The air around a child’s bed may carry more chemical pollutants than the bedroom itself. A recent study suggests sleeping spaces are a key source of toxic exposure for young children.

Researchers collected air samples from the sleeping areas and bedrooms of 25 children between 6 months and 4 years old living in Canada. They also tested the children’s mattresses for chemical emissions, looking for three types of compounds: phthalates (used to soften plastics), flame retardants, and UV filters (used in dyes and textiles). These chemicals belong to a group called semivolatile organic compounds, or SVOCs, which can escape from products and linger in air, dust, and on surfaces.

The researchers detected nearly 30 different chemicals in each of the three sampling locations—bedroom air, sleeping area air, and mattresses. The air in the sleeping area had higher chemical levels than the surrounding bedroom, confirming that bedding and other nearby items were likely contributing to children’s exposure. In many cases, the mattresses themselves released higher amounts of certain phthalates and flame retardants, while bedding appeared to be a major source of flame retardants.

These findings suggest that young children face increased chemical exposure while they sleep, a substantial concern given how much time they spend in their sleeping environments. The investigators proposed that parents reduce exposure by regularly washing bedding and sleepwear, as fabrics tend to trap airborne chemicals. Furthermore, some textiles can also release chemicals, so having fewer items in the bed is beneficial.