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I know SIDS comes up a lot here, as it is a major concern of all

parents. In fact, it was the most terrifying thought for me after

having my baby. I think it could be more than one thing that cause it,

including vaccines. I just read, however, on a popular SIDS web site

that there is no correlation between vaccines and SIDS. It's funny to

think that a baby sleeping on their stomach is a risk factor, yet

injecting them with poison is not, where is the logic in this?

So, I was wondering if anyone had any REAL information or links on SIDS

and the correlation with vaccines. Thanks.

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trying to find more info on toxic mattresses and wondering if i need to spend

260 for a non-toxic mattress...any info would be appreciated. check out the

article below:

5 Problems With Baby Mattresses By Barry Cik, PE, CP, DEE, QEP,

REM, CHMM | Published 04/26/2006 | Environmental Health , Parenting ,

Pregnancy, Birth and Newborn Care |

Barry Cik, PE, CP, DEE, QEP, REM, CHMM

Chief Engineer, G.E.M. Testing & Engineering Labs PE - Registered Professional

Engineer, State of Ohio CP - Certified Professional, State of Ohio EPA VAP DEE -

Board Certified Environmental Engineer, American Academy of Environmental

Engineers QEP - Qualified Environmental Professional, Institute of Professional

Environmental Practice REM - Registered Environmental Manager, National Registry

of Environmental Professionals CHMM - Certified Hazardous Materials Manager,

Master Level, Institute Hazardous Mtrls Mgmt

View all articles by Barry Cik, PE, CP, DEE, QEP, REM, CHMM

5 Problems with Baby Mattresses

Introduction

This report, " Five Problems With Baby Mattresses, " is intended to highlight

the potential dangers of using baby mattresses composed of vinyl (polyvinyl

chloride or PVC), phthalates, polyurethane foam, harsh chemical fire retardants,

and other chemical additives.

It is becoming increasingly clear that toxic chemicals are affecting our

children. A primary source of toxic chemicals in the environment of a child

during its first few years of life is the mattress and bedding. Removing

potentially harmful chemicals from these prominent objects represents a prudent

approach for concerned parents and their doctors.

Here is an overview of some specific concerns with baby mattresses:

o Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC), the surface material used in nearly all baby

mattresses, is widely considered to be one of the most toxic and environmentally

unfriendly plastics in use today.

o Phthalates, associated with asthma, reproductive effects, and cancer, make up

30% by weight of the PVC surface of a typical baby mattress. Phthalates are not

bound to the plastic and leach out.

o The FDA and Consumer Product Safety Commission have issued general warnings

regarding the use of phthalates, yet the PVC surfaces of baby mattresses still

contain phthalates.

o DEHP (the most commonly used phthalate in baby mattresses), together with

several other phthalates, have already been banned across Europe for use in many

children's products.

o The PVC surface of a typical baby mattress is also treated with toxic fire

retardant chemicals such as antimony. Various biocides are often added as well.

o Polyurethane foam, the predominant filling material used in baby mattresses,

typically contains various problematic ingredients including chemical catalysts,

surfactants, emulsifiers, pigments, and other chemical additives. These

frequently include formaldehyde, benzene, toluene, and other well established

toxic chemicals such as organotin compounds.

o Polyurethane foam (essentially solid petroleum) is extremely flammable. To

combat this hazard, industrial toxic fire retardants are added. The most common

chemical fire retardant used to treat polyurethane foam has been pentaBDE, a

toxin associated with hyperactivity and neuro-behavioral alterations. PentaBDE

is not bound to the foam, and leaches out into the surrounding air.

o PentaBDE has recently been banned in Europe. It has also been banned by the

State of California as of 2006. However, there is currently no planned

government action to recall the millions of baby mattresses presently in use

that contain pentaBDE.

o Other common materials found in baby mattresses include " shoddy " pads made

from scraps swept off the floor of textile mills or " hair " pads made from pig

hair.

o Children are far more vulnerable to toxic chemicals than adults, especially

within their first few years of life. Considering that children spend over 50%

of their early life on a baby mattress, it would be prudent to use materials

that don't contain such dangerous chemicals.

The NaturePedic® No-Compromise™ Baby Mattress, designed by G.E.M. Testing &

Engineering Labs, addresses these and other issues.

Disclosures and Disclaimers: G.E.M. Testing & Engineering Labs serves in the

capacity of technical consultant to NaturePedic. Barry A. Cik, a quarter century

veteran in the field of environmental engineering, and chief engineer at G.E.M.

Testing & Engineering Labs, formulated the NaturePedic design. Credentials,

licenses, and certifications are listed for identification purposes only. All

informational sources presented here are presumed to be reliable. This report is

not intended to engage in medical research or the diagnosis or treatment of any

disease. For medical related questions, please follow the advice of your

physician.

The Five Problems with Baby Mattresses

Over the last 30+ years, baby mattress materials have been replaced with cheap

petroleum-based synthetics. Nearly all baby mattresses today contain

polyurethane foam, vinyl (PVC), phthalates, chemical fire retardants, and an

extensive list of added industrial chemicals. Recent studies have questioned the

use of these materials. Some of these chemicals have even been shown to leach

out into the surrounding air.

" The results of the study demonstrated that some crib mattresses emitted

mixtures of chemicals capable of causing respiratory-tract irritation and

generating combinations of SI [sensory irritation], PI [pulminary irritation]

and AFL [airflow limitation]... chemicals involved in the manufacture of the

mattress and cover... have toxic properties... to lung, liver, and brain...

respiratory tract irritants... carcinogenic and neurotoxic. "

(, lind C., PhD, " Respiratory Toxicity of Mattress Emissions in

Mice. " Archives of Environmental Health Jan. 2000. www.andersonlaboratories.com)

Babies and toddlers spend 10-14 hours a day sleeping and playing on a baby

mattress. Furthermore, a child's every breath inhales air no more than six

inches away from these chemicals. As such, for the first few years of a child's

life, the mattress is the single most prominent object in the child's

environment.

Problem #1: The Vinyl/PVC surface of a typical baby mattress consists of 30%

phthalates that can leach out into your child's crib

In order to make the vinyl surface of a typical baby mattress soft and

flexible, phthalate plasticizers are added (most commonly DEHP). Phthalates

typically account for 30% by weight of the vinyl surface of a typical baby

mattress.

" Phthalates are animal carcinogens and can cause fetal death, malformations,

and reproductive toxicity in laboratory animals... children may be at higher

risk of adverse effects of phthalates because of anticipated higher exposures

during a time of developmental and physiologic immaturity... Phthalates are not

covalently bound to the plastic matrix and leach out of PVC... "

(Shea, M. MD MPH and the Committee on Environmental Health. " Pediatric

Exposure and Potential Toxicity of Phthalate Plasticizers. " American Academy of

Pediatrics. Pediatrics Volume 111 No. 6. June 2003. Pg. 1467.

http://aappolicy.aappublications.org/cgi/content/full/pediatrics;111/6/1467)

" Although DEHP plasticizes numerous products, roughly 95% of the current

production is used in polyvinyl chloride (PVC) (National Toxicology Program

2003), where it typically constitutes 30% of PVC by weight... phthalate (DEHP)

was associated with asthma… This study shows that phthalates, within the range

of what is normally found in indoor environments, are associated with allergic

symptoms in children. "

(Bornehag, Carl-Gustaf, et al. " The Association Between Asthma and Allergic

Symptoms in Children and Phthalates in House Dusts. " National Institute of

Environmental Health Sciences. Environmental Health Perspectives. Oct 2004.

http://ehp.niehs.nih.gov/docs/2004/7187/abstract.html?section=children)

A study of phthalates in hospital settings revealed the following:

" Other potential respiratory exposures to DEHP in the NICU include off-gassing

from... mattress covers... DEHP exposures continue when the neonate arrives at

home... off-gassing of indoor vinyl products. "

(Brody, Charlotte. " Neonatal Exposure to DEHP and Opportunites for Prevention. "

Health Care Without Harm. July 13, 2000.

http://www.noharm.org/details.cfm?type=document & id=379)

" The CDC report provides definitive evidence that phthalates in soft PVC

plastic are getting into virtually all of our bodies. "

(Brody, Charlotte. " New CDC Report Finds Phthalates and Other Chemicals Commonly

Used in Hospitals

at Highest Levels in Children. " Health Care Without Harm. February 5, 2005.

http://www.noharm.org/details.cfm?type=document & id=707)

In 1998, the National Environmental Trust, together with other environmental

groups, asked the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) to ban the use of

polyvinyl chloride (PVC) in products intended for children under age five. While

the CPSC could not entirely ban PVC, they recently asked manufacturers of baby

products to voluntarily discontinue the use of phthalate plasticizers. Most

manufacturers are removing phthalates from toys (now generally made only with

hard PVC plastic). However, phthalates are not currently being removed from baby

mattresses (as this would turn the mattress surface into hard plastic and make

it unusable).

Problem #2: The PVC surface of a typical baby mattress presents unusually high

health risks

All plastics are not created equal. PVC is made from vinyl chloride, which is

a combination of petroleum (ethylene) and chlorine. This particular plastic is

far more toxic than the plastic bag you might use to pack your lunch.

" The chemical composition of PVC includes two features. First, PVC is the only

plastic that contains chlorine... Second, plasticizers, i.e., additives, are

used in PVC, mostly diethyl hexyl phthalate (DEHP), from 0 to almost 50% of the

weight... In conclusion, in our case-control study of testicular cancer, a

somewhat surprisingly high risk was observed for exposure to PVC plastics. "

(Hardell, Lennart, et al. " Occupational Exposure to Polyvinyl Chloride as a Risk

Factor for Testicular Cancer Evaluated in a Case-Control Study. " International

Journal of Cancer. 73, 828-830 1997.

www.mindfully.org/Pesticide/Occupational-Exposure-PVC.htm. See also National

Library of Medicine)

In a study that made the front page of USA today, phthalates were linked to

reproductive effects:

Consistent toxicologic evidence indicates association between several of these

phthalate esters and reproductive effects... DEHP has been shown to... reduce

testosterone... commonly used phthalates may undervirilize humans "

(Swan, et al, " Decrease in Anogenital Distance Among Male Infants with Prenatal

Phthalate Exposure. " University of Rochester School of Medicine, National

Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Environmental Health Perspectives,

June, 2005. www.findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_m0CYP/is_8_113/ai_n15343367)

Some of the chemicals frequently added to the PVC surface of a typical baby

mattress can include lead, cadmium, phosphorus, and others. In particular,

antimony, the primary fire retardant used on the vinyl plastic surface of most

baby mattresses, can be quite harmful even at low levels.

" ... animals that breathed very low levels of antimony had eye irritation,

hair loss, lung damage and heart problems. Problems with fertility were also

noted... Where is antimony found?… Most antimony oxide produced is added to

textiles and plastics as fire retardant... "

( " Antimony and Antimony Compounds. " Pollution Prevention Factsheet. Ohio EPA.

Number 102. September 2002. www.epa.state.oh.us/opp/mercury_pbt/fact102.pdf)

According to Health Care Without Harm, " many hospitals are reconsidering their

use of polyvinyl chloride (PVC or vinyl) medical products. Their concerns with

PVC products relate to patient safety or potential environmental health

effects. " (http://noharm.org/details.cfm?type=document & id=741). DEHP, the most

common phthalate used in vinyl baby mattresses, has already been banned in

Europe for many children's products.

Problem #3: Typical baby mattresses use petroleum as filling

Nearly all baby mattresses today use polyurethane foam (also known as urethane

foam or just " foam " ) as internal filling. Polyurethane foam contains various

problematic ingredients associated with numerous health hazards. It deteriorates

over time, breaking up into small dust-like particles that can easily become

airborne (releasing VOCs into the air).

" Avoid heavily chemically treated mattresses filled with polyurethane foam...

Polyurethane foam offgasses VOCs, especially toluene... Formaldehyde and other

VOC offgassing is associated with... mattresses. " ( " Green Birthdays. " American

College of Nurse-Midwives. www.midwivesofwa.org/greenbirthdays.pdf)

Some of the health hazards listed on manufacturer material safety data sheets

(MSDS) for polyurethane foam include: possible cardiac arrhythmias,

breathlessness, chest discomfort, irritation of mucous membranes, headache,

coughing, asthma-like allergic reaction, dizziness, weakness, fatigue, nausea,

blurred vision, and reduced pulmonary function.

Polyurethane foam is produced by combining a polyol (petroleum based) with an

isocyanate (usually toluene diisocyanate or TDI), which is a highly toxic

substance. The EPA has identified several chemicals used in the fabrication of

polyurethane foam as hazardous air pollutants (hydrochloric acid, 2,4-toluene

diisocyanate, and hydrogen cyanide).

" Exposure to these substances has been demonstrated to cause adverse health

effects such as irritation of the lung, eye, and mucous membranes, effects on

the central nervous system, and cancer. "

( " National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants: Flexible

Polyurethane Foam Fabrication Operations. " Environmental Protection Agency

(EPA), 40 CFR Part 63, Final Rule, Federal Register/Volume 68, No. 71/Monday,

April 14, 2003/Rules and Regulations, Pg 18062)

" Organotin compounds - Found in... polyurethane foams... can disrupt the

hormone, reproductive, and immune systems. Animal studies show that exposure

early in life can also have long-term effects on brain development. "

( " Hazardous Chemicals Found in Household Dust Across U.S. " Health Care Without

Harm. March 24, 2005. www.noharm.org/details.cfm?ID=1037 & type=document)

Problem #4: Polyurethane foam is highly flammable

Polyurethane foam is a petroleum product and is highly flammable. This poses a

significant danger.

" If ignited, polyurethane foam can burn rapidly, releasing great heat and

consuming oxygen. In an enclosed space, the resulting deficiency of oxygen can

present a danger of suffocation to the occupants. Smoke and gases released by

burning foam can be incapacitating to human beings if inhaled in sufficient

quantities. " (Polyurethane Foam Industry-Wide Warning Label)

Polyurethane foam decomposes into deadly and hazardous gases when ignited.

" Thermal decomposition products from polyurethane foam consists mainly of

carbon monoxide, benzene, toluene, oxides of nitrogen, hydrogen cyanide,

acetaldehyde, acetone, propene... "

(OSHA Hazard Information Bulletins. " The Fire Hazard of Polyurethane and Other

Organic Foam Insulation Aboard Ships and In Construction. " U.S. Department of

Labor. Occupational Safety & Health Administration.

www.osha.gov/dts/hib/hib_data/hib19890510.html)

According to R. Barnett, Ph.D., Associate Professor of Fire

Protection Engineering at Worcester Polytechnic Institute, " polyurethane foam

produces ten times more carbon monoxide for each gram burned than does wood. "

(http://encarta.msn.com/text_761563809___13/Fire.html)

" ...carbon monoxide is the deadly gas and will kill us before the flames do. "

( " Mattresses: Deadly Fire Hazards. " CBS News. The Early Show. Interview with

U.S. Deputy Fire Administrator Chief Charlie Dickinson. June 28, 2004.

www.cbsnews.com/stories/2004/06/28/earlyshow/living/home/main626380.shtml)

Problem #5: Toxic fire-retardant chemicals are typically added

Due to the high flammability of polyurethane foam, industrial strength toxic

chemical fire retardants are typically added to meet the minimum flammability

standards set by government agencies. While there are no laws or regulations

regarding the materials or chemicals permitted to be used in baby mattresses

(other than basic labeling requirements), the government does mandate minimum

flammability standards. The most common chemical fire retardants used to treat

polyurethane foam for the past several decades have been polybrominated diphenyl

ethers (PBDEs), in particular, pentaBDE.

" PentaBDE... is predominantly used as a flame retardant in polyurethane

foam... exposure can damage the thyroid and liver and cause hyperactivity,

changes in motor behavior, and other brain functions... Because pentaBDE is not

chemically bound to the polymer [foam], pentaBDE particles can leach out into

the air. People can be exposed to pentaBDE through inhalation... Polyurethane

foam typically contains 10-30% pentaBDE by weight. "

( " Penta-Brominated Diphenyl Ether/PentaBDE. " University of Massachusetts. Lowell

Center for Sustainable Production. Fact Sheet. March 2003)

" Thyroid and neurobehavioral alterations... are possible effects of concern in

children exposed to PBBs or PBDEs. "

( " Public Health Statement: Polybrominated Biphenyls and Polybrominated Diphenyl

Ethers (PBBs and PBDEs). " Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry

(ATSDR), U.S. Department of Health and Human Services

www.atsdr.cdc.gov/toxprofiles/phs68.html#bookmark06)

PentaBDE has recently been banned in Europe and by the State of California (as

of 2006) with other states to follow. Some manufacturers are beginning to

replace PentaBDE with its precursor, decaBDE, or other chemical based fire

retardants or barriers (e.g. modacrylic, PAN, other PBDEs, etc.). These

replacements are arguably no better. Meanwhile, there is currently no plan to

recall the millions of baby mattresses presently in use that contain the banned

pentaBDE.

Are Toxic Chemicals Harming Our Children?

Many researchers suspect that toxic chemicals are playing a significant role

in the dramatic increase in childhood disorders. Just as lead paint was once

widespread before it was found to be toxic and banned, many components of

today's baby mattresses are also toxic. Eventhough these chemicals are currently

legal, they are likely to eventually be banned as well.

There is growing concern among physicians, health professionals, public safety

officials, environmental advocacy groups, and consumers regarding the possible

effects of these chemicals on our children.

Some of these chemicals have already been implicated in various childhood

disorders.

" Today, children are exposed to thousands of substances in the environment,

most of which have never been tested for toxicity to children... The

implications of this massive experiment in exposure are unknown. Environmental

toxicants are suspected to be correlated with many disorders that, until

recently, have been assumed to be genetic in origin... attention deficit /

hyperactivity disorder, and autism are among the disorders that may be linked to

environmental toxicants. "

(Center for Children's Health and the Environment at the Mount Sinai School of

Medicine, New York.

www.childenvironment.org/factsheets/environmental_pediatrics.htm)

" ... EPA has determined that infants up to age two are, on average, ten times

more vulnerable to carcinogenic chemicals than adults, and for some cancer

causing agents are up to 65 times more vulnerable... children accumulate up to

50 percent of their lifetime cancer risk by their second birthday... many

chemicals linked to mutagenic activity are commonly used in consumer products

and can contribute to children's exposure to carcinogens. "

(Children's Health Policy Review: " EPA Cancer Policy Revisions Highlight Risks

to Children. " 3 Mar. 2003.

Environmental Working Group.

www.ewg.org/issues/risk_assessment/20030303/index.php)

" We have come to understand that chemicals in the environment can cause a wide

range of developmental disabilities in children. In the words of pediatrician

Herbert L. Needleman, 'We are conducting a vast toxicologic experiment in our

society, in which our children and our children's children are the experimental

subjects. "

( " The Developing Brain and the Environment: An Introduction. " Bernard Weiss MD,

University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, and Philip J.

Landrigan MD, Mount Sinai School of Medicine, New York. Environmental Health

Perspectives. Volume 108 Supplement 3. June 2000.

http://ehp.niehs.nih.gov/docs/2000/suppl-3/intro.html)

Childhood Disorders On The Rise

Childhood disorders have been rising dramatically. These disorders include

autism, ADD/ADHD, asthma, allergies, cancer and more. They were extremely rare

only a couple generations ago.

" The survey found that nearly one out of 10 (9.2%) American children 18 years

of age and younger currently suffers from asthma. This figure is comparable to

the most current estimate of the National Center for Health Statistics, which

estimates that 8.8% of children 18 years of age and younger have the disease. "

(Children & Asthma in America. " Executive Summary. "

www.asthmainamerica.com/children_index.html)

Autism is a complex developmental disability that typically appears during the

first three years of life... affecting an estimated 1 in 250 births (Centers for

Disease Control and Prevention, 2003)... Based on statistics from the U.S.

Department of Education and other governmental agencies, autism is growing

at a rate of 10-17% a year. "

(Autism Society of America. " What is Autism?. "

www.autism-society.org/site/PageServer?pagename=whatisautism)

" Recent epidimiology studies have shown that autism spectrum disorders are ten

times more prevalent than they were just 10 years ago... Autism spectrum

disorders occur in as many as one in every 166 births. "

(National Alliance for Autism Research. " What is Autism? - History. "

www.naar.org/aboutaut/whatis_hist.htm)

Researchers are increasingly concluding that the dramatic rise in many

childhood disorders is not primarily caused by any significant increase in

awareness or diagnostic methodologies. 10-30 years ago, the medical community

was well able to diagnose these disorders. Furthermore, normal genetics is also

not a likely explanation as the increases are too dramatic and too rapid.

Finally, to the degree that genetic mutations are involved, the question still

remains as to what is causing these mutations and/or triggering these disorders.

" The increases are too rapid to reflect genetic changes, and better diagnostic

detection is not

a likely explanation. The strong probability exists that environmental factors

are playing a role. "

(Philip Landrigan, MD, Pediatrician. Mount Sinai School of Medicine, Advisor to

Office of Children's Health at U.S. EPA. H. Cushman Jr., New York Times,

9/29/97)

" The incidence of asthma and allergy has increased throughout the developed

world over the past 30 years (Beasley et al. 2003). The short interval over

which it has occured implies that the increase is caused by changes in

environmental exposures rather than genetic changes (Etzel 2003; Stachan 2000). "

(Bornehag, Carl-Gustaf, et al. " The Association Between Asthma and Allergic

Symptoms in Children and Phthalates

in House Dusts. " Environmental Health Perspectives Oct. 2004.

http://ehp.niehs.nih.gov/docs/2004/7187/abstract.html?section=children)

" ... children are more vulnerable to the effects of carcinogens than adults.

In fact, chemicals that cause cancer via genetic mutations were up to 65 times

more potent when exposures occur during childhood instead of adulthood. "

( " Children's Health Policy Review: EPA cancer policy revisions highlight risks

to children. " 3 Mar. 2003.

Environmental Working Group.

www.ewg.org/issues/risk_assessment/20030303/index.php)

How Are Toxic Chemicals Allowed?

Many specific consumer products are fairly well regulated with respect to their

ingredients. These include food, drugs, and other specific items such as lead in

paint. There are also various types of regulations for many other consumer

products such as pesticides, alcohol, tobacco, firearms, medical devices, and

motor vehicles. However, the use of chemicals in most other consumer products is

largely unregulated. These include many of the chemicals typically found in baby

mattresses.

" Most people assume the government polices commercial chemicals in the same

way the FDA polices drugs, but it's not true... there's no sheriff in town. "

(Andy Igrejas, Director of the Environmental Health Campaign. Tony Iallonardo,

National Environmental Trust. " Toxic Chemicals Widespread in Consumer Products. "

14 July 2004.

http://environet.policy.net/proactive/newsroom/release.vtml?id=28735)

" No one is systematically tracking the use of any of these chemicals in

consumer products, or the resulting human exposures to these chemicals in spite

of the chemicals' known or potential human health hazards... Currently,

chemicals can be incorporated in consumer products and sold on store shelves,

even in products used by children, with no up-front cancer [or other safety]

testing. "

( " EPA Cancer Policy Revisions Highlight Risks to Children. " Environmental

Working Group. Children's Health Policy Review. March 3. 2003)

The average consumer naturally assumes that what is sold on the market

(certainly regarding baby products) is fully safe and non-toxic. However, the

average consumer is unaware of the potentially harmful chemicals often included

in such products.

" Most Americans would assume that basic toxicity testing is available and that

all chemicals in commerce today are safe. A recent EPA study has found that this

is not a prudent assumption. "

(Chemical Hazard Data Availability Study. U.S. EPA Office of Pollution

Prevention and Toxic Substances. www.epa.gov/oppt/chemtest/hazchem.htm)

What About Fire Protection?

When it comes to bedroom fires, a moment or two can mean the difference between

life and death.

" There is a window of opportunity for someone to escape, but it is very brief.

We are talking seconds.

Fire doubles itself every minute in a mattress fire. "

( " Mattresses: Deadly Fire Hazards. " CBS News. The Early Show. Interview with

U.S. Deputy Fire Administrator

Chief Charlie Dickinson. June 28, 2004.

www.cbsnews.com/stories/2004/06/28/earlyshow/living/home/main626380.shtml)

Thousands of innocent people are killed or severly injured from bedroom fires

each year. Sadly, children comprise the majority of these casualties.

" In 1995, CPSC [Consumer Product Safety Commission] conducted a field

investigation study to learn more about cigarette-ignited fires and open flame

fires. The report, issued in 1997, showed that about 70% of the open flame fires

involved child play and that 68% of the open flame deaths were to children

playing with lighters, matches, and other open flame sources. "

(Consumer Product Safety Commission " Standard to Address Open Flame Ignition of

Mattresses/Bedding; Advance Notice of Proposed Rulemaking. " 16CFR Part 1633.

Federal Register/Vol. 66, No. 197/October 11, 2001, Pg. 51886)

Sleeping on a petroleum based polyurethane foam mattress may rob you and your

child of precious life differentiating moments. Untreated polyurethane foam is

so flammable that it will literally explode into a ball of fire within seconds.

Even more dangerous than the fire itself is the carbon monoxide and other deadly

gases released by polyurethane foam as well as the associated significant

reduction of available oxygen.

" Hazardous decomposition products [from flexible polyurethane foam] include:

carbon monoxide, acetaldehyde, acrylonitrile, 2,4-toluene di-isocyanate, polymer

fragments, oxides of nitrogen, and hydrogen cyanide. Fire retardant foams may

generate emissions of hydrogen chloride, hydrogen bromide, hydrogen flouride, or

phosphoric acid... "

( " National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants for Flexible

Polyurethane Foam Production " U.S. EPA. Federal Register. October 7, 1998. Vol.

63. No. 194. www.epa.gov/fedrgstr/EPA-AIR/1998/October/Day-07/a25894.htm)

" Thermal decomposition products from polyurethane foam consists mainly of

carbon monoxide, benzene, toluene, oxides of nitrogen, hydrogen cyanide,

acetaldehyde, acetone, propane... "

(OSHA Hazard Information Bulletins. " The Fire Hazard of Polyurethane and Other

Organic Foam Insulation Aboard Ships and In Construction. " U.S. Department of

Labor. Occupational Safety & Health Administration.

www.osha.gov/dts/hib/hib_data/hib19890510.html)

While the above studies did not involve baby mattresses per se, it is

nonetheless clear that polyurethane foam constitutes a widespread concern,

especially in those products impacting babies and young children.

In order to reduce the inherent fire hazard of polyurethane foam, harsh

industrial fire retardants are typically added. However, this only trades one

problem for another. These added toxic fire retardants pose their own health

hazards, even while a baby is simply sleeping.

The NaturePedic® Design

G.E.M Testing & Engineering Labs, on behalf of NaturePedic, developed and

designed the No-Compromise™ Baby Mattress to address the concerns of parents and

doctors as presented in this report. The NaturePedic No-Compromise Baby Mattress

has been designed in accordance with the following paramaters:

o NATURAL MATERIALS: The No-Compromise Baby Mattress utilizes cotton, a

natural material with favorable qualities and an extensive history in mattresses

and similar products. In particular, cotton has low toxicity concerns. Cotton

provides for good air circulation while maintaining more even humidity and

balanced temperatures. It has the ideal density for firm yet comfortable

bedding.

o NON-TOXIC DESIGN: The design of the No-Compromise Baby Mattress strives to

eliminate materials which may be toxic, hazardous, or otherwise potentially

harmful, as is reasonably achievable.

The following are specifically prohibited:

o NO Phthalates

o NO Vinyl (Polyvinyl Chloride or PVC)

o NO Polyurethane Foam

o NO dangerous Fire Retardant Chemicals (PBDE's, Antimony, Modacrylic, etc.)

o NO Scrap or Pig Hair Fiber Pads

o FIRE PROTECTION: The No-Compromise Baby Mattress is designed to meet and

exceed Federal and State Flammability Standards, and exceed such standards by

the highest possible margin reasonably achievable. Cotton naturally has a low

rate of combustion and does not burst into flames when ignited as compared with

polyurethane foam and PVC, eliminating the need for harsh industrial fire

retardant chemicals. To maximize fire protection, FlameBreaker™, a non-toxic

fire barrier system based on baking soda's unique fire retardant properties has

been developed.

o FIRM SUPPORT: The No-Compromise Baby Mattress uses extra firm high coil

count orthopedic innersprings, providing the optimum pediatrician recommended

firmness and comfort levels. The design also features heavy-duty border rods for

extra side and edge support.

More Information on NaturePedic No-Compromise Baby Mattress

Credentials

G.E.M. Testing & Engineering Labs has expertise in environmental assessments,

materials & toxicology, and related specialties. Services are provided per EPA,

ASTM and other professional protocols. G.E.M. Testing & Engineering Labs is

licensed by the State of Ohio, and has been providing professional environmental

engineering services since 1984.

BARRY A. CIK, PE, CP, DEE, QEP, CHMM, REM*

Chief Engineer, G.E.M. Testing & Engineering Labs, Cleveland, Ohio

*PE - Registered Professional Engineer, State of Ohio

CP - Certified Professional, State of Ohio EPA VAP

DEE - Board Certified Environmental Engineer, American Academy of Environmental

Engineers

QEP - Qualified Environmental Professional, Institute of Professional

Environmental Practice

REM - Registered Environmental Manager, National Registry of Environmental

Professionals

CHMM - Certified Hazardous Materials Manager, Master Level, Institute Hazardous

Mtrls Mgmt

Credentials:

Registered Professional Engineer - PE [#47615]

State of Ohio Engineers Board of Registration

Certified Professional - CP [#109]

State of Ohio EPA VAP

B.S. Civil Engineering, 1978, Ohio State University

Concentration in Environmental and Engineering

Surveys

C.E. Civil Engineering Advanced Professional Degree

1981, Ohio State University

Concentration in Environmental and Engineering

Surveys & Construction Materials

Board Certified Environmental Engineer [#98-20076]

Diplomate Environmental Engineer - DEE

American Academy of Environmental Engineers

Qualified Environmental Professional QEP [#01960005]

Sheri Nakken <vaccineinfo@...> wrote:

Hi Vida

I have a webpage on this.........

http://www.wellwithin1.com/SIDS.htm

And most if not all of the SIDS sites refuse to allow any reference to

vaccines - including sids email lists

Of course SIDS is related to vaccines in most cases in my

opinion............it was unheard of before vaccines became common

Of course there is the issue of toxic mattresses but my opinion is that

without the vaccine injury the mattresses probably could be tolerated.

Sheri

>I know SIDS comes up a lot here, as it is a major concern of all

>parents. In fact, it was the most terrifying thought for me after

>having my baby. I think it could be more than one thing that cause it,

>including vaccines. I just read, however, on a popular SIDS web site

>that there is no correlation between vaccines and SIDS. It's funny to

>think that a baby sleeping on their stomach is a risk factor, yet

>injecting them with poison is not, where is the logic in this?

>So, I was wondering if anyone had any REAL information or links on SIDS

>and the correlation with vaccines. Thanks.

>

>

--------------------------------------------------------

Sheri Nakken, former R.N., MA, Hahnemannian Homeopath

Vaccination Information & Choice Network, Nevada City CA & Wales UK

$$ Donations to help in the work - accepted by Paypal account

Voicemail US 530-740-0561

Vaccines - http://www.nccn.net/~wwithin/vaccine.htm or

http://www.wellwithin1.com/vaccine.htm

Vaccine Dangers On-Line courses - http://www.wellwithin1.com/vaccineclass.htm

Reality of the Diseases & Treatment -

http://www.nccn.net/~wwithin/vaccineclass.htm

Homeopathy On-Line courses - http://www.wellwithin1.com/homeo.htm

NEXT CLASSES start by email January 9 & 10

---------------------------------

Looking for last minute shopping deals? Find them fast with Search.

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I just have a baby mattress cover. I think it was 30$, shipped from

New Zealand, but got here fast. Also, make sure the mattress pad and

everything else is 100% cotton. It will probably be too big so you

will have to tape it down. Let me know if you need help if you get

it.

http://www.babysake.com/BabeSafeUSA.htm

Oh and once it's on it can be removed and put on another mattress

easily.

> Hi Vida

> I have a webpage on this.........

> http://www.wellwithin1.com/SIDS.htm

>

> And most if not all of the SIDS sites refuse to allow any reference

to

> vaccines - including sids email lists

>

> Of course SIDS is related to vaccines in most cases in my

> opinion............it was unheard of before vaccines became common

> Of course there is the issue of toxic mattresses but my opinion is

that

> without the vaccine injury the mattresses probably could be

tolerated.

>

> Sheri

>

> >I know SIDS comes up a lot here, as it is a major concern of all

> >parents. In fact, it was the most terrifying thought for me after

> >having my baby. I think it could be more than one thing that cause

it,

> >including vaccines. I just read, however, on a popular SIDS web

site

> >that there is no correlation between vaccines and SIDS. It's funny

to

> >think that a baby sleeping on their stomach is a risk factor, yet

> >injecting them with poison is not, where is the logic in this?

> >So, I was wondering if anyone had any REAL information or links on

SIDS

> >and the correlation with vaccines. Thanks.

> >

> >

> --------------------------------------------------------

> Sheri Nakken, former R.N., MA, Hahnemannian Homeopath

> Vaccination Information & Choice Network, Nevada City CA & Wales UK

> $$ Donations to help in the work - accepted by Paypal account

> Voicemail US 530-740-0561

> Vaccines - http://www.nccn.net/~wwithin/vaccine.htm or

> http://www.wellwithin1.com/vaccine.htm

> Vaccine Dangers On-Line courses -

http://www.wellwithin1.com/vaccineclass.htm

> Reality of the Diseases & Treatment -

> http://www.nccn.net/~wwithin/vaccineclass.htm

> Homeopathy On-Line courses - http://www.wellwithin1.com/homeo.htm

> NEXT CLASSES start by email January 9 & 10

>

>

>

>

>

>

> ---------------------------------

> Looking for last minute shopping deals? Find them fast with

Search.

>

>

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Share on other sites

does it keep all of those harmful toxins discussed in the article from getting

to the baby?

Vida Khan <vidamarino@...> wrote: I just have a baby mattress

cover. I think it was 30$, shipped from

New Zealand, but got here fast. Also, make sure the mattress pad and

everything else is 100% cotton. It will probably be too big so you

will have to tape it down. Let me know if you need help if you get

it.

http://www.babysake.com/BabeSafeUSA.htm

Oh and once it's on it can be removed and put on another mattress

easily.

> Hi Vida

> I have a webpage on this.........

> http://www.wellwithin1.com/SIDS.htm

>

> And most if not all of the SIDS sites refuse to allow any reference

to

> vaccines - including sids email lists

>

> Of course SIDS is related to vaccines in most cases in my

> opinion............it was unheard of before vaccines became common

> Of course there is the issue of toxic mattresses but my opinion is

that

> without the vaccine injury the mattresses probably could be

tolerated.

>

> Sheri

>

> >I know SIDS comes up a lot here, as it is a major concern of all

> >parents. In fact, it was the most terrifying thought for me after

> >having my baby. I think it could be more than one thing that cause

it,

> >including vaccines. I just read, however, on a popular SIDS web

site

> >that there is no correlation between vaccines and SIDS. It's funny

to

> >think that a baby sleeping on their stomach is a risk factor, yet

> >injecting them with poison is not, where is the logic in this?

> >So, I was wondering if anyone had any REAL information or links on

SIDS

> >and the correlation with vaccines. Thanks.

> >

> >

> --------------------------------------------------------

> Sheri Nakken, former R.N., MA, Hahnemannian Homeopath

> Vaccination Information & Choice Network, Nevada City CA & Wales UK

> $$ Donations to help in the work - accepted by Paypal account

> Voicemail US 530-740-0561

> Vaccines - http://www.nccn.net/~wwithin/vaccine.htm or

> http://www.wellwithin1.com/vaccine.htm

> Vaccine Dangers On-Line courses -

http://www.wellwithin1.com/vaccineclass.htm

> Reality of the Diseases & Treatment -

> http://www.nccn.net/~wwithin/vaccineclass.htm

> Homeopathy On-Line courses - http://www.wellwithin1.com/homeo.htm

> NEXT CLASSES start by email January 9 & 10

>

>

>

>

>

>

> ---------------------------------

> Looking for last minute shopping deals? Find them fast with

Search.

>

>

Link to comment
Share on other sites

Yes, it is supposed to.

> > Hi Vida

> > I have a webpage on this.........

> > http://www.wellwithin1.com/SIDS.htm

> >

> > And most if not all of the SIDS sites refuse to allow any

reference

> to

> > vaccines - including sids email lists

> >

> > Of course SIDS is related to vaccines in most cases in my

> > opinion............it was unheard of before vaccines became common

> > Of course there is the issue of toxic mattresses but my opinion

is

> that

> > without the vaccine injury the mattresses probably could be

> tolerated.

> >

> > Sheri

> >

> > >I know SIDS comes up a lot here, as it is a major concern of all

> > >parents. In fact, it was the most terrifying thought for me

after

> > >having my baby. I think it could be more than one thing that

cause

> it,

> > >including vaccines. I just read, however, on a popular SIDS web

> site

> > >that there is no correlation between vaccines and SIDS. It's

funny

> to

> > >think that a baby sleeping on their stomach is a risk factor,

yet

> > >injecting them with poison is not, where is the logic in this?

> > >So, I was wondering if anyone had any REAL information or links

on

> SIDS

> > >and the correlation with vaccines. Thanks.

> > >

> > >

> > --------------------------------------------------------

> > Sheri Nakken, former R.N., MA, Hahnemannian Homeopath

> > Vaccination Information & Choice Network, Nevada City CA & Wales

UK

> > $$ Donations to help in the work - accepted by Paypal account

> > Voicemail US 530-740-0561

> > Vaccines - http://www.nccn.net/~wwithin/vaccine.htm or

> > http://www.wellwithin1.com/vaccine.htm

> > Vaccine Dangers On-Line courses -

> http://www.wellwithin1.com/vaccineclass.htm

> > Reality of the Diseases & Treatment -

> > http://www.nccn.net/~wwithin/vaccineclass.htm

> > Homeopathy On-Line courses - http://www.wellwithin1.com/homeo.htm

> > NEXT CLASSES start by email January 9 & 10

> >

> >

> >

> >

> >

> >

> > ---------------------------------

> > Looking for last minute shopping deals? Find them fast with

> Search.

> >

> >

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PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE SNIP YOUR POSTS!!!!!

Especially when you're replying to a huge article like this one. All

you have to do when you hit reply is click in the box, hit ctrl-A, and

DELETE.

You have a clean box to answer in and we don't have to scroll through

several feet of the same article over and over and over.

Thanks

stacey

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