Natural fibers like untreated wool are an alternative to PBDE fire retardants

Studies presented by the Environment California Research and Policy Center earlier this year have linked PBDE fire retardants (polybrominated diphenyl ether) to learning disorders and ADHD in children, and to disruption of thyroid hormone balance, as well as a host of other environmental concerns. By using wool, which is naturally flame-resistant, and natural fibers like certified organic cotton, Lifekind Products, Inc. (www.lifekind.com) is able to manufacture a chemical free alternative mattress.

Consumers may not be aware that alternatives exist or even that their mattresses are a potential health risk. But one study demonstrated that PBDEs are found in the breast milk of nursing mothers at alarming levels and that the levels are growing exponentially. That study prompted Assemblywoman Wilma Chan, D-Oakland to draft a bill prohibiting PBDEs from products manufactured for sale in California. Gov. Gray Davis signed the bill into law in August, to go into effect in 2008.

In the meantime, as PBDEs are used in most mattresses with foam padding, customers have few alternatives. Lifekind Products is the only manufacturing company of its kind in the U.S. and is a full circle environmental company making only chemical-free products in its California facility.

PBDEs have already been banned in the European union and have been called the PCB of the new millennium because they remain in the environment and build up in body tissues over a lifetime. The EPA is still evaluating the associated risks and has yet to act.

Author Notes:

Marcus Sharp contributes and publishes news editorial to http://www.mattress-sense.com. Choose from a large variety of mattress types and get a good night’s sleep!