Foam mattress – harm to health

Insulation is essential for designing a comfortable and energy-efficient home. The correct insulation can significantly impact both your comfort and energy costs by preventing excessive heat in the summer and retaining warmth in the winter. Foam mattresses are becoming more and more popular as an insulation material because of their cost-effectiveness and efficiency. But lately, worries about the possible damage they could do to our health have surfaced.

Foam mattresses appear to be the perfect combination of comfort and insulation at first glance. They offer superior thermal resistance, are lightweight, and are simple to install. Foam mattresses are a popular choice among homeowners looking to upgrade their home’s insulation without going over budget. In addition, they provide extra advantages like moisture resistance and soundproofing, which appeals to a lot of households.

Despite being widely used, foam mattresses have drawn criticism because of the polyurethane foam that makes them up. This kind of foam contains a number of chemicals, such as flame retardants and volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which have sparked worries about how they might affect human health and indoor air quality. Given that we spend a large amount of our lives in bed, these worries have led to a more thorough investigation of the possible hazards connected to foam mattresses.

The possibility of foam mattresses off-gassing is one of the key worries. Polyurethane foam releases volatile organic compounds (VOCs) into the air, which can aggravate respiratory systems and cause headaches and allergic reactions. Furthermore, certain flame retardants found in foam mattresses have been connected to a number of harmful health outcomes, including problems with neurodevelopment and hormone disruption, especially in young children and expectant mothers.

Pros	Cons
Provides insulation	Potential off-gassing of harmful chemicals
Reduces noise	Possible allergic reactions for some individuals

FPU for furniture

Furniture manufacturing is another area in which this material is widely used, and here it is elastic polyurethane foam that is in demand. For the first time this material was created back in the 30s in Germany, and today varieties of this material are produced, used in the manufacture of mattresses and furniture. Due to the high quality of FPU, it can be used to design different areas of upholstered furniture, where you need density and stiffness, which protects the product from deformation. FPU is widely used in the creation of armrests and headrests, as well as seats, and the higher the quality of the raw material, the longer the material will last.

Hygienic features

Ormafoam mattresses adhere to the strictest standards of hygiene. As such, their use in sanatoriums, kindergartens, and schools, as well as medical facilities, is not only approved but also advised.

When foam works, it doesn’t release any harmful chemicals into the air. It is completely allergy-free.

The composition of the material based on Ormafoam prevents the growth and appearance of mold, fungus, and other harmful microorganisms. The product’s open air circulation system maintains a suitable temperature and humidity level.

What a mattress filler can be and what it is used for

Mattress fillings are located both above and below the springs.

Under the cover, fillers are thin layers that are typically 1 to 3 cm thick, or up to 8 cm in premium mattresses.

Their goal is to even out the surface and impart the appropriate amount of pliability or rigidity. They only make things more comfortable. When deciding which mattress filler is best, take into account several aspects such as composition, durability, and cost.

There are very few known varieties of natural mattress materials worldwide. More artificial, but frequently businesses patent the trademark and sell nearly identical materials under different names. Totally natural and made entirely of natural materials:

• Natural latex
• Coconut coir (varieties – latexed coconut and needle-punched board)
• Sisal, dried fibers of the succulent plant Agave
• Horsehair
• Dried algae
• Absorbent cotton
• Felt from sheep wool.

Contemporary technologies have facilitated the development of synthetic and hybrid materials. three different kinds:

1. Expanded polyurethane foam, . This is artificial latex, Ortofoam, Prolatex, Memorix and other proprietary types of highly elastic FPU.
2. Thermo-bonded synthetic fibers, densely laid in the form of felt. It is thermo-fiber wool, thermo-bonded flax, bicocos.
3. Volumetric synthetic fibers of special laying, in the form of elastic structured mat – struttofiber, hollofiber, periotech, etc.

These materials are not without their benefits and drawbacks. Although foam is inexpensive, it tends to retain moisture and serves as a haven for dust mites. Although hollofiber has excellent ventilation and doesn’t trigger allergies, it may eventually mold. The particular conditions of use determine which mattress filler is best.

Every material used in mattresses can be compared to one another in the table below.

Materials	The probability of microorganisms	Release of harmful substances	Moisture accumulation, poor ventilation	Ability to cause allergies	Durability
Natural latex	none	no	none	yes	very high
Latexed coconut	no	no	no	yes	high
Needle-punched coconut	yes	no	yes	yes	low
Pressed algae	high	no	yes	yes	low
Sisal	no	no	no	yes	high
Horsehair	low	no	no	high	very high
Bicocos	yes	no	yes	yes	medium
Heat-bonded linen	yes	no	no	no	high
Thermofoiloc	yes	no	yes	no	medium
Struttofiber combo	yes	no	weak	weak	medium
Holofiber	low	no	no	no	high
Periotech	low	no	no	no	high
Cholcone	low	no	no	no	high
Standard foam	yes	possibly	yes	low	low
The foam is highly elastic	yes	possibly	yes	low	high
Shape memory foam	yes	possibly	yes	low	medium

Polyurethane foam and its properties

Polyurethane foam, an artificial substance with a foam structure, is used to make foam mattresses. Numerous sponges, fillers, insulating materials, and other products are made with it. Its production involves chemical components, which gives rise to many debates about whether or not it is harmful.

There is proof that burning foam over an open flame releases a variety of dangerous compounds. However, it is currently unknown if the concentration of volatile components is high enough to be harmful when at rest. Foam mattresses are therefore rather common. Conversely, polyurethane foam has emerged as the most widely used filler in the creation of low-cost mattresses.

There are many intriguing characteristics of foam foam:

• Does not burn on its own (only in the presence of a flame source);
• Quickly restores its shape;
• It is very cheap;
• Low thermal conductivity;
• High level of vapor permeability and moisture permeability.

Its qualities make it the perfect starting point for the creation of materials that insulate against heat and moisture.

It is not without drawbacks, though:

• Polyurethane foam is destroyed by direct sunlight;
• It does not tolerate prolonged contact with water well;
• Emits harmful components (controversial issue).

Mattresses made of polyurethane foam also have benefits and drawbacks. After discussing polyurethane foam in general, let’s move on to discussing mattresses.

Component composition of FPU

Polyol (component A) and polyisocyanate (component B) are the principal components of polyurethane foam that are required for the formation and attachment of polymer chains. On occasion, local producers of polyol may include a catalyst as an additional ingredient. The primary ingredients of polyurethane foam are a liquid with a somewhat thick consistency that ranges in color from light yellow to dark brown. They also have a distinct smell.

Long-term storage of polyol can cause it to flake, so mixing it before use is advised. When water and polyisocyanurate come into contact, crystallization starts. A film forms on the material’s surface after it is kept out in the open for an extended period of time. Polyurethane foam comes in two varieties based on the components that make it up: pourable and sprayable.

Harmful properties of polyurethane foam components

Potentially harmful vapors are produced by the liquid components of the polyurethane foam mixture, which could result in harm from the polyurethane foam. As a result, both individuals directly spraying FPU and those nearby the spraying area should wear the proper safety gear. The mixture is safe to consume in liquid form as long as all safety precautions are taken. It is true, as manufacturers claim, that if the components of both phases are thoroughly combined and allowed to fully react, dried polyurethane foam poses no health risks. Toxic vapors may be released by the mixture’s components if the proper chemical reaction has not taken place. In this scenario, think about the dangers of polyurethane foam:

• Isocyanates in paint products, polyurethane foam and other foam materials can cause asthma as an occupational disease in workers who come in direct contact with these substances without protection.
• Amine catalysts can cause hypersensitivity and irritation manifested by blurred vision. Is liquid FPU harmful if inhaled continuously?? Such contact can cause severe irritation, ulcers and burns of the mouth, throat, esophagus.
• Polyol manifests itself only in direct contact with the body (e.g. by swallowing), provoking vomiting, spasms and intoxication of the central nervous system
• Flame retardants are able to accumulate in the body, causing chronic poisoning even at low doses of vaporization.

It is important to realize that improper application, using subpar sprayers, and not wearing appropriate safety gear when handling polyurethane are the only ways in which it can be hazardous. Spray polyurethane foam is only dangerous if safety precautions are not taken.

So where is the truth

What is polyurethane foam? Is it detrimental or beneficial? The vast array of applications for polyurethane foam in different domains of human endeavors makes it impossible to provide a clear response to this query. It is undoubtedly advantageous—and a very significant one at that—for the construction industries. The ability to mix the material and apply the FPU directly to the surface that needs insulation on the building site lowers related costs and makes it possible to create a monolithic FPU surface free from cold bridges and gaps during installation. Today, it is also very difficult to thermally insulate the primary low-temperature chemical industry pipelines with the same level of efficiency that polyurethane foam offers.

However, many experts in this field do not quite see the justification for using this material in the production of goods for people, and children in particular. Toxic substance releases may be harmful to people’s health. The use of extremely volatile ether compounds was part of the domestic component manufacturing process for the production of FPU even prior to 2003. Manufacturers claim that this technology is no longer in use today. After the components react, a small amount of gases are released from the material within three days of application, making polyurethane foam environmentally benign.

Generally speaking, before using polyurethane products in any specific situation, one should consider all the advantages and disadvantages of doing so in the relevant area of life activity.

Polyurethane in the home is harmful or not

Polyurethane is used in homes as a filler for mattresses and upholstered furniture, and for insulation of living areas. This instance uses a foam substance that, upon full drying, is safe for human consumption.

Nevertheless, due to the possibility of toxic fumes being released into the atmosphere during incorrect use, polyurethane is still regarded as a potentially hazardous material. Therefore, in the future, phenol-formaldehyde derivatives will be released in the living room if the insulation coating has not had time to dry completely or if there were violations during its installation. This could cause residents to develop symptoms of chronic poisoning. Polyurethane foam that has completely dried out is generally safe for human health. As a result, polyurethane is frequently categorized by manufacturers as an environmentally friendly material.

Thus, it can be said that polyurethane products do not endanger or harm human health as long as all operating regulations are followed. However, because polyurethane products can cause allergic reactions, headaches, and other symptoms in children, experts do not advise using them on young patients.

History of the emergence of the material

The birth date of polyurethane foam can be confidently called 1937, when a small group of scientists from the laboratory in Leuvenkusen synthesized a material with unusual properties. Depending on what was the mixing ratio of the components of the new material and how quickly the reaction took place, the properties of polyurethane foam differed dramatically. On the one hand, the material was elastic and flexible, but rather weak to tensile loads. On the other hand – strength, hardness, density, but brittle when bending. The material had extremely broad prospects, but the Second World War significantly slowed down their realization. However, since the 60s of the last century, the manufacture of FPU began to develop rapidly.

Selected negative aspects

There are no materials that are completely perfect. Rigid polyurethane foams assign certain qualities to the negative side in addition to the positive ones:

• not resistant to ultraviolet light, it is necessary to use plaster protection, or cover with panels, or paint.
• limited use in places where excessive heating of surfaces or a high probability of fires may occur.
• quite high cost in case of spraying.

The polymer’s technical properties will guarantee its production and application for many years to come.

• Liquid glass and its applications
• How many boards in a cube
• fiberboard or organolite

What this material represents

Polyurethane was first obtained in 1937 by a well-known in Germany chemist-technologist Bayer Otto Georg Wilhelm. In the same year, an industrial enterprise for the production of polymer was organized, but in small quantities. As everything is new, polyurethane has long won a place in the industrial market. And only in 1957 it became widely used in the construction industry, rural industry, food and other industries.This material has almost unlimited possibilities because of its properties. Two types of raw materials make up the majority of its composition: isocyanate and polyol. The other components available in the composition of polyurethane are: catalysts, foaming agents, stabilizers. Mixing of all components in a liquid state and leads to the formation of elastic polyurethane. Depending on the amount of additives, the material can be in the following states:

• Viscous liquid.
• Solid.
• Highly elastic.
• Low-elastic.
• Soft rubber.
• Hard plastic.

As a result, polyurethane, which has numerous additives, is a component of complex polyether-polyols.

It is this type of synthetic product that has increased strength properties. The original shape of the product does not undergo changes when exposed to heat. Remains unchanged in contact with technical oils and fluids used in hydraulic devices. More simplified in its composition, the material has lower strength but maximum resistance to solvolysis. Products made of polyester-polyol are widely used in areas of the far north. Because only this material does not lose its elasticity at the lowest temperatures. Increased resistance to bacteria makes it necessary in particularly hot climatic zones. Aliphatic polyurethane is resistant to ultraviolet radiation and sub-zero temperatures. This fact allows it to be used even in the space industry. The physical quality of polyurethane is determined by the technological methods of processing. Each type of synthetic is obtained by extrusion, pressing, molding or casting. Due to its various types, polyurethane has recently pushed back the previously widely used polyethylene, polyvinyl chloride, polystyrene and polyurethane.

Elastomer, which is gaining popularity, is referred to structural materials. Its mechanical properties allow it to be widely used in almost all industries – precisely where the requirements for resistance, wear resistance and environmental influences, especially aggressive ones, are very high. The density of polyurethane ranges from thirty to three hundred kilograms per cubic meter. The Shore hardness (A, D) ranges from fifty to seventy-four units. Any mechanical property of polyurethane is tested on special specimens. They are cast in special molds and used only for laboratory tests. First, the sample is well dried. It is then placed in a kiln for firing. The whole procedure lasts about twenty hours at a temperature of one hundred degrees Celsius. Then the hardened sample is closed in a chamber with a temperature of twenty-three degrees and humidity of fifty percent for twenty-four hours. Further in laboratories there is a test of the obtained material to tear and tear, the ultimate possibility of frost resistance, change in the composition of polyurethane and the amount of deformation after prolonged squeezing, the appearance of microstructure disturbance after exposure to aggressive environments and resistance to microorganisms. High test results once again confirm the indispensability of polyurethane in modern industry. The range of mechanical properties of polyurethane products is very wide. And all this is due to a wide variety of material types.

What are the dangers of foam rubber in a mattress?

What we need in a mattress is durability, good orthopedic qualities, and environmental friendliness. If FPU filler is manufactured in accordance with the standards and is certified, then it satisfies these requirements. The issue is that a lot of small workshops have sprung up in recent years because it is not expensive to start a small business producing foam and foam products. Some of them make low-cost, low-quality foam that is used to assemble cheap mattresses that are not very resilient to criticism in many areas. It is easy to spot potential issues if one is familiar with the fundamentals of the production technology used to create different types of polyurethane foams. These are the following:

• Presence of extraneous odors, emission of phenols and other harmful compounds.
• Sagging of the foam from the load.
• Mechanical weakness of the products.

The use of inferior components in the production process is the source of the odor. Since Chinese chemicals are less expensive than European ones, attempts to lower production costs by using less expensive additives result in the presence of unwanted contaminants in foam rubber. Early wear and tear is inevitable when low-density polyurethane foam fillings are used in mattresses. The foam’s thin cell walls will distort, making it incapable of taking on its original form. Polyurethane foam is susceptible to mechanical damage and destruction due to its low elasticity and tensile strength. When there is insufficient ventilation, the process speeds up.

What are the pros

First off, you should be aware that this material is highly sought after because it can be utilized to complete any type of building and will allow you to make significant cost savings. The following characteristics of this insulation are what make it unique:

1. Environmental safety and non-toxicity: this is confirmed by repeated tests of the material.
2. Sprayed polyurethane foam is easy to use and inexpensive to produce.
3. Increased thermal insulation properties, which reduces the level of costs for additional heating of the room by almost 40%.
4. Longevity of operation: FPU can serve for about 30-40 years without losing its properties.
5. Energy efficiency, which is ensured by the absence of joints, seams, thermal bridges.
6. Since the insulation is applied by spraying, there is no need to use fasteners. This means that no organic compounds will form and the building will maintain its integrity for a long time.
7. FPU is resistant to fire, which is also very important.
8. Polyurethane foam is characterized by heat and frost resistance and can be used in the temperature range from -70 to +130 degrees Celsius.
9. The material is resistant to chemical media, gasoline, oils, bitumen, paints.

Is polyurethane foam mattress harmful to health

In the modern world, this contentious issue is also not disregarded. A polymer with organic compounds in its base is polyurethane foam. They are hydrocarbons, derived from petroleum. Hazardous odors and chemical elements are released when the material is heated to body temperature.

The majority of the opinions regarding foam rubber’s harmful effects center on this fact. However, there is one justification for the filler. Inadequate foam rubber production results in toxicity. Hence the conclusion that the purchase of a mattress with this filling element should be based on the correct choice of.

More about the material

Polyurethane foam has a porous and cellular structure, and a gaseous material fills each of the tiny cells that make up the foam. The solid portion made up of these cells’ thin walls makes up the final few percent of the volume. Its synthesis is based on petrochemical products, specifically polyols and polyisocyanates. There is also a technology for making FPU components from oils using vegetable-based raw materials, but it is only employed in extreme circumstances because the initial components in this process are far more expensive.

The production of polyurethane foams with varying cell sizes, thicknesses, and strength characteristics is dependent on the ratio of starting materials utilized to make this material. Among them are:

• Conventional FPU;
• With increased rigidity;
• Soft type;
• Very soft;
• Visco-elastic;
• Highly elastic.

Rigid polyurethane foam, with a density of 30-86 kg/m3, is used in construction production because of its high energy-saving properties. FPU is successfully used in waterproofing because, in addition to its strength qualities, its density of roughly 70 kg/m3 allows it to retain moisture better.

What polyurethane is good for

A class of synthetic elastomers with a variety of industrial uses is polyurethanes. One of polyurethane’s key benefits is that it can be programmed to change its elasticity, from a viscous liquid consistency to a solid or even crystalline state, by varying the ratio of its base components. Petroleum products such as polyol and isocyanate are the main constituents of polyurethane.

Image sourced from peredelka.tv, dmir.ru, and antal-company sites.ru

Title: "The Hidden Health Risks of Foam Mattresses"In today"s quest for comfort and convenience, foam mattresses have become a popular choice for many households. However, beneath their soft exterior lies a potential threat to our health. Foam mattresses, often made from polyurethane foam, can emit harmful chemicals known as volatile organic compounds (VOCs). These chemicals, including formaldehyde and benzene, have been linked to respiratory issues, skin irritation, and even long-term health problems such as cancer. Additionally, foam mattresses can trap heat, leading to discomfort and disrupted sleep patterns. While foam mattresses may seem like a cozy option, it"s essential to consider the potential health risks they pose. Opting for natural, organic alternatives or ensuring proper ventilation in your bedroom can help minimize these dangers and promote a healthier sleep environment for you and your family.

Polyurethane applications

We all use polyurethane products on a nearly daily basis, in one way or another. As an illustration:

• insulation materials for building construction;
• furniture fillers and mattresses;
• flooring and protective coatings;
• adhesive compositions;
• automotive components and tires;
• chipboard type panels
• sporting goods, clothing;
• sole for shoes;
• implants;
• insulating materials for refrigerators;
• interior decor elements – moldings made of polyurethane, etc…

Polyurethane can be used to make any of these.

Physical properties of the material

Polyurethane is practically ageless, resilient to environmental changes, and long-lasting. Products made with this synthetic raw material are not harmed by UV light, seawater, or the majority of organic solvents.

Polyurethane – the secret of durability of your shoes

The material’s operating temperature is restricted to the range of -60°C to +80°C; brief exposure to elevated temperatures (up to 120°C) is permitted. Low glass transition temperature and no stress fracture are two properties of polyurethane.

Historical information

Otto Georg Wilhelm Bayer, a German industrialist and chemist, invented polyurethanes in 1937 and began producing the ground-breaking substance.

Seven years later, in 1944, German businesses began producing polyurethane foam on an industrial basis using complex polyesters. Later, in the USA, less expensive analogs based on basic polyesters were developed. It is still believed that polyurethane is a material with universal properties.

Toxicity of polyurethane foam

Regarding this characteristic, we observe that it shares the same flammability as toxicity. In general, only natural stone and wood that have not been chemically treated beforehand can be regarded as the safest materials.

Emissions from materials made of synthetic fibers and other inorganic bases can be harmful to the environment or public health. Because of this, the amount of substances released is documented in normative documents, enabling us to classify the material as safe. Plastic parts smell like chemical compounds, if you can recall the scent of a brand-new car. Fiberboard, which is used to make furniture, contains formaldehyde, a well-known health risk.

If we shift the focus to thermal insulation materials, we can state that formaldehyde is present in mineral wool, which is currently the most widely used material and is known for its ecological purity. Due to its allergenic properties, it cannot be used in kindergartens or other educational settings.

As was already mentioned, in 2003, advancements in the technology of producing polyurethane foam were made. In the past, the production process involved the use of chemicals that vanished from the final product in a few weeks. This disadvantage is no longer present. Within two to three days after polyurethane foam is manufactured, residual gases from its surface vaporize in small amounts. The substance can then be legitimately referred to as environmentally safe.

Technical characteristics of FPU

No. n/a	Name of indicators	Values for different grades of polyurethane foams
1	Apparent density kg/kb.м	18..300
2	Thermal conductivity, W/m*K	No more than 0.019..0,03
3	Breaking stress, MPa, at least	In compression 0.15..1,0 in bending 0,35..1,9
4	Water absorption,% of volume	1,2..2,1
5	Number of closed pores	Not less than 85..95
6	Combustibility	GOST 12.1.044 (difficult combustible)

Benefits of FPU

• low heat conductivity coefficient (0,019…0,028W/M*K);
• Light weight 40-60kg/kb.м;
• high adhesion strength;
• no need for fasteners;
• excellent anti-corrosion protection of metal structures;
• absence of cold bridges;
• The possibility of isolating structures of any configuration and size;
• durability of coatings (not subject to decomposition and rotting, not destroyed by seasonal temperature fluctuations, precipitation, aggressive industrial atmosphere);
• high environmental friendliness of polyurethane foam (PPU) (according to hygienic norms it is allowed to be used in refrigeration equipment for food products);
• by the method of pouring the FPU into a mold, it is possible to produce molded thermal insulation blocks ("shells" for pipelines, plates, sandwich panels, etc.).д.).

Almost any material, including paint, concrete, brick, glass, metal, and wood, can be sprayed with polyurethane foam, regardless of how the surface is configured. Therefore, specialized insulation fasteners are not required. Moreover, polyurethane foam coating can be used as a roofing material, can function in the ground, and is inert to both acidic and alkaline environments. Polyurethane foam only needs its surface shielded from direct sunlight.

Adhesion strength of polyurethane foam

The substance sticks flawlessly to both vertical and horizontal surfaces of any kind and shape thanks to its extraordinary adherence qualities. For the duration of the building, the applied polyurethane foam coating doesn’t need to be renewed or repaired. It is possible to apply thermal insulation to walls, ceilings, and floors.

Material	At least
Wood	1.5 kg/sq.cm.
Cast iron, galvanized iron	2.0 kg/cm.sq.
Aluminum	1.0 kg/sq.cm.
Stainless steel	1.5 kg/sq.cm.
Concrete	2,5 kg/sq.cm.
Black steel	3 kg/sq.cm.

Long-term behavior

The estimated lifespan of FPU is 25–30 years, but this is not the limit. In Germany, the USA, Sweden, Japan, and other countries, experts take apart walls, roofs, and foundations made from FPU pipe samples that were poured in the 1970s and accurately state that "the properties have not changed." Properly made FPU is destroyed for no chemical reason. Over 90% of FPU cells are closed, meaning they are plastic capsules filled with gas that have a thermal conductivity that is less than that of air.

The behavior of FPU under laboratory conditions is confirmed by industrial results.

The exceptional weather and climate resistance of rigid FPU is demonstrated by the fact that it has been used for decades in various parts of the world under harsh weather conditions. In humid, dynamic environments, rigid FPU likewise demonstrates outstanding aging resistance in pilot tests without appreciably losing its thermal insulation qualities.

The positive perception that FPU has among builders has been reaffirmed by the outcomes of field testing. Twenty years of successfully operating rigid FPU in the industrial setting have shown not only the boundaries of what is possible, but also the "extra" benefits of this material, chief among which is its propensity for long-term low heat conductivity.

Fire resistance of FPU

It is a member of classes G1–G4 of flammability. FPU only burns where an external fire source’s flame strikes it and only for as long as that flame is present because fire retardants are a part of the components that go into making it. If the flame is extinguished, FPU extinguishes and does not smolder.

Furthermore, polyurethane foam has the unusual ability to stop fires from spreading because it only burns and cokes in areas where it comes into contact with an open flame.

Biological resistance of FPU

In addition to being resistant to decay and microorganisms, rigid FPU is also resistant to fungi, rodents, and bacteria. Furthermore, it is not easily penetrated by roots.

Resistance of polyurethane foam to chemicals

In practical applications, rigid FPU is resistant to a wide range of substances, including fuels, solvents, softeners, mineral oils, diluted acids and alkalis, exhaust gases, and harsh working environments. Rigid polyurethane foam is non-corrosive and chemically neutral, in contrast to other materials that are often encountered on construction sites.

Mattress classification

Mattresses made of polyurethane foam are categorized as follows:

1. By size:

• Single (120×200 cm) – the most popular type, stuffed with high-density polyurethane, very practical model, ideal for long term rest. Available in a variety of colors.
• One and a half mattress from polyurethane foam, reviews about which are no less positive (140×200 cm), is similar to the previous sample, differs only in size.
• Double (160×200 cm) – in this model the mattress can have different densities on both sides. Or for a double bed it is possible to buy two 80×200 cm with different characteristics of elasticity and density, suitable for sleeping of people with different complexion.
• Non-standard – made by the manufacturer by individual order in accordance with the dimensions of the bed.

Sorting based on type:

• Spring – available in two models: with bonnell springs (durable, but without orthopedic properties) and with independent springs (noiseless, orthopedic, but require delicate use). In these types of mattresses, the FPU serves as a top cover, the main load falls on the springs, which determine the degree of comfort of the products.
• Springless – equipped with a Euroframe (side border of more durable polyurethane foam), which holds the shape of the product.

Polyurethane foam mattress is harmful or not

Orthopedists advise against sleeping unless you are on a sufficiently rigid base to maintain an even posture for your spine. In such a state, orthopedic mattresses with separate spring blocks and a coconut coir filling are possible.

The thick foam appears to be fairly stiff and dense when you press on it and then release your hand. But when you sleep, the foam readily sags under the weight of your body, and this incorrectly curved position of the spine will eventually cause it to curve. An extended period of time spent sleeping on a foam mattress can cause harmful degenerative changes.

Indeed, although it may seem soft and comfortable to sleep on, you will wake up with tingling in your muscles, numbness in your limbs, and a headache. This is because the mattress is composed of foam rubber.

A particularly harmful mattress for children’s health that contains polyurethane foam fillings that do not form a baby’s spine. Avoid purchasing a sofa or bed mattress with foam filling for a child as these items release harmful substances that the child may inhale and result in long-term respiratory illnesses.

Polyurethane foam mattresses benefit or harm

Mattresses made of foam are unhealthy. Furthermore, the topic isn’t even the chemical makeup of polyurethane foam. Even with the foam insulated from the outside, the mattress remains hazardous. Let’s examine the danger it poses.

Spinal health has a direct impact on human health. We are doing our part to keep our spines healthy by exercising, maintaining a healthy diet, and paying attention to our weight and posture. But harmful polyurethane foam mattresses frequently undermine all efforts. The main idea is that orthopedists strongly advise against sleeping on anything less than sufficiently rigid bases. To that end, excellent orthopedic mattresses featuring independent spring blocks, coconut padding, and other goodies are made specifically for this purpose.

In regards to foam mattresses, they are unable to offer our backs a healthy environment. Strong flexion from them causes the spine to flex as well; over time, this causes degenerative changes and curvature, which are visible on tomograms and X-rays.

Overly gentle. A padded base is a very comfortable way to sleep for a lot of people. However, the body does not believe this; if in the morning you experience numbness, tingling in your muscles, stiffness in your movements, or an overall deficiency in mood, know that your foam mattress is the cause of all of these symptoms.

It’s clear from researching the possible health effects of foam mattresses that there are a number of things to take into account. Although many people find comfort and support in foam mattresses, questions have been raised about the possible health risks associated with them.

The volatile organic compound (VOC) off-gassing from foam mattresses is one major cause for concern. These substances, which can include flame retardants and formaldehyde, can release gases and smells that could irritate the respiratory system and result in other health problems.

Furthermore, certain materials used in foam mattresses, such as latex or synthetic foams, may cause allergic reactions in some people. Depending on the individual’s sensitivity and the particular materials involved, these reactions can range from mild irritation to more severe symptoms.

Moreover, people who are prone to overheating may find it uncomfortable to sleep on foam mattresses due to their heat retention qualities. This may worsen pre-existing medical conditions like night sweats or hot flashes and impair the quality of sleep.

While there is still much to learn about the long-term health effects of foam mattresses, consumers should always balance the advantages of a mattress against any potential risks. Selecting a mattress composed of materials with low volatile organic compounds (VOCs) or certified organic materials can help allay some of the worries about foam mattresses.

In conclusion, even though foam mattresses provide a lot of comfort and support, it’s important to understand the possible health risks involved in using them. People can prioritize their general health and well-being as well as the quality of their sleep by remaining informed and making wise decisions.

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