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Is The Casper Mattress Toxic?

Mattress Resources
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In recent years, the popularity of online mattress brands has surged, and Casper is one of the most recognizable names in this space. Known for its “bed-in-a-box” convenience, Casper offers a range of mattresses that promise comfort, durability, and, most importantly, safety. But as health-conscious consumers grow increasingly aware of the materials in everyday products, a common question arises: Is the Casper mattress toxic? To answer this question, it’s essential to explore the materials used in Casper mattresses, their certifications, and any potential health risks. While Casper mattresses are generally considered non-toxic and safe for human health, there are a few points to consider. Let’s dive deeper into the details.

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FAST FACTS

  • Safety Certifications: Casper mattresses are CertiPUR-US and OEKO-TEX certified, ensuring they are free from harmful chemicals.
  • Fiberglass Use: Some models contain fiberglass as a fire barrier, which can pose health risks if the cover is damaged.
  • Low VOC Emissions: The foams have low volatile organic compounds (VOCs), minimizing indoor air pollution and off-gassing.
  • Suitable for Sensitive Individuals: Generally safe for children and sensitive individuals, with fiberglass-free options available in the Wave Hybrid models.

Casper Mattress Overview

Casper is a mattress company founded in 2014 that quickly took off due to its direct-to-consumer business model. It offers high-quality mattresses at a competitive price and is one of the most well-known names in the online mattress industry. Casper mattresses are known for comfort, pressure relief, and durability, but questions about the safety of their materials have arisen over time.

The biggest concern with any mattress is the toxicity of the materials used. These can include harmful chemicals, flame retardants, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and other substances that can affect indoor air quality and human health. So the question remains: Are Casper mattresses toxic?

The main types of Casper mattresses are:

  1. Casper Original: A foam mattress for balanced support and comfort.
  2. Casper Original Hybrid: Foam and innerspring coils for extra support and bounce.
  3. Casper Nova Hybrid: Softer with extra cushioning layers for pressure relief.
  4. Casper Wave Hybrid: Targeted support and pressure relief with advanced materials.
  5. Casper Wave Snow Hybrid: Luxury version of the Wave Hybrid with cooling features.

With so many options, consumers wonder about the safety and toxicity of the materials used in these mattresses.

Mattress Certifications

These certifications indicate that a mattress has been tested to meet certain safety and environmental standards. Two certifications to consider are CertiPUR-US and OEKO-TEX.

  • CertiPUR-US Certified Foam: This certification means the foam used in a mattress is free of harmful chemicals like ozone depleters, flame retardants, heavy metals, formaldehyde and phthalates. It also means the foam has low VOCs for better indoor air quality.
  • OEKO-TEX Certification: OEKO-TEX certifies textiles, including mattress covers, for the absence of harmful substances. This certification tests for over 100 harmful substances, including chlorinated benzenes, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), and solvent residues.

Both of these certifications are important for a mattress to be human safe. Casper mattresses have both CertiPUR-US and OEKO-TEX certifications which is a good sign the materials used meet strict safety standards. But there’s more to consider when determining if a mattress is truly non-toxic.

What’s Inside Casper Mattresses?

Casper has multiple mattress models, each with slightly different materials. Let’s break down the components of these mattresses to determine their safety.

1. Foams

All Casper mattresses use foam as one of the main materials. They use CertiPUR-US certified foams, which are free of toxic chemicals like ozone depleters, PBDEs (polybrominated diphenyl ethers), heavy metals, and formaldehyde. These foams have low VOCs for better indoor air quality.

2. Mattress Cover

The fabric used in Casper mattress covers is OEKO-TEX certified. This means the materials are tested for harmful substances, and consumers can be sure the mattress covers are free of hazardous substances like chlorinated benzenes, PAHs, and solvent residues. OEKO-TEX certification means the fabrics meet safety standards and are skin-safe.

3. Fire Barrier

In the US, all mattresses must meet federal flammability standards. Mattress manufacturers meet these requirements by using a fire barrier. Some use chemical flame retardants, which can be harmful, while others use natural or alternative materials to achieve fire resistance.

Casper uses a fire-resistant barrier made of either silica or fiberglass, depending on the mattress model. While fiberglass is common in the mattress industry, it has raised concerns because if it becomes exposed, it can harm health. Fiberglass fibers escaping from the mattress can irritate the skin, eyes, and lungs.

Which Casper Mattresses Have Fiberglass?

Fiberglass is used as a fire barrier in some Casper mattresses. It’s an affordable and effective way to meet flammability standards without using chemical flame retardants. However, reports of fiberglass leakage from some mattresses have raised concerns about its safety.

According to Casper’s customer support and available information, the following mattresses have fiberglass:

  • Casper Original
  • Casper Original Hybrid
  • Casper Nova Hybrid

Fiberglass is contained within the mattress cover and should not be a problem under normal circumstances. However, problems can arise if the mattress cover is damaged or removed. Fiberglass fibers escaping from the mattress can cause skin irritation and respiratory issues. To prevent exposure, avoid removing the mattress cover and follow the manufacturer’s care instructions.

Mattresses Without Fiberglass

For those who are concerned about fiberglass, Casper also has mattresses without this material. These are:

  • Casper Wave Hybrid
  • Casper Wave Snow Hybrid

These models use alternative fire barriers like silica-based materials which are safer and don’t carry the same risks as fiberglass. If avoiding fiberglass is a priority, these mattresses are the better option.

What are the Health Risks of Fiberglass?

Fiberglass is a material made of thin strands of glass and while it’s not inherently toxic, it can be harmful if airborne. Inhaling or coming into contact with fiberglass particles can cause:

  • Skin Irritation: Fiberglass can cause skin irritation, itching, redness or rashes.
  • Respiratory Issues: Inhaling fiberglass particles can cause respiratory discomfort, coughing, throat irritation, and, in severe cases, more serious respiratory conditions.
  • Eye Irritation: Fiberglass fibers can cause eye irritation, redness, itching, and discomfort.

Keep the mattress cover intact to prevent exposure to fiberglass. If a mattress cover with fiberglass is damaged or needs to be cleaned, consult the manufacturer for proper care instructions to minimize the risk.

What are VOCs, and are they in Casper Mattresses?

Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) are chemicals that can be released into the air from certain materials including some foams and adhesives used in mattresses. These chemicals can contribute to indoor air pollution and harm health, especially those with sensitivities or respiratory conditions.

CertiPUR-US certified foams like those used in Casper mattresses are tested for low levels of VOCs. This means that while Casper mattresses may emit a small amount of VOCs when first unpackaged (often referred to as “off-gassing”), the levels are significantly lower than those found in non-certified foams. Off-gassing usually dissipates within a few days and proper ventilation during this period can help minimize any odors.

Chemical Flame Retardants: Are They in Casper Mattresses?

One of the biggest concerns about mattresses is the use of chemical flame retardants. These chemicals, like PBDEs and Tris, have been linked to various health issues, including hormone disruption and developmental problems. The good news is that Casper doesn’t use chemical flame retardants in any of its mattresses.

Instead, Casper uses non-chemical fire barriers, such as fiberglass or silica-based materials, to meet flammability standards. This is a big plus for health-conscious consumers who want to avoid exposure to potentially harmful chemicals.

Are Casper Mattresses Safe for Children and Sensitive Individuals?

Parents worry about the safety of mattresses for their children, especially infants and young children who are more sensitive to chemicals and toxins. Similarly, individuals with allergies, asthma, or chemical sensitivities have concerns about mattress materials.

Casper mattresses with CertiPUR-US-certified foams and OEKO-TEX-certified fabrics are generally safe for children and sensitive individuals. Low VOC emissions and no harmful chemicals like formaldehyde and PBDEs make Casper mattresses safer than other mattresses.

But if you have concerns about fiberglass, it’s best to choose one of the Casper models without this material, like Wave Hybrid or Wave Snow Hybrid, especially if the mattress will be used by children or individuals with respiratory conditions.

FAQs

1. Is the Casper mattress made from toxic materials?

Casper mattresses are designed with safety in mind and use materials that meet safety standards. They are made from foam, latex, and other materials that have been tested for harmful substances. Casper mattresses are CertiPUR-US certified, which means they are free from harmful chemicals like heavy metals, formaldehyde, and phthalates.

2. Does the Casper mattress emit harmful odors?

Some users may notice a slight off-gassing odor when the mattress is first unpacked. This is common with many foam mattresses and usually dissipates within a few hours to a few days. The odor is not considered toxic, but if you’re sensitive to smells, it’s advisable to allow the mattress to air out in a well-ventilated room.

3. Are there any health risks associated with using a Casper mattress?

Casper mattresses are generally safe for use and pose no significant health risks. The materials used are rigorously tested to ensure they do not emit harmful levels of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) or other toxic substances. However, individuals with specific allergies or sensitivities should consult a healthcare professional before purchasing.

4. What certifications does the Casper mattress have regarding safety?

Casper mattresses have several safety certifications, including CertiPUR-US certification for their foam materials, which ensures they are made without harmful chemicals. Additionally, Casper mattresses comply with federal flammability standards, ensuring they meet safety requirements for fire resistance.

5. Can I return the Casper mattress if I find it uncomfortable or have health concerns?

Yes, Casper offers a 100-night risk-free trial for customers. If you find the mattress uncomfortable or have any concerns, you can return it within the trial period for a full refund. This allows you to evaluate the mattress in your home without any long-term commitment.

Conclusion: Is the Casper Mattress Toxic?

In summary, Casper mattresses are not toxic. The company uses high-quality certified materials that are tested for safety and meet environmental and health standards. With CertiPUR-US-certified foams and OEKO-TEX-certified fabrics, Casper mattresses are free from formaldehyde, heavy metals, and chemical flame retardants.

But some Casper mattresses have fiberglass as a fire barrier which can be a health risk if the mattress cover is damaged or removed. If you want to avoid fiberglass the Casper Wave Hybrid and Casper Wave Snow Hybrid are good options.

Overall, Casper mattresses are safe and comfortable for most consumers. As with any product, follow the manufacturer’s care instructions to keep your mattress safe and long-lasting.

Christine Lapp is a full-time graduate student and part-time freelancer for Sleep Junkie. Since she was a little girl on the soccer field, Christine has had a love for sports, and she believes everybody should get up and get moving once a day. Now, she incorporates her love for exercise into her studies, pursuing a degree in exercise physiology. Christine understands that what you do during your waking hours has a direct impact on your night’s sleep. In our better sleep guides, she offers advice for developing healthy daytime habits to nurture a more peaceful slumber.

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