SAFETY WARNING: Never remove your mattress cover.

Inspection Guide

How to Identify Fiberglass Contamination

Learn how to inspect your home for mattress fiberglass and check if your mattress contains this material.

Step 1: Check Your Mattress Tag

Before inspecting for contamination, check if your mattress even contains fiberglass. Look at the law label (the tag that says "Do Not Remove Under Penalty of Law") for these warning signs:

Warning Signs on Law Labels

  • "Glass fiber" or "glass wool"
  • "Fiberglass"
  • "Do not remove cover"
  • "Modacrylic" (often mixed with fiberglass)
  • Warnings about cover removal

Tip: If you can't find the information on the tag, check our Brand Checker or contact the manufacturer directly.

Step 2: Inspection Methods

If your mattress contains fiberglass, use these methods to check for contamination:

Flashlight Test

Shine a bright flashlight at an angle across surfaces. Fiberglass particles will sparkle, shimmer, or glint in the light. Check bedding, floors, furniture, and air vents.

  • Use in a darkened room for best results
  • Check at multiple angles
  • Look for unusual sparkle that wasn't there before

Visual Inspection

Look closely at surfaces near the mattress. You may see fine, hair-like strands or a shimmer that catches light. Check the mattress cover for any tears, worn spots, or damage.

  • Use a magnifying glass for closer inspection
  • Check seams and zipper areas
  • Look for any cover damage or wear

Touch Test (with protection)

With gloves on, gently run your hand over surfaces. Fiberglass contamination often feels gritty, sandy, or causes a prickling/stinging sensation.

  • Always wear nitrile gloves
  • Don't press hard - light touch only
  • Check multiple surfaces for comparison

Step 3: Areas to Check

Inspect these areas using the methods above. Work systematically from the mattress outward:

Mattress cover

  • Tears or holes
  • Worn fabric
  • Damaged zipper
  • Visible fibers under cover

Bedding

  • Sheets and pillowcases
  • Blankets and comforters
  • Mattress pad/protector
  • Pillow cases

Bedroom surfaces

  • Nightstands
  • Dresser tops
  • Window sills
  • Light fixtures
  • Ceiling fan blades

Flooring

  • Carpet near bed
  • Area rugs
  • Hardwood/tile floors
  • Under the bed

HVAC

  • Air vents in bedroom
  • Air return grilles
  • AC/heating filters
  • Ductwork visible areas

If You Find Contamination

Don't panic, but do act carefully. Stop all activity in the area, turn off HVAC, and don't use a regular vacuum. Follow our cleanup guide for safe remediation steps.

Go to Cleanup Guide

Need More Help?

Our community can help you identify contamination and guide you through next steps.

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