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Is it Worth it to Change My Crib Mattress?

Since joining Sprout, I have learned so much more about the toxic chemicals that surround us everyday and how they impact our health. I’ve been making little changes here and there – I started with my family’s personal care items, things like body wash, shampoo, and hand wash. But there’s been something bigger lurking in the back of my mind for a while – my toddler’s crib mattress. I’ve been hesitant to change because the one I have is relatively new, and my son is already a year-and-a-half. Would changing such an expensive item really be worth it at this stage? Is the mattress I have really be that bad?

In 2003, the flame retardants known as PBDEs were banned. A new study suggests a likely link between that ban and a significant drop in levels of those same flame retardant chemicals found in breast milk. This is wonderful news, but despite the ban on PBDEs, there are still many other flame retardant chemicals used in upholstered furniture and mattresses that pose major health risks.

On January 1, 2014 another law changed in California, so that flame retardants are no longer required in upholstered furniture. Again, great news, but many manufacturers haven’t changed their practices, and others only did so after selling through their old chemical-ridden stock.

Before 2014 you had to make a deliberate choice to seek a specialized manufacturer that uses natural flame barriers like wool or latex, in order to avoid flame retardant chemicals. If you didn’t do that, your couch or mattress definitely has those chemicals in it. If you bought one in the last couple of years, or are looking now, the only way to know for sure is to ask. Unfortunately, getting this information can be harder than you’d think. I bought my crib mattress in mid-2014, while I was still pregnant. At the time, I worked for a large furniture retailer and even as an employee, I couldn’t get a clear answer on when the stock would change to be chemical-free.

Learning all of this has made me think again about the mattress my little guy is sleeping on, breathing deeply every night. I’ve made so many other changes, it now feels silly that I hesitated on the mattress. My son was 2 months premature and though his lungs were (thankfully) in great shape, it’s something I think about – he’s still growing and developing. I decided to go for the Nook Pebble Pure Crib Mattress, because it is all-natural, organic, firm yet comfortable, and it has a great look.

It’s never too late to make a change for the better. I may always wish I’d done it sooner, but I’m glad I’m doing it now.

If you are in a similar situation, and ready to make a change or looking for something new, check out Sprout’s Como Pure Latex Glider, Joya Pure Latex Rocker, Opie Pure Latex Kid’s Chair, and organic crib mattresses. They have always been made with natural & organic components that are free from flame retardant chemicals. 

– Heather, Sprout San Francisco Director of Creative Services