You’ve invested in blackout curtains, perfected your bedtime routine, and even put your phone away an hour before bed. But if you’re still struggling with poor sleep, the problem might be lurking in the air, fabrics, and furniture around you.
The average bedroom is a silent source of chemical exposure, with synthetic materials and everyday items releasing toxins that can disrupt your rest and your health.
Here are five common — but often overlooked — culprits.
1. Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) in Mattresses and Furniture
VOCs are chemicals emitted as gases from certain solids and liquids. Many mattresses, especially those made with polyurethane foam or memory foam, off-gas VOCs for months or even years after production.
Linked to:
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Headaches
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Allergic reactions
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Sleep disruption
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Long-term health issues with chronic exposure
Better choice: The Snoozel Green Organic Mattress is made with GOLS-certified organic latex, organic wool, and organic cotton — no foams, glues, or harmful adhesives.
2. Flame Retardants in Upholstery and Bedding
Many upholstered bed frames, pillows, and mattresses are treated with flame retardants such as PBDEs (polybrominated diphenyl ethers). These chemicals can accumulate in dust and be inhaled while you sleep.
According to the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, flame retardants have been linked to hormonal disruption and developmental issues.
Better choice: Choose untreated natural fibres, organic wool (a natural flame barrier), and avoid synthetic blends.
3. Formaldehyde in Sheets, Carpets, and Wood Products
Formaldehyde is a known irritant and probable carcinogen often used in fabric finishes to reduce wrinkles and in engineered wood products like MDF.
Signs it’s in your space:
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“No-iron” or “wrinkle-free” labels on sheets
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Strong “new carpet” or furniture smells
Better choice: GOTS-certified organic cotton bedding from Snoozel Green is never treated with formaldehyde or synthetic softeners.
4. Synthetic Fragrances in Candles, Air Fresheners, and Detergents
Those soothing lavender sprays and scented candles may actually be undermining your sleep. Synthetic fragrances can contain phthalates and other chemicals known to interfere with hormone balance and respiratory health.
Better choice:
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Use fragrance-free or essential oil-based detergents
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Choose beeswax or soy candles scented with organic essential oils
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Ventilate your space regularly
5. Dust and Mould in Soft Furnishings and Mattresses
Dust mites thrive in mattresses, carpets, and upholstery — and their waste is a common allergen. Mould, meanwhile, can grow undetected in humid environments, especially in foam mattresses that trap moisture.
Symptoms to watch for:
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Congestion
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Itchy eyes
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Waking up tired or groggy despite a full night’s sleep
Better choice: Natural latex is naturally resistant to dust mites and mould. Our breathable, organic mattress design prevents moisture build-up and keeps allergens at bay.
Detox Your Bedroom, Deepen Your Sleep
You don’t need to replace everything overnight. But by identifying and removing key sources of toxins — especially in your mattress and bedding — you can significantly improve the air quality and healthiness of your sleep environment.
At Snoozel Green, our products are designed to give you peace of mind while you rest, using only the cleanest, most responsibly sourced materials.
Looking for a truly clean sleep? Explore our range of toxin-free mattresses and bedding and breathe easier every night.