While the debate over synthetic versus natural bedding has gathered steam in recent years, there’s still a lot left unsaid when it comes to the harmful matter inside your furniture. Let’s talk about something you probably don’t notice - but that might be quietly impacting your sleep: volatile organic compounds, or VOCs.
These are chemicals released into the air from common indoor items - like mattresses, pillows, carpets, paints and furniture. Most of us don’t consider how these invisible compounds might play a role in sleep disruption, fatigue, headaches or even your mood, but more and more studies are begging us to wake up and smell the compounds.
Deeper, more restorative sleep is waiting - and who doesn’t want that?
What exactly are VOCs - and how do they end up in the bedroom?
VOCs are organic chemicals that easily evaporate at room temperature, releasing gases from everyday materials like polyurethane foam, adhesives, fabrics, flame retardants, and some textiles. If you’ve ever noticed that new mattress smell or the distinct aroma when you unbox new products, that’s the VOCs off-gassing and dispersing through your home.
In bedrooms, mattresses and bedding become a long-term source of exposure, especially since we spend so many hours close to them every night. In one alarming study, it was found that body heat can actually make synthetic mattresses release more VOCs during sleep, when warmth and humidity increase the emission rate.
Even if these levels don’t immediately cause harm, regular exposure to low doses may start to impact well-being over time - especially if you’re sleeping in a space with poor airflow.
How breathing in VOCs can affect your sleep
So how exactly do VOCs mess with your sleep? While we’re still learning all the ways these compounds affect the body, researchers are starting to piece together the puzzle.
A recent study looked at data from thousands of people and found that higher levels of VOC byproducts in the body (which show up in urine after exposure) were linked with shorter sleep times and more trouble sleeping. Put simply, the more VOCs people were exposed to, the more likely they were to report disrupted sleep.
Interestingly, the same study found that VOC exposure may also influence mood - specifically increasing the risk of depression - which can in turn make falling (and staying) asleep harder. So it's not just about irritated airways or headaches - these compounds could be influencing your brain and body in ways that undermine good sleep from every angle.
Common sleep-disrupting VOCs and their effects
Some of the most common VOCs found in bedding and furnishings include:
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Formaldehyde - used in some adhesives and flame retardants; can irritate your eyes, throat and airways.
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Toluene, benzene and xylene - often found in polyurethane foam; linked to headaches, dizziness and brain fog.
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2‑ethyl‑1‑hexanol - detected in higher levels in some synthetic mattresses and pillow materials, and according to this study, can cause respiratory issues, eye irritation, and headaches with repeated exposure.
When you’re lying in bed for 6 to 9 hours a night, breathing these compounds in over and over - especially with limited ventilation - can take a toll on your sleep quality and overall health.
The ways VOCs interfere with your sleep
There are a few key ways VOCs can make it harder to get a good night’s rest, including:
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Irritating your airways - making it harder to breathe easily, which can wake you up or keep you in lighter stages of sleep.
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Impacting your brain and mood - with studies suggesting links between VOC exposure and fatigue, low mood, and anxiety, it’s a perfect recipe for restless sleep.
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Triggering an inflammatory response - even at low levels, long-term VOC exposure may cause low-grade inflammation that affects the nervous system and body clock.
Why natural and low-VOC bedding makes a difference
If you’re keen to create a healthier sleep space, opting for natural or certified low-VOC materials is a smart step.
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Natural latex mattresses made from rubber tree sap are a great alternative to synthetic foam. Certified options (like GOLS or GOTS certified latex) are processed without harsh chemicals and tend to emit far fewer VOCs.
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Organic wool and cotton pillows are breathable and don’t rely on synthetic fillers or glues. And if you’re a fan of buckwheat hull pillows, a Japanese study found that this material releases significantly fewer VOCs than polyester or foam alternatives.
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Low-VOC certifications such as OEKO TEX, GOLS and GOTS are helpful signposts when choosing cleaner options for your bedroom.
All of The Natural Bedding Company's mattresses and pillows are made with these low-tox, VOC-conscious materials in mind, so you can rest easier knowing your bedding is working with your body, not against it.
Simple ways to reduce VOC exposure in the bedroom
Air out new products
If you buy a piece of furniture or product - even a new car - that has that signature off-gassing smell, leave it in a well-ventilated area for a few days before use (or crack a few windows in your car). If you’re looking for household items on a budget, you could also opt for second-hand items that have already off-gassed most of their VOCs.
Let fresh air in
Even cracking a window each day helps reduce the build-up of indoor pollutants. You could also look at getting some indoor plants and an air purifier to help improve indoor air quality.
Choose natural fibres and fillings
Natural materials are not only better for your skin and temperature regulation, but far gentler on your lungs. A big advantage for anyone struggling with allergies or sensitivity in the bedroom and beyond.
Skip the synthetic fragrances
Room sprays, candles and air fresheners can add to the chemical load. Stick with essential oils or candles if you want a subtle scent. Check out our go-to guide for low tox swaps to ensure you’re keeping your chemical load as low as possible.
Look for certifications
Seek out products that come with eco-friendly and low tox guarantees. GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard), GOLS (Global Organic Latex Standard), and OEKO TEX are good indicators of a safer, cleaner product.
Clean air makes for better sleep
Getting good sleep isn’t just about how soft your mattress is - it’s also about what’s in it. And the research is becoming clearer: regular exposure to even small amounts of VOCs can contribute to trouble sleeping, and potentially even affect mood and long-term health.
While we can't control everything in our environment, we can make thoughtful changes to the spaces we spend the most time in - AKA our bedrooms. And switching to natural, breathable, low-VOC bedding is one of the simplest, most effective ways to do that.
