Natural Latex / Rubber

At first glance, latex or natural rubber may seem to be an excellent material for use in baby crib mattresses. However, natural latex/rubber has been associated with unusually high allergies, particularly in children. Most allergists recommend that babies and young children steer clear of latex. Ironically, natural latex contains certain proteins that are more allergenic than synthetic latex. According to the FDA, a product containing latex (and particularly natural latex) cannot be labeled as “hypoallergenic.“

Latex/rubber (whether natural or not) normally contains vulcanization chemicals, including sulfur and ammonia, which can be harmful. Additionally, natural latex/rubber sometimes contains benzene, a hazardous substance as well as a carcinogen. In truth, “natural“ latex/rubber mattresses cannot be made without these chemicals.

Reportedly, there are over one thousand lawsuits currently in the U.S. revolving around latex/rubber allergies, particularly regarding children. Allergies from latex/rubber are obviously widespread. Additionally, hospitals across the country are in the process of removing latex due to this concern.

Naturepedic does not use natural or synthetic latex/rubber in any of its products.

  Additional Research

“Labeling of medical devices containing natural rubber latex that is likely to come in contact with humans must state in bold print: ‘Caution: This Product Contains Natural Rubber Latex Which May Cause Allergic Reactions.’ Labeling of … devices that contain natural rubber likely to come in contact with humans shall not contain the term ‘hypoallergenic.’ ...Some affected individuals continue to experience asthmatic symptoms even without contact with natural rubber latex...”
(Food & Drug Administration (FDA) Final Rule, Federal Register, Vol. 62, Page 51021)

“Latex allergy – an immunological reaction to natural rubber latex … poses a serious health risk for some patients … In rare cases, latex allergies can be fatal. Approximately 1,000 cases of allergic or anaphylactic reactions to latex-containing medical products have been reported to the FDA since 1988.”
(ACAAI, American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology)

“Allergy to latex was first recognized in the late 1970s. Since then, it has become a major health concern … The presence of allergic manifestations to natural rubber latex indicates an increased risk for anaphylaxis. This Type I reaction can occur within seconds to minutes of exposure to the allergen … When such a reaction occurs, it can progress rapidly from swelling of the lips and airways to shortness of breath, and may progress to shock and death, sometimes within minutes … Moreover, some affected individuals continue to experience asthmatic symptoms even without contact with natural rubber latex.”
(U.S. Department Of Labor, Occupational Safety and Health Administration, Washington, D.C. 20210)

“Latex allergy is a medical term encompassing a range of allergic reactions to natural rubber latex.
  • Type 1 – The most serious and rare form, type 1 is an immediate and potentially life-threatening reaction, not unlike the severe reaction some people have to bee stings. Such reactions account for a significant proportion of perioperative anaphylactic reaction, especially in children with myelomeningocele.
  • Type 4 – Also known as allergic contact dermatitis. This involves a delayed skin rash that is similar to poison ivy with blistering and oozing of skin. This type is caused by chemicals used in the processing of rubber products. (Note: Toxic chemicals, including toluene, ammonia, and/or sulfur are generally used in the processing of natural latex.).
  • Irritant contact dermatitis – The common type of reaction. This causes dry, itchy, irritated areas on the skin, most often on the hands.”
(Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia: Latex Allergy)