What Is a Fiberglass-Free Mattress & Why Do You Need One?

Safety should be just as important as comfort when shopping for a new mattress. Many consumers are surprised to learn that fiberglass is commonly used as a fire retardant in mattresses, especially in lower-priced models. A fiberglass-free mattress eliminates this potential health hazard by using alternative materials that meet safety standards without the risks associated with fiberglass exposure.

At Layla, we understand that what you sleep on impacts your health. We’re committed to providing mattresses that don’t just deliver exceptional comfort but also create a healthier sleep environment. Our approach to fire safety uses a proprietary blend of fire-resistant rayon and polyester fibers rather than potentially harmful fiberglass — giving you peace of mind along with peaceful sleep.

So, what is a fiberglass-free mattress? Keep reading to find out.

• Key Takeaways
• What Is Fiberglass and Why Is it Used in Mattresses?
• What Are the Top Fiberglass Alternatives?
• Why Should You Sleep on a Fiberglass-Free Mattress?
• How Do You Choose the Best Fiberglass-Free Mattress?
• How Do You Know If Your Mattress Is Fiberglass-Free?
• What Should You Do If You Have a Fiberglass Mattress?
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Sleep Safe: Choosing a Mattress Without Fiberglass

Key Takeaways

• Fiberglass is commonly used in mattresses as an inexpensive fire retardant but depending on the manufacturing process, can cause health issues if exposed, such as coughing and itchiness.
• Fiberglass-free mattresses use alternative materials to meet safety standards, such as rayon and wool.
• Sleeping on a mattress without fiberglass protects your health, prevents home contamination, and improves indoor air quality.
• When choosing the best fiberglass-free mattress, consider materials, mattress type, firmness, and support for your sleeping position.

What Is Fiberglass and Why Is it Used in Mattresses?

Fiberglass is a composite material consisting of fine glass fibers woven into a fabric-like texture.^[1] In mattresses, these fibers are typically incorporated into the inner layers beneath the mattress cover. The primary reason manufacturers use fiberglass is to meet federal flammability standards at a low cost.^[2]

The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) requires all mattresses sold in the United States to meet specific fire-resistance standards.^[3] Fiberglass is an effective, inexpensive fire barrier that prevents or slows the spread of flames if a mattress catches fire. When exposed to heat, fiberglass doesn’t burn but instead melts, creating a barrier that temporarily blocks oxygen and slows fire progression.

While effective for fire safety, fiberglass presents problems when mattress covers are removed or become damaged. The tiny glass fibers can escape into the air and living environment, potentially causing skin and respiratory issues.^[3,4]

What Are the Top Fiberglass Alternatives?

The good news is that mattress manufacturers have developed several effective alternatives to fiberglass that maintain fire safety while eliminating the associated health risks. These materials typically cost more but provide superior safety and peace of mind.

• Wool: Natural wool is an excellent fire retardant due to its high nitrogen and water content, which makes it naturally resistant to flames. Wool requires higher oxygen levels and temperatures to ignite compared to many synthetic materials. Beyond fire resistance, wool offers natural temperature regulation, moisture-wicking properties, durability, and biodegradability.
• Organic cotton: Organic cotton treated with boric acid or other natural flame retardants provides effective fire protection without synthetic chemicals. This option appeals particularly to eco-conscious consumers seeking natural materials. Organic cotton fire barriers offer chemical-free protection, breathability, hypoallergenic properties, and sustainability.
• Rayon: Rayon derived from bamboo or other plant materials can be treated with silica to create an effective fire barrier. This semi-synthetic material combines the comfort of natural fibers with enhanced fire resistance. Rayon fire barriers provide a soft texture, good breathability, effective flame resistance, and lower environmental impact than fully synthetic options.
• Kevlar: Known for its strength and fire resistance, Kevlar makes an exceptional fire barrier for premium mattresses. This high-performance para-aramid synthetic fiber offers unparalleled durability and heat resistance. As a mattress fire barrier, Kevlar provides extreme durability, superior heat resistance, lightweight protection, and long-lasting performance.

Why Should You Sleep on a Fiberglass-Free Mattress?

Switching to a fiberglass-free memory foam mattress or hybrid model offers numerous advantages that extend beyond simply avoiding potential fiberglass exposure. Here’s why making the switch is worth considering:

Protect your health

The primary benefit of sleeping on mattresses without fiberglass is protecting your health. Fiberglass particles are very small and can easily become airborne if the mattress cover is removed or damaged. Once inhaled, these particles can cause:^[5]

• Respiratory irritation
• Coughing and wheezing
• Asthma exacerbation
• Long-term respiratory concerns

Those with existing respiratory conditions may find their symptoms significantly worsened by fiberglass exposure.

Prevent home contamination

One of the most challenging aspects of fiberglass exposure is its ability to spread throughout your home. The microscopic fibers can get embedded in carpets and upholstery, circulate through the HVAC system, and even contaminate clothing and linens.

Choosing a fiberglass-free mattress eliminates this contamination risk entirely, protecting not just your bedroom but your entire home.

Enjoy better sleep quality

Peace of mind can help you sleep better at night. Knowing you’re not exposed to potentially harmful materials can help reduce sleep anxiety. Additionally, many fiberglass-free mattresses use higher-quality materials overall, which can enhance comfort and support for better sleep.

For those who suffer from allergies at night, removing potential irritants like fiberglass can make a substantial difference in sleep quality. Complementing your fiberglass-free mattress with hypoallergenic bedding creates an even healthier sleep environment.

Improve indoor air quality

Mattresses without fiberglass contribute to better overall indoor air quality to reduce symptoms like nasal congestion at night. By eliminating this potential source of airborne particulates, you create a cleaner sleeping environment that helps you breathe easily and get quality rest. This is especially important considering how much time we spend in our bedrooms.

Eco-friendliness

Many fiberglass-free mattresses use natural or more sustainable fire retardants. Materials like wool and organic cotton have a lower environmental impact and are biodegradable, making disposal safer for the environment.

Longevity and durability

The higher-quality materials typically used in fiberglass-free mattresses often translate to better durability and longevity. While the initial investment may be higher, these materials frequently last longer, providing better value in the long run.

How Do You Choose the Best Fiberglass-Free Mattress?

Finding the best fiberglass-free mattress requires you to think about multiple factors beyond just the absence of fiberglass. Here’s what to look for when making this important investment in your health and comfort:

Materials

The materials used to create your mattress can impact comfort, durability, and health. Look for CertiPUR-US® certified foams free from harmful chemicals like ozone depleters, formaldehyde, and fire retardants classified as carcinogens, mutagens, or reproductive toxins.

Most importantly, look for transparent disclosure of all fire retardant materials used. Layla’s fiberglass-free Memory Foam Mattress uses a proprietary blend of fire-resistant rayon and polyester fibers to meet safety standards without fiberglass.

Mattress type

Different types of mattresses offer varying benefits, all of which can be found in fiberglass-free options. Memory foam mattresses are known for their pressure relief and motion isolation features, while innerspring mattresses offer traditional bounce and superior airflow. Hybrid mattresses give you the best of both worlds with supportive coils and comfort layers. Natural latex can deliver responsive bounce and durability but can run hot.

Layla’s fiberglass-free Hybrid Mattress combines dual-gauge pocketed coils with memory foam infused with copper-gel microbeads for exceptional comfort and cooling. To choose the right mattress type, review our guides on latex vs. memory foam mattresses and memory foam vs. hybrid mattresses, which offer detailed comparisons between your options when choosing your preferred mattress.

Firmness

Mattress firmness preferences are highly individual and depend on your body weight, preferred sleep position, personal comfort preferences, and any pain issues you may be experiencing. What feels medium-firm to someone might feel too soft for another.

Your sleeping position also significantly impacts ideal firmness levels, with side sleepers typically needing softer surfaces than stomach sleepers. At Layla, our Memory Foam and Hybrid Mattresses feature flippable firmness, allowing you to choose between a firm side and a soft side to find your ideal comfort level.

Cooling

Temperature regulation is crucial for quality sleep, especially for hot sleepers. Look for cooling features like gel-infused foams that dissipate body heat and phase-change materials that maintain consistent temperatures throughout the night.

Breathable cover fabrics enhance airflow at the surface, while air channels and pocketed coils allow heat to escape from the mattress core. These cooling technologies are especially important in memory foam mattresses, which traditionally retain more heat than other materials.

Sleep position

Your primary sleep position should guide your mattress choice, as different positions create different pressure points and alignment needs. Side sleepers typically need softer surfaces with good pressure relief around the shoulders and hips. Back sleepers benefit from medium firmness with lumbar support to maintain the spine’s natural curve. Meanwhile, stomach sleepers generally need firmer support to prevent the midsection from sinking too deeply.

Support

Proper support promotes spinal alignment and comfort, regardless of your preferred sleeping position. Consider zoned support systems that provide targeted pressure relief and enhanced support where needed most. Quality edge support allows you to use the full mattress surface without feeling like you might roll off.

Look for transitional layers that prevent “bottoming out” on the firmer support core beneath. The ideal support system should accommodate your body weight and type while maintaining proper alignment throughout the night.

Research thoroughly before buying a memory foam mattress to ensure it provides the support you need.

How Do You Know If Your Mattress Is Fiberglass-Free?

Finding a fiberglass-free mattress might require some detective work, as manufacturers aren’t always transparent about their materials. Additionally, you should never remove the protective cover from any mattress, even if you believe it’s fiberglass-free. Many mattresses are designed with the fire barrier directly beneath this cover, and removing it could expose you to fire-retardant materials.

Always check the mattress label and law tag, which should list materials. Look for terms like:

• Glass fiber
• Glass wool
• Glass filaments
• Silica

These all indicate the presence of fiberglass. Reputable fiberglass-free mattress manufacturers will explicitly state that their products contain no fiberglass and will specify the alternative fire retardants used. At Layla, we upgraded all of our mattresses to fiberglass-free builds so you can enjoy a healthier sleep.

What Should You Do If You Have a Fiberglass Mattress?

If you discover that your current mattress contains fiberglass, don’t panic. With proper handling, you can minimize risks while planning your transition to a fiberglass-free option. Follow these tips:

• Never remove the mattress cover: The cover is designed to contain the fiberglass layer, and removing it almost guarantees fiber release. Even if the cover is removable and has a zipper, resist the temptation to wash it.
• Use a mattress protector: Add an additional layer of protection with a quality waterproof mattress protector. This creates another barrier against potential fiberglass release while also protecting your mattress from spills or stains.
• Replace your mattress: The safest long-term solution is to replace your fiberglass mattress with a fiberglass-free alternative. First, it’s important to know how to get rid of a mattress. When disposing of your fiberglass mattress, avoid cutting, tearing, or damaging it. Follow local disposal guidelines, and consider professional removal services if the mattress shows signs of cover damage.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do all mattresses have fiberglass?

No, not all mattresses contain fiberglass. While it’s a common fire retardant in many budget and mid-range mattresses, numerous manufacturers have moved away from this material. Premium mattresses and those marketed as natural or organic typically use alternative fire barriers like wool, cotton treated with natural flame retardants, plant-based materials, rayon, or advanced synthetic options without fiberglass.

Is it safe to sleep on a fiberglass mattress?

Yes, sleeping on a fiberglass mattress is generally safe as long as the mattress cover remains intact and undamaged. The danger is when the protective cover is removed or damaged, which allows the fiberglass fibers to escape.

If your mattress contains fiberglass and you notice any of these warning signs, take immediate action:

• Visible tears or damage to the mattress cover
• Unexplained skin irritation or itchiness after sleeping
• Eye irritation or respiratory symptoms that improve when away from home
• Visible shiny particles on bedding or surrounding surfaces

Never attempt to repair a damaged fiberglass mattress cover yourself; replacement is the safest option.

Are fiberglass-free mattresses more expensive?

Yes, fiberglass-free mattresses tend to cost more due to their higher-quality fire-retardant materials. The health benefits, longer lifespan, and peace of mind from sleeping on a safer surface easily justify the additional cost, especially for families, pet owners, and those with respiratory sensitivities.

Sleep Safe: Choosing a Mattress Without Fiberglass

While fiberglass is an inexpensive fire retardant solution, the potential risks have led conscious consumers and quality manufacturers to seek safer alternatives. At Layla, we eliminated fiberglass from all of our mattresses, and upgraded to using a proprietary blend of fire-resistant rayon and polyester fibers that meet all safety standards.

Layla mattresses provide exceptional comfort, support, and safety — without fiberglass. Make the switch to a fiberglass-free mattress today and experience the difference that comes from sleeping on a surface designed with both your comfort and health in mind.

References

1. Mitch Jacoby. “What’s That Stuff? Fiberglass.” C&EN Global Enterprise, vol. 96, no. 38, 24 Sept. 2018, pp. 30–31, cen.acs.org/materials/inorganic-chemistry/s-fiberglass-does-delicate-material/96/i38, https://doi.org/10.1021/cen-09638-feature5.
2. “Factsheet on Fiberglass and Mattresses.” Ca.gov, 2025, www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CCDPHP/DEODC/EHIB/Pages/EIS/Factsheet-on-Fiberglass-and-Mattresses.aspx.
3. “Federal Mattress Regulations – International Sleep Products Association | ISPA.” International Sleep Products Association | ISPA, 6 Apr. 2023, sleepproducts.org/advocacy/federal-mattress-regulations/
4. “Fiberglass Fact Sheet.” State.il.us, 2025, www.idph.state.il.us/envhealth/factsheets/fiberglass.htm.
5. “Fiberglass.” Washington State Department of Health, 2025, doh.wa.gov/community-and-environment/air-quality/indoor-air/fiberglass.