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Before you answer that question, here’s some interesting facts to * Polyurethane foam Recent tests and studies have questioned the use of such materials
Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act, Section 108: Though legal..... These are chemicals which leach out of vinyl over time. Easily Other research has also linked Phthlates with cancer to the testes And while Phthlates have been banned, recent studies have Organic cotton is the purest form of cotton, grown without toxins, In crib mattresses, organic cotton is a healthier alternative to Most allergists recommend that babies and young children steer Here’s what the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) says: “Labeling of medical devices containing natural rubber latex that The American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology says: “Latex allergy - an immunological reaction to natural rubber latex… Latex allergy is a medical term encompassing a range of allergic Type 4 - Also known as allergic contact dermatitis. This involved a Irritant Contact Dermatitis. This common type of reaction causes Furthermore… Labeling of … devices that contain natural rubber likely to come in What is polyethylene: Polyethylene is an environmentally friendly plastic that is used
Info, Tips, Resources for Buying Baby & Toddler Mattresses
Should you buy natural mattresses, organic
crib mattresses and other items for your
baby or child?
consider.
Over the past 30+ years original crib mattress materials have been
replaced with petroleum-based synthetics. In fact, nearly all crib
mattresses today contain such things as -
* Vinyl (PVC)
* Phthalates
* Chemical fire retardants or barriers
* plus an extensive list of added chemicals.
in crib mattresses and related items your baby or child may sleep on.
Here's some interesting and telling info:
Today there is growing concern among physicians, health pro-
fessionals, public safety officials, environmental advocacy groups
and consumers regarding the possible effects of these chemicals
on our children. And...
Many researchers suspect that toxic chemicals are playing a
significant role in the dramatic increase of childhood disorders.
Products Containing Certain Phthalates
Many components of today’s crib and toddler mattresses are likely -
like lead paint was - to eventually be banned as well. Believe it
or not, certain chemicals which have been widely used in
manufacturing baby mattresses, for decades, have already been
banned. For example certain Phthalates. Others have been volun-
tarily removed over the past few years with research proving they
were unsafe. Such as PBDEs. Researchers and others are sure more
will follow.
U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) Bans Phthalates
Found in Crib Mattresses and Baby Bedding 
This is no casual thing.
This concern is growing among physicians, health professionals,
public safety advocates and consumers. Regarding the effects of
these chemicals on children. Many researchers suspect that toxic
chemicals are playing a significant role in the dramatic increase
of childhood disorders.
Unfortunately only Phthalates were banned. Believe it or not all
other chemicals used in baby mattress manufacture are still legal.
Yes. Just as lead paint was once considered legal, chemicals still
used to manufacture baby and toddler mattresses are still legal.
And being used. Only a few companies have voluntarily removed
these chemicals from their manufacturing process. Making the
majority of mattresses in use, and being manufactured today,
unsafe.
What are Phthlates?
breathed in by your baby or toddler while laying on, or playing in,
their crib or bed. Research has linked Phthlates to endocrine
system problems. Especially in boys. In 1997, a study published
in the International Journal of Cancer found a high rate of testicular
cancer. Associated with exposure to PVC products.
and to liver problems and other types of cancer. Numerous U.S.
government agencies - including the Center for Disease Control
and Prevention, U.S. Department of Health, FDA, and the Con-
sumer Product Safety Commission have issued public safety
statements concerning the use of Phthalates.
Aside from all that…
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) has also reported
about unsafe exposure to Phthalates. In a study by AAP it’s
noted that Phthlate chemicals were animal carcinogens. And
can cause fetal death, malformations. And problems with the
endocrine system. AAP went on to sat that the adverse risk to
children was greater due to the fact that their bodies and organ
systems were still developing.
questioned the use of the materials listed above. All - like lead -
are considered toxic. Yet like lead once was, these are still con-
sidered legal. And still used in the manufacture of baby and
toddler mattresses. With only a small number of companies
voluntarily taking steps to eliminate them. But many are hoping
these toxic items will also be banned.
Scientists and physicians are encouraging manufacturers of baby
and toddler bedding to use such fabrics as 100% Organic Cotton.
As well as other non-toxic and safe fabrics such as Polyethelene.
What is Organic Cotton and How is it Made? 
synthetic pesticides, synthetic fertilizers, or GMO’s (genetically
modified organisms). Organic cotton farmers have developed
creative ways to grow cotton without these chemicals. This is
accomplished by the use of natural fertilizers, beneficial insects,
and innovative weeding techniques.
foams (which are chemically treated). And latex. (which is
allergy-prone).
Studies show Latex/Rubber is associated with allergies.
At first glance, latex or natural rubber may seem to be an
excellent material for use in baby crib and toddler mattresses.
However, natural latex/rubber has been associated with unusually
high allergies. Particularly in children.
clear of latex. Ironically, natural latex contains certain proteins
that are more allergenic than synthetic latex. According to the
FDA, a product containing latex (and particularly natural latex)
cannot be labeled as “hypoallergenic.“
is likely to come in contact with humans must state in bold print:
‘Caution: This Product Contains Natural Rubber Latex Which May
Cause Allergic Reactions.’
posses a serious health risk for some patients… In some cases
latex allergies can be fatal. (At the writing of the American
College of Allergy article ) approximately 1,000 known cases
of allergic or anaphylactic reactions to latex-containing medical
products have been reported to the FDA since 1988.” Since then,
that number has risen.
The U.S. Department of Occupational Safety and Health
Administration says:
“Allergy to latex was first recognized in the late 1970’s. Since then,
it has become a major health concern…The presence of allergic
manifestations to natural rubber latex indicates an increased
risk for anaphylaxis. This Type 1 reaction can occur within
seconds to minutes of exposure to the allergen…When such a
reaction occurs, it can progress rapidly from swelling of the lips
and airways to shortness of breath, and may progress to shock
and death, sometimes within minutes…Moreover, some affected
individuals continue to experience asthmatic symptoms even
without (additional) contact with natural rubber latex”.
reactions to natural rubber latex. Contained in a variety of products.
And has been used in the manufacture of baby and toddler
mattresses and bedding for over thirty years. Latex allergies ca
start to appear early in childhood.
Type 1 - The most serious and rare form, Type 1 is an immediate
have to bee stings. Such reactions account for a significant propor-
tion of perioperative anaphylactic reaction, especially in children with myeomenigocele.
delayed skin rash that is similar to poison ivy with blistering and
oozing of skin. This type is caused by chemicals used in the
processing of rubber products. (Note - Toxic chemicals, including
toluene, ammonia, and/or sulfur are generally used in the processing|
of natural latex.)
dry, itchy, irritated areas on the skin, most often the hands.
contact with humans shall not contain the term ‘hypoallergenic.’ ...
Some affected individuals continue to experience asthmatic
symptoms even without contact with natural rubber latex...”
(Food & Drug Administration (FDA) Final Rule, Federal Register,
Vol. 62, Page 51021)
throughout the food packaging industry. For it’s purity and non-
toxic properties. It has a very simple molecular structure that
does not require chemical additives (as opposed to vinyl-PVC
a.k.a. polyvinyl chloride). The use of polyethylene is recommended
by environmental groups throughout the world.
Think about this.....
Your baby or toddler likely spends 10-14 hours a day sleeping or
playing on a crib mattress. Making it, for the first few years of
your child’s life, the single most prominent object in their environ-
ment. Furthermore, a child’s every breath inhales air no more than
6” away from chemicals in this type of mattress.
| Here's 9 Important Tips when buying your baby or toddler a mattress: 1. Do some research on types you plan to buy. 2. Avoid heavily chemically treated mattresses filled with 3. Avoid any baby, or other items, created using PVC products. 4. Do some research on natural, organic mattresses. 5. Don’t buy a mattress because it’s the most popular before 7. What safety rating does the mattress have? 8. Is it treated with chemicals they claim are “fire retardant”? |
Resources:
“Five Problems With Crib Mattresses” by G.E.M. Testing &
Engineering Labs
“Avoid heavily chemically treated mattresses filled with
polyurethane foam... Avoid PVC products.”
(“Green Birthdays.” American College of Nurse-Midwives.)
www.midwivesofwa.org/greenbirthdays.pdf
Check out the articles on: http://www.healthychild.org/
Healthy Child Healthy World: Creating a Cleaner, Greener,
Safer Home
Editorial Reviews of "Healthy Child Healthy World.."
from Amazon.com
“Less than four cents of every health-care dollar is spent on
prevention and public health. Our health-care system has
become a disease-care system, and the time for change is
well overdue.”
— First Lady Michelle Obama
“Healthy Child Healthy World helps mothers and fathers
connect the dots, to understand cause and effect….It tries
to emphasize the healthful solutions, the positive, easy-to-
follow steps you can take for your family, your home, yourself.”
—Meryl Streep
“This is a book that every single parent needs to read….
before they read the What to Expect books or even Dr. Sears’
books.” —Nature Moms
"The work that Healthy Child Healthy World does is of the
utmost importance. They are actually saving lives and
supporting them, and it is not only our duty but our privilege
to protect future generations as well." —Brooke Shields
“Healthy Child Healthy World is an excellent resource for any
parent looking to keep their home healthy, safe and green
for themselves, for their children, and for the planet.”
—John Adams, Founding Director, NRDC
“I LOVE (this) book. I think it’s so important, so well done, and
I've already bought it as a gift for several new moms. It’s a
must have for any one who cares about the health of their
children and the world that we are living in.”
—Jane Buckingham, Author of “Modern Girl's Guide to Motherhood”,
columnist for the New York Times Syndicate, and President of
The Intelligence Group
Article Excerpt from:
"Your immediate environment is more important than
ever. Here's how to make your space a healthier place."
By Amy Paturel, M.S., M.P.H and Kathy Summers (7/9/09)
PBDEs can cross the placenta, transfer through breast milk and Absolutely Avoid: Rather than worry about every potential exposure that may or * Tobacco smoke * Pesticides * Paint fumes * Improperly maintained stoves * Kerosene heaters * Solvents * No Phthalates * No shoddy polyester or similar pads made of scraps; How does Naturepedic manufacture it's products? 1. Do all baby or toddler's crib or bed mattresses Almost every crib mattress made, over the past 30+ years, Some substitute chemicals are being used. And scientists are
Organic Cotton Full Mattresses
Toddler Waterproof Mattress Pad
Organic Cotton Children's Full Mattress
Organic Cotton Flannel Mattress Pad
And much more. Baby Graphics courtesy of:
get absorbed from the gases that vaporize from household
products. The effects depend on the amount of exposure over time.
To lessen the toxic load, consider buying an organic baby
mattress and bedding. Many companies now sell beautiful
organic products that are free of formaldehyde, dioxins, fire
retardants, pesticides and synthetic petrochemicals. Each
potential toxin you eliminate is a baby step toward better health.
may not affect your baby, focus on avoiding the following proven
hazards:
Info on Naturepedic Brand Organic Mattresses for Babies
and Toddlers
What makes Naturepedic mattresses different?
Naturepedic uses natural and organic materials for all mattresses
and related baby and toddler items. Organic Cotton is utilized ex-
tensively because it provides for good air circulation. While main-
taining more even humidity and balanced temperatures. Organic
Cotton has the ideal density for firm yet comfortable bedding.
These organic materials are designed to provide a natural and
healthier alternative to baby and toddler bedding. Helping
eliminate many toxic chemicals your child would otherwise be
exposed to.
Here are their manufacturing guidelines:
Naturepedic strives to eliminate materials or chemicals which
may be toxic, hazardous or otherwise harmful. The following
are specifically prohibited:
* No Vinyl (Polyvinyl Chloride or PVC)
* No Polyurethane Foam
* No toxic fire retardent chemicals (i.e. PBDE's, antimony,
modacrylic, PAN, for example)
How are these mattressses protected from fire?
All Naturepedic mattresses meet, and exceed, Federal and
State Flammability Standards. And exceed such standards
by the highest possible margin. Cotton naturally has a low
rate of combustion. And doesn't burst into flames when
ignited. As compared to polyurethane foam and PVC.
Thus eliminating the need for harsh industrial fire retar-
dant chemicals.
Will Organic Cotton mattresses give your baby or toddler
the support they need?
All Naturepedic mattresses use extra high coil count ortho-
pedic inner-springs. Providing the optimum pediatrician
recommended firmness and comfort levels for your child.
All mattresses also feature heavy-duty border rods for
extra side and edge support. Designed for a snug fit.
What quality can you expect?
Naturepedic constructs all its mattresses using premium
components. The following items are strictly prohibited:
* No pads made with hair animal hair;
* No pads, fibers or fillings are made from unsanitary or
questionable sources.
Naturepedic also makes an assortment of other non-toxic
organic items. Including waterproof pads, sheets, blankets
and other bedding accessories.
Naturepedic created the first phthalate-free, waterproof crib
mattress. It's called the "No Compromise - Organic Baby
Crib Mattress". They've replaced vinyl - and it's associated
problems - with pure food-grade polyethylene. And it's so
pure, it meets stringent FDA standards for food-contact
products.
Doing this, Naturepedic easily eleminates the water-
proofing of crib and toddler mattresses, along with health
risks. Because of it's molecular structure, Polyethylene is
naturally soft and flexible. With no need for such things as
vinyl (PVC) or other platicizer additives.
Naturepedic uses only polyethylene specially formulated
to meet food contact standards. Creating the finest non-toxic
and waterproof mattress cover available. Polyethylene is
easy to clean and highly stain resistant. While providing an
excellent barrier to dust mites and other allergens.
organic and non-toxic materials are used to replace any
other chemicals.
Naturepedic products are regularly tested and certified.
GreenGuard approved.
GreenGuard is a company which tests for the use of thousands
of different chemicals. With baby and toddler mattresses and
beddings, they test for such things as banned Phthalates.
Products certified, by them, have gone through an extensive
evaluation process. To make sure of their continued safety,
GreenGuard reviews these products on a regular basis. So you
can feel confidcne, and sure, the product which contains the
GreenGuard mark actually meets all FDA and other government
standards.
Naturepedic Mattresses are GREENGUARD INDOOR QUALITY
CERTIFIED
Frequently Asked Questions
contain Phthalates?
was manufactured with Phthalates. Which means nearly
every crib or toddler mattress, in use today, has them.
This doesn't include a half dozen other toxic chemicals. Which
scientists and physicians are currently trying to have banned.
2. How do I know if my baby or toddler's mattresses contain
Phthalates?
Unless the manufacturer's tags or paperwork you received when
purchasing the mattresses, states that it doesn't, it's very likely
it does. Almost all crib and mattress pads, made over the last
3 decades have a vinyl waterproof cover containing them.
It's a fact. Babies and toddlers wet and spit up frequently on
mattresses. Making those mattresses very vulnerable to
dampness. Unfortunately, too much moisture becomes a
haven for bacteria, mold, mildew. Making it a highly unhealthy
place for your baby or toddler to sleep and play.
3. Where are these Phthalates commonly found?
They are commonly found in the vinyl waterproof covering of the
mattresses. Which means it covers the entire outside of the
mattress. Today vinyl is widely considered - by scientists,
physicians and tons of environmental groups - to be one of the
most environmentally unfriendly plastics.
Vinyl is a plasticized from of PVC. Considered a toxic chemical.
To make it soft and pliable to cover the top of crib and toddler
mattresses, hazardous plasticizers called Phthlates are used. And
also generally used in the waterproof membrane in most crib
mattress pads, too.
4. What's actually wrong with Phthalates?
It's known that Phthalate chemicals leach out of vinyl over time.
These toxic chemicals can harm your child in a variety of ways. Not
the least of which is they're breathing them in constantly.
In fact, research has linked Phthalates to endocrine system problems;
especially in boys. A study published in 1997, in the Interna-
tional Journal of Cancer found a high risk for testicular cancer
associated with exposure to PVC's (poly vinyl) products. They've
also been linked with cancer to the testes. Liver problems. And
a variety of other types of cancer, allergies and asthma.
5. How do I know what types of Phthalates are banned in the
manufacture of baby and toddler mattresses?
The following types of Phthalates have been banned - DEHP, DBP,
BBP in the manufacture of not only baby and toddler mattresses,
but in hundreds of other baby products.
Three other Phthalates still allowed to be used in the manufacture
of crib and toddler mattresses: CPSC (DINP, DIDP, DnOP). How-
ever these are banned in the manufacture of teething rings and
other objects placed in a child's mouth.
6. What's being added to replace Phthalates?
currently researching their safety. Bottom line, while these
replacement chemicals aren't banned, scientists, physicians-
and many others - believe babies and toddlers are not well
served, their safety thoroughly taken into consideration,
when these are used. Especially when you consider that one
harmful toxic chemical is replaced with another.
7. What is the most reliable approach for me and my child?
As most in the scientific community, doctors and environmen-
talists see it, purchasing baby and toddler mattresses made
with such things as Organic Cotton and food-grade polyethe-
lene is a better option.
In short, it's best to err on the side of precaution. Choosing
products which have been safety tested. And thoroughly
veritifed by an objective 3rd party cerification process. As
safe and non-toxic for your child.
The old adage "Better safe than sorry" should be your mantra
when it comes to choosing products for your child.
Here's some Naturepedic products to consider:
Non-toxic Baby Bassinet Mattresses
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