Hi! I recently visited a local mattress manufacturer, Custom Sleep Technology (CST), which I see is also a business member of this site. I loved the feel of their mattress—I honestly felt like I could fall asleep while lying on it! Bob, the owner, patiently explained how he constructs and customizes the mattresses for each person.
Having a low-toxin/“clean” mattress is also very important to me, so afterward I had a couple of questions that I would really appreciate the forum experts’ input on.
1. Talalay Global blended Talalay
CST uses blended Talalay from Talalay Global for all of its latex layers. Bob explained that he prefers the blended Talalay because it provides more precise and consistent ILDs, which is important for the way he customizes the mattress.
On Talalay Global’s website, I found two OEKO-TEX Standard 100 certificate numbers: 11-24246 Shirley and 11-42244 Shirley, as well as an eco-INSTITUT certification.
I was able to find documentation indicating that 11-24246 and the eco-INSTITUT certification apply to their natural Talalay, but I have not been able to determine what 11-42244 Shirley covers.
Does anyone know whether Talalay Global’s blended Talalay currently carries OEKO-TEX or another independent chemical/emissions certification? More importantly, is there any meaningful concern about chemical exposure or emissions from their blended Talalay compared with their 100% natural Talalay?
2. Rayon fire barrier
CST uses rayon as its fire-barrier material. When I asked Bob about it, he wrote:
“The fire barrier is made of Rayon which is derived from natural materials and then processed into rayon fibers. The rayon used in mattress fire barriers is also non-toxic.”
He also explained that he prefers rayon over wool because wool can compress over time, whereas the rayon barrier is already compressed.
My question is: What actually makes the rayon used in mattress fire barriers fire resistant? Is FR rayon itself sufficient, or is it normally combined with or treated with another material or chemical to meet the federal flammability standard?
From a chemical-exposure standpoint, is this type of rayon fire barrier generally considered a “clean” option? Are there particular ingredients or types of FR rayon I should ask CST about (for example, silica/glass fiber, phosphorus compounds, modacrylic, or added flame-retardant chemicals)?
I really like the CST mattress and its customization, so I’m not necessarily looking for a reason not to buy it. I just want to understand the materials and make an informed decision.
Thank you!