Bed & Mattress Illness Report Page
Reports of health problems linked to chemicals used in mattresses
While bed mattresses of 40-50 years ago were made mostly from untreated natural materials, the majority of mattresses and beds today are made using a variety of petroleum based chemicals, foams, plastics and controversial flame retardants.  Unfortunately, these are not stable compounds and continue to evaporate into the air and are then inhaled hour upon hour by the person sleeping on the bed. Research and personal accounts suggest people can become ill after repeated and continuous exposure to these chemicals while sleeping.   The situation is dramatically compounded by the fact that sleeping on a bed (or chemically manufactured pillow) places the individual in close proximity to the chemical source (inches compared to feet for most other chemical exposures).  This close proximity means that concentrations of chemicals are many, many times higher for the individual. Research is now available showing that chemicals used in bed manufacturing are in fact evaporating and entering into the air.  Some of these are documented carcinogenic and mutagenic compounds.  Common petroleum based chemicals have been clearly shown to have the ability to weaken or damage the immune and nervous system.   Autoimmune disorders have also been linked with exposure to petroleum-based chemicals and have been found to be the underlying cause of many common health problems today (soft tissue damage, organ and brain damage, arthritis, etc).   If you have had any new health problems immediately after purchasing a new bed it is essential to remove the bed from the living area (ie. to the garage) and seeing if health problems stop. The permanent solution to the problem is to purchase a natural or organic bed from one of the increasing number of stores selling these types of products.
Thank You ! - Chem-Tox 
Below are 235 reports of inividuals and children becoming sick
after purchasing a new mattress or pillow.
Research suggests the high level of chemicals evaporating from the product
could be causing the problem. .

 

Sore Joints - Cough - Flu - Hives - All Vanish after Removing Memory Foam
This concerns Memory Foam mattress pad and pillows from Sam s Club. 
We went through problems for seven months.  It started with minor problems and got worse - Hives, kidneys hurting, swollen lips,  flu feelings, morning cough, sore joints, etc.  My wife was going to the Doctor in an attempt to figure out what the problem was.  We never suspected the pad and pillows.   I finally ran across this site while considering what type/brand of new bed to purchase in an attempt to resolve the hurting kidneys and not feeling well in the morning. We had two memory foam pillows and a memory foam mattress pad on our bed.  Took them off and within two days all problems were gone. Two months later all is well and no more memory foam.
Edgemont, South Dakota
Email: harrod@gwtc,net
February 22, 2006

Night Sweats
Our mattress is several years old. I am not sure it is the cause of my husband's problem, but he has this medical problem only when sleeping at home. He sweats so severely that he has to put towels down under his head and shoulders. Doctors have tried everything and cannot find a cause for it.
McMinnville, TN
Email: [email protected]
February 11, 2006
CHEM-TOX COMMENT:  While many environmental factors can contribute to adverse health problems when sleeping (such as the petroleum based chemicals in fabric softeners, Clorox, and very strong chemical based fragrances in some detergents i.e. GAIN), the first step to determine if the bed or sheets are the cause should be to simply sleep somewhere else - couch etc. - This trial and error analysis, when repeated several times, will clearly demonstrate if the bed, detergents or bedroom is the problem.

Headaches - Nausea & Sealy Latex
The first night of sleeping on our new Sealy high end latex foam layered mattress, I awoke with a headache and nausea and noticed a horrible sickly sweet smell that permeated the mattress, the room and even penetrated the other rooms in the house.  After calling the salesman  (who said mine was the first complaint of mattress odor) he recommended that we air it for a few days.  We then bought a Sterns Foster (very expensive). We asked that it be aired for four days before delivery, but the first night we had it - the same horrible smell caused the same symptoms.  I have sprayed it with a Clorox odor remover and hope it will be better tonight.  The smell does not bother my husband and other people in my family cannot smell it.  The store where we bought it does not accept returns on Sterns Foster mattresses.  Now What?
Starkville, Mississippi
Email: [email protected]
February 6, 2006

Dizziness, Headache, Nausea & Memory Foam
I recently purchased a visco-elastic memory foam mattress topper pad under the brand name "Carpenter Sublime Memory Foam".  Since using this pad, my wife and I have both experienced dizziness, headache, nausea, etc.  Where can I get info on this product?
John Huntington
[email protected]
February 2, 2006

Ringing Ears & Memory Foam Mattress
I purchased my memory foam mattress a little over a month ago.  Since that time, and a horrible chemical smell to the mattress, I have had the problem of ringing in my ears, which has gotten worse over the month, and is now quite loud all the time.  I have been searching for possible answer as to why (this is happening).   I am quite ready to get rid of the mattress to see if this was it.  No other explanation.  Foam made by FOAMEX.
Oceanside, California
Email: [email protected]
January 7, 2006
 

Headaches - Sore Throat - Fatigue - Flu & Memory Foam Topper
I purchased a memory foam topper for my bed at Belk's store, I'm not sure now what the name brand was, but any way I am at home sick today after trying to sleep on it for the last week. At first I thought I really liked it and the smell would soon go away but now my husband and I both have noticed that we feel tried and completely drained of energy. I never get headaches or a sore throat, but now we both keep on having them. We are not sick from a cold or flu we are sick from off-gassing and cancer killing chemicals!!!  I wish I could find a good healthy mattress, any suggestions? Tried of sleeping on the couch.
Asheboro, North Carolina
Randolph
Email: [email protected]
January 6, 2006

Heart Attack Symptoms - Hospital Visit - Strange Dreams & Depression
Outgassing from our new ComfortAir Celenia adjustable air mattress ($1695.00) gave me false symptoms of a heart attack. It came on gradually over a couple days. (After going to the hospital) I felt better the next day, until I came home from the hospital.  Moving the bed outside did the trick (symptoms gone). I realized a couple days later that I had more than just physical symptoms. The night before my "attack," I had brightly colored strange dreams. I was depressed for the next couple days (unusual for me), and the depression lifted within twenty-four hours of moving the mattress outside.  There is a thorough discussion of "Idiopathic environmental intolerances" at the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology web site: http://www.aaaai.org/media/resources/academy_statements/position_statements/ps35.asp.
Orlando, Florida
Email: [email protected]
January 4, 2006

Rashes - Sinus Problems - Autoimmunity & Tempurpedic Swedish Mattress
We bought our King mattress some 9 months ago because we didn't like the pillow top that failed after one year of a 20 year warranty. We heard these were very good. The past few months my wife has been to numerous doctors for rashes, lumps and other problems related to sinus. Her autoimmune system seems to be affected. She is now scheduled for a biopsy. We thought about what has changed in our lives and the only difference is the mattress. It cost $2200 but it isn't worth her health. Did anyone have any success in dealing with the manufacturers?? Maybe time to take it back or just get rid of it.
Bethlehem, Pennsylvania
Email: [email protected]
January 2, 2006

Eyes Swollen - Red & Itchy
I bought a new queen mattress from a large retailer over 2 months ago.  The initial smell was very strong, but I got a tightly woven pad and just assumed it would go away over a few weeks.  Now, the smell is still very strong and I regularly wake up with swollen, red, itchy burning eyes.  I did some research and found out that formaldehyde is the best chemical foam binder out there and so is still used by most manufacturers.  Formaldehyde can off-gas for many years and has been shown to cause cancer in animals and may cause cancer in humans.  Does anyone have any good recommendations for toxin-free mattress manufacturers? 
San Francisco, California
Email: [email protected]
January 2, 2006

Rashes - Difficulty Breathing & Croydon Mattress Factory
I purchased a mattress & box spring from Croydon Mattress Factory, in PA.  .....[It] emitted a horrible odor, that smelled like embalming fluid. When I inquired about the smell, I was told to open my windows for a few days and let the mattress air out, to no avail. I called Serta and Sealy and was told that the better quality mattresses have MORE chemicals!!  Finally, Croydon admitted that they got a bad batch of polyester fiber and that it was accidentally put into my mattress. As for the health repercussions: I had a severe rash on my legs that finally had to be treated with prednisone. I also developed a silver-dollar sized albino-white area on my stomach with one red dot in it. It was like the dots on my legs. I had a biopsy and was told that I had been introduced to a toxic chemical. I also had difficulty breathing while I had the mattress. I appeared on two news shows and American Journal, now called, "AJ".  Needless to say, I got a waterbed! There are chemical-free beds. If you surf the internet, you should be able to find them. They are not inexpensive, but I see it as an investment into one's health.
Toms River, New Jersey
Email: [email protected]
December 30, 2005

Breathing Problems - Enlarged Lymph Nodes - Serta Mattress
I purchased a Serta Perfect Night mattress set for $1300 at America's Mattress Co. and after two nights woke up with my lymph nodes enlarged and trouble breathing.  I informed the company I purchased the set from and the owner indicated it needed "airing out" but it has been over 6 weeks and I continue to have a sore throat and breathing problems and am on an antibiotic and benadryl.  So if you have any chemical sensitivities I suggest not purchasing a Serta Perfect Night mattress and America's Mattress Co. has a no return policy.
Little Rock, Arkansas 
Email: [email protected]
December 29, 2005

BAD HEADACHES - Memory Foam Topper
I have a firm mattress and have tried 2 brands of memory foam toppers. One brand was very expensive and the second was a cheaper one from Wal-Mart. Both had very bad smells and the directions said to air them out for a few days and I did. The smells never went away and I tried sleeping on them after a week. The more expensive brand had a worse smell and made me sick with headaches from the first night. A few months later I tried with the cheaper one and after airing it out it was still smelly. Now after a month I have been getting bad headaches and bad dreams. This morning I am removing it and never going to try memory foam again despite it being very comfortable.
Long Island, NY
Email: [email protected]
December 29, 2005

Irregular Heartbeat - Sealy Posturepedic Moravia Ultra Plush
I purchased a queen size which had a strong chemical smell right out of the plastic wrap and stayed strong for a week. I asked customer service to send another which they did and it had the same smell but not as strong. I slept on the first mattress before the replacement and during this time I was experiencing an irregular heart beat. I had no idea what the cause could be but after doing a search based on the odor problem I found this web site with a slew of health problem one of which was similar to mine. I run 6mi each day and feel my health is sound. I'm not sure if the memory foam products and what I have share the same chemicals but I thought the pillow top mattresses might be similar. I've removed the replacement set to another bed room and closed it to see if my heart irregularity disappears. I may just return it and pay the 25% restocking fee.
Suwanee, GA
Email: [email protected]
December 28, 2005

Sinus Infections & Smelly Simmons Beauty Rest Mattress
We just purchased a Simmons Beautyrest Dreamwell Mattress about a month ago. From the moment the mattress was delivered I detected a moldy smell. I called the store 2 days later and was told it was a chemical smell and it would disappear in a week or two. Well now it's one month later. In that time, I have been extremely congested - woke up one morning with a swollen face (!!) and was diagnosed with a severe sinus infection. NEVER in my life have I had a sinus problem. In fact, I rarely ever get sick. My husband has also been waking up extremely congested every morning. The store manager said they'd have someone come out to check out the mattress. I'm really going to fight to have this replaced. I'm amazed that this site exists, since I really I thought I was the only one having this problem.
Vienna, VA
December 21, 2005

Vomiting - Fever - Flu Symptoms & Memory Foam -
I consider myself to be healthy and resilient, so I was surprised to wake up with flu like symptoms after the first night sleeping on a newly purchased memory foam liner. Eventually I threw up and had a mild fever for 24 hours.  So I write this up to wishful thinking that this odor was harmless, there's a reason things smell bad to us, it's a warning from our body to stay away, wish I had researched this before wasting money on this sludge.
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
Email: [email protected]
December 21, 2005

Symptoms Immediately Improve after Removing Mattress Topper
I bought this "eggcrate" design polyurethane mattress topper for my uncomfortable futon mattress.  I got it at Bed, Bath and Beyond for $19.99 on Sunday and slept on it for 4 nights.  I couldn't figure out why my health was suddenly going downhill with painful throat allergies and lack of sleep.  It was especially on the 3rd day I began to wonder, but thought that I must be allergic to my "room" suddenly and that maybe the steam from the radiator was making mold.  I felt like my throat was constricting.  I was sneezing, had a stuffy nose, watery eyes and very itchy throat.  I also had to take an inhaler as I was having asthmatic symptoms - shortness of breath and the feeling that my lungs were closing in on me.  On the fourth day I told someone that I was allergic to my room and he said "clean it".  But, I knew something was off.  That night I thought..."mmmm, I just bought this new eggcrate, what''s it made of?'  POLYURETHANE!   I did some research (last night) and found this website but there doesn't seem to be many websites about this issue.  I took it off my bed and slept much better.  I have no symptoms this morning.  Today I am taking this back to the store as I would much rather need to stretch my back in the morning than be debilitated in much more serious ways and develop very serious asthma.  
New York, NY
Email: [email protected]
December 16, 2005

No response from TempurPedics Main Office
I bought a Tempurpedic mattress and I am having sensitivity problems to the polyurethane material in the mattress.  Tempurpedic is unwilling to help me.  The mattress dealer will not refund my money and I was unsuccessful at getting my money back through my credit card.  I called the Tempurpedic president's office a few times and they haven't returned my call.  Do you have any suggestions since this is unfair to the consumer?  Thanks in advance.
Mark K.
[email protected]
December 1, 2005

Sore Throat - Nose Bleed - Nightmares & Tempsoma Pillows
I also purchased the two standard Tempsoma pillows, I bought one for a Christmas gift and the other kept for myself.  I have had nightmares, sore throat, and had a nose bleed today.  I will take both back to Sam's if symptoms subside after not sleeping on it for a few days.  The smell is what bothered me and led me to look up and see if there was a website stating that problem, I am glad that I found it!  What freaks me out is the nosebleed I had today and reading about others with that problem, as I am not one to have nosebleeds.
Panama City, Florida
Email: [email protected]
November 28, 2005

Red Eyes and Sore Throat from Serta PillowTop - Now what?
Ok, so it took me a bit longer than you folk to realize it was the mattress that was doing me in.  I've had my Serta Pillowtop for 8 months and it still gives off that chemical smell.  I've suspected for some time that it was the mattress giving me the red eyes and sore throat in the morning, but I'm stubborn and I paid good money for the thing so I thought I could make it work.  yeah, I know, bad logic.  Anyway, now I'm left with trying to figure out what to get instead.  Lord knows another Serta is out of the question.  But then in all reality, the three big manufacturers all make their products in the same regional shops and use like products.  Currently I'm looking at going back to futons.  Not the cheapo ones from college, but a high-end model..... and there are even all-organic cotton models which is another level of safety.   Thanks for everyone's input.
Boulder, Colorado
Email: [email protected]
November 28, 2005

Simmons Stephens Plushtop Problems - Join Class Action Suit
I thought I did a lot of research before buying my Simmons Stephens (model in California) plushtop.  I have had it three weeks and have had the most miserable nights sleep.
My legs and butt are constantly burning.  My knees aching. The Simmons Company claims it takes 90 days for your body to conform to the contours.  The store I bought it at has a 30 day comfort return policy, BUT, they charge you a $55 pick-up fee and a 10% restocking fee.  I guess it is my fault that the mattress is not comfortable.  I find this website to be reassuring.  I thought it was all me.  I am ready to join a class action suit. 
Arroyo Grande, California
Email: [email protected]
November 23, 2005

Your Comments Prevented us from making a "Huge" mistake!
We tried a Tempur (Sweden) brand and although it relieved the sore spots, we found it too firm and it took to long to get comfy.  Also after reading everyone's reports, I'm glad we didn't order one!  We also looked at the Simmon's Beauty Rest which I liked, but also after reading here I'm glad I didn't go ahead. As we live in Melbourne Australia, has anyone had any experience with the Nature's Brand "Tradewinds"  and is there any comfy alternative to the chemical problems?   Thank you for all your comments and sharing, it saved us from making a Huge mistake!
Melbourne, Australia
Email: [email protected]
November 19, 2005

News Media Pay Attention
After reading the email posts here, I have asked a very well known news person to take a look. This is information that needs to be out to the public. I. too, have had a few issues with joint pain and the fact that it seems that my muscles are becoming non existent since purchasing a foam mattress topper. The greed that runs rampant in companies in this country is disgusting!
Email: [email protected]
November 17, 2005

Health Immediately Improves after Removing Memory Foam Mattress
We bought a Sealy memory foam pillow top mattress. I loved it at first but noticed in the morning I felt as if I couldn't fully wake up. After a few days I woke up with a very, very bad headache like I have never had before. My eyes swelled up and would not stop watering. I thought, as the people in this website, that I had the flu. I decided to test the theory after finding this website and I slept on my old mattress which we had moved to the guest bedroom. I awoke with no symptoms at all. "The Flu" like symptoms have disappeared.
East Peoria, Illinois
Email: [email protected]
November 15, 2005

Migranes linked to Tempsoma mattress from Sam's club
I am prone to migraines, bur I know they ALWAYS go away after 3 days, however after sleeping on the Tempsoma mattress from Sam's club, I have woken with a migraine everyday for 8 days.  At first I thought it had nothing to do with the mattress topper, but  I remembered reading articles about outgassing and looked on the internet to see if other people reported having headaches after sleeping on these mattresses- I am relieved after finding this website -that maybe this problem can be resolved by returning the mattress topper.  Migraine medication helped tremendously- but that's not the answer to this problem. 
Chattanooga, TN
Email: [email protected]
November 15, 2005

My arms feel like they are falling off after sleeping on new Tempur-Pedic!
My wife complained about insomnia all her life, so I secretly went shopping for the most comfortable bed, thinking it was a discomfort issue. I bought a new $1500 Tempur-Pedic mattress after trying it in the showroom for two seconds.  But ever since it came, sure, it's comfortable, we sleep a good 3-4 hours, but we awake achy and it's hard to get comfortable again.  My wife does go to sleep fairly quickly, but she has "kidney" aches, and has developed a cough that hasn't gone away ever since we bought the mattress 2 months ago, and she is tired all the time.  We blame the remodeling we're doing, but now I'm convinced it's the mattress. Every morning I wake up and my arms feel like they can easily "fall off" my shoulders, and I am fatigued all day long as if I've been awake for days.  After reading everyone's comments, I'm sure it's the mattress and pillows and will now dispose of them.  They are not even fit for the guest rooms.  I would hate to donate them as they might cause someone else harm.  I'd appreciate any new info as to long-term effects or class action lawsuits against manufacturers.  Thanks!
Torrance, California
Email: [email protected]
November 14, 2005

Tempur Pedic causes headaches and eye irritation
My wife and I bought a Tempur Pedic mattress based on our comfort while sleeping on foam during our recent trip.  BIG MISTAKE!.  We got headaches and eye problems but couldn't trace the cause.  The problem started to lessen after a month but now it is three and one half months later and we started closing the windows at night as winter sets in.  The problems have returned and the "test period" is over.   This product needs a big warning label.. TOXIC.  I am in for a class action suit if anyone has info.
Denver, Colorado
Email: [email protected]
November 14, 2005

What's That Smell Coming From My Mattress?
Bought Simmons mattress and first night I slept on it, it had a strong odor which I had never smelled from any mattress I had owed before.  I thought it must be because it was just out of the plastic and they were using a different cover material.  The next morning I woke up with a migraine headache (which I don't get), my body ached, my hips bones felt as though I had fell to the floor and landed on them, my knees hurt, my back ached.  Of course I was totally mystified as to what happened.  Next night same thing, till 5 nights later I couldn't sleep in the bed I hurt so much.  Now I swore the Company I bought it from had mistakening sent me a reconditioned mattress.  This one surely couldn't be new!  So I slept in the recliner a couple of nights figuring if I gave my body a rest I might sleep better back in the bed. But no change.  And the Store won't do anything about it because they say my problem has to do with Comfort Level.  Too bad I don't like what I got.  !
That burned me up and I got on the internet.  I learned about Outgassing.  I learned that my problems are more than likely a direct result of sleeping on the mattress.  I don't have the money now (paid $800 for mattress) to buy a natural mattress to sleep on and I'm scared to death to continue sleeping on this TOXIC MATTRESS.  I'm just beginning to learn how detrimental to my health this mattress could really be, especially over a few years.  
Hendersonville, NC
Email: [email protected]
November 4, 2005

Severe skin reaction after buying memory foam bed
The day after sleeping on our memory foam mattress set, my wife suddenly developed itchy skin rashes. The rash was like a swelling of the skin that made the skin look and feel like plastic. It might cover about 1/3 of her leg and then an hour later, her leg was better, but her stomach was covered. The rash and itching continued for several days. I was skeptical that the bed was causing it because I had never thought before of foam as having anything in it that could be harmful. However, we couldn't think of anything else that might have triggered the problem other than the arrival of the mattress. She is 34 years old and healthy, but does have sensitive skin, having had a severe case of poison ivy about six months ago. After about half a week, she slept on the couch for three nights, the skin condition reduced significantly, and she moved back to the bed. After that though, the condition worsened again and continued. I've been thinking that eventually the bed would "air out", or that her body would develop a "tolerance" to it, but now, three weeks later her rashes and itching are as bad as ever. After reading this website, she will sleep on the couch tonight and I think we will probably replace the mattress - I plan to research organic mattresses. It is too bad, because I have been very happy with the comfort of the mattress.
San Jose, CA
Email: [email protected]
October 27, 2005

Vomiting after one night
We ordered a ComfortAir mattress and I was thrilled to receive it. We had to put it together ourselves and didn't really notice any smells until putting on the eggcrate cover that actually went under the mattress topper. I had a terrible first night's sleep...smell kept waking me up and felt sick to my stomach on and off and felt very drowsy the next day. I called the company we purchased it from and told them I didn't sleep well; they advised me to put on the alternate visco memory foam pad. I opened it up and laid it on the bed to let it air and rise (had an extremely STRONG chemical smell). Shortly after opening it, I became nauseous and vomited for well over an hour. We ended up repackaging the entire bed and putting it in the basement. It will be going back to the manufacturer and I'm now looking at organic mattresses. And, after reading the comments here, I'm planning on getting rid of our existing memory foam pad and pillows.
Minneapolis, MN
Email: [email protected]
September 26, 2005

Novafoam Mattress from Costco - Itching -
My husband and I recently bought a Novaform Mattress Topper from Costco.  Shortly after I started itching all over.  I have a tendency to be a little itchy, but I have never experienced anything like this.  This is a violent itching that forces me to stop the car just to scratch my leg.  It is terrible.  I now have cold symptoms and have been sneezing all day.  I realized that my itching started shortly after we put that mattress topper on our bed.  It is GONE tonight.  I cannot believe that something that I brought into my home and put my body on would make me feel so horrible.  I have fairly sensitive skin, but this itching is insane.  It a sad world where chemically harmful substances are put on the market touted as "helping" people with their sleep issues.  I am now thinking that organic is the way to go. 
Allen, Texas
October 14, 2005

File a complaint about your toxic mattress!
File a complaint with the US Consumer Product Safety Commission at 1-800-638-2772. They will take a report and contact the manufacturer. If enough of us do this, maybe something will change.  My Tempurpedic still stinks after 2 years; I wake up groggy after sleeping on it, seem to need 9 hours of sleep and still don't feel rested, and have developed an auto immune disorder--Hashimoto's disease-- since purchasing.  (no way of knowing whether this is a result of the mattress, but it happened nonetheless).
New Haven, CT
Email: [email protected]
October 12, 2005

Pain in the head and back immediately after bed purchase
Within a few days after purchasing a new Simmons bed, my husband and I noticed "allergy" symptoms such as sinus troubles, headaches, and body aches. We have had the bed now for five weeks and the symptoms are lessening in severity, but continue to be present, nonetheless.
San Diego, CA
Email: [email protected]
September 29, 2005

Tempur-Pedic Problems
We bought our Tempur-Pedic just over a month. During this month, I have had horrible itches all over my body and had developed muscle pain. Initially, I thought I was having a normal seasonal allergic reactions. Then, when we had to leave for the Rita Hurricane, the last few days I slept in the hotel at my friend's house in Dallas.  I noticed a tremendous comfort NOT sleeping on the Tempur-Pedic bed. We paid almost $3,000 for our king set, I am not sure they will let me return, since we bought it from a local "Mattress Firm" retail store. I don't know what they put in the bed... Do you have any information?
Houston, TX
Email: [email protected]
September 29, 2005

Toxic Tempurpedic!!
I bought the Tempurpedic in 2004.  My husband and I have back and hip pain.  He is up every night taking pain medication for this. In the last year I have developed neck pain and see a chiropractor for this. I stopped using the thermo pillow because of neck pain, but I still get the neck pain. I also have chronic sinusitis and have had to leave my bedroom because of the closing in of my throat and severe post-nasal drip. Within five minutes of going to my sofa, I can breathe again. We found that the mattress has become softer. When we took off the cover, we found that the cover was flaking. We are having the run-around trying to get someone to take this bed away. I don't want a duplicate so like many here, I too am looking for a new mattress. 
Fair Haven, Vermont
Email: [email protected]
September 25, 2005

Tempurpedic Panic
My husband and I purchased the Tempurpedic mattress and pillows thinking it would be extremely comfortable and an investment. The first night I woke up in the middle of the night with shortness of breath, thinking I was either having a panic attack or asthma attack (which I only had one other time as a young child). I now realize it must have been the chemicals emitting from the mattress. My husband loves it, thinks it is the best nights sleep he has ever had. Anyone know of an organic mattress that does not emit these type of chemicals (i.e. petroleum)?
Portland, Oregon
Email: [email protected]
September 22, 2005

Health problems improve greatly after removing Tempurpedic Bed
Chemical ingredients  - Consumer Product Safety Contact Information
I purchased a Tempurpedic Classic Queen mattress (with foundation), which was in my bedroom for three weeks. When the mattress was delivered and removed from its plastic bag, I was surprised by the overwhelmingly strong chemical smell which immediately filled the entire room. After sleeping on the mattress I noticed that I awoke in the morning with burning, itching eyes and a sore throat, feeling thirsty and dehydrated. I also began to have persistent headaches and experience a a dull, foggy, "cotton-headed" sensation when I was at home. The first couple of nights I awoke with some lower back pain. This pain subsided as the mattress appeared to become softer and more "broken-in" over time. My girlfriend spent a couple of nights sleeping on the mattress, and without me telling her of my experience, she described having the same physical symptoms when waking up after sleeping on the mattress. In a few days I noticed I was feeling generally irritable, lethargic, anxious, and depressed. When I spent the entire day outside of the house, I felt much better. But after sleeping on the mattress again, the same symptoms returned.
 
I contacted the retailer, explained my experience and said that I would like to return the mattress. They were very helpful and told me that the Tempurpedic representative had explained to them about the "odor" and they suggested taking off the cover, washing it, and walking on the mattress to help "open up the memory cells". They told me that the smell should go away in a couple of weeks. After one week the smell was not as overwhelming, but still very much present in the mattress. I was also still experiencing the physical symptoms I described after sleeping on the mattress.
 
I found the following list of chemicals used to make these (poly-urethane memory foam) mattresses on this website:
 
http://www.comfortdirect.com/memory-foam-17.php
 
TDI Toluene Di-Isocynate
Polyol - Poly Ether Gycol
Silicone Surfactant
Teritary Amine
Stannous Octoate
Flame Retardant
Pigments/Dyes
 
I contacted the retailer again and they told me that they could return the mattress based on the "Tempurpedic 90-night comfort guarantee". The only cost to me would be $159 plus tax. To this I agreed. After three weeks the  strong chemical smell was still coming out of the mattress. After having the bed removed from my house, I slept that night on my couch. I awoke after seven hours feeling clear-headed and energetic. What a relief!
 
I filed a complaint with the United States Consumer Product Safety Commission using their form located at - https://www.cpsc.gov/incident.html
 
I would appreciate hearing from anyone who has purchased an organic or natural materials mattress, such as latex  foam based, after experiencing problems with a Tempurpedic mattress.
James McCreary
Wailua, HI
Email: [email protected]
September 22, 2005

Sensus memory foam mattress topper is a flop
I got a Sensus mattress pad yesterday and have difficulty breathing, nausea, sore throat, and anxiety. As soon as I removed the mattress pad from the room I felt better. Memory Foam Canada tells me they have a no return policy...so it's too bad so sad for me. After reading this forum I'm getting the toxic mess out of my house. Almost 400 dollars later, and a bit wiser.
Delta, BC, Canada
Email: [email protected]
September 22, 2005

Sealy mattress is killing me!
I went out and bought the most comfortable Sealy mattress I could find for my back.  The good news is, my back is in great shape.  The bad news is, I wake up at night gasping for air.  It feels like my lungs are all congested.  My eyes water and burn.  Sometimes I have coughing spells.  I get up in the morning feeling so tired as if I had no sleep. I covered my box spring and mattress with one of those zip up allergy bags which helped a lot, but after a few night the chemicals must have found their way through the bag.  Although it's not as bad, my chest still hurts and my eyes burn.  I can't put up with this any longer.  Sealy won't take the mattress set back.  Does anyone know of a company which makes a mattress from all natural material without the chemicals?  I'm afraid this mattress is doing me great harm.
New Castle, PA
Email: [email protected]
September 20, 2005

Health problems improve after getting rid of mattress
I just wanted to thank you for this website.  It is the only one of its kind and without it I would still be very ill.  3 months ago I bought an Isotonic memory foam topper and pillows (Tempurpedic/Viscoelastic) from Bed Bath and Beyond. It was the best night sleep I got in a long time, although for the last 3 months I have been severely ill and never associated it with the bed.  I went to the emergency room about 2 weeks after purchasing the topper.  I was extremely dizzy, could not keep my balance, could not breathe through my nose, shortness of breath, sore throat, my ears felt infected and it was hard even to eat a slim slice of bread.  I bought a HEPA air filter hoping that would help and after giving that a couple of weeks I was still very ill.  So after being bedridden for 3 months I racked my brain for what had changed since I got sick. It came to me, the mattress topper. I immediately got on the internet and found this site and was shocked to find what I thought was causing my sickness.  I got rid of the mattress and pillows 3 days ago and progressively felt better every day. Today was the first time I have been able to live life in a long time.  If I can be of help to anyone please feel free to contact me.
Name: Michael Wilson
Email: [email protected]
September 14, 2005

Breathing Problems - Sealy Posturpedic Mattress
I bought a new mattress.  Ever since, I've been having trouble breathing and itchy feeling after going to bed.  I have been trying to air out. We are  not  able to return it since it was a sale.  Next time when I buy a mattress I will buy a chemical free one. Don't make the same mistake like we did.
Pasadena, MD
Email: [email protected]
September 14, 2005

Tempurpedic Mattresses are dangerous.
My son received a Tempurpedic mattress from his coworkers as a wedding gift.  It was delivered while he and his wife were away on their honeymoon.  His friends made up the bed with all new expensive pillows and linens.  It was quite a surprise when they came home from their honeymoon but they both got sick from the outgassing of the bed...my daughter in law had a rash all over her body and my son found it hard to breathe.  The room stunk and their eyes were burning.  Fortunately after a few phone calls they realized it was their mattress as they heard similar stories from people who had the mattress or knew people that did.  We are all wondering how come the mattress hasn't been taken off the market. 
September 9, 2005

JOINT PAIN - Evidence of Chemically Induced Autoimmune Reactions
I've have had 3 different mattresses (2 Sealy 1 Sterns &  Foster) over the past 5 years.  I never noticed the smell or related my wife's, or my different symptoms to this. Makes me wonder if some or all of our health problems are related. I am now permanently out of work due to problems???????????????
Massachusetts - United States 
Email: [email protected]
September 9, 2005

Carpets also Contain Volatile Petroleum Based Chemicals!
Several years ago we replaced the carpet in our home with a high quality berber.  My dogs started sneezing and getting sick, and my son kept getting sinus infections and asthma.  It took me several years to make the connection, but now it makes sense since finding out that chemical companies, such as Dupont, manufacture carpets!  Plastics and carpets give off fumes for years after installation. I got sick too, and had become so sensitive to chemicals that I couldn't wear perfume or even use scented shampoos.  When the carpet needs replacing again, I'll switch to wood or tile.  
Palm Bay, Florida
Email: [email protected]
September 6, 2005
 CHEM-TOX COMMENT:  Like beds, carpets are also made with a mixture of highly volatile petroleum based chemicals, which can also cause or worsen the same health problems as those caused with new bedding.

I Now Have Asthma
My husband and I purchased 2 memory foams at a local Target store in Anaheim while visiting Disneyland 7 months ago since we had a hard time sleeping on the hotel bed...what a mistake that was!  Funny how I read all these messages and I think to myself, "oh my gosh, that is how I feel!"  I've been very healthy all my life, now at 33 I've been having difficulty breathing, horrible allergies like never before, flu for the first time in over 14 years, and what do you know I now have asthma!  Yes, I now have a $200.00 a month inhaler to treat it!  I can go on and on about the dizziness, burning throat, itchy eyes, etc... that I'm reading others have had, but the whole asthma thing burns me the most!  Please if anyone knows where to begin for a suit...count me in!  I can be cheated and lied to, but I don't put up with messing with my health!  
As soon as this site was brought to my attention, I quickly removed our memory foam "toppers" and yes I miss the soft comfort, but I mostly missed breathing properly!  By the way, the smell is still strong after 7 months!
Arizona - United States
Email: [email protected]
September 1, 2005

Sealy Posterpedic Pillowtop -  Memory Foam beds medical nightmare
I purchased a Sealy Posterpedic Pillowtop with Memory Foam bed in March 2005.  By April (one month later) I had a rapid, irregular pulse with heart flip-flops and difficulty breathing.  My eyes feel hard, swollen, sore throat, sinus trouble you name it.  No medications help.  Finally wondered if it was the bed.  So started looking on internet and found this web site.  Wow my suspicions have been founded.  And I paid over $1,000 for this bed as had not only sales tax but a delivery charge. Does anyone have any ideas or know of some such action about the bed industry and an action suit or reimbursement plan, etc.  Thank you, Meggie
Lincoln, NE
Email: [email protected]
August 28, 2005

Chemical Smell and Energy Drained
We spent $1700.00 on a TEMPURPEDIC mattress endorsed by NASA For 2 weeks the smell was awfull!! I haven't awaken yet without a drained tired feeling which hangs on for hours. Pease tell me what is safe to sleep!!!!
Sun City, AZ
Email: [email protected]
August 27, 2005
CHEM-TOX COMMENT:  The Tempurpedic was not really "endorsed" by NASA, but we were informed that it was researched by NASA but rejected for use in the space industry because of chemical volatility issues.

Tempurpedic- off-gassing problem
I just had a tempurpedic mattress delivered today, and  noticed the strong chemical smell coming from the bed when I rested in the afternoon.  I read the customer complaints listed on your website and became very concerned.  I have a genetic weakness in my nervous system and have had nerve pain for nine years due to a back injury.  I cannot afford to get sick from the mattress, and am already experiencing some nausea and a headache from a two hour nap.  I have already used up my one exchange from Sit 'N Sleep, and do not know what to do.  I refuse to get sick any further, and need to know what type of legal recourse I have, so that I can return the mattress and receive a full refund.  Please e-mail me back with a response at [email protected].
Marcia S.
Valencia, Ca
Email: [email protected]
August 27, 2005

Crib Mattress Outgassing
I bought a crib mattress (SEALY) for my infant daughter and could not believe the horrible smell coming out of it, which burned my eyes and throat.  I can't imagine placing a 3-month old on this.  Despite airing it out for days on our porch and washing it with baking soda (which helped temporarily) , the smell would not go away.  I was able to trade it in at Babies R Us (interestingly , the person who sold it could not detect a smell at all, though another salesperson said "no way would i sleep on that!) but it's hard to trust the replacement.  After all, the gases you can't smell are not necessarily any safer....
Northfield, MN
August 25, 2005

Asthma and Join Pain
My husband and I purchased a Stearns and Foster mattress and had to send it back the next day because it had been treated with waterproofing. We woke up after one night with sore throats, our backs were both red where we slept on the mattress. We received our new "untreated" mattress the next day. It too reeked of chemicals. The salesman assured us the fumes would evaporate after a few days. It took weeks for the smell to dissipate. It is now two years later, in that length of time I have had skin eruptions that lead my physician to think I had rapidly progressing breast cancer. The skin was swollen and when biopsied had lymphocyte infiltration, but no breast cancer (this was a 6 month ordeal). I have continual sinus problems, and now have developed asthma. I spent this weekend in the emergency room with another severe asthma attack. I also have developed bone and cartilage degeneration in my knees and I am on crutches and a walker.  Now I can barely walk. My husband also has joint issues in his lower body. I now sleep in another room away from this toxic monstrosity. We spent somewhere around $3,000 for this mattress and box springs. There is no telling how much money we have spent on medical bills. When I call stores that sell these mattresses they say there are "no complaints." Obviously, from reading this website, there are complaints. Perhaps, because there are "no complaints" they can afford to refund my $3,000. I will be responsible for my medical bills as cause and effect would be so hard to prove. I will let you know if I get the money back!
Donna Stark,
Starkville, Mississippi
Email: [email protected]
August 25, 2005

Memory Foam Mattress - vomitting and diarreah first night
We bought a Memory Foam mattress pad and pillows from Wal Mart over the weekend. When I opened the package, I noticed the horrible smell. The enclosed slip said that the smell would go away after airing and was not dangerous. Because of me and my husband's back problems, I went ahead and put it on te bed anyway. In the middle of the night, I first awoke to one of my dogs vomitting. She had jumped to the floor. I cleaned it up, went back to bed and then another of my dogs started vomitting. At 3 a.m. I awoke to severe cramping and diarreah. My husband came in and asked me what was wrong and I told him I thought it was the mattress smell. I finally felt better and tried going back to bed, only to have to get up for another round.
Kansas City, KS
Email: [email protected]
August 22, 2005

Love my TempurPedic Bed
My husband & I purchased an adjustable TempurPedic bed (mattress & pillows) 12 months ago and I love it.  I have fibromyalgia and chronic low back problems and the TempurPedic is the only bed that is comfortable for me to sleep on (my husband could fall sleep on anything).  So while some people may have sensitivities to the materials used to manufacture this bed, not all people do.  I am allergic to fruit, probably not everyone is - I suppose many people enjoy eating fruit.  I don't want to take fruit off the market or sue people who produce fruit because I'm allergic to it, I just avoid eating it myself.   
Renton, WA
Email: [email protected]
August 21, 2005
CHEM-TOX Comment: This woman states she has fibromyalgia and is thankful for the comfort of her TempurPedic bed.  Fibromyalgia is a condition that is suspected of being at least partially caused by autoimmune problems (the immune system attacking the person's own tissue).  If we know that petroleum based chemicals have been linked with causing autoimmunity and a person with an autoimmune disorder such as fibromyalgia continues to sleep on a bed made with petroleum based chemicals- what would be a logical conclusion?

Facial Swelling due to Tempsoma Pillow
I received a Tempsoma pillow for my birthday (I wanted one because they looked so comfortable) back at the end of July.  I have been sleeping on it now for about 3-4 weeks.  I noticed the awful smell but had read on the box to let it air out for a few days and I just figured it needed longer.  It surprisingly has never felt as comfortable as I thought it would (I think partly because it isn't as thick as I'm used to), however, 2 weeks ago, I had some swelling in my lips.  I didn't know what caused it and was very concerned.  2 nights ago, I had severe facial swelling.  My whole face (eyes, cheeks, lips, etc) was swollen.  This morning, I woke up with a similar puffy face (not quite as bad as yesterday), and it suddenly hit me that maybe it could be the pillow.  I started researching online.  I found this site and am SO glad.  Is there any similarity between the latex and these foam pillows?  I would just love to find a common link.  I'd also love to hear from people with similar symptoms.  I will be getting rid of the pillow today.
State: VA
Email: [email protected]
August 18, 2005

Third Sterns and Foster Mattress!!!! Strong Chemical Odor
I bought High End S&F Mattress set and after returning it twice we still have a strong odor coming from the mattress.  I can't believe how many other people have the same problem. I hope there is a group action lawsuit against the manufacturer.
Oceanside, NY
Email: [email protected]
August 9, 2005

Polyurethane Foam in Loveseat Causes Problems
I bought a new loveseat and it made me sick sick. Racing heart, extreme anxiety, coughing, burning throat, headache, personality change, and a dazed feeling. There was a bad odor coming from the seat, especially the thick seating pads made of polyurethane. I lived in a hot climate, and realized that I had been sick every summer that I didn't work since buying a couch several years back. Polyurethane cushions which I can also smell. This is called outgassing and I think it could be killing people.

Lubbock, TX
Email: [email protected]
August 7, 2005
CHEM-TOX NOTE:  Even polyurethane contains the fire retardant chemicals (up to 50% by weight) which have been linked with numerous health problems.

Skin Rash and Fatigue after Sealy Mattress Purchase
I purchased a Sealy mattress. After one week of use I developed a skin rash, soon after severe fatigue set it in, the rash got worse and finally I stopped sleeping on it. I was advised by my massage therapist that it could be the new mattress and I got rid of it. I have documentation of the symptoms from my doctors and I even still have the receipt of the mattress for verifications. I continue to have symptoms of skin rashes, and sensitivity to chemicals.
Terri Shelton
Satellite Beach, FL
Email: [email protected]
August 2, 2005

Headaches and Sinus Problems begin immediately
We have an air adjustable bed and I don't think it has this foam in it. But we also have pillows by Sleep Innovations and I do think these are made of the same materials as these toxic mattresses. They did have a strong chemical smell when they were new and both my wife and I have been suffering with chronic joint pain mostly in the neck and shoulders. I, all of the sudden, always have a headache and sinus problems. Sometimes at night I wake up in a sweat and feel like I am on fire. Does anyone else use these pillows and have these symptoms?
Concord, NC
Email: [email protected]
July 29, 2005

Flu like symptoms, aching, sinus problems, joint pain, eyes swelling
We bought a memory foam pillow top mattress, and loved the way it slept, but after the first night, my wife had a migraine type headache, eyes swelled up, rings would not fit her fingers. She even went to the doctor thinking she had a sinus infection. After three nights, I thought I had the flu, joints, whole body aching, running a fever, and missed two days of work. I had to go out of town to a funeral, stayed 3 nights from home, and I got better, no aches, or fever. First night I was home, it started all over again.
Greer, South Carolina
Email: [email protected]
July 29, 2005

Removing Bed - Health Improves
At an earlier post I mentioned that I was trying to isolate the memory foam mattress with several mattress pads. I had such a big investment in the pads (I purchased them for several beds, for my grandsons and my daughters)  It worked for a few days then all of the symptoms of joint pain, back pain and headaches began to return.  I finally tossed it out and the symptoms are gone.  I have advised my daughters to do so immediately.  They have subsequently told me of terrible back pains and joint pains they and their husbands were having - none of us thought it could be the mattress pads.  This website probably saved our lives!
Dublin, California
July 28, 2005
CHEM-TOX NOTE: It may appear a paradox that a softer bed can result in back and joint pain, however, this is not related to the softness or firmness of the bed; some petroleum based chemicals have been found to be the direct cause of a condition known as autoimmunity. Autoimmunity is a serious condition in which the person's own immune system mistakenly begins attacking their own tissue.  If the autoimmune reaction is directed against soft tissue (such as muscles), the individual will experience pain in the affected muscle areas.  Autoimmune cells (which can be the immune system white blood cells or antibodies) have also been identified which attack organs, DNA and even bone.  For more information on autoimmunity please go to the government's toxicology web site at http://toxnet.nlm.nih.gov/ - type in the keywords autoimmune xenobiotics (xenobiotics is the scientific term for synthetic chemicals).  Also, an excellent review of chemical induced autoimmunity can be found in the medical journal Toxicology, Vol. 119, No. 1, pages 1-21, 85 references, 1997 -
 

It's A Sealy - Throat Irritation
On 7/15/05 I had a Sealy box spring and mattress delivered.  By 7/17/05 the back of my throat was burning.  I immediately suspected the new mattresses because of the chemical smell.  I am now sleeping on the couch.  My throat irritation has lessened.  The bedroom is closed off with fans running but this is not helping get rid of the smell in there.  The store refuses to refund me my money.  I paid $500.. Any suggestions would be appreciated.
New York, NY
Email: [email protected]
July 20, 2005

Tempur-Pedic Causing Muscular & Joint Pain/Weakness
My wife wanted the Tempur-Pedic Swedish sleep system we saw in a local Brookstone store.  We went all out and got the top of the line king size with additional pillow-top.  We also splurged and got two of the Supreme pillows as well.  We were able to take the pillows home immediately but the mattress couldn't be delivered until the following week.  I immediately noticed the horrible smell from the pillow (almost gagging) but the sticker on the pillow said it was a normal smell and that after a few days it would disappear.  I remember not being comfortable with the pillow the first night and woke with severe neck pain and a headache.  I didn't think much of it at the time and continued to sleep with the pillow for the following week. Finally the new mattress arrived.  It was incredibly comfortable and supported every inch of my body without pressure points, however just like the pillow, the smell was horrible.  The very next day, I experienced tremendous pain in every joint of my body (neck, shoulders, elbows, back, hips and knees).  I also experienced severe muscle pain and weakness.  I work out every day, so I just assumed that I had over-worked at the gym that morning, but the pain got worse and worse.  It got so bad that I couldn't move and I couldn't go to work.  I couldn't roll myself over in the bed let alone walk up and down stairs.  It lasted over a week and was so severe that I finally went to the doctor.  They ran blood tests for Limes Disease, Mono, Strep, and a variety of other illnesses, but the tests all came back negative.  I spent the next week in bed, unable to move.  It has since been over 5 weeks since the delivery of our bed and I have been miserable every single day.  I've been just dealing with the pain, thinking something was seriously wrong with me, until I decided that I would look on the internet to see if I could find anything out.  I stumbled on this site and needless to say I am now sleeping in our guest room until we can get this mattress and pillows returned.  Hopefully this will solve my problem.
Ashburn, Virginia
Email: [email protected]
July 12, 2005

Memory Foam Pillows cause Neurological Reaction
Just bought 2 pillows memory foam pillows from Walmart -- first night suffered insomnia -- second night had shortness of breath and 3 awful nightmares.  Switched back to feather pillows and all symptoms immediately disappeared.  Back they go to Walmart.
Scottsdale, Arizona
Email: [email protected]
July 10, 2005

Joint and Bone Problems after buying Serta Pillowtop
I've had what seems to be systemic problems and joint/bone problems ever since buying a Serta pillowtop mattress.  Most would attribute my symptoms to sleep deprivation, but it truly does feel systemic - flu-like systems, weakness, achiness, joint problems - all chronic and I'm only 27!  To make matters worse, I'm now having to return my second mattress because what manufacturers are displaying in retailer showrooms DOESN'T MATCH  what is actually being delivered in terms of quality (gauge of steel, foam, etc.).  The bed in the showroom, in spite of several demos a day, is much firmer.  I just received my bed yesterday and it sinks down to the box springs and shimmies with even slight movement.  And this is close to a top-of-the-line Sealy!  I'm really at a loss on what to do at this point.  If anyone who has successful bought a quality mattress has any tips to share I'd really appreciate it. 
Columbus, Ohio
Email: [email protected]
July 7, 2005

Headaches - Sinus Problems and Allergies
I've had a severe reaction to 3 different beds - two Chiropratics by Springwell and one Sealy.  I am desperate to find a bed I won't have a reaction to. What is so strange is usually I don't have headaches or any allergies. But for sure my headaches and sinus problem, and closing of the throat are from the new beds because the 'in between new bed times' my head etc. clears. I'm also fine once I've been outside for an hour or so.  Any help would be appreciated in finding a new non-toxic bed.
British Columbia, Canada
Email1: [email protected]

Sore throat in the mornings
Recently, I purchased a new mattress that I later realized had a strong chemical odor. After sleeping on it for a week or so, I started waking up with a slight sore throat in the morning.
St. Albans, West Virginia
Email: [email protected]
June 14, 2005

Beauty Rest Mattress Causes Back Pain
I brought a Beautyrest Mattress a month ago from Mattress Discounters. It was too soft and was causing me back pain.  I am also having sinus problems and have yellow pleghm in my throat each morning. Upon calling the store manager, district manager and customer service, I was told that I could not exchange the mattress because I used the one exchange allowed by the store. Customer service told me to call Goodwill and have them pick up the mattress and he would let me select another mattress at a 50% discount. I told him that I was not spending any more money in his store. Has anyone else had a similar experience and had success in getting a second exchange for a mattress that did not work out. Help!!!
Alexandria, VA
Email: [email protected]
June 8, 2005

Tempur-Pedic misleading public with NASA endorsement
Although Fagerdala World Foams, and not Tempurpedic, developed Visco-elastic memory Foam in the early 60 s for NASA, this product was not stable enough to be sent into space. It suffered from durability problems and off-gassing issues that could not be resolved, and was also difficult to manufacture. Currently Tempurpedic  has its (Tempur) memory Foam manufactured by Dan Foam A/S, a subsidiary of Fagerdala World Foams, which manufactures its foam in Sweden , Germany , Finland , Switzerland , Denmark , Brazil , Norway , Singapore , Benelux , Thailand , China , United Kingdom , France and the United States.
Pompano beach, FL
Email: [email protected]
June 7, 2005

Headaches and Memory touch mattress comfort top
Last night I slept on this new memory touch topper just purchased. We put an aerobed (blow up) under it, also just purchased. Both smell. I woke up today with a terrible headache (I never get headaches). My jaw was tight as if I was grinding terribly all night, and I felt like I was going to go into lockjaw. As the day wore on I realized this felt like a huge hangover, but I hadn't been drinking. This evening I decided before getting into bed to look online about outgassing, because I'm pretty health conscious and aware of outgassing problems. And I am so thankful I found this website!  About this toxic bed topper, though, I'm putting it out on my porch after I finish typing this, and returning it to Bed and Bath tomorrow, along with the blow up aerobed. I looked up a website that said the EU banned certain chemicals from it's plastics. I wonder if the USA still keeps it in. You have to really watch out for your health and question everything these days. I feel sorry for the children who sleep on these mattresses, exhibit mental or physical health problems, and the parents remain clueless. I'm going to try and spread this message to whomever I meet, and let Bed and Bath know they should post a warning sign alongside this bed topper!
Owings Mills, Maryland
Email: [email protected]
June 4, 2005

Memory Foam Made Me and My Cat Extremely Ill
Two weeks ago I purchased a memory foam padding for my Sealy Posturepedic bed.  Within two days I noticed I was having extreme panic attacks and depression.  I also felt dizzy and couldn't focus on anything.  It kept getting worse but I didn't connect it with the foam. At the same time my cat (who sleeps beside me every night) started wheezing uncontrollably at night.  I still didn't connect it with the foam.  I took my cat to a Holistic vet and she immediately told me to get rid of that foam.  I went on the internet and kept reading how this foam is non-toxic so I thought she was over reacting but I took the foam off.  My panic attacks have subsided and my cat is slowing getting better.  Now I realize that the reason I got the foam in the first place was to counteract the health problems that the Sealy Posturepedic Mattress was causing.  I'm thinking about switching to a natural latex mattress but I'm afraid to invest that much money without trying one out first.  I would like to hear how people felt after switching to the natural latex mattresses.
Portland, Oregon
Email: [email protected]
June 2, 2005

Severe back pain & shoulder /arm problems - Memory Foam 3
Purchased Memory Foam 3" Topper from MYREST.com - Sleep great for first week, smell of foam easier to over look because I went into a deep sleep. Developed soar throat symptom's along with severe lower back problems. After a month I went to the doctor thinking I was having Kidney problems, I felt like my insides were being pushed around.
 After many test and large out of pocket expense I had nothing wrong with me. I removed the Memory Foam and woke up the next morning and no pain, my throat felt better in a week. I truly feel this is a health hazard.   They say we stand behind our product, but you passed 30 day trial period & no refund ! Stay away from these foam products.  
Rancho Mirage, CA
Email: [email protected]
May 30, 2005

Viscoelastic Pillows
I just bought two Viscoelastic pillows, and whereas they are very comfortable, they seem to be giving me headaches and causing my eyes to burn and itch. After just one night of using them, I woke up with a headache and itchy and burning eyes. At first I thought that it was probably a coincidence, but I have been using them every night for over a week now, and the symptoms have remained with me the entire time. And last night I woke up with numbness in my arms! I just now decided to do some research to try to find out if the pillows could be causing these symptoms, most of the websites that I have found have been saying that the Viscoelastic beds and pillows are better for you as far as reducing allergies. but after reading many of the comments on this site, I am almost certain that it is the pillows causing these symptoms. I already suffer from anxiety disorders, and last night I woke up feeling extra nervous at the time of the numbness in my arms, and I see that other people have said that the Viscoelastic beds/pillows have caused them anxiety problems.
May 30, 2005

Obnoxious mattress chemical odor - Stearns and Foster Mattress
On 4/21/05 I had a new Stearns and Foster mattress (Ealing plush $1649.00) delivered to my home.  The new mattress had a very strong chemical odor, so I left the windows open and my husband and I tried to sleep on that night.  In the middle of the night we both kept waking up.  My husband's throat was sore and itchy, my eyes were watery and extremely itchy. The chemical odor was horrendous! We did not sleep on the mattress anymore and tried to air it out. The odor permeated through the mattress pad , sheets and pillows. Three days later I called the furniture company and told them to remove the mattress.  They delivered a second mattress one week later. As soon as the deliveryman removed the plastic, the chemical odor was so strong, the deliveryman said, "The smell is so strong I have a headache.  I wouldn't sleep on this!"  The mattress was returned.  A third mattress was delivered on 5/12/05. Within an hour of the mattress being delivered, the fumes got so strong, we couldn't enter the bedroom. This mattress was aired out for three days at the warehouse before being delivered to my home!  We have left the windows open in the bedroom, but the odor has not dissipated. I am returning this mattress. We have been sleeping on the living room floor.  I called Sealy (which makes Stearns and Foster mattresses) and have been told that they rarely receive complaints.  I asked them what is causing the smell, but of course they won't answer my questions.  The furniture company told me I'm the only one complaining. I would like some answers.
Bethel Park, PA
Email: [email protected]
May 18, 2005

Call the Consumer number for Bed Problems
The US Consumer Product Safety Commission number is 1-800-638-2772.  They NEED to get a slew of phone calls about these problems of outgassing beds. Who's ready for a class action lawsuit? The firm of Masry-Vititoe, the ones who have Erin Brockovich on their staff are based in Calif, but their website says they take cases all over the country, working with local counsel. So who are the companies that manufacture the foams and junk in the beds? Write me.
Phoenix, Arizona
Email: [email protected]

3 SERTA beds - Headaches and Neck Pain
We are on our 5th bed made by Serta. The last 3 have had Serta's name on them. The last 3 have stunk to high heaven. My husband had a mysterious rash on his chest, I've had chronic sinus infections, memory loss to where I couldn't remember words.  Bob Moore at Mattress Outlet is the person responsible for all this. He and Serta. Serta rep John, for Phoenix, refused to call us back.  We are READY for a class action lawsuit. Surely *someone* here knows a lawyer?? My husband has had several headaches, and severe pain in his neck/shoulder. I've had headaches and I don't normally get them. I've had rashes on my legs, swollen tonsils, body aches, etc. My hubby has had body aches and pains and what I would say is brain fog. We haven't been alert and 'with it' when we wake up. He got better when he was at work after a while, I seemed to feel a little better about 4 p.m. or anytime I was out of the house or had the door closed to the bedroom.
Phoenix, Arizona
Email: [email protected]
May 10, 2005

Time for Lawsuit
Has anyone started a class action suit about the outgassing of the mattresses? It should be pro bono.
Janine Phariss
[email protected]
May 10, 2005

Feeling worse after using memory foam mattress topper
After trying to sleep on it, I awakened after about an hour, gagging, coughing, and throwing up. I had to take an antihistamine pill to relieve some of the symptoms. I had noted the instructions that came with the topper and had allowed it to air for 24 hours before I used it. The instructions mentioned that the odor was temporary and not dangerous.  I am concerned about the safety of this product.
Coconut Creek, Florida
Email: [email protected]
May 7, 2005

Nausea - Flu - Headaches and Tempurpedic
I bought my Tempurpedic mattress Nov 2004.  It was very comfortable, but the chemical smell never went away - in fact it got much worse over the months, turning into a musty chemical smell.  This scent would penetrate my sheets and comforter within a few days causing me to change sheets every 2-3 days.  It even penetrated my memory foam pillow, but only the side pressing against the mattress.  The pillow (which is not tempurpedic) doesn't have a smell otherwise.  This smell has caused reoccurring flu-type symptoms over the last few months including nausea, sinus symptoms, increased allergies and extremely bad headaches.  I've been sleeping on my sofa the last week and these symptoms have subsided and I now wake without a migrane. I contacted Tempurpedic, but they  will only replace the mattress, stating that this smell is "unusual".  However, after reading this site, I tend to disagree.   THINK TWICE BEFORE BUYING THIS MATTRESS.  ALTHOUGH COMFORTABLE, IT'S NOT WORTH THE EFFECT THE CHEMICALS HAVE HAD ON MY HEALTH.
Huntington Woods, Michigan
Email: [email protected]
May 2, 2005

Tempsoma from Sam's Club
One ailment after another.  My husband's face swelled up, with his lower lip getting huge.  I developed hives, with horrible itching and a sinus infection that just won't go away.  As an experiment, a few nights ago I tried sleeping in our guest room for a few nights and my hives started to resolve, but not my sinus infection, even after being on antibiotics for a week.  I also had a reaction of facial swelling of my eyes and lower lip, weeks after purchasing the topper and pillows.  I hadn't actually slept on the pillows, only used it for support when sitting up reading.  Thinking back, my face swelling occurred on the one night I actually slept on the pillow.  My eyes would burn when I would sit up and read in bed, as I often do, using the Tempsoma pillows for support.  Very strange.  Two days ago I took back the topper.  Today I'm taking back the pillows.  Save your receipt, as Sam's Club will accept your return, but you need the receipt.  I figured my symptoms were likely related to my topper. I also experienced intense fatigue.  My energy level has dropped to the point where EVERYTHING is a major effort.  It will be interesting to see if that resolves after returning the mattress topper.  I called Sam's Club and informed him of my reaction and also this website, since I think these things are a health risk.
South Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Email: [email protected]
April 30, 2005

Child Develops Severe Nose Bleeds after New Bed Purchase
We bought my son a new bunk bed set, with the mattresses that were on it in the show room. They were Private Collection Solitare. I said we will get a better set later.  This was August of last year. My son started having nose bleeds that kept getting worse. He would wake up with them, have them at school, at bedtime. I took him to the doctor and they couldn't find anything so they made me an appointment with a specialist. By then it was winter and he always sleeps on the sofa in the winter close to the fire place.. He stopped having the nose bleeds and didn't have but a very few all winter. I thought well it was just a weak vein and it must be all better now.. I moved him back to his room two weeks ago and his nose started pouring again. He had four nose bleeds in one week.  What bothered me was when it was bed time they would start.. I put him on the sofa for a week and they stopped.  I went and smelled his mattress and o.m.g it was awful.   I called the company and they replaced them immediately. My son said mom - it is pretty bad I had to loose three gallons of blood before we could figure out it was the mattress.  The reason he had nose bleeds at bedtime - after he eats dinner he would go and lay on his bed and play his games... Soon as he got up it would start. These were not normal nose bleeds. It took the school 30 minutes to get it stopped. He has a swollen gland on his neck.   I didnt think nothing off until I read this website.  I am so glad I found this site - now I know I am not the only one.  Everyone thought I was crazy when I told them it was the mattress.
Wayne, West Virginia
Email: [email protected]
April 25, 2005

Illnesses from Sealy Posturpedic mattress
 On 4/19/05 bought new Sealy pillow top mattress.  Had bad musty smells but thought it was the new sheets. Rewashed and put on others and a different comforter - crawled into bed and musty smell was real bad.  I've been getting sicker by the day with headaches, itchy eyes, sinus problems, dizziness, sore throats, and insomnia. I cant sleep on these or in our room so we pulled out the blow up mattress and now sleeping on it. My bedroom wafts with that musty smell even with a citrus smelling warmer unit plugged in and damp rid tuck under the headboard. Calling RM to return them as we are getting worse by the day. I hope other people can come across this web site before they purchase and go thru what we all have been thru.
Melbourne, Fl
Email: [email protected]
March 24, 2005

Baby Illness and Sealy Posturpedic
We went to Sleep Country with the intent to buy a firm Sealy mattress, and were persuaded to buy a Sealy Pillowtop as we were told by the salesperson, mattress technology has changed you can still have a firm mattress with a soft pillowtop which is even better for your back.  (the salesperson sold us a $1000 more expensive mattress for that lie). Next big problem was the horrible smell and stench that filled up or master bedroom the second day after the mattress had arrived.   The three of us (Mom, Dad and Baby) slept on it the first night, no problems.  Second day put baby on it for his daytime nap. Noticed a stale smell. but didn't know where the smell was coming from. That same day baby got came down with high fever, threw up and next day this developed into a serious bronchial cough and runny nose.  He is sick.   Figured out it was the mattress when I held my nose next to it and took a deep breath.  It was off gassing and we didn't even know we were sleeping on toxic waste, until I looked it up on the internet.   Baby is still sick / upper respiratory tract infection and cough and runny nose. We are going to return this mattress ASAP.
Toronto, Canada
Email: [email protected]
March 20, 2005

Swollen Glands - Pus Pockets in Throat
I bought a Sealy Posturpedic in 2000 and never had any problems. My boyfriend started sleeping on it in 2004 and has developed severe health problems. Constant night sweats to the point where we have to change the sheets and his clothes at least 1 to 2 times a night. He's lost 35  lbs and now has swollen glands and puss pockets on his throat. The Dr.'s have yet to figure out any diagnoses. I found this sight looking up his symptoms. If anyone has had any of the same problems please let me know. I'm very scared for him and need to know if this is the bed or not.
Boise, Id
Email: [email protected]
March 10, 2005
 

Skin allergy to Tempurpedic
We purchased a Tempurpedic two months ago.  My husband suffers from chronic neck and back pain.  He is thrilled with the mattress.  I now have red scaly skin rashes on the parts of my body that touch the mattress.  Obviously we have sheets, but that doesn't seem to matter.  The smell is still strong.  Lately I have awakened with numbness in my hands and arms.  I am returning the mattress immediately after finding this site.  How do I participate in any movement to get this mattress off the market? 
Lexington, KY
Email: [email protected]
March 14, 2005

Infant breaks out in rash!
My mother in law very kindly purchased a "big girl bed" for my two year old complete with mattress and box springs from Spring Air.  About 15 minutes after the mattresses were brought into the house my eyes became irritated and I developed a headache.  After spending about two hours in the room with the mattresses I also noticed that my 9 month old son had a severe rash all over his scalp, face, arms abdomen and diaper area.  We are sending the mattresses back of course.  We took them out of the room and put them in the garage.  I want to go organic but they are soooooo expensive and we couldn't even afford to buy the inexpensive mattress.  Does anyone have any suggestions? 
Bluffton, SC
Email: [email protected]
March 3, 2005

Tempur-pedic is a killer mattress
I have had this mattress just over a year.  I have since been diagnosed with psoriasis and Rosacea, and begun having increased anxiety and loss of sleep. I described it to my children as "my bed seems to be attacking me." I have had increased joint pain and had been consuming at least a quart of water each night for extreme thirst.  In early November I awakened one morning with severe eye pain, unable to open my eyes.  I was seen by an ophthalmologist who treated me for several visits, put punctual plugs in my tear ducts, and put me on several artificial tears, including Restasis.  I discovered by doing Internet research the symptoms of Sjogren's Syndrome and I seemed to have them all. The ophthalmologist then prescribed Salagen for dry mouth and acquiesced to the notion that I had Sjogren's Syndrome.  I went to a Rheumatologist and to my PCP who both told me there was no treatment for Sjogren's Syndrome except for treating the individual symptoms, and they are many.  My PCP gave me pain medication for the terrible eye pain I was having. I also was experiencing increasingly dry, hard stools, and was contemplating going on to laxatives.  Finally, I asked my daughter to "loan" me her mattress for a few days.  After two nights off of the Tempurpedic, I woke up "drooling".  Moisture that I hadn't experienced in months.  My eyes, though still uncomfortable, were not excruciatingly painful.  I had loose stools and normal bowel movements. I don't think it is too early to tell.  I will gladly join any class action suit that is instigated.  Please advise if there is one in progress.
Lithia Springs, GA
Email: [email protected]
March 2, 2005

Headaches - nausea - after purchasing Tempurpedic Mattress
I bought a Tempurpedic Mattress because my husband has a bad back, ever since we owned this mattress I had headaches, red eyes, nausea. I called the company and they told me that it has a petroleum base and that the bed can not cause this. I slept in the spare bedroom and I feel great. They wont take the bed back but I really need to know what's in this bed.  Now I have a concern for my husband as well since we bought the mattress he has been in the hospital and they are still trying to figure out what's going on. thank you
Rutland, VT
Email: [email protected]
March 1, 2005

Laboratory Environment Problems
I test polymer products in a chemical company lab. Whenever someone visits the lab, they say it smells like a glue factory. I am in there all day long (12hour shifts).  The lab is basically enclosed to ensure a 77 degree testing environment.  The first six months there, every morning I woke up and spit blood. That still happens, but not as often. My sensitivity to smelling the chemicals/reactions/acetone is greatly reduced. i never used to get sick, now I get every flu that comes around. At home, if the gas burner on the stove doesn't ignite right away, I get a bad burning sensation in my lungs. I work with approximately 80 chemicals, recreating and testing products.  Any ideas/similar situations/help?
Philadelphia, PA
Email: [email protected]
February 28, 2005

The Tempur-Pedic is gone, and so are my health problems!
About a week or two after receiving our Tempur-Pedic mattress, my eyelids started to swell and become very red, itchy and painful.  I did not yet attribute the problem to the mattress, instead stopping use of all makeup and cleansers.  It also started to spread to my neck and chest.  Still nothing helped so I went to the dermatologist who said I had a contact dermatitis.  After going through every new item that had entered my home since the problem started, I finally realized "THE BED"!  I jumped online and low an behold, found this sight with all of you nice people.  After reading the messages, I realized that my eyes were probably the least of my problems.  I had also experienced a sore throat, dizziness and nausea, but at the time thought that I was just coming down with something.  The scariest thing was that in 2-3 instances, I could not understand simple sentences that I had read or heard!  That night I slept in our guest room and my eyes immediately started to heal.  It has now been about two weeks since we stopped sleeping on the bed and aside from some discoloration (which I suspect may take along time to go away) and only minor itching, I am doing much better.  I have since discovered the long list of toxins that are used to make these beds and realize that this could have been worse had I not discovered the cause.  We really need to find a way to get this info to the public at large.  There must be so many other people suffering but don't know that they're sleeping on the cause.
Oakland, CA
Email: [email protected]
February 23, 2005

Simmons Beautyrest Problems in "Roxborough" Canada
Bought at Sleep Country-Initial strong smell dissipated after several weeks, from second mattress-- was told this would be our only exchange!! (sent first mattress back after hoping it would offgas--never did---horrible nausea and headache every night.) Now basic flu symptoms, sinusitis and interrupted sleep.  Put mattress outside for a few months--basically a write off and will spend money on organic.  Whether smell is related to toxicity doesn't matter---these beds are nasty if you're vulnerable, and we are somehow.  Our daughters twin isn't bad but who knows down the road what health effects may surface--throwing all out and starting organic.
Toronto, ON,  Canada
Email: [email protected]
February 22, 2005

Kingsdown Sleeping Beauty Victoria
Does anyone have comments (positive or negative) on this mattress and box spring?  I am considering purchasing one.  Thanks!  Laura
Ridge, MD
Email: [email protected]
February 20, 2005

Tempur-Pedic Pillow Health Reaction
I have had my Tempurpedic pillow for about a year now and up until the time when my wife moved in with her pillow, I was fine.  I started having mild sinus symptoms, waking with dry mouth, throat hurting, ears feeling prone to infection, back itching when I lay down, coughing up nasty phlem in the morning, etc.  This persisted on and off since last October / November.  On Monday I found this page while doing a cross-reference for persistent allergy symptoms.  I removed the pillows from the room and washed the sheets immediately.  It is now Friday and my symptoms are nothing more than a slightly irritated throat, which I suspect will go away in the next few days. Thanks so much. I love my pillow, due to my back and neck problems, but I would much rather be able to breathe...
Somerville, NJ
Email: sa863c-at-hotmaildotcom
February 18, 2005

Tempurpedic made me sick
I ordered the Tempurpedic mattress because I believed it would alleviate my back problems.  It was comfortable, but after sleeping on it for two nights, I developed a terrible runny nose and sneezing constantly all day until my rib cage hurt.  I ended up taking antihistamines to stop the runny nose.  At first I thought it was a cold, but after sleeping on it the fourth time, I couldn't stop sneezing.   That's when I found this site and could not believe all the problems this mattress could cause.  Immediately, I called the company and asked them to remove the mattress.  I can't believe that the chemicals they use to manufacture this mattress can make you so sick.  They should take it off the market. 
Hawthorne, NJ
Email: [email protected]
February 17, 2005

Any Toxicity Problems with the Stearns and Foster Silver Dream?
My wife and I recently purchased a Stearns and Foster  Silver Dream.  Although  we have only had it one day, it has a strange, chemical smell.  As my wife if pregnant, I am concerned that this smell can be harmful to our unborn baby or us.  I have yet to contact the store; I just wanted some input from visitors to this site.
Studio City, CA
Email: [email protected]
February 14, 2005

EGG CRATE MATTRESS PAD - Materials Request
I have been having some health problems for three plus years. My symptoms started around the time we put the foam egg crate on our bed. I was wondering if anyone else was having these type of symptoms from their bedding. I have been trying to find out exactly what this egg crate pad was made from because I do have a known latex/rubber allergy. Any one have an answer to this please email me. Thanks
Steuben, NY
Email: [email protected]
February 11, 2005

TEMPURPEDIC MATERIALS LIST
Questioning the toxicity of Tempurpedic mattress material? 
Where can I find information relating to dangers of this mattress?
Email: [email protected]
February 10, 2005

Memory foam discoloring flannel sheets
Bought a Cloud 9 memory foam mattress. Have slept on it 6 nights and have not felt right in the morning since. My dogs woke me early this morning. Felt dizzy and vision was blurry, and I don't drink. After breakfast I decided I would change the cotton flannel sheets which were on the bed only 6 days. Pulling back the top sheet exposed what looked like oil staining over the entire surface, including the pillow, which is also made of the same foam. I've tolerated the odor hoping it would dissipate soon. I washed and dried the sheets, THEY'RE STILL STAINED!!! Will remove topper and air in a spare bedroom, until I'm convinced it's safe to sleep on.
East Hampton, NY
Email: [email protected]
February 9, 2005

GET A FLOOR MODEL - Strong Chemical Smell
We ordered a new Serta Back Logic mattress set. When it was delivered, the chemical fumes filled the bedroom. I couldn't even go in. We got the set in the first place because both my husband and I suffer from allergies to dust, and we had heard that a ten-year-old mattress can double its original weight in dust mites and dust, so we were hoping for less morning congestion from a new set. I also have chemical sensitivities that do not allow me to set foot in a carpet store, for example, for more than a few minutes. My sister-in-law shares this problem, which has been tested as an allergy to formaldehyde. When she got a new mattress (she has told me since), she noticed a reaction. When she finally got in touch with the mattress company, they admitted that formaldehyde was used in the manufacture of the mattress to keep the materials supple. I couldn't sleep in the room with the new set, but my husband tried. He woke up with a headache, and he rarely has headaches. He said it was like sleeping with his head over a glue pot all night. These chemicals are volatile, which means that they should evaporate after several (or many) months, so a solution is to select a floor model. The only problem there is that these beds, though they may be as expensive as new beds (ours was) do not carry the same warranty or exchange provisions. You could ask for an exception to be written into your contract, as the salesperson generously did for us, without our even asking.
London, ON, Canada
Email: [email protected]
February 3, 2005

Memory Foam mattress - Soft tissue prosthesis pain
My wife had a total knee replacement 2 years ago.  She, on occasion, had minor pain. She has experienced back pain and felt she would diminish the pain with a memory foam mattress. We purchased one and it was delivered this week.  We unpacked it yesterday and placed it on our bed.  We slept on it last night.  We experienced no smells, but about 3:15 AM, my wife was experiencing severe sharp, needle like pains in the knee.  She took a strong pain reliever and returned to sleep.  She awakened this morning with the pain.  Upon arising and walking around, the pain went away.  I know that the prosthesis does not carry pain, but the tissue and tendons might be affected. -- I had only handled the mattress, unwrapping and placing it on the bed.  Late afternoon I noticed a slight sore throat and during the night I noted some back pain while I slept, but brushed it off as lying in the wrong position.  Changing position seemed to relieve the pain.  This morning the sore throat has intensified.   Recognizing that the only new condition we could identify was the mattress, I went on the Internet and found your website.  I went on expecting to find NO connection and found many people experiencing unusual maladies, apparently associated with mattresses.  Thank you for your website to give voice to we consumers who have few advocates.   The information provides us with invaluable information to enable us to fill the role of primary manager of our health care. An aside, this week also, my sister in law was experiencing leg pains.  I went on the Internet and found that the medication she was taking, Lipitor, had many people suggesting that their leg (and other) pain went away when they discontinued taking the drug.  She stopped immediately and has seen a significant drop in her pain in just three days.   I would appreciate hearing from anyone experiencing pain related to prosthesis, and would be happy to respond to any inquiry entitled "mattress pain"
New Smyrna Beach, FL
Email:  [email protected]
You may call me at 386-428-1002 
Hal
February 1, 2005

Seizure - Fatigue - Toxic Sealy Mattress
My husband and I purchased a new Sealy mattress.  The first night of sleeping on it I had a mild seizure but was unaware of the reason why.  For two more years I had seizures that continued to get more severe. I finally found a medication that stopped them but never connected the link between the mattress and the seizures.  I also developed fybromyalgia and chronic fatigue syndrome and now I suspect that these health problems were probably brought on by the new mattress [we didn't let it off-gas as we did not know any better, but I do remember the odor of the mattress when it was new] and to this day I still suffer so badly that I can not work anymore and my marriage ended because my husband could not handle all my medical problems.  Could a mattress be the culprit to a downward spiraling health conditions? 
Eugene, Oregon
Email: [email protected]
January 29, 2005

I work at a Mattress factory
I work at a mattress factory, which one is not important because materials in almost all mattresses comes from the same suppliers. Regardless whether its Simmons, Sealy, Sterns & Foster etc. Around the time most of these claims have been made there was a problem with outgassing of these foam products. I know I was there and complaining to management. We were told to use it anyway. After customers started complaining management took notice and we were throwing Semi after Semi loads of $1000.00 sets in the landfill. So much for big business listening to employees.
OH
January 19, 2005

Anxiety linked to Tempurpedic mattress
Has anyone else experienced increased anxiety and difficulty sleeping after using the Tempurpedic mattress ? I have had such symptoms and now my son began having the same symptoms after we got him a Tempurpedic mattress a few months ago. Could be the bed or just neurological/genetic?
Thanks.
Columbia, MD
Email: [email protected]
January 18, 2005

Sleep Number Queen Royal Pillowtop w/ Memory Foam by Select
I had purchased this bed because of all the rave reviews and was in need of a new mattress, back in August of 2004.  I had no idea what kind of odor would be coming from that memory foam. The bed was comfortable, but that memory foam was making me sick. We called the manufacturer and they told us the odor would go away. We kept the bed for about a week. It was making me dizzy, lightheaded and sick to my stomach. I noticed that my pajamas would even smell like the memory foam after I slept on it. I could not take that smell anymore and returned it. Luckily I had kept my old mattress and put it back on my bed frame. I still need to get a new mattress but am a little leery of buying a new one because this experience with this one.
January 18, 2005

Memory Foam = Vomiting?
We bought a Novaform Mattress topper yesterday and put it on our bed last night, it was really comfortable and I slept great for the first few hours, despite the "fresh foam smell" we were warned about. Then I woke up feeling nauseous, and started vomiting.  I felt better and returned to bed, but a few minutes later was vomiting again.  I didn't feel better until I tried sleeping on the couch, then my symptoms disappeared. My husband was complaining about the smell and stomach discomfort, but no vomiting.  I don't know if this is coincidental or not, I think we'll air it out for a while longer and give it one more night, and see how we're feeling.  After reading the other experiences here I'm pretty scared though, for us and our pets!  The mattress companies should be required to give some kind of warning! Thank you for providing the information found on this site!
Lafayette, CA
Email: [email protected]
January 15, 2005

Horrible Smell from Mattress Pad
I figured I'd surprise my husband with a foam mattress pad and 2 foam pillows for Christmas 2004.  Immediately, I smelled a horrible, horrible chemical smell.  I called Overstock to inform them of this smell and they suggested I air out the pillows for a few days.  I've done that and the smell is still strong as ever.  I also smell this smell from the mattress pad. I've just stumbled upon this website and in reading all these testimonials I've know got to convince my husband that we are not only returning the pillows, but the mattress pad as well.  I'm very fortunate to have found this website.
Worcester, MA
January 4, 2005

Serta Perfect Sleeper-Chronic Cough and Airway Closing
The day after Thanksgiving (2004) our new Serta Perfect Sleeper was delivered.  That night (Friday) I told my husband it smelled bad. Saturday night I started coughing, constantly.  By Sunday night my airway was closing after a coughing spell.  I have been to the doctor almost everyday.  My regular doctor who has given me many injections of antibiotics, and cortisone shots.  He then sent me to a Lung Doctor who gave me Respiratory Therapy treatments and then they decided they did not know what was wrong with me.  Still every day and night I cough, no fever, no congestion and my airway closes after a coughing spell.  I am now going to an Ear Nose and Throat doctor and my throat culture came back negative however the doctor said my throat is very red swollen and irritated. He put me on 2000 mg twice a day but after 7 days it has done no good.  I started to think what happened when all this started and it was the next day after that new mattress is installed.  I have written to Serta and I am waiting for their reply.  I cough constantly, I gasp for air because my throat is so irritated and swollen.  This has been going on for over 23 days.    I have been told there are pesticides, formaldehyde, and chemicals in these mattresses.  I have never had an allergy to anything, but now I'm not so sure. 
Rancho Cucamonga, CA
Email: [email protected]
December 22, 2004

Memory Foam Pillow Linked to Feeling Bad
I have been using a Memory Foam pillow for a few weeks now. I first noticed a distinct odor within the first 48 hours of using this product. It is to the point now, I do not feel well every morning when I wake up. I thought for sure that with the amount of money I paid for this product I would get something that would make me feel great.  I am thinking that maybe I need more of a natural product. Any ideas or suggestions?
Beverly, IL
Email: [email protected]
December 20, 2004

Nausea - Dizziness - TempurPedic - Is there a safe mattress?

comments: We just had a Tempur Pedic mattress set delivered yesterday. Even with the windows open and the fan on, I was sick (dizzy and nauseous) within 3 hours. We moved the set to the garage and left the house for a couple of hours, and I felt better. After reading comments at this site, we have decided to return the mattress. But what do we get in place of it? Our old set went on the delivery truck, of course! Can anyone help me? We need a replacement ASAP. Thank you!
Zeeland, MI
Email: [email protected]
December 12, 2004

Asthma Attack after buying New Pillow top Bed
Got brand new pillow top beds for myself and my kids, a no-name brand. Spring Coil Swedish Dreams. The very first night I woke up with an asthma attack. I generally have my asthma under control with medications and there were no other triggers. This new bed is going back. I also had itching in my eyes and throat
Rockville Centre, NY
Email: [email protected]
December 10, 2004

Spring Air mattress stinky after being in house for 7 months
We purchased a lower price double mattress set from a local furniture store in Feb. 2004. The mattress was manufactured by Chattan & Wells for Spring Air. We did not smell anything at first and after a few months I started to smell a chemical musty smell. I went crazy trying to figure out what was permeating my bedding and my nose. We both started losing our voice and my husband got itchy every night. I switched laundry detergents but nothing happened. The smell got stronger and stronger after the air conditioner was turned off. My cat started to bite me every night and scratch us. Finally I bought some odor neutralizer and soaked the mattress with it. It did not phase the odor. I could not sleep on the mattress anymore - the smell was awful. We called the furniture store and they called Spring Air. We were informed an inspector would be out in a couple of weeks. We then made our fatal mistake and took the mattress out to the garage to get rid of the smell in our house. Well now we are informed that we have nullified the warranty by storing the mattress in a garage without covering it. The corporate headquarters somehow believes we stored the mattress in the garage for two years uncovered. Hmmmm we have not even owned it for 1 year yet. Give me a break!!! We only want a replacement set that does not stink. Yeah right we just want to scam them out of a $189.00 mattress set. We will never buy any Spring Air product again, nor will anyone that I can convince not too!!!!   
Batavia, OH
Email: [email protected]
December 9, 2004

How Do I join a class action suit?
I previously had become ill from a high end Stearn and Foster mattress. The "Silver Dream".  I have contact the US Gov consumer safety commission, the manufacturer (the CEO of Sealy Company), the retailer. But a suit is needed either against Dow or Foamex to have some muscle. How about TV, say Lou Dobbs?  This needs publicizing, however  why hurt the whole industry if some manufacturers are using fine products. I contacted US Latex in Conn who assured me the purer latex is fine.  The reason for this submission is to join in any group action.
Ann Ilton
Boca Raton, FL
Email: [email protected]
December 7, 2004

Simmons - headaches - nausea - How long does the smell last?
We are now on bed #3.  The first 2 were from Sears (made by Simmons).  The first one had some smell, but hurt my husband's back so we returned it.  The second one smelled so strongly that we got headaches just from walking into the bedroom.  My husband became quite ill (headaches, nausea, numbness in his face, flu-like symptoms).  We had to put the bed in the garage until Sears came to pick it up.  Bed #3 arrived yesterday; it's a Sealy from sleep country, and it doesn't have as strong a smell as the Sears beds did.  However, there is still an odor and we can't sleep in it.  Does anyone know how long it takes until the smell goes away?  It's been 6 weeks now with no bed! 
Calgary, AB, Canada
Email: [email protected]
November 26, 2005

Itchiness - Allegic Skin Reaction - Kingsdown and Serta from Sleepy's
I recently decided to purchase two new mattresses.  My old mattresses were 25 years old and I never detected odor from them even when they were new.  I went to Sleepys and first purchased a Kingsdown set for myself and my daughter. The first night I was awakened by horrid smells from the mattress.  It smelled like benzene.  My skin was itchy - the smell was all over me and the bedding even after putting on 5 layers of covering. I called Sleepys and they said I should air out the mattress for three days.  However, the odor still continued and I slept on the floor.  I spoke to a Sleepys salesperson who recommended I exchange it for a Serta perfect sleeper 8030.  It turns out the smell on that set was 10 times worse than the Kingsdown smell.  I called Sleepys and they said I must air it out for 3 days.  I now started to do some research as to what is on these mattresses and much to my dismay I have discovered that these flame retardants contain PBDE, a carcinogenic material and that according to new Federal regulations, they are put on every mattress.  I also found out that there is boric acid is these mattresses and many other carcinogenic materials.  I am linking a list of the chemicals that are in the mattresses. http://www.lifekind.com/catalog/chemical_glossary.php#o One Sleepys salesperson claimed the mattresses contained no chemicals.  The company claimed that all the mattresses were sprayed.  Please do your research before you buy since I am now out $1600.
Stony Brook, NY
Email: [email protected]
November 23, 2004

Achy - Diarrhetic - TEMPURPEDIC Problems
I bought a King size Tempur-pedic mattress about 3 weeks ago on Oct 26, 2004.  I'm in Fort Lauderdale, Florida and I can leave wide open my sliding glass door along with a window on the opposite side of the room.  The mattress's smell in the bedroom would be absolutely nauseating if the air couldn't pass through and the ceiling fan was not left on all the time.  I'm in very good health and am 34, but for the past week have woken up achy in the bones, sometimes with a headache and for the last 4 days have been diarrhetic.
 
>From Tempurpedic's website:
"The odor will dissipate as the mattress cells are manipulated through regular use. Due to the extremely high density of the TEMPUR material, it may take a few days for this to happen. You can speed the dissipation somewhat by removing the Classic or the Deluxe cover, and leaving it off for a few days. This will allow the mattress to breathe more freely as it is used, and the odor will go away fairly quickly."
 
I have left the cover off for 5 days with the ceiling fan on high and all windows open.  I rolled around on the mattress to purge the cells of trapped air.  As of 3 weeks after the purchase, the smell is as strong as day one. I am pasting from further down in this guestbook were another writer posted  in September 2002, the most widely read consumer magazine in Germany; "�ko Test", tested approx. 20 different mattresses for toxic chemicals. TEMPUR WAS THE WORST. "  I am now attempting to return my mattress and am interested in joining the mentioned class action lawsuit that will ultimately ensue.
 
Brendan Gill
Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Email: [email protected]
November 16, 2004

Dizziness - Nausea - Memory Foam Mattress Topper
I installed a memory foam mattress topper (Visco-elastic foam) on my bed several nights ago and have woke up extremely dizzy every morning since.  This passes after about an hour out of bed, and nothing else in my room has changed to account for this.  This dizziness leads to nausea and really makes mornings difficult.  I'm having trouble finding other internet accounts of this problem, so thought I'd post it here as a warning.  
Salt Lake City, Utah
Email: [email protected]
November 16, 2004

Swollen Eyes - Mild Neurological Complications - Tempur-pedic
After laying on the Tempurpedic mattress several times, we decided to buy one.  It was one of the most comfortable mattresses we tried.  Fortunately for me, they didn't have the mattress in stock so we ordered one.  It came with two free tempur-pedic pillows which we took home that day.  I slept on mine that night and woke up in the morning with my eyes almost swollen shut and feeling sort of dull (almost like a mild hang-over).  This was just after one night.  We are changing our order today.  I am a little disappointed because I really did think the mattress was quite comfortable.  My suggestion would be that anyone considering buying one may want to first purchase a pillow (the least expensive tempur-pedic pillow is $125).  I only suggest this because most mattress stores only offer store credit, not money-back guarantee. 
Middletown, RI
November 14, 2004

Headaches - Sore Throat - TEMPURPEDIC DISASTER
My husband and I bought a Tempurpedic bed a little over a month ago. We both could hardly believe the odor when it was delivered. I immediately got a headache and felt light-headed. We had given our only bed to the delivery men when they delivered the Tempurpedic Mattress so that night we slept on the bed. I woke up several times due to the terrible odor. By morning I had a severe headache, sore throat, and felt terrible. Things have gone from bad to worse. After two weeks I began to feel itchy all over while laying in the bed. After three weeks I began wheezing which I have never done before in my life. Two weeks ago I got my period and it has not stopped. I am hemorrhaging from my uterus along with an intensification of all the previous symptoms. My lungs feel raw, my throat hurts intensely all day, my thoughts feel foggy, and I am now bleeding nonstop.  I called the company about 10 days ago and they assured me the bed was nontoxic. I have been second guessing myself because my husband's reaction has just been a disgust with the odor with little other symptoms. We both are grateful to have a comfortable bed, so I have been hoping this would all pass. Today I felt so sick and weak I have been searching the internet to try to see if anybody else was having trouble. Thanks for all your feedback. You may have saved my life. I am hoping I can recover. I can hardly remember what it feels like to be well. I will be calling the company to return the bed and have decided to get a Natural bed.  Please contact me if anyone knows anything regarding any class action lawsuits against Tempurpedic.
McCormick, SC
Email: [email protected]
November 14, 2004

Dizziness - Nausea - Tempur-Pedic Pillows
Yesterday my wife and I purchased 2 queen-size Tempur-Pedic pillows in hopes of relieving our long-term neck problems. We were told that the odor would dissipate within a few days. They were extremely comfortable so we accepted the "temporary" toxic odor.  I awoke at 3:00 a.m gasping for breath and was VERY dizzy. I went back to sleep (or passed out) and within an hour the situation had worsened. I threw the pillow off the bed and tried to get back to sleep. At this point, I felt extreme nausea and light-headedness. When I attempted to get out of bed, I passed out and luckily fell back onto the mattress avoiding any injury. My wife experienced no problem (yet).  They're going back to the store today and if they don't offer a refund, we will unfortunately dispose of them in the nearest landfill. What a waste of $180.00!!!!
Cooperstown, NY
Email: [email protected]
November 11, 2004

Backaches - Allergy - Headache Simmons Beautyrest mattresses
After suffering from severe backaches for the past 1.5 years, I decided to look up the brand on the net to see if there are recalls or something related to the worst backaches in my life, to the point I am no longer able to drive myself any further than 5 miles away.  My husband, a physician also has horrendous backache upon waking up not to mention we've had sinus and severe allergy and headache since this bed from hell entered our lives. How are they allowed to get away with all this???? 
Pine Bush, NY
Email: [email protected]
November 10, 2004

Breathing Problems - Sealy Posterpedic Mattress
I brought the  new mattress  ever since  I been having trouble breathing and itchy feeling when go to bed,  I have  been trying to air out . I took the pillows out the room, it seem to help some. we are  not  able to return it since it was a sale. next time when i buy a mattress I will buy a chemical free one. Don't make the same mistake like we did.
Pasadena, MD
Email: [email protected]
November 9, 2004

Chronic Cough,
 I have a showroom with the healthiest beds and pillows you could find on this planet. In order to be fair I will not comment on what brand of beds I sell, I just want to touch on a few (8) personal customers who have suffered from chronic coughs, while they have spent their nights on Memory foam type pillows.  These customers changed their pillows to all natural downpillows, and in each and every single case they reported back the fact that in about 2-4 weeks their coughs were gone. Though we don't know as of yet at what point the coughs will be reversible, it may depend on how much time you have spent on the memory foam product. Also do NOT get fooled regarding Natural Latex. That a mattress could be built from 100% natural Latex is a bold faced lie, and current laws of the United States provides the loop hole. I am responding to this website because I am so angry that the general public is being mislead and lied to by mattress manufacturers. A lot of people can stand the chemicals stuffed in our beds, others cannot, and you deserve to know the truth as a consumer!  If a store or manufacturer shy's away from your questions about what is inside their flame retardant, percentage of chemicals in their "All Natural Latex Beds" etc. Be aware, the solution to your problems is as simple as Nature itself!
Best of luck! Los Angeles, CA
Email: [email protected]

Wheezing - runny nose - Tempurpedic Is a Killer
I bought (2) queen size pillows. Detected no odor in store from them. However once taken out of box and plastic I caught the smell right away but at first was not alarmed. 1st night I did not detect anything other than the smell. Ironically 2nd day was my eye appointment. He said I had an allergy in my eyes and it was quite bad and he put me on steroid drops. I had never had this before. 2nd night I started wheezing, runny nose, swollen eyes, throat closed up, ringing in my ears, legs were jerking, itchies from hell in my hair, when I stood up I passed out. My husband tried to help me, he too fainted! Our room smelled like rotten eggs until we were smart enough to figure out it was gas from the pillows and threw them out. He recovered faster than I did. I am still sick and the pillows have been gone from our bedroom for 4 days now. I have to see a Pulmonary, Allergist and Neurologist doctor to see if there has been any long term damage.  After all I have read on here, I am convinced I am not alone and something should be done. Anyone can E-mail me that wants to. I have reported Tempurpedic to the "U.S. Consumer Safety Product Comm." and I hope more people do so who are being affected from being made sick by the gassing-out from these chemicals.
Ormond Beach, Florida
Email: [email protected]
October 19, 2004

Tempur-Pedic-  Smell and allergy symptoms
We purchased a Tempur-Pedic mattress about two weeks ago, and the first night it had a real bad smell, the smell seemed to get worse from our Body Heat and when I turned on the Electric Blanket.  I am prone to allergies, and within 2-3 nights I developed substantially increased coughing and sinus problems and tight breathing, I have a mild asthma problem.  I immediately suspected the bed, and so did my Doctor.  I slept in another bedroom just one night and the symptoms got considerably better the next day.  We are sending the mattress back, and hoping a Latex mattress will work.  Got some information from an environmental Doctor I have gone to and that is one type they recommended.  Unfortunately the store only has one brand, and they will exchange, but won't refund. Sleep Country? Hope it works out.
Seattle,  WA
Email: [email protected]
October 16, 2004

Serta "Roseberry" with fire-blocker had intolerable smell
We bought a new, firm "Roseberry" Serta Perfect Sleeper priced at about $1,000 and were very disappointed that the smell of it made it impossible to even be in our bedroom.  After 2 weeks of "outgassing" it with the windows open and fans on and very little progress, meanwhile with us sleeping in guest rooms, the store exchanged it for a floor model which has outgassed for 5 months in the store.  This second bed seemed to have no smell in the store, but at home it's noticeable that there's a strong smell somewhat like drywall dust. After one night of sleeping on it, I know I'll either have to return it or zip it completey up in an impermeable mattress cover.  So far the store has been very helpful and one worker told me that another person had returned the same bed model due to smell. 
Maui, HI
Email: [email protected]
October 14, 2004

TempurPedic causing hives?
My husband and I accepted delivery of our new Tempur-Pedic mattress just a few days ago.  We were so excited about the new sleep experience.  Since my first exposure to the bed, however, (just walking into the room where it is located), hives began to appear on my body.  Let me emphasize, I hadn't even SLEPT on it yet!  I immediately noticed the chemical smell in the bedroom and mentioned it to my husband.  He said it would dissipate in a few days. Since I had experienced a period of hives a few years earlier and I suffer from multiple allergies, I assumed the hives were being caused by something I ate.  I attributed the sore throat and cough to an on-coming cold --  until I started reading the stories on this website!  I proceeded to sleep on the bed for the next couple of nights and for the past few days, I have had moderate to severe hives all over my body as well as a sore throat and dry cough. (I am typing this at 4 am and have been up since 12:30 am because of the hives.) My husband has been sleeping wonderfully on the bed, but I think we will likely return it after all I have read here.  Thank you everyone for helping me figure out what is causing my misery.
Maryland, USA
Email: [email protected]
October 9, 2004

Five Days Five Migraines, Constant Sore Throat And Swollen Eyes
I just purchased a Sealy pillow top mattress five days ago...I have been deathly ill with massive migraines difficulty breathing sore throat itchy eyes and extreme stomach pains for some unknown reason I decided to type in Sealy toxic fumes and this web site appeared I am returning the mattress tomorrow and am told by the salesman that a natural latex material would be better for me ...Wow buyer beware.
ALBANY, NY
Email: [email protected]
October 8, 2004

How about a solution.
I'm in the market for a new mattress and I'm concerned about these issues. Has anyone considered a latex mattress. It would seem that a 100% natural latex might be the answer. Make sure it's the 100% natural though, some latex contain chemical additives.
Carlbad, Ca
Email: [email protected]
October 7, 2004

Simmons Beauty Rest Nightmare
I purchased a king size Simmons Beauty Rest mattress and box springs in March of 2003 and 16 months later I'm still living the nightmare.  Since purchasing the mattress and boxspring I have experienced the following symptoms: a nervous and anxious feeling, unable to sleep, irritable, tingling in the hands and head and a stuffed up nose.  I have been to 3 different doctors trying to find out the cause, I have had my ducts cleaned in my house, had the furnace and central air cleaned and inspected and I have had the air tested in my house for mold - all to no avail.  I have since moved the Simmons mattress and box spring to the garage with plastic around it and my symptoms have gone away.  But now I'm out a bed and sleeping on the sofa or a hide away bed.  Is there anything that can be done - the warranty only lasts for a year!    
Castle Shannon, PA
Allegheny
Email: [email protected]

Cannon Mattress - Itching, Rashes, Sleeplessness, Swollen Eyes
About a week after I started sleeping in my new mattress (bought at mattress.com) I began developing symptoms.  I didn't put it together until yesterday, but my body is covered in a terrible rash.  I didn't sleep in my bed for the first time last night, and it was the first time since I bought my bed that I didn't itch throughout the night.  This is a NIGHTMARE!  Why in the world would they put such terrible chemicals in my bed?  I know its the bed because nothing else in my lifestyle has changed.  The rash is all over my body, including my scalp.  My eyes are swollen when I wake up, I'm extremely tired, and I wake up with sore throats.  I'm seriously depressed because I can't get any sleep and I just spent 500 dollars on this new bed.  I'm a student, so buying a new bed right away is going to be difficult.  I guess I'll just have to sleep on the couch.  Does anyone else have symptoms like this?
Emeryville, CA
Email: [email protected]