my health!
As soon as this site was brought to my attention, I quickly removed our memory foam "toppers" and yes I miss the soft comfort, but I mostly missed breathing properly! By the way, the smell is still strong after 7 months! Arizona - United States
Email: bostonplumbing@msn.com September 1, 2005
Sealy Posterpedic Pillowtop - Memory Foam beds medical nightmare I purchased a Sealy Posterpedic Pillowtop with Memory Foam bed in March 2005. By April (one month later) I had a rapid, irregular pulse with heart flip-flops and difficulty breathing. My eyes feel hard, swollen, sore throat, sinus trouble you name it. No medications help. Finally wondered if it was the bed. So started looking on internet and found this web site. Wow my suspicions have been founded. And I paid over $1,000 for this bed as had not only sales tax but a delivery charge. Does anyone have any ideas or know of some such action about the bed industry and an action suit or reimbursement plan, etc. Thank you, Meggie
Lincoln, NE Email: meggie_nebraska@yahoo.com August 28, 2005
Chemical Smell and Energy Drained
We spent $1700.00 on a TEMPURPEDIC mattress endorsed by NASA For 2 weeks the smell was awfull!! I haven't awaken yet without a drained tired feeling which hangs on for hours. Pease tell me what is safe to sleep!!!!
Sun City, AZ Email: standingfirmjan@cox.net August 27, 2005
CHEM-TOX COMMENT: The Tempurpedic was not really "endorsed" by NASA, but we were informed that it was researched by NASA but rejected for use in the space industry because of chemical volatility issues.
Tempurpedic- off-gassing problem
I just had a tempurpedic mattress delivered today, and noticed the strong chemical smell coming from the bed when I rested in the afternoon. I read the customer complaints listed on your website and became very concerned. I have a genetic weakness in my nervous system and have had nerve pain for nine years due to a back injury. I cannot afford to get sick from the mattress, and am already experiencing some nausea and a headache from a two hour nap. I have already used up my one exchange from Sit 'N Sleep, and do not know what to do. I refuse to get sick any further, and need to know what type of legal recourse I have, so that I can return the mattress and receive a full refund. Please e-mail me back with a response at marcialynncac@aol.com.
Marcia S. Valencia, Ca Email: marcialynncac@aol.com August 27, 2005
Crib Mattress Outgassing I bought a crib mattress (SEALY) for my infant daughter and could not believe the horrible smell coming out of it, which burned my eyes and throat. I can't imagine placing a 3-month old on this. Despite airing it out for days on our porch and washing it with baking soda (which helped temporarily) , the smell would not go away. I was able to trade it in at Babies R Us (interestingly , the person who sold it could not detect a smell at all, though another salesperson said "no way would i sleep on that!) but it's hard to trust the replacement. After all, the gases you can't smell are not necessarily any safer....
Northfield, MN August 25, 2005
Asthma and Join Pain My husband and I purchased a Stearns and Foster mattress and had to send it back the next day because it had been treated with waterproofing. We woke up after one night with sore throats, our backs were both red where we slept on the mattress. We received our new "untreated" mattress the next day. It too reeked of chemicals. The salesman assured us the fumes would evaporate after a few days. It took weeks for the smell to dissipate. It is now two years later, in that length of time I have had skin eruptions that lead my physician to think I had rapidly progressing breast cancer. The skin was swollen and when biopsied had lymphocyte infiltration, but no breast cancer (this was a 6 month ordeal). I have continual sinus problems, and now have developed asthma. I spent this weekend in the emergency room with another severe asthma attack. I also have developed bone and cartilage degeneration in my knees and I am on crutches and a walker. Now I can barely walk. My husband also has joint issues in his lower body. I now sleep in another room away from this toxic monstrosity. We spent somewhere around $3,000 for this mattress and box springs. There is no telling how much money we have spent on medical bills. When I call stores that sell these mattresses they say there are "no complaints." Obviously, from reading this website, there are complaints. Perhaps, because there are "no complaints" they can afford to refund my $3,000. I will be responsible for my medical bills as cause and effect would be so hard to prove. I will let you know if I get the money back!
Donna Stark, Starkville, Mississippi Email: Stark323@bellsouth.net August 25, 2005
Memory Foam Mattress - vomitting and diarreah first night We bought a Memory Foam mattress pad and pillows from Wal Mart over the weekend. When I opened the package, I noticed the horrible smell. The enclosed slip said that the smell would go away after airing and was not dangerous. Because of me and my husband's back problems, I went ahead and put it on te bed anyway. In the middle of the night, I first awoke to one of my dogs vomitting. She had jumped to the floor. I cleaned it up, went back to bed and then another of my dogs started vomitting. At 3 a.m. I awoke to severe cramping and diarreah. My husband came in and asked me what was wrong and I told him I thought it was the mattress smell. I finally felt better and tried going back to bed, only to have to get up for another round.
Kansas City, KS Email: fivecoat@kcnet.com August 22, 2005
Love my TempurPedic Bed My husband & I purchased an adjustable TempurPedic bed (mattress & pillows) 12 months ago and I love it. I have fibromyalgia and chronic low back problems and the TempurPedic is the only bed that is comfortable for me to sleep on (my husband could fall sleep on anything). So while some people may have sensitivities to the materials used to manufacture this bed, not all people do. I am allergic to fruit, probably not everyone is - I suppose many people enjoy eating fruit. I don't want to take fruit off the market or sue people who produce fruit because I'm allergic to it, I just avoid eating it myself. Renton, WA
Email: StampinStudio@comcast.net August 21, 2005
CHEM-TOX Comment: This woman states she has fibromyalgia and is thankful for the comfort of her TempurPedic bed. Fibromyalgia is a condition that is suspected of being at least partially caused by autoimmune problems (the immune system attacking the person's own tissue). If we know that petroleum based chemicals have been linked with causing autoimmunity and a person with an autoimmune disorder such as fibromyalgia continues to sleep on a bed made with petroleum based chemicals- what would be a logical conclusion?
Facial Swelling due to Tempsoma Pillow
I received a Tempsoma pillow for my birthday (I wanted one because they looked so comfortable) back at the end of July. I have been sleeping on it now for about 3-4 weeks. I noticed the awful smell but had read on the box to let it air out for a few days and I just figured it needed longer. It surprisingly has never felt as comfortable as I thought it would (I think partly because it isn't as thick as I'm used to), however, 2 weeks ago, I had some swelling in my lips. I didn't know what caused it and was very concerned. 2 nights ago, I had severe facial swelling. My whole face (eyes, cheeks, lips, etc) was swollen. This morning, I woke up with a similar puffy face (not quite as bad as yesterday), and it suddenly hit me that maybe it could be the pillow. I started researching online. I found this site and am SO glad. Is there any similarity between the latex and these foam pillows? I would just love to find a common link. I'd also love to hear from people with similar symptoms. I will be getting rid of the pillow today.
State: VA Email: POTTERSX3@MSN.COM August 18, 2005
Third Sterns and Foster Mattress!!!! Strong Chemical Odor I bought High End S&F Mattress set and after returning it twice we still have a strong odor coming from the mattress. I can't believe how many other people have the same problem. I hope there is a group action lawsuit against the manufacturer.
Oceanside, NY Email: sturothman@optonline.net August 9, 2005
Polyurethane Foam in Loveseat Causes Problems
I bought a new loveseat and it made me sick sick. Racing heart, extreme anxiety, coughing, burning throat, headache, personality change, and a dazed feeling. There was a bad odor coming from the seat, especially the thick seating pads made of polyurethane. I lived in a hot climate, and realized that I had been sick every summer that I didn't work since buying a couch several years back. Polyurethane cushions which I can also smell. This is called outgassing and I think it could be killing people.
Lubbock, TX Email: crazzygal@hotmail.com August 7, 2005
CHEM-TOX NOTE: Even polyurethane contains the fire retardant chemicals (up to 50% by weight) which have been linked with numerous health problems.
Skin Rash and Fatigue after Sealy Mattress Purchase
I purchased a Sealy mattress. After one week of use I developed a skin rash, soon after severe fatigue set it in, the rash got worse and finally I stopped sleeping on it. I was advised by my massage therapist that it could be the new mattress and I got rid of it. I have documentation of the symptoms from my doctors and I even still have the receipt of the mattress for verifications. I continue to have symptoms of skin rashes, and sensitivity to chemicals.
Terri Shelton Satellite Beach, FL Email: webmaster@cflwaves.com August 2, 2005
Headaches and Sinus Problems begin immediately We have an air adjustable bed and I don't think it has this foam in it. But we also have pillows by Sleep Innovations and I do think these are made of the same materials as these toxic mattresses. They did have a strong chemical smell when they were new and both my wife and I have been suffering with chronic joint pain mostly in the neck and shoulders. I, all of the sudden, always have a headache and sinus problems. Sometimes at night I wake up in a sweat and feel like I am on fire. Does anyone else use these pillows and have these symptoms?
Concord, NC Email: JIMNDONNA@CTC.NET July 29, 2005
Flu like symptoms, aching, sinus problems, joint pain, eyes swelling We bought a memory foam pillow top mattress, and loved the way it slept, but after the first night, my wife had a migraine type headache, eyes swelled up, rings would not fit her fingers. She even went to the doctor thinking she had a sinus infection. After three nights, I thought I had the flu, joints, whole body aching, running a fever, and missed two days of work. I had to go out of town to a funeral, stayed 3 nights from home, and I got better, no aches, or fever. First night I was home, it started all over again.
Greer, South Carolina Email: Stevespickn@aol.com July 29, 2005
Removing Bed - Health Improves At an earlier post I mentioned that I was trying to isolate the memory foam mattress with several mattress pads. I had such a big investment in the pads (I purchased them for several beds, for my grandsons and my daughters) It worked for a few days then all of the symptoms of joint pain, back pain and headaches began to return. I finally tossed it out and the symptoms are gone. I have advised my daughters to do so immediately. They have subsequently told me of terrible back pains and joint pains they and their husbands were having - none of us thought it could be the mattress pads. This website probably saved our lives!
Dublin, California July 28, 2005 CHEM-TOX NOTE: It may appear a paradox that a softer bed can result in back and joint pain, however, this is not related to the softness or firmness of the bed; some petroleum based chemicals have been found to be the direct cause of a condition known as autoimmunity. Autoimmunity is a serious condition in which the person's own immune system mistakenly begins attacking their own tissue. If the autoimmune reaction is directed against soft tissue (such as muscles), the individual will experience pain in the affected muscle areas. Autoimmune cells (which can be the immune system white blood cells or antibodies) have also been identified which attack organs, DNA and even bone. For more information on autoimmunity please go to the government's toxicology web site at http://toxnet.nlm.nih.gov/ - type in the keywords autoimmune xenobiotics (xenobiotics is the scientific term for synthetic chemicals). Also, an excellent review of chemical induced autoimmunity can be found in the medical journal Toxicology, Vol. 119, No. 1, pages 1-21, 85 references, 1997 -
It's A Sealy - Throat Irritation
On 7/15/05 I had a Sealy box spring and mattress delivered. By 7/17/05 the back of my throat was burning. I immediately suspected the new mattresses because of the chemical smell. I am now sleeping on the couch. My throat irritation has lessened. The bedroom is closed off with fans running but this is not helping get rid of the smell in there. The store refuses to refund me my money. I paid $500.. Any suggestions would be appreciated.
New York, NY Email: kjbre55@yahoo.com July 20, 2005
Tempur-Pedic Causing Muscular & Joint Pain/Weakness
My wife wanted the Tempur-Pedic Swedish sleep system we saw in a local Brookstone store. We went all out and got the top of the line king size with additional pillow-top. We also splurged and got two of the Supreme pillows as well. We were able to take the pillows home immediately but the mattress couldn't be delivered until the following week. I immediately noticed the horrible smell from the pillow (almost gagging) but the sticker on the pillow said it was a normal smell and that after a few days it would disappear. I remember not being comfortable with the pillow the first night and woke with severe neck pain and a headache. I didn't think much of it at the time and continued to sleep with the pillow for the following week. Finally the new mattress arrived. It was incredibly comfortable and supported every inch of my body without pressure points, however just like the pillow, the smell was horrible. The very next day, I experienced tremendous pain in every joint of my body (neck, shoulders, elbows, back, hips and knees). I also experienced severe muscle pain and weakness. I work out every day, so I just assumed that I had over-worked at the gym that morning, but the pain got worse and worse. It got so bad that I couldn't move and I couldn't go to work. I couldn't roll myself over in the bed let alone walk up and down stairs. It lasted over a week and was so severe that I finally went to the doctor. They ran blood tests for Limes Disease, Mono, Strep, and a variety of other illnesses, but the tests all came back negative. I spent the next week in bed, unable to move. It has since been over 5 weeks since the delivery of our bed and I have been miserable every single day. I've been just dealing with the pain, thinking something was seriously wrong with me, until I decided that I would look on the internet to see if I could find anything out. I stumbled on this site and needless to say I am now sleeping in our guest room until we can get this mattress and pillows returned. Hopefully this will solve my problem.
Ashburn, Virginia Email: zute@reply2me.com July 12, 2005
Memory Foam Pillows cause Neurological Reaction Just bought 2 pillows memory foam pillows from Walmart -- first night suffered insomnia -- second night had shortness of breath and 3 awful nightmares. Switched back to feather pillows and all symptoms immediately disappeared. Back they go to Walmart.
Scottsdale, Arizona Email: dochan15@gmail.com July 10, 2005
Joint and Bone Problems after buying Serta Pillowtop
I've had what seems to be systemic problems and joint/bone problems ever since buying a Serta pillowtop mattress. Most would attribute my symptoms to sleep deprivation, but it truly does feel systemic - flu-like systems, weakness, achiness, joint problems - all chronic and I'm only 27! To make matters worse, I'm now having to return my second mattress because what manufacturers are displaying in retailer showrooms DOESN'T MATCH what is actually being delivered in terms of quality (gauge of steel, foam, etc.). The bed in the showroom, in spite of several demos a day, is much firmer. I just received my bed yesterday and it sinks down to the box springs and shimmies with even slight movement. And this is close to a top-of-the-line Sealy! I'm really at a loss on what to do at this point. If anyone who has successful bought a quality mattress has any tips to share I'd really appreciate it.
Columbus, Ohio Email: truesblues@yahoo.com July 7, 2005
Headaches - Sinus Problems and Allergies I've had a severe reaction to 3 different beds - two Chiropratics by Springwell and one Sealy. I am desperate to find a bed I won't have a reaction to. What is so strange is usually I don't have headaches or any allergies. But for sure my headaches and sinus problem, and closing of the throat are from the new beds because the 'in between new bed times' my head etc. clears. I'm also fine once I've been outside for an hour or so. Any help would be appreciated in finding a new non-toxic bed.
British Columbia, Canada Email1: iwant2cruise@hotmail.com
Sore throat in the mornings
Recently, I purchased a new mattress that I later realized had a strong chemical odor. After sleeping on it for a week or so, I started waking up with a slight sore throat in the morning.
St. Albans, West Virginia Email: j_gaull@yahoo.com June 14, 2005
Beauty Rest Mattress Causes Back Pain
I brought a Beautyrest Mattress a month ago from Mattress Discounters. It was too soft and was causing me back pain. I am also having sinus problems and have yellow pleghm in my throat each morning. Upon calling the store manager, district manager and customer service, I was told that I could not exchange the mattress because I used the one exchange allowed by the store. Customer service told me to call Goodwill and have them pick up the mattress and he would let me select another mattress at a 50% discount. I told him that I was not spending any more money in his store. Has anyone else had a similar experience and had success in getting a second exchange for a mattress that did not work out. Help!!!
Alexandria, VA Email: Ttyler2@cox.net June 8, 2005
Tempur-Pedic misleading public with NASA endorsement Although Fagerdala World Foams, and not Tempurpedic, developed Visco-elastic memory Foam in the early 60 s for NASA, this product was not stable enough to be sent into space. It suffered from durability problems and off-gassing issues that could not be resolved, and was also difficult to manufacture. Currently Tempurpedic has its (Tempur) memory Foam manufactured by Dan Foam A/S, a subsidiary of Fagerdala World Foams, which manufactures its foam in Sweden , Germany , Finland , Switzerland , Denmark , Brazil , Norway , Singapore , Benelux , Thailand , China , United Kingdom , France and the United States.
Pompano beach, FL Email: mstuddy@hotmail.com June 7, 2005
Headaches and Memory touch mattress comfort top
Last night I slept on this new memory touch topper just purchased. We put an aerobed (blow up) under it, also just purchased. Both smell. I woke up today with a terrible headache (I never get headaches). My jaw was tight as if I was grinding terribly all night, and I felt like I was going to go into lockjaw. As the day wore on I realized this felt like a huge hangover, but I hadn't been drinking. This evening I decided before getting into bed to look online about outgassing, because I'm pretty health conscious and aware of outgassing problems. And I am so thankful I found this website! About this toxic bed topper, though, I'm putting it out on my porch after I finish typing this, and returning it to Bed and Bath tomorrow, along with the blow up aerobed. I looked up a website that said the EU banned certain chemicals from it's plastics. I wonder if the USA still keeps it in. You have to really watch out for your health and question everything these days. I feel sorry for the children who sleep on these mattresses, exhibit mental or physical health problems, and the parents remain clueless. I'm going to try and spread this message to whomever I meet, and let Bed and Bath know they should post a warning sign alongside this bed topper!
Owings Mills, Maryland Email: ecwcec@hotmail.com June 4, 2005
Memory Foam Made Me and My Cat Extremely Ill Two weeks ago I purchased a memory foam padding for my Sealy Posturepedic bed. Within two days I noticed I was having extreme panic attacks and depression. I also felt dizzy and couldn't focus on anything. It kept getting worse but I didn't connect it with the foam. At the same time my cat (who sleeps beside me every night) started wheezing uncontrollably at night. I still didn't connect it with the foam. I took my cat to a Holistic vet and she immediately told me to get rid of that foam. I went on the internet and kept reading how this foam is non-toxic so I thought she was over reacting but I took the foam off. My panic attacks have subsided and my cat is slowing getting better. Now I realize that the reason I got the foam in the first place was to counteract the health problems that the Sealy Posturepedic Mattress was causing. I'm thinking about switching to a natural latex mattress but I'm afraid to invest that much money without trying one out first. I would like to hear how people felt after switching to the natural latex mattresses.
Portland, Oregon Email: jaymied@comcast.net June 2, 2005
Severe back pain & shoulder /arm problems - Memory Foam 3 Purchased Memory Foam 3" Topper from MYREST.com - Sleep great for first week, smell of foam easier to over look because I went into a deep sleep. Developed soar throat symptom's along with severe lower back problems. After a month I went to the doctor thinking I was having Kidney problems, I felt like my insides were being pushed around.
After many test and large out of pocket expense I had nothing wrong with me. I removed the Memory Foam and woke up the next morning and no pain, my throat felt better in a week. I truly feel this is a health hazard. They say we stand behind our product, but you passed 30 day trial period & no refund ! Stay away from these foam products.
Rancho Mirage, CA Email: dyardesign@aol.com May 30, 2005
Viscoelastic Pillows
I just bought two Viscoelastic pillows, and whereas they are very comfortable, they seem to be giving me headaches and causing my eyes to burn and itch. After just one night of using them, I woke up with a headache and itchy and burning eyes. At first I thought that it was probably a coincidence, but I have been using them every night for over a week now, and the symptoms have remained with me the entire time. And last night I woke up with numbness in my arms! I just now decided to do some research to try to find out if the pillows could be causing these symptoms, most of the websites that I have found have been saying that the Viscoelastic beds and pillows are better for you as far as reducing allergies. but after reading many of the comments on this site, I am almost certain that it is the pillows causing these symptoms. I already suffer from anxiety disorders, and last night I woke up feeling extra nervous at the time of the numbness in my arms, and I see that other people have said that the Viscoelastic beds/pillows have caused them anxiety problems.
May 30, 2005
Obnoxious mattress chemical odor - Stearns and Foster Mattress
On 4/21/05 I had a new Stearns and Foster mattress (Ealing plush $1649.00) delivered to my home. The new mattress had a very strong chemical odor, so I left the windows open and my husband and I tried to sleep on that night. In the middle of the night we both kept waking up. My husband's throat was sore and itchy, my eyes were watery and extremely itchy. The chemical odor was horrendous! We did not sleep on the mattress anymore and tried to air it out. The odor permeated through the mattress pad , sheets and pillows. Three days later I called the furniture company and told them to remove the mattress. They delivered a second mattress one week later. As soon as the deliveryman removed the plastic, the chemical odor was so strong, the deliveryman said, "The smell is so strong I have a headache. I wouldn't sleep on this!" The mattress was returned. A third mattress was delivered on 5/12/05. Within an hour of the mattress being delivered, the fumes got so strong, we couldn't enter the bedroom. This mattress was aired out for three days at the warehouse before being delivered to my home! We have left the windows open in the bedroom, but the odor has not dissipated. I am returning this mattress. We have been sleeping on the living room floor. I called Sealy (which makes Stearns and Foster mattresses) and have been told that they rarely receive complaints. I asked them what is causing the smell, but of course they won't answer my questions. The furniture company told me I'm the only one complaining. I would like some answers.
Bethel Park, PA Email: kaminskimar@netzero.com May 18, 2005
Call the Consumer number for Bed Problems
The US Consumer Product Safety Commission number is 1-800-638-2772. They NEED to get a slew of phone calls about these problems of outgassing beds. Who's ready for a class action lawsuit? The firm of Masry-Vititoe, the ones who have Erin Brockovich on their staff are based in Calif, but their website says they take cases all over the country, working with local counsel. So who are the companies that manufacture the foams and junk in the beds? Write me.
Phoenix, Arizona Email: Janine@BlueSageNaturals.com
3 SERTA beds - Headaches and Neck Pain We are on our 5th bed made by Serta. The last 3 have had Serta's name on them. The last 3 have stunk to high heaven. My husband had a mysterious rash on his chest, I've had chronic sinus infections, memory loss to where I couldn't remember words. Bob Moore at Mattress Outlet is the person responsible for all this. He and Serta. Serta rep John, for Phoenix, refused to call us back. We are READY for a class action lawsuit. Surely *someone* here knows a lawyer?? My husband has had several headaches, and severe pain in his neck/shoulder. I've had headaches and I don't normally get them. I've had rashes on my legs, swollen tonsils, body aches, etc. My hubby has had body aches and pains and what I would say is brain fog. We haven't been alert and 'with it' when we wake up. He got better when he was at work after a while, I seemed to feel a little better about 4 p.m. or anytime I was out of the house or had the door closed to the bedroom.
Phoenix, Arizona Email: Janine@BlueSageNaturals.com May 10, 2005
Time for Lawsuit Has anyone started a class action suit about the outgassing of the mattresses? It should be pro bono.
Janine Phariss Janine@bluesagenaturals.com May 10, 2005
Feeling worse after using memory foam mattress topper After trying to sleep on it, I awakened after about an hour, gagging, coughing, and throwing up. I had to take an antihistamine pill to relieve some of the symptoms. I had noted the instructions that came with the topper and had allowed it to air for 24 hours before I used it. The instructions mentioned that the odor was temporary and not dangerous. I am concerned about the safety of this product.
Coconut Creek, Florida Email: rsheila@earthlink.net May 7, 2005
Nausea - Flu - Headaches and Tempurpedic I bought my Tempurpedic mattress Nov 2004. It was very comfortable, but the chemical smell never went away - in fact it got much worse over the months, turning into a musty chemical smell. This scent would penetrate my sheets and comforter within a few days causing me to change sheets every 2-3 days. It even penetrated my memory foam pillow, but only the side pressing against the mattress. The pillow (which is not tempurpedic) doesn't have a smell otherwise. This smell has caused reoccurring flu-type symptoms over the last few months including nausea, sinus symptoms, increased allergies and extremely bad headaches. I've been sleeping on my sofa the last week and these symptoms have subsided and I now wake without a migrane. I contacted Tempurpedic, but they will only replace the mattress, stating that this smell is "unusual". However, after reading this site, I tend to disagree. THINK TWICE BEFORE BUYING THIS MATTRESS. ALTHOUGH COMFORTABLE, IT'S NOT WORTH THE EFFECT THE CHEMICALS HAVE HAD ON MY HEALTH.
Huntington Woods, Michigan Email: bcregg@comcast.net May 2, 2005
Tempsoma from Sam's Club One ailment after another. My husband's face swelled up, with his lower lip getting huge. I developed hives, with horrible itching and a sinus infection that just won't go away. As an experiment, a few nights ago I tried sleeping in our guest room for a few nights and my hives started to resolve, but not my sinus infection, even after being on antibiotics for a week. I also had a reaction of facial swelling of my eyes and lower lip, weeks after purchasing the topper and pillows. I hadn't actually slept on the pillows, only used it for support when sitting up reading. Thinking back, my face swelling occurred on the one night I actually slept on the pillow. My eyes would burn when I would sit up and read in bed, as I often do, using the Tempsoma pillows for support. Very strange. Two days ago I took back the topper. Today I'm taking back the pillows. Save your receipt, as Sam's Club will accept your return, but you need the receipt. I figured my symptoms were likely related to my topper. I also experienced intense fatigue. My energy level has dropped to the point where EVERYTHING is a major effort. It will be interesting to see if that resolves after returning the mattress topper. I called Sam's Club and informed him of my reaction and also this website, since I think these things are a health risk.
South Milwaukee, Wisconsin Email: DEBR715@AOL.COM April 30, 2005
Child Develops Severe Nose Bleeds after New Bed Purchase We bought my son a new bunk bed set, with the mattresses that were on it in the show room. They were Private Collection Solitare. I said we will get a better set later. This was August of last year. My son started having nose bleeds that kept getting worse. He would wake up with them, have them at school, at bedtime. I took him to the doctor and they couldn't find anything so they made me an appointment with a specialist. By then it was winter and he always sleeps on the sofa in the winter close to the fire place.. He stopped having the nose bleeds and didn't have but a very few all winter. I thought well it was just a weak vein and it must be all better now.. I moved him back to his room two weeks ago and his nose started pouring again. He had four nose bleeds in one week. What bothered me was when it was bed time they would start.. I put him on the sofa for a week and they stopped. I went and smelled his mattress and o.m.g it was awful. I called the company and they replaced them immediately. My son said mom - it is pretty bad I had to loose three gallons of blood before we could figure out it was the mattress. The reason he had nose bleeds at bedtime - after he eats dinner he would go and lay on his bed and play his games... Soon as he got up it would start. These were not normal nose bleeds. It took the school 30 minutes to get it stopped. He has a swollen gland on his neck. I didnt think nothing off until I read this website. I am so glad I found this site - now I know I am not the only one. Everyone thought I was crazy when I told them it was the mattress.
Wayne, West Virginia Email: Angelray1958@wmconnect.com April 25, 2005