What are SVOCs and What’s the Big Deal?
SVOCs, or semivolatile organic compounds, are chemicals that are released from mattresses and bedding materials. These chemicals are known to be associated with increased allergic diseases, reduced IQ scores, poor prosocial behavior, and impaired working memory. The main reason children are more susceptible to SVOCs is because they spend a lot of time sleeping in their microenvironment, and they have a higher inhalation rate than adults.
Why are Mattresses a Source of SVOCs?
Mattresses contain SVOCs because they are used as plasticizers (to add flexibility) stain repellents (like waterproof covers) and flame retardants. These chemicals are not chemically bonded to the mattress materials, so they evaporate into the air, causing off-gassing. This is why we get that new-foam-mattress smell.
Key Findings from the Studies
Two recent studies published in Environmental Science & Technology Letters looked at children’s sleep microenvironments and found that children are breathing in harmful chemicals while sleeping. The studies found that mattresses and bedding are to blame for high levels of brain-harming chemicals like SVOCs. The results indicated that young children are exposed to elevated levels of SVOCs, and that older mattresses have higher levels of these chemicals.
- Children aged 1–4 years are being exposed to elevated levels of SVOCs in their sleeping microenvironment
- Higher concentrations were found in older mattresses
- SVOCs are associated with increased allergic diseases, reduced IQ scores, poor prosocial behavior, and impaired working memory
The Chemicals Released by Mattresses
The study detected 21 SVOCs in four classes (ortho-phthalates, organophosphate esters, benzophenones, and salicylates) in the mattresses. One mattress exceeded the Canadian regulatory limit of 0.1% for di-n-butyl phthalate (DnBP), and five had >0.1% diisobutyl phthalate (DiBP), di-n-octyl phthalate (DnOP), and diisononyl phthalate (DiNP). Tris(2-chloroethyl) phosphate (TCEP) was also found in one mattress, which has been prohibited from use in Canada since 2014.
5 Ways to Create a Safe, Non-Toxic Sleep Environment for Children
1. **Check mattress certifications**:
Not all foam is toxic. Look for Certi-PUR US certified foams or other certifications like GREENGUARD gold, Eco-INTITUT, and OEKO-TEX. Choose a mattress with natural materials that are safe and gentle for your child. 2. **Wash your bedding frequently**:
Wash bedding items and children’s clothing regularly to prevent exposure to SVOCs. Wash bedding once a week to maintain good sleep hygiene and reduce the risk of SVOC exposure. 3. **Choose pillows and comforters made from natural materials**:
Opt for pillows and comforters made from natural materials like cotton and wool. This will reduce the risk of breathing in harmful pollutants and create a safer sleep environment for your child. 4. **Declutter your bedroom**:
Minimize the number of items in the bed and declutter your bedroom. This will reduce the risk of SVOC exposure and create a cleaner, more comfortable sleep environment for your child. 5. **Choose an organic mattress protector**:
Choose an organic mattress protector to reduce exposure to chemicals. Opt for a protector that is waterproof and made from natural materials.
Conclusion
Children are being exposed to elevated levels of SVOCs in their sleeping microenvironment, which can have serious health consequences. To create a safe, non-toxic sleep environment for your child, make sure to check mattress certifications, wash bedding frequently, choose natural materials, declutter your bedroom, and choose an organic mattress protector. By taking these simple steps, you can ensure your child is sleeping in a healthy and safe environment.
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