One of the most overlooked connections to SIDS, autism and ADD may be the common, everyday crib mattress that many parents unwittingly bring home to place in their baby's crib. The typical crib mattress is made from many materials and also laced with flame retardant chemicals to meet Federal standards for safe baby products. This does not, however, mean that just any baby crib mattress is particularly safe for your infant. Some studies link serious childhood problems and even death to crib mattress toxicity.
Crib mattress toxicity is related entirely to fumes that degas from the materials from which the product is constructed. Materials and fabric in many typical mattresses include vinyl, polyester, acrylic, memory foam, and cotton. With the exclusion of cotton, much of the product is built from synthetic materials that are made from petro-chemicals. Even memory foam, which is a favorite for adult mattresses, is made from synthetic materials and gives off toxic fumes as it degases over time.
Crib Toddler Mattress
Federal regulations also give strict requirements for companies to include flame retardant materials that are manufactured with chemicals that will discourage fire while an infant is asleep. While it is true that the purpose for this is to protect childhood deaths from fire, these chemicals may inadvertently expose them to another health hazard. A child is so small and his respiratory response is not as strong as an adult, so just imagine an infant trying to breathe in fumes from freshly manufactured materials laced with various chemicals. Aside from the various research that points to the development of autism, SIDS and ADD in children who are exposed to toxic mattresses, it stands to simple reason that breathing chemicals could lead to significant health problems in young children.
What should a parent do? The absolute safest action to take is to purchase a safe baby crib mattress that is not toxic but made from natural sources. There are many crib mattresses available today that are made from cotton, wool, and natural latex as well as combinations of all natural materials. Of course there is no flame retardant chemicals involved since Federal regulations allow individuals to purchase these items if manufacturers specify materials and warnings. If you are interested in avoiding baby crib mattress toxicity and the possible consequences of SIDS, autism and ADD as well as other health problems, there are many online suppliers that specialize in non-toxic bedding for children.