The crib mattress that you choose for your baby should not contain phthalate chemicals. Phthalates are a group of chemicals that are potentially toxic. They are considered more harmful for infants since they are still developing and growing. Studies on phthalates indicate they may cause an increased risk of asthma, allergies, and disrupt the reproductive development of babies.
Phthalates have been added to traditional baby mattresses for decades. Mattress manufacturers have been adding phthalates to PVC plastics in order to create a flexible and soft waterproof vinyl cover for baby mattresses. The hazard is created when phthalates often leach or gas out from the plastic mattress covers into the surrounding air.
Organic Crib Matress
Babies may spend at least 10 hours on their crib mattress every single day. This may continue for at least the first two years of a baby's life, which are also the critical stages for healthy development. Considering how close a baby will sleep to the mattress cover, combined with duration, the potential for high exposure to phthalates is great.
In 2004, the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) informed baby mattress manufacturers that they have the option of voluntarily eliminating phthalates from their mattresses. However, these companies did not listen. Since the removal of phthalates from their mattresses, would have resulted in a very hard and unusable sleeping surface.
Just recently, on February 10, 2009 the CPSC came up with new guidelines. These guidelines were created to minimize the use of six types of major phthalates (over 0.1%) in the production of mattresses for babies. In my opinion, these guidelines are simply not good enough. Especially since the CPSC has not completely prohibited phthalates in baby mattress production. But they certainly should, since scientific studies have proven the toxicity of these chemicals. One of my main concerns is whether manufacturers will actually follow these guidelines and how well will they be enforced.
My advice for parents is not to wait around for mattress manufacturers to change their production habits. I recommend they avoid investing in any mattress that may contain even slight traces of phthalates. The risks are considerable. The only viable solution that I can think of is to invest in a 100% certified organic crib mattress. Organic mattresses are produced without the addition of harmful chemical additives or toxins.
Phthalates should be banned from all baby products. The well-being of our newborn babies should not be compromised due to convenience or old manufacturing practices. Instead of ignoring the issue at hand, companies should do everything they possibly can to find a safe replacement for phthalates in the production of baby mattresses. Our precious babies cannot afford to be exposed to these toxic chemicals, especially when they are so vulnerable while peacefully sleeping on their crib mattress.
Special Price!!! American Baby Company Waterproof Fitted Quilted Porta-Crib Mattress Pad Cover
Oct 26, 2011 03:10:04
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American Baby Company Waterproof Fitted Quilted Porta-Crib Mattress Pad Cover Feature
- Measures 24" x 38"
- Machine wash warm with like colors and use non-chlorine bleach when needed
- Tumble dry medium
- Top layer made of 100% cotton onion quilting
- 100% waterproof vinyl
American Baby Company Waterproof Fitted Quilted Porta-Crib Mattress Pad Cover Overview
ABC Waterproof Quilted Mini Crib(Portable Crib) Mattress Pad-Fitted
The Mattress Pad is durable and long lasting. Made of a poly/cotton quilt with a soft thick 7 oz. fiberfill for extra comfort and protection. 24" x 38" fitted.
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