Memory Foam Mattress and Topper Main Material Polyurethane, Beware of 'VOCs' Gas

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These days, in both domestic and international mattress markets, foam mattresses such as memory foam or latex account for more than 80% of the market share compared to spring mattresses. Young people who prefer cost-effectiveness tend to choose memory foam, while those using mattresses with children or who have back discomfort mainly prefer eco-friendly latex mattresses.

The topper mattress material of the commonly used spring mattresses or the polyurethane foam used in memory foam mattresses emits VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds), and recently, the harmfulness of these chemical gases has been drawing attention.

VOCs are volatile organic gases that easily evaporate at low temperatures. They are emitted not only from polyurethane, which is mainly used in mattresses, but also from chemicals such as flame retardants and plastics. When in contact with skin or inhaled through the respiratory tract, these substances are known to cause neurological disorders, headaches, liver damage, and even cancer.

Especially for newborns, infants, and children who have long sleep durations, the use of polyurethane-based mattresses including memory foam has been measured to emit some VOCs at concerning levels, requiring special caution.

In particular, low-density polyurethane mattresses (LDI) for infants containing flame retardants have been confirmed to release TCCP (a flame retardant additive) known to cause reproductive, developmental issues, and carcinogenicity, warning of the potential risks of using flame retardants. Flame retardants are chemical materials used to prevent mattresses and furniture from catching fire easily, and their human health risks are currently a hot topic of debate in the United States and several other countries.

Experts also advise, “Memory foam is made from chemical components, and especially when a person lies down, the body pressure momentarily increases the release of chemical gases, so infants and young children with weak respiratory systems should be particularly careful.”