For SKIN, according to Poison Control, 

FIBERGLASS EXPOSURE: "Rinse the exposed skin immediately. Remove contaminated clothing first (that's clothing with a spill). Don't delay. Use lots of room temperature running water. For large spills, adults and older children may find it easiest to hop in the shower. Use mild soap to remove material that sticks to the skin. >

Important: Rinse for at least 15 minutes. >

After Rinsing, if blistering, large or deep burns, pain, redness or swelling worsen or persist, you will need to see a doctor right away. But first, call the experts at Poison Control to see whether a trip to an urgicenter or emergency room is urgent or necessary If the symptoms are severe go straight to an emergency room after rinsing. Don't wait.

FIBERGLASS REMOVAL: First, rinse exposed area with cold water. Next, use a section of tape, place it lightly over the area making sure it sticks to the skin, then swiftly pull off the tape. You can also try soaking the area in a warm bath with a cup of Epsom salt. Soaking the affected area for at least 30 minutes may help draw out particles in the skin. After bathing, gently scrape a nylon stocking across the skin's surface to grab and remove any remaining fibers. There have also been reports of success in using keraloytic agents (e.g. 5% salicylic acid) in petroleum to remove fibers as well. For itching, use a topical steroid cream or antihistamine and take an oral antihistamine if needed.

Exposed Clothing To prevent cross-contamination, make sure to wash exposed clothing or other material that may have come in contact with the fiberglass separately using rubber gloves."

Look around for "sparkling" like in this video: https://fb.watch/omNOEcvGE7/ You will need to shine light on the item and move it around (flashlights). The strands are straight and thinner than a strand of hair, and clear. They will catch a shine. If clumped together, they look somewhat like white cat hair. 

Yes. The fibers are harmful if ingested or when they come into contact with skin and eyes and are a known asthmagen. They can irritate lungs, skin, and eyes. Long-term exposure is associated with lung disease while short-term exposure can cause lung inflammation, bronchiolitis, vision issues, and bleeding/scarring of the eyes. Most fibers used in mattresses are not small enough to enter the lower lungs but the fibers are known to be able to break down and sometimes cannot be detected by the naked human eye.

The IARC (International Agency for Research on Cancer) has classified some glass fibers as possibly carcinogenic to humans (Group 2B), based on animal studies. But they do not classify all fiberglass this way

A study revealed that glass fibers from Zinus mattresses are partially modacrylic and contain (undisclosed) chemical properties of Antimony trioxide and vinyl chloride. This information was never previously disclosed to the public anywhere.

Antimony trioxide and vinyl chloride are both considered to be potentially carcinogenic substances.Antimony trioxide is classified by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) as possibly carcinogenic to humans (Group 2B), while vinyl chloride  is classified as a known human carcinogen (Group 1).

Modacrylic fibers are made from a polymer called polyacrylonitrile (PAN), which is typically blended with other chemicals to improve its properties. Antimony trioxide  is often added as a flame retardant, while vinyl chloride may be used in the production of some PAN precursors.

There is some evidence to suggest that exposure to modacrylic fibers containing Antimony trioxide  and vinyl chloride may increase the risk of certain cancers, including lung cancer and liver cancer. However, the exact level of risk is not well established and may depend on factors such as the duration and intensity of exposure.

How a person or animal comes into contact also will produce different outcomes and will affect certain areas, depending on whether the fibers are ingested, inhaled, or absorbed. More testing should definitely be conducted on this specificly.

https://www.poison.org/articles/why-do-mattresses-contain-fiberglass

This is a personal preference. There has been no testing done on the effectiveness of Air purifiers with mattress fiberglass. Some claim that they do help while others feel that it can make the situation worse by blowing around particles. If you use one, do not use it until after you have cleaned (all steps in our cleaning guide--bagging up, wiping down, vacuuming) and re-cleaned and ready to air out the space. Air scrubbers work the best and we do recommend these. They are pricey to purchase but they can be rented from Home Depot at affordable rates. 

Items that are material (fabrics, clothing, bedding, towels, rugs...) and heavily contaminated, being visibly "shiny" or coated with fibers, definitely need to be discarded. There really is no way around this. If there are a few fibers, it is up to you. Saving items with even a few fibers can reintroduce contamination into your home, as it's challenging to ensure they are completely fiber-free. Avoid attempting to salvage pet or children's toys due to the difficulty in detecting fibers on these items, posing a risk if chewed or touched. This advice is tailored for extensive home contamination scenarios. If you detect mattress fiberglass early with minimal or no leaked fibers, you may not need to take extreme measures. Use discretion in deciding what to discard. If items aren't visibly coated in fibers, and you're not experiencing symptoms, thorough cleaning may not be necessary. 

When dealing with an issue as specific and potentially serious as mattress fiberglass exposure, it's natural to want your concerns to be taken seriously, especially by your partner. We wanted to include this question, as many of our members have experienced this. Fiberglass in mattresses can be a significant problem if the protective layer is disturbed because once those fiberglass particles are released into the air, they can spread throughout your home, embedding in clothing, carpet, and even air ducts. This can lead to skin irritation, respiratory problems, and a costly cleanup process.

Here are a few steps you can take to address the situation and hopefully get your partner to understand and take the issue seriously:

1. **Educate Yourself and Your Partner**: Gather credible information about fiberglass in mattresses, including the potential health hazards and the complexity of removing it once it's been released into your living environment. Websites of health organizations, consumer reports, and scientific studies can offer valuable information.12345.

2. **Share Stories and Reviews**: Find forums, reviews, or news stories of people who have experienced problems with fiberglass in their mattresses. Sometimes, real-life examples can make the issue more relatable and pressing.1.

3. **Consult a Professional**: If possible, consider consulting with a professional who deals with hazardous materials, or even a healthcare professional familiar with the effects of fiberglass exposure. A professional opinion can lend weight to your concerns.67.

4. **Express Your Feelings and Concerns Calmly**: Rather than focusing solely on convincing your partner through facts, share your feelings and concerns about the potential health risks and the well-being of both of you. Explain why this issue is important to you.

7. **Suggest Solutions**: Research and suggest alternatives, such as buying a new mattress that doesn’t contain fiberglass 910 or investigating mattress encasements designed to contain fiberglass. Presenting a solution can make the problem feel more manageable and less like an overwhelming risk.11812.

8. **Compromise on Steps to Take**: If your partner remains unconvinced of the need to replace the mattress, agree on intermediate steps, such as professional testing for fiberglass contamination 67 or a consultation with a doctor for any related health symptoms1314.

9. **Seek Support**: If the disagreement is causing significant stress in your relationship, it might be helpful to seek support from a counselor or therapist who can facilitate communication and help both of you understand each other’s perspectives. 1516.

Understanding and empathy are crucial when addressing concerns that may not be immediately obvious to others. By presenting clear information, expressing your genuine concerns constructively, and proposing actionable solutions, you can work towards a resolution that prioritizes both your health and your relationship.

Dealing with mattress fiberglass contamination can be overwhelming, but there are steps you can take to regain control:

• Take breaks, and breathe: Taking breaks and breathing are crucial during the cleaning process. Ensure to step away from the contaminated areas, get some fresh air, and take a short walk to clear your mind. Recollect. Remember that each small step you take is making a difference in to the overall picture. It's progress. Keep moving forward and dont dwell on whats happened/your situation. Recognize that reclaiming your home is a gradual process, so be prepared for the long journey ahead. While it may involve considerable hard work and stress, stay focused on the achievable goal of restoring your living space. Prioritize safety for everyone involved in the cleanup. Reassure yourself that with perseverance and a commitment to safety, you will successfully navigate through this challenging situation and reclaim your home.

• Thorough Cleaning: Continue cleaning using effective methods like a lint roller and a HEPA vacuum to capture fiberglass particles[1],[3].

• Professional Assistance: If possible, consult professionals for specialized help. Some situations may require the expertise of a professional cleaning service to ensure thorough decontamination[2].

• Health Assessment: Monitor your health for any symptoms related to fiberglass exposure. If concerns persist, consult a healthcare professional for guidance[4].

• Mental Health: Be aware of your mental health, as well. This can be a difficult situation to deal with. If the stress and anxiety becomes overbearing, you should seek help if needed. Many others who have been through this have sought the help of a therapist and it has helped them a great deal.

• Fiberglass-Free Mattress: Invest in a fiberglass-free mattress to prevent further contamination and protect your health[5].

• Emotional Support: Reach out to friends, family, or a support group to share your experience and receive emotional support. Dealing with this issue can be challenging, and having a support system is crucial. If you are feeling overwhelmed, have questions, just need to talk, be around others who have dealt with this, or want to support our cause and help spread awareness, Please join our Mattress Fiberglass Support & Awareness Group and reach out to us. We are here for you!

Remember, addressing this situation step by step and seeking support will help you navigate through the challenges associated with mattress fiberglass contamination.

In emergencies, always dial 911. Seek proper mental and physical help as needed for yourself, family, and pets.

Very itchy (clothing)

Fiberglass exposure can lead to skin irritation and pain, eye irritation or redness, temporary stomach discomfort, and soreness in the nose or throat1. Other symptoms reported by those who have inhaled fiberglass include upper respiratory infections, wheezing, lung aggravation, and coughing2. Direct contact with fiberglass or breathing airborne dust containing fiberglass may immediately or over time, irritate the skin, eyes, nose, and throat3. Whether or not one may have, when one may begin to experience, and the extremity of symptoms varies by person. Pets may become lethargic, blink often and more than normal, pull out their fur, become incredibly itchy, and may chew on themselves, excessive shedding, excessive whining, constant discomfort, fits of sneezing, and coughing/hacking.

For EYES, Poison Control says to....

• "Irrigate (rinse) the exposed eyes immediately. A delay could result in loss of sight. 

• Remove contact lenses

• Use lots of room temperature water and irrigate for at least 15 to 20 minutes.                                                               -Adults and older children may find it easiest to hop in the shower.                

  1. • Wrap young children in a towel and let from the faucet in the kitchen sink run over the eye - or slowly pour water from a pitcher. Let the bridge of the nose and gently run into the eyes rather than pouring the water directly into the eye . Encourage blinking

If symptoms persist for more than an hour after completing the irrigation, contact Poison Control (1-800-222-1222 in the U.S.) for additional recommendations.

The presence of fiberglass in mattresses raises valid concerns. Tiny glass fibers can become airborne, posing potential health risks if inhaled. Complaints about fiberglass shedding from mattress covers have been reported, emphasizing the importance of addressing the issue promptly and responsibly. Breathing in fiberglass particles over an extended period may have negative health effects[1],[2],[3]. Removing the matrress cover can quickly lead to a contamination problem that can quickly spread across an entire home. It's essential to assess the extent of contamination in your home and take appropriate measures, such as thorough cleaning and, in severe cases, discarding heavily contaminated items[6]. Act promplty and shit off HVAC and fans right away.