Given that the average American spends one third of their life in bed, it is imperative to choose good quality fabrics to sleep in. The majority of the bedding on the market consists of cheap materials, such as polyester, that impact our health in a negative way. Not only does polyester contain harmful substances like formaldehyde and flame retardants, it also has a dangerously low frequency. To read more about the biblical and scientific evidence of frequencies, visit “The Frequency of Fabric.”
Why Should We Avoid Fabrics Like Polyester?
Polyethylene Terephthalate, otherwise known as Polyester, is a synthetic fiber composed of primarily petroleum-based chemicals through a process called polymerization. During this process, ethylene glycol and terephthalic acid are combined together to make what we know as the polyester fabric. Both of these substances are listed as irritants in the National Library of Medicine. Ethylene Glycol is not considered to be carcinogenic, but it has been shown to be teratogenic. Another chemical commonly present in polyester is formaldehyde. Formaldehyde is a known human carcinogen according to the International Agency for Research on Cancer. There are several other harmful substances that may be found in polyester, but the list is endless. The best way to avoid chemical exposure is to look for non toxic fabrics such as cotton, linen, or wool, that are marked with “OEKO-TEX” and/or “GOTS.”
Other Common Fabrics Used For Bedding
Aside from Polyester, there are plenty of other toxic fabrics found in bedding, such as acrylic, cotton-polyester blend, and even silk. Acrylic is another form of plastic that uses similar chemicals as polyester to produce. While cotton is typically not a concern, a cotton-polyester blend is because it will, again, contain similar harmful chemicals. Silk is unfortunately on the list, not because silk itself is toxic, but because the process it has to go through to become fabric uses a wide variety of chemicals. To harvest the silk, it has to go through an intense process involving pesticides, boiling the (alive) silkworms, and finally, bleaching and dying the fabric. None of this process is ethical, nor beneficial to our health. In general, I would advise to avoid both naturally and synthetically made silk.
Anther common concern when looking for bedding, is the use of flame retardants. Many companies add flame retardants to their sheets, comforters, and more, as a preventative measure against fires. However, most flame retardants such as Chlorinated tris (TDCPP) are known to cause cancer per California’s Proposition 65. While the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) does not require these retardants to be present in bedding, some companies still use them to ensure consumers safety (see “What’s in Your Mattress” to learn more about the required use of flame retardants). Unfortunately, these substances tend to do more harm than good, as they release toxic fumes and chemicals into the air.
What Should I Look for Instead?
In order to determine what bedding will work best for you and your family, there are a couple things to consider. Flax linen may be the best option for those who suffer with allergies, need help with temperature regulation throughout the night, and desire moisture wicking abilities. Linen has unique properties unlike any other fabric. It is naturally hypoallergenic, thermoregulatory, and is highly absorbent without feeling damp. In addition, linen is incredibly durable and resistant to stretching, pilling, and normal wear and tear. With each wash linen gets softer and stronger, unlike other fabrics that wear down overtime. As for cotton, it starts out much softer than linen, but does not contain as many beneficial properties. It is highly absorbent like linen, but does not hold the moisture as discreetly. Good quality cotton is durable and will last many years, but unfortunately does slightly weaken with each wash. Really, it comes down to comfort and style.
I recently got Quince’s linen sheets for my home, and I have been obsessed with them! There are also several great options, both linen and organic cotton, on Amazon as well. If these are not in the budget, that’s okay! Try looking for 100% cotton with the OEKO-TEX Certification.
