When choosing mattresses, sheets, and duvets
It’s best to avoid wrinkle-resistant materials, which are treated with chemicals. Additionally, some wools are treated with moth repellents that are difficult to remove.
Healthy Alternatives:
Bedding made of 100% natural fibres such as cotton, hemp, and linen.
DIY:
This same washing technique can be applied to clothing.
You can buy fabric by the metre to make your own bedding without chemicals.
Materials/toxins to avoid in the products you choose:
Formaldehyde: carcinogen, irritant to eyes and respiratory tract, respiratory sensitizer
Foams: release VOCs
Plastics (polyester): may contain hydrocarbons, phthalates and bisphenol A, which are endocrine disruptors.
Flame retardant chemicals: toxic to humans, release VOCs, and have possible harmful effects on the nervous and hormonal systems
Dyes: possible carcinogens, skin sensitizers, photosensitizers and mutagens