I went and unzipped my sleep number bed and there's BLACK MOLD everywhere!!! Right after purchasing this bed five years ago is when I started to get really sick from the Lyme I've managed without intervention from docs for 35 years!!!!
Posted by TerryK (Member # 8552) on :
OMG six!!!
I'm so glad you found it. Since mold spores are air-borne you will likely need to check your whole house for mold growth. I'm dealing with a mold issue myself and it can be very costly to try to remediate.
Do you know if you have the genetics that make it difficult to get rid of the mycotoxins? Consider using a binder if you aren't already.
So sorry this happened to you but very glad you found out and can deal with it now. Hopefully you will get well much faster now.
Terry
Posted by lymie_in_md (Member # 14197) on :
Six, imagine you didn't discover the mold infestation in the bed. Then had the treatment with Dr. W. and still had symptoms after your return. It makes you think in determining the real cause of symtoms.
What an environment we live in.
So six, what do you do now (both joy and anger feelings)? At least you know where a good number of your symptoms came from.
Posted by sixgoofykids (Member # 11141) on :
I seem to detox very well. I am going to start taking the cholestyramine that's in my cupboard.
I live in a 92 year old house and talked to a guy who specializes in mold cleanup. He says that the way this house is constructed makes mold an unlikely problem.
So, it's good news that I most likely won't need to tear out walls, etc., but I will need to look into what I need to do.
I mainly wanted to pass on the info for others here who might have one of these beds!!
Bob, I know I have Lyme. I have had symptoms for 35 years, but it was in almost complete remission for 12 years before I got this bed. So, I still want to go to Germany to eradicate the Lyme.
I'm thrilled though to be getting rid of this source of toxins.
Posted by SForsgren (Member # 7686) on :
You may need to consider moving even. Opening the mattress likely proliferated the mold. I would also get Esoterix testing ASAP for black mold so you have something to show that it was impacting your health. They can do antibody testing for the Stachy.
Posted by lymie_in_md (Member # 14197) on :
Six I didn't mean to infer you didn't. Even if you had the lyme removed by Dr. W., hypothetically you could still have had symptoms on your return and not know why.
At least now you know some of the symptoms were mold aggravated by lyme. I also feel bad you lost 5 years due to none other then a bed.
Posted by Larkspur (Member # 5131) on :
Six - that is crazy!
That is horrible but also a blessing that you found it
Hope getting rid of that bed brings you much better health!
Posted by groovy2 (Member # 6304) on :
Hey Six
The mold is likely a huge part of why you are sick-
I pulled ALL of the carpet from my home and it made a Huge difference for me--
I found No visible mold on the carpet tho-
Dont open the mattress any more- just 86 it-
3M number 92 or 95 dust masks should be worn when handling any of this stuff- $5 for 2-
Cheap masks dont work much--Jay--
Posted by kelmo (Member # 8797) on :
With that rediculous expense, you should take a picture of it and send it to the television station to do a story on it.
THEN, contact sleepnumber and ask for your money back.
You could threaten to send them your doctor bills.
Posted by kam (Member # 3410) on :
Hoping to be able to read this when I am doing better.
As I was just trying to figure out how old my mattress is.
i read somewhere that after so many years half of the weight in mattresses is..darn can't recall what they said...I want to say dust bunnies but that was not it.
Those simple organisms that eat dead skin.
I think I purchased my bed in 98. So 10 years old.
Guessing it is time for a new one.
So interested in learning which ones are best if and when I have the funds.
Read that pillows need to be replaced after a certain amount of time too.
Mine are older than the bed I thnk. Down pillows.
Posted by charlie (Member # 25) on :
quote: Those simple organisms that eat dead skin.
Dust Mites....
Posted by Hoosiers51 (Member # 15759) on :
Kam,
Instead of buying a new bed, just get one of those matteress pads that zips around the entire mattress. They make them for people that are allergic to dust. That will prevent dust mites from being able to get in or out. It's a cheaper solution!
Posted by CD57 (Member # 11749) on :
Holy S*&t!! I can't believe this!
Posted by sixgoofykids (Member # 11141) on :
quote:Originally posted by CD57: Holy S*&t!! I can't believe this!
LOL! My thoughts exactly!!!
Posted by Nal (Member # 6801) on :
Wow, sorry to hear you had such a bad relapse! I have a sleep number bed. I thoroughly checked mine for mold-didn't find any. However the last sleep number i had I did find mold on the egg crate mattress. This one is fine so far.
Im thinking about getting a zippered mattres protector like was suggested and putting the whole mattress in that.
Hope you get to feeling better soon.
Nancy
Posted by groovy2 (Member # 6304) on :
Hi Six
I was just saying what I did-
I have not had night sweats since I pulled the carpet out- before that It was nightly sweating my tail off--
When I was doing research I found several labs that will test your house for mold-
I dont remember for sure but I think they send you a test kit- you swab areas in your home and send the swabs to them for testing -
seems like it was $100 for tests-
Also try wearing dust mask in your home if you have any worry about mold-
I did this for a few weeks till I got mold taken care of -- Jay-
Posted by sparkle7 (Member # 10397) on :
That's horrible. What an inconvenience & a danger.
Sorry to hear about this but it's good you found out, 6!
I have been using a foam mattress with magnets in it for many years. It's still comfortable after over 15 years. I just put a memory foam topper on it & it's very comfy.
Mold, allergens, & dust mites are a serious problem. I live in an old house, too. In some ways they are designed better to take advantage of cross-ventalation. They have larger windows & sometimes the materials used in building are less toxic than materials used in newer homes.
Good luck in getting rid of the mold & with any legal action.
Posted by Angelica (Member # 15601) on :
Six sorry you are having to go through this. I hope you get some legal justice.
For anyone worried about dust mites in their pillow I did hear you can freeze your pillow for 24 hours and it will kill the dust mites.
Posted by oxygenbabe (Member # 5831) on :
Goofy get the mold tested. I would say your symptoms are from mold. Maybe bring a vial over and have Dr. W find someone to make a nosode with?
Anyway, as long as its not toxic black poison mold, I wouldn't think you'd have to move.
A good thorough cleaning of the room, wiping down surfaces with a 10-1 (water/bleach) bleach solution, and putting in a dehumidifier if necessary.
You can also do an ERMI test, to see if there is still a high level of spores.
But its likely throwing out the bed is about all that's needed.
Posted by Curiouser (Member # 14128) on :
Ugh! What a horrible discovery! Yet I'm sure somewhat of a relief at finding it too.
Ask L about ordering a test for Stachy to see if you've been exposed. She ran one during my differential dx.
Posted by luvs2ride (Member # 8090) on :
If your symptoms began after buying this bed, maybe getting rid of it will improve your symptoms. Odds are you will have to do some mold detoxing too. My doctor currently has me on welchol for this purpose.
Posted by sixgoofykids (Member # 11141) on :
Hi everyone, thanks for all the comments.
I talked to a guy I know who does mold remediation for a living. He said that he thinks that since we got rid of the source, it shouldn't be a problem.
However, that isn't always the case. He said he'd wait and see how my health responds. If I don't feel better, then he'll test the air in the bedroom, in the living room, and outside. Then they tell by comparing.
There is mold everywhere, so you do a comparison to other places to see if there's a problem in one place over another.
He said that he thinks it was having my face right next to a mold filled mattress that was most likely the problem.
I was glad I had someone I know to ask ..... I could have easily bought into, "You need this $400 test, and you need this $______ mold cleanup."
My house gets good circulation as it's old ..... the newer buildings that are air tight tend to be the ones that get sick building syndrome.
He said that they use HEPA vacuums to get rid of the mold spores, so I used my Oreck with a HEPA bag today to vaccum. Mopping just spreads the mold around.
I also have fans going in here and the windows open.
My room is not humid, so I don't think a dehumidifier is needed.
I always have an air cleaner going. We also use allergy filters in our A/C units.
So, I think it's going to be okay. Except for hurting my back playing racquetball, I feel NORMAL!! I have some seasonal allergies like the rest of the family, but I don't have any Lyme symptoms or babs symptoms at all.
I don't think it's all gone as I herx like clockwork every 24 days, but for the time between the herx, I am totally functional.
I am getting tested by my doctor for mold toxicity.
Now I'm just waiting for my new bed, which should be here any minute!!!
what is it about that kind of bed that makes it susceptible to mold?
Posted by sixgoofykids (Member # 11141) on :
I think it's lack of air flow. They also used to use materials that weren't mold resistant.
Posted by wantabe (Member # 14703) on :
I've been sleeping on black mold too!!!!!!!
Thank you 6 for sharing the information- this may explain a lot.
LLMD swore mold was a factor with my symptoms, but we never could pinpoint a source.
She also was sure some sort of allergy was causing my sleep disturbances. I am taking enough pills at night to keep a horse down and I wake 2-3 times every night and sleep horribly-go figure!!!
Where do I sleep tonight? I'm sure all my bedding is contaminated as well...
one more thing to add to life's mess... Posted by lymeHerx001 (Member # 6215) on :
I dont know whats worse, sleeping on black mold or choosing the wrong mattress.
Im in hell either way.
Posted by sixgoofykids (Member # 11141) on :
Well, we took my son's mattress and moved it to our bedroom till our new one came in. He had left for college the day we found the mold .... that day we went to see him, his new room, etc. and while we were there, we looked at organic beds at the link above.
Just so happened that someone had ordered the same bed we wanted but didn't want it for four more weeks, so we got theirs delivered the very next day and the store ordered a new one for them! It all worked out perfectly!
But, yeah, you need to sleep somewhere else tonight. The relief for me was almost immediate. We thought my babesia just wasn't responding to meds ..... I haven't had my usual air hunger for two days. Posted by lymie_in_md (Member # 14197) on :
6 we're going to expect twice as many posts from you now that you'll be feeling better. Posted by sixgoofykids (Member # 11141) on :
No, expect half as many!
I always post more when I feel bad. I'm too busy when I'm healthy. That's why you haven't seen much of me the past couple days .... I got rid of that stupid bed and feel GREAT now!
Posted by lymeHerx001 (Member # 6215) on :
I hear ya, just look at all my neurotic posting activity. Its because I feel bad and confused not good.
If I were good like GiGi and company then you might not see me for a while, instead I would just offer what worked.
quote:Originally posted by sixgoofykids: No, expect half as many!
I always post more when I feel bad. I'm too busy when I'm healthy. That's why you haven't seen much of me the past couple days .... I got rid of that stupid bed and feel GREAT now!
Posted by randibear (Member # 11290) on :
what are mold symptoms?
Posted by wantabe (Member # 14703) on :
Mold symptoms?
From the class action suit site from above:
Some of the most common symptoms from exposure to mold are: Headaches Worsening of allergies Fevers Nasal and sinus congestion Burning and watering eyes Coughing Sore throat Flu-like symptoms Skin rashes/irritation Respiratory problems
Any sound familiar to Lyme and co-infections?????
Posted by sixgoofykids (Member # 11141) on :
Since mold causes toxicity and Lyme causes toxicity there is a lot of overlap in symptoms. When I Googled mold symptoms many of the lists looked like they could be list of symptoms for Lyme Disease.
I didn't see one particular list that was my favorite. Posted by sixgoofykids (Member # 11141) on :
Hi all!! I love, love, love my new bed!!!!
I never smelled the mold or had my normal allergic reaction to it (normally mold makes my eyes burn and my nose itch). I also never smelled the numerous chemicals they put in beds ..... however, I smelled the lack of the chemicals and mold as I lay down last night to go to sleep.
I woke up at 6:30 well-rested! What on earth am I going to do with this extra time waking up earlier and refreshed!!!! Posted by lymeHerx001 (Member # 6215) on :
Six, what kind of bed does your son have?
I hate to bring it around to me again but I just got a cheapo one for $200 and its too hard.
I know that the Simmons have pocketed coils which help alot for circulation. Also they are making beds now with memory foam.
The cheaper ones are just the bonnell springs with a lower coil count. Thas what I have.
Thanks again!
Posted by sixgoofykids (Member # 11141) on :
Ha, ha, bring it around to you all you want!!!
If anyone has experience detoxing mold, please post that, too!
My son's mattress? It's okay .... actually it a great mattress, we've had houseguests say it was really comfortable compared to theirs. I had my 12 year old go read the tag and he said it's a "United Sleep Products" mattress.
I love my new bed, which is coils with latex foam, which is toxin-free unlike memory foam. The mattress to buy is the one I just bought. Yeah, already on the new bed! They had ordered one exactly how we wanted, and the person didn't want it for a month, so we got theirs, and the store is reordering one for them. Just got lucky to get it so quickly!
Posted by lymie_in_md (Member # 14197) on :
All right everyone, we'll all meet over at 6's house to test out the new bed.
Keep us up to date on how this new bed works out for you. Posted by sixgoofykids (Member # 11141) on :
ROFL! A bunch of Lymies on my new bed? I'll never get it back! But you'll all love my new mold free room!!
I'm feeling terrific! Even though I had to take a Benadryl because of this cold I got from my daughter, and the Norco and Advil I had to take because I injured my back playing racquetball, I feel better than I've felt in years!!!
Wonder if I'll be able to read the music when I play flute this morning at Mass ..... Posted by John V (Member # 7908) on :
If you want information on black mold, unfortuntatley I have a wealth of it.In 2005 I was introduced to the horrible stuff.
Of course at the time my lyme was in remission for 7 years and you better believe it came roaring back!
I was cleaning out the basement of a rental apt. and came across some sheetrock with black stuff all over. I assumed it was mold, but had no knowledge of what it could actually do.
I became suddenly ill just days after coming into contact.
A few weeks later, we found mold spores in our ac which was sucked up from the basement.
that was the red flag for me... I started researching mold and was astonished by what i read. We had a company come out and test. it was possitive for Stachy, at a high level.
During this time, my wife's asthma went into overdrive.
We were faced with a choice and ultimately we moved and left everything behind. I had such a sensitivity to it that I didn't want to risk taking furniture, cloths, etc with me and infecting out new house. The doctor and department of health also reccomend we move.
After much research, I finally found a toxicoligist who treated me for detox.
I could go on and on, but if you have specific questions let me know. I'd be happy to help.
BTW people in 2005 thought I was crazy and that mold could not do that to a person.
Posted by Angelica (Member # 15601) on :
6 which mattress on that website did you order? is it the organic cotton one or the latex one?
Thanks and I am glad you are have a healthy mattress now and you are sleeping better.
Posted by sixgoofykids (Member # 11141) on :
Wow, John! I'll see how I do over the next few days, and I'll ask questions when they come up, thanks!
I got the latex bed ... it's a thicker latex with springs of varying heights. I also got the adjustable wood slats. I love it!
I was comatose last night, never woke up till morning and the covers were hardly messed up at all (hubby was out of town). That is not normal for me.
Posted by heiwalove (Member # 6467) on :
hey six,
do you (or anyone else) know where to get a similar organic/latex mattress and bed in the nyc area? i don't know where to look!
thanks!
also, is the mattress you ordered purely latex, or is it made of cotton and/or wool as well?
Posted by oxygenbabe (Member # 5831) on :
Heiwa, if you have the $, ABC carpet has an organic bedding section, with latex beds and I believe organic cotton beds as well.
If that is too expensive, consider White Lotus Futon in New Brunswick if a friend will drive you out there. It's about a 30-60 minute drive from NYC. It's near Rutgers.
You need to try these beds and see what suits you. The latex does have an odor when new if you happen to be sensitive. It also is not all natural, some is made from petroleum, but its safer than normal foam and does not mold.
Cotton futons can mold but not black mold like Sleep # beds. They can get mites tho, and thus fungi, like any mattress with cotton. There are some nice futons at White Lotus with foam cores surrounded by cotton that are pretty safe.
You have to test them tho and see what is comfortable. I personally dislike the smell of organic cotton and could not figure out why I couldn't stand it, even in clothing sometimes, and then I just read that there is some kind of pesticide in organic cotton (natural pesticide) that releases phenols etc. I guess that's what I smell and I don't like it.
Posted by heiwalove (Member # 6467) on :
thanks oxygen. just found another nyc possibility --
Mine has a cotton/wool cover. There are 100% natural latex mattresses that do not have petroleum (that's what mine is and it doesn't have an odor at all).
I just googled organic beds and Cincinnati to find this place. I'm sure you could do the same for NYC. The bed I bought is made in CA, and I plan on looking at the website for them later to look at their blankets, etc.
Posted by lymeHerx001 (Member # 6215) on :
Six, unfourtunatelly I think we need specifics.
Make,model everything.
My new bed is TOO HARD!
I just ordered 3" of memory foam with a return policy. Im hoping this would work.
I need a bed with medium firmness and great support.
I just spent $200 on a cheap mattress and $150 on a topper!
I could have got the mattress I needed at first but I just couldnt tell what was the best.
I cant have it too soft
Posted by sixgoofykids (Member # 11141) on :
This is where I got my bed. I don't know the brand.
Posted by lymeHerx001 (Member # 6215) on :
Thanks six!~!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Posted by lymeHerx001 (Member # 6215) on :
six I went to the link and clicked on mattresses and it just went on about their system but didnt say it was latex.
The site didnt havemuch info. Are you sure its latex?
My memory foam arrices later this week. Its supposed to be lower in off gassing. We shal see.
I hope Im in love with it as you yours.
Posted by oxygenbabe (Member # 5831) on :
Heiwa (btw love your myspace page--looked at it a few months ago and tried to PM you but your box was full...)----that looks good. If you have enough energy, do go try the beds at ABC and the other place. ABC has some latex beds that open up and you can layer them, and smell them. I think it's important. I ended up buying a wool-filled futon from Surroundewe.com. Its luscious. However I don't sleep on it yet because I need to get a frame. I also bought a wool felt from Shepherd's Dream, to put on top. Very wonderful too. Wool is very comforting.
Anyway, goofy, I did a *lot* of research on mattresses as I've written about them. I must tell you most of the latex mattresses advertise themselves as natural but do not use ALL natural latex from the rubber tree. They tend to mix natural with petroleum-based latex. You need to call the company to find out. In fact natural is more likely to have an odor than synthetic. You need to ask some tough questions as it takes some in depth research to get at the truth. I've reviewed their website and FAQ and I don't see them directly claiming it is from the rubber tree. They use the word "natural" but that can be legally used as a descriptor. I'm not a betting gal but if I were I'd bet they are not making mattresses from 100% rubber tree latex.
Synthetic latex foam is oil based just like polyurethane, however it is less toxic for various reasons.
However, the point is that this bed is not likely to mold, from what I understand. Sleep # beds are notorious. That was probably why you were sick these last years.
Posted by lymeHerx001 (Member # 6215) on :
O dont do well with odors anymore either, but I must say that my mother has one and I dont notice anything offensive.
If there was really some odor offensive to me it would make me dizzy, make my throat hurt, make me feel weird and depressed.
Posted by lymeHerx001 (Member # 6215) on :
Im still planning on ketting it, airing it out, and then putting it under my polyethylene sheet protector.
I will let you know what happens.
I still havent called Simmons to see how their mattresses work better for me. I just gotta check it out.
Posted by sixgoofykids (Member # 11141) on :
quote:Most mattress cushioning is polyurethane or memory foam--stiff, unyielding, and full of chemicals. Not ours. We use only natural latex foam from Swiss-Tex of Switzerland. Their green factory produces the most durable, flexible, and clean foam we've found.
Derived from rubber trees, natural latex has elasticity and strength for maximum pressure reduction with minimal wear. This resilient foam doesn't sag like polyurethane foams, and it's far more breathable. Polyurethane foam traps moisture accumulated during sleep and quickly becomes saturated creating a haven for dust mites and mildew. Latex foam, however, is anti-bacterial and resists mold and mildew for a cleaner nights sleep.
Rest easy, free from chemicals
Our latex foam is free from toxic substances, including formaldehydes, bromides, and PBDE's (Polybrominated diphenal ethers, used in chemical flame retardants). Oeko-Tex, an environmental testing board in Switzerland, certifies that our mattresses meet their highest standard for cleanliness and purity. And that should help you sleep better at night.
Posted by lymeHerx001 (Member # 6215) on :
What specific kind did you get? ALpine, Nordic? They all have different firmness.
Posted by lymeHerx001 (Member # 6215) on :
Also how did you hear about this?
I like the idea of pocketed coils. I slept wonderfull on a Simmons beautyrest with pocketed coils.
My innerspring right now doesnt have that and I sleep terrible on it, its too firm and doesnt contour to my body.
Posted by lymeHerx001 (Member # 6215) on :
I dont like the fact that you cant try it out.
Posted by lymeHerx001 (Member # 6215) on :
It does look like a great bed though
Posted by sixgoofykids (Member # 11141) on :
We got an Alpine. You can select the firmness of the Latex, we got soft on both sides. It has support, but is soft, if that makes sense. You have the "feel" of a firm mattress as far as support, but it's not like lying on the floor.
You adjust the slats so it gives support where you need it. For example, hubby is a side sleeper, so we have the support by his knees firmer to hold them higher so he doesn't twist.
We got the Alpine because we like a little more movement. The Nordic has two levels of springs and the top level are attached to each other. He said for someone heavier or someone who is used to a traditional mattress might like it better.
I also wanted the thicker foam rather than more springs.
All that is just a matter of personal preference. All the beds were wonderful.
Three nights in a row, I've slept like a rock. Tonight I think I'll try reducing my sleep meds and see what happens.
Posted by sixgoofykids (Member # 11141) on :
quote:Originally posted by lymeHerx001: I dont like the fact that you cant try it out.
I did try it out. I went to a local store (an hour away) that has it. The salesman was very helpful in determining which model was right for us.
Posted by cottonbrain (Member # 13769) on :
six, maybe somebody already posted this -- i couldn't read the whole thread,
but there's a company on the west coast that sells wool bedding -- felt mats, pads, coverlets, that you can stack on top of each other to make a bed. You can take the pads out in the sun to air them out.
I ordered samples and they were wonderful! no smell at all, and pretty too. Sorry, i cannot remember the company name, so if you are interested you can google wool bedding --
not cheap though!
Posted by oxygenbabe (Member # 5831) on :
The company is Shepherd's Dream. New wool will have a smell. Also SurroundEwe makes similar, a little cheaper. Both great companies.
Goofy--you didn't look closely at what their website said. You quoted it. It implies it's all from rubber trees but I bet it's not. You need to call and ask hard questions *if you are interested*. You need to ask for the name of the Swiss company and write them. You need to ask the mattress maker directly if their latex is 100% from rubber trees and nothing synthetic at all. You need to get that in writing. Believe me there is a lot of slippery advertising just like theirs all over the web. However, if you're sleeping well and feeling better, no need to. But please don't assume it is 100% rubber tree and all natural, and also, that it is not synthesized by a chemical process that leaves residues. Please, it is astonishing how much lying and dissembling is going on in all areas. Did you folks know that enteric capsules are coated with phthalates--which are hormone disrupters and carcinogens? This is true for all those "healthy" supplements for instance. Did y'all know that MSDS sheets are not required for regular fabric softeners and scented detergents and a recent study by a scientist found all kinds of unlabelled carcinogens and serious toxic chemicals in them--not required to be listed by law? Did you know that Seventh Generation's new 2X HE detergent (which is all they make now) contains some additives that are petroleum based? If you insist on asking, you will start to get the truth. This goes on and on. Don't assume that because they describe what natural latex is, that THEIRS is all natural latex. It's verbal sleight of hand. And don't take a customer service rep's word for it.
I did a lot of research on this earlier this year. That's why I'm going with the wool which is very comfortable. I talked to the heads of each company. I know the process by which the wool gets cleaned etc. Its about as natural as you can get.
Posted by wantabe (Member # 14703) on :
six-
I contacted the class action site on Monday and have not heard back from them.
What have you heard from them? I want to get rid of the bed (in garage) but wanted their input...
By the way, my new sleep # bed arrived today. Took 3 days.
I really like the bed and am willing to try it again. They sent it no problem and didn't ask me to sign anything. They were VERY helpful! go figure...
Posted by sixgoofykids (Member # 11141) on :
Wantabe, I PM'd you. I'm glad you got your bed so quickly!!
Posted by Al (Member # 9420) on :
Thanks , I emailed my daughter , she checked her bed and found mold.
Thanks again ! Al
Posted by sixgoofykids (Member # 11141) on :
quote:Originally posted by Al: Thanks , I emailed my daughter , she checked her bed and found mold.
Thanks again ! Al
You're welcome!
Posted by sparkle7 (Member # 10397) on :
I bought a piece of mattress quality foam from an upholstery store ( I think it's about 4 inches thick) & I put a memory foam topper on it.
It's not fancy but I was wondering if regular latex foam (with chemicals) or memory foam are conducive to mold growth?
Does anyone know?
I bought it pretty recently but we are planning on moving & I don't know if it will bring mold from our place to the new location.
I don't know if we have mold here but I kind of assume we do. It's an old house.
It's quite comfortable.
Posted by sixgoofykids (Member # 11141) on :
Old houses are actually less prone to mold because they have better air circulation, go figure. They can have mold if there was a water problem, etc., but they are less prone to problems according to the mold remediation guy I know. He said it was a plus that I lived in an old house.
Sorry I don't know the answers about the foam.
Posted by sparkle7 (Member # 10397) on :
We have great cross-ventalation & big windows here. We also have clogged gutters & the rain pours into the walls - like for years this has been happening.
I really do like old houses, too. They don't design new houses like this unless you get something trendy & green.
Posted by sixgoofykids (Member # 11141) on :
Oh, yeah, rain in the walls is bad!
I think those trendy/green neighborhoods are neat ... the ones that look like they're old. We live in an old downtown, it's cool, it's neat that they're copying that.
Posted by lymeHerx001 (Member # 6215) on :
We had that problem with the gutters and rain on the closed in porch.
Everything rotted out there and mold grew everywhere!
My parents threw everything out this summer and cleaned up a bit. They are still shocked though that they have to replace on of the corner beam that is all rotted.
Water + Moisture + wood = moldy dirt.
My hand litterally went through the wall on the pourch. It all turned into dirt. I put it into a bag and showed my Father, he was in denial.
Posted by kpoindexter (Member # 17910) on :
OMG
I really hope Select Comfort has corrected this problem.
My wife and I just baught one last week thinking that a new matress might help with my insomnia.
Interesting though. I live in an old house (build in 1910) which I'm almost positive has mold here and there.
We've tried to fix the areas we find, but Gosh, what could we have missed and how much of my current symptoms could be caused by it.
Will have to actively look into this further.
Posted by sixgoofykids (Member # 11141) on :
They came and picked up my bed a week or so ago. I'm supposed to get a check in the mail soon. They were going to charge me to pick it up but I pitched a fit and they picked it up for "free".
At first they wanted me to mail it to them. I was not comfortable mailing toxic mold. Also, where the heck would I find a box big enough? They were willing to pay the fee for mailing, but not the box.
Posted by FancyRatFan (Member # 3088) on :
Well, I'm chiming in a bit late on this thread.
I admit I have not read all the posts after the first page.
Six, I am sooooo glad that you are feeling better and have a mold free mattress and room.
I have had my sleep number bed for 8 years now and I LOVE it.
As soon as I read your post I checked mine and it's in good shape.
I thank you for posting this. I will check it often.
When I first was hit strong with my symptoms, Multiple Chemical sensitivity was a huge one.
I went to my Mom's house because I could no longer take care of myself.
I could smell the mold as soon as I walked in the door.
Of course my Mother nor my husband couldn't smell a thing so it was dismissed.
The Woman (Whom I do love dearly) had twenty year old carpet!
Thick. It was between shaq and not shag. I kid you not the carpet had been steamed cleaned once in 20 years.
Of course I only got sicker and moved ASAP from there.
SEVEN YEARS later she gets a skin condition and calls for a mold Man. Yep, they found Mold MOLD!!!!!!
The funniest thing was that she actually told me that I never said a word to her about the mold. Ahhh, such sweet memories.
Yea, I have no issues regarding that at all
Fancy
Posted by sixgoofykids (Member # 11141) on :
LOL, Fancy!
Be sure you check UNDER the foam. Just unzipping it isn't enough, you must look at the air bag and the foam that covers it.
I hope you got lucky with this one. If not, if you love your bed, they will replace the parts (I'd have them replace the whole thing including the mechanical part for the air as spores can be anywhere).
I hope you're feeling better now. I see you're an old timer around here .... 2002!
Posted by karenl (Member # 17753) on :
I had this problem with other furniture like a sofa and chairs. They delivered the furniture and I got immediately so sick, had to run out of the house. I wonder if mold in the mattress could be very dangerous for new born babies. Would be interested if there possibly could be some connection to sudden child death.