Does Purple Mattress Have Fiberglass? What You Need To Know

Fiberglass is a composite material that contains tiny, flexible glass fibers mixed with plastic resin. The glass fibers are included to give this material added strength, while the resin is used to hold everything together and protect the fibers.

Because of its strength, durability, and resistance to corrosion and fire, fiberglass has many practical commercial uses. It is often used as insulation in appliances and buildings, as well as in construction, automotive, and marine products.

Fiberglass is even used in some household items like mattresses, which brings us to the subject of this article: Is there fiberglass in Purple mattresses?

Why People Are Concerned About Fiberglass in Mattresses

Despite its practical uses, fiberglass has also raised some concerns regarding its potential toxicity to humans. A 2013 study revealed that extended exposure to fiberglass may cause skin and eye irritation along with respiratory conditions like asthma or bronchitis [1].

On the other hand, a report by the Illinois Department of Public Health concluded that brief exposure to fiberglass likely won’t cause serious side effects if proper precautions are taken [2].

Because the toxic potential is there, the following questions might become very real concerns: Does my mattress have fiberglass? Do all mattresses have fiberglass? Or specifically: what mattress has fiberglass? So, let’s address them.

Does the Purple Mattress Contain Fiberglass?

No, according to the official website, Purple mattresses do not contain any fiberglass in either their mattress or in the flame barrier that is required by law to make their mattresses flame retardant.

Instead, they use a fiberglass-free, non-toxic flame barrier made of a combination of rayon, polyester, and silica, all of which meet federal fire safety standards and do not pose health risks.

What Is the Purple Mattress Made Of?

The primary material used in Purple mattresses is a patented proprietary blend known as hyper-elastic polymer, which the company refers to as the GelFlex Grid. This grid is an extremely responsive material that is designed to provide optimum pressure relief and cradling support.

Purple mattresses also contain additional support layers of CertiPUR-US certified polyurethane foams of different densities for added comfort and pressure relief. There is also a breathable, non-toxic, stretchy cover made of a blend of polyester, spandex, and other materials that is designed for comfort and superior airflow.

In Purple hybrid mattresses, the innersprings are made of steel coils, each individually encased in a breathable knit fabric to enhance durability and increase airflow.

Purple’s Safety and Flame Retardant Standards

As required by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, the Purple mattress company meets the required federal standards to make their mattresses and mattress protectors flame retardant. In doing so, Purple does not use any harmful, toxic chemicals or fiberglass material.

How To Verify Mattress Materials Before You Buy

Here is a list of things to consider to ensure you’re getting a quality mattress.

Tips on How To Check for Fiberglass in Any Mattress

• Read the mattress label carefully to check for any mention of fiberglass, glass fibers, glass wool, or silica, especially when considering latex mattresses or other foam types.
• Beware of Greenwashing or misleading statements that make a product seem eco-friendly when it isn’t.
• Look carefully at the inner cover section on the label to see if fiberglass was used in the inner layers of the mattress.
• If there is a “Do not remove the cover” warning, that means fiberglass was likely used in the fire barrier of the mattress.
• Research the manufacturer’s website. If you can’t find any info stating fiberglass wasn’t used, then contact them directly.

Questions To Ask Customer Service or Focus on in Product Reviews

Getting clear answers on materials helps you pick a mattress that’s safe, durable, and right for your sleep needs. Here are key questions to ask customer service or look for in online reviews to verify exactly what’s inside before you buy:

• “What are all the materials used in each layer, from top to bottom?” (This ensures they list everything, not just the highlights.)
• “Are there any fiberglass components, and if so, where are they located?” (Fiberglass can cause irritation if it escapes the cover.)
• “Are the foams CertiPUR-US® certified, and what other certifications do the materials have?” (Certifications indicate materials are free from harmful chemicals and meet certain standards.)
• “Is the cover removable and washable, and what is it made of?” (Important for cleaning and understanding potential cooling properties.)
• “What type of coils are used (e.g., pocketed, open coil), and what is their gauge or count?” (For hybrid or innerspring mattresses, this affects support and durability.)
• “Are there any proprietary foams or materials, and can you explain their composition?” (Some mattress companies use unique names; understand what they are.)

Alternatives and Comparable Brands Without Fiberglass

Does Purple have fiberglass? Now we know it doesn’t. So, what are some other mattress brands that are also fiberglass-free?

• Helix uses a fiberglass-free fire barrier made of rayon fiber derived from cellulose (bamboo fiber).
• Leesa does not use fiberglass in any of its mattresses. Instead, they use a chemical-free rayon barrier made from 100% regenerated cellulose.
• Nolah mattresses are also fiberglass-free, using materials like non-woven hydrated silica, rayon, polyester, cotton, and GOTS organic wool in their fire barriers.
• PlushBeds uses a fiberglass-free fire barrier made of natural plant fibers.

What To Do if You Suspect Fiberglass in Your Mattress

We’ll walk you through what you need to do when you suspect fiberglass in your mattress and how to get rid of it. They include:

Warning Signs of Fiberglass Leaks

• Visual signs can be seen in the form of shiny, reflective particles that can be seen glittering on the surface of the mattress.
• Damage to the mattress cover, such as tears or holes, can expose the hidden fiberglass fire layer underneath in the form of shiny reflective particles.

Steps To Take if You Suspect a Fiberglass Leak

• Stop using the mattress.
• Get protection in the form of gloves, goggles, and masks to avoid directly coming in contact with any fiberglass while inspecting.
• For self-cleaning, use a vacuum with a HEPA filter, damp cloths to prevent the particles from becoming airborne, and lint rollers to remove surface particles.
• Consider a professional cleaning service specializing in the removal of hazardous materials.

Expert Insights

According to federal law, a fiberglass shield is allowed to be used in mattresses as a fire-resistant inner layer if it can pass a federal safety test where the char length of a lit cigarette placed on it does not exceed 2” in any direction [3].

While fiberglass is legal to use as a flame retardant in mattresses, according to a 2022 study, the use of fiberglass in mattress covers poses a potential health risk if these materials are not adequately covered [4].

On and after January 1, 2027, Assembly Bill 1059 will take effect in the state of California, prohibiting the manufacture, sale, or distribution of any mattress or upholstered furniture containing textile fiberglass [5].

FAQs on the Purple Mattress Brand

These are some questions that readers have been asking regarding Purple mattresses and fiberglass.

What Materials Are Used Inside a Purple Mattress?

Purple mattresses are constructed of a GelFlex grid consisting of hyper-elastic polymer, additional layers of CertiPUR-US certified polyfoam, and fabric-wrapped steel coils. The fire shields in Purple mattresses are made from a combination of rayon, polyester, and silica.

Is the Purple Mattress Safe and Non-Toxic?

Are Purple mattresses toxic? All the foams used in Purple mattresses are CertiPUR-US certified materials, ensuring no harmful chemicals like ozone depleters, heavy metals, flame retardants, or formaldehyde are present. This commitment to safety extends to their accessories; even a mattress protector from Purple is designed with your health in mind.

Why Do Some Mattresses Have Fiberglass?

Some mattresses contain fiberglass because U.S. law mandates built-in flame barriers, and fiberglass offers an inexpensive way to comply and keep prices down. However, many consumers now seek a fiberglass-free mattress due to health concerns, leading manufacturers to explore alternative flame retardants.

How Can I Find Out if My Purple Mattress Has Fiberglass?

To verify if your mattress contains fiberglass, check the label for “glass fiber,” “glass wool,” or similar terms. Purple’s official website also states they use only 100% safe, non-toxic mattress materials, aligning with their commitment to health and safety.

Conclusion: Does Purple Mattress Have Fiberglass?

It may have seemed at the beginning of this article that Purple was going to be a target by asking the question, “Does Purple mattress have fiberglass?”

Yet, now that we’re done, you can see that not only do Purple mattresses not contain fiberglass, but Purple mattress ratings by customers are also quite good.

So, if you’re looking for a comfortable, dependable mattress that does not contain any harmful chemicals or substances, a Purple mattress is not only a comfortable choice, but a healthy one.