Why Material Choices and Supply Chains Matter.

I recently read an article about a New Zealand bed company facing complaints that its products were shedding glass fibre particles. It left me with many emotions: concern, sadness, frustration, and above all – determination.This story brought to light the critical importance of selecting the right materials for products, avoiding reliance on synthetics, and ensuring transparency within our supply chains. It serves as a stark reminder of the challenges we face in trusting the products we bring into our homes—and the potential dangers of synthetic fire-retardant materials, especially when regulations fall short.

At the heart of this issue is the need for a deep understanding of performance textiles in manufacturing. It’s clear that design choices play a massive role in the materials used. In this case, fire-retardance was a priority, but we already know that natural materials like wool, rayon, and natural silica offer effective fire protection without the health risks associated with materials like fibreglass.

Imagine if the mattresses had been made from wool. Wool naturally resists fire and doesn’t require the use of synthetic, toxic treatments to meet safety standards. This isn’t just true for mattresses; the same principle applies to polyester, cotton, and many other materials commonly used in products that require fireproofing. The fact that these synthetic treatments are even necessary demonstrates the need for a more thoughtful, natural approach to design. This situation is a clear reminder of the importance of considering the materials we use and the processes behind them. Rigorous research and development are essential when launching new products, and strong relationships with supply chain partners are crucial. We cannot afford to rely on fast production or remote communication; direct collaboration ensures the integrity of the final product.

I also feel compelled to share this on a personal level. As a mother, I once purchased one of these mattresses for my young daughter, believing I was giving her a safe and healthy sleeping environment. To read about the health risks associated with these products now is deeply troubling. Thankfully, we never removed the cover, and no health effects have been experienced, but I can’t help but think of other families who may not be so fortunate. Let this be a call to action for the design community: we must prioritize the best materials and advocate for greater transparency in our supply chains. We have the power to create products that are not only functional and beautiful but also safe, sustainable, and kind to the planet.

And to the wool community—we already have a fantastic fibre for safer, healthier homes. Now it’s time to design with it, responsibly and intentionally.