Baby mattresses sold in Canada found to contain toxic chemicals: study

New research suggests babies and young children may be exposed to harmful chemicals from their mattresses — even ones sold in Canada.

Babies and young children might be breathing in harmful chemicals while they sleep, according to new research from the University of Toronto.

Two studies, published Tuesday in the journal Environmental Science & Technology, found that common children’s mattresses release toxic substances like phthalates and flame retardants — chemicals linked to hormone disruption, asthma, lower IQ scores, behaviour issues and even cancer.

“Sleep is vital for brain development, particularly for infants and toddlers. However, our research suggests that many mattresses contain chemicals that can harm kids’ brains,” said Miriam Diamond, senior author of the two studies and a professor in the University of Toronto’s department of earth sciences and school of the environment. 

“Kids can spend up to 18 hours a day on their mattresses, and kids are more susceptible to exposure and more vulnerable to the effects of exposure,” she said.

The studies didn’t disclose brand names, but Diamond said the mattresses were ordered online from major Canadian retailers and typically cost between $50 and $150. Many were made with materials from other countries, like the United States and Mexico.

Infant mattresses are often made with different materials, such as waterproof covers, plastic layers and firmer foam, which can contain more chemical additives and treatments than those made for older children or adults, Diamond explained.

That’s part of the reason she and her team wanted to study the potential chemical exposure in these products.

Health Canada told Global News in an email that it is aware of the studies and is carefully reviewing the findings and other available information to identify any risks to human health or non-compliance with legislative or regulatory requirements.