Invisible chemicals rising from children’s mattresses may be harming their brains and bodies.

That’s according to a pair of studies published on Tuesday, which found troubling levels of plastic-like “phthalate” chemicals and flame retardants in the bedrooms of children under four.

"Parents should be able to lay their children down for sleep knowing they are safe and snug,” said co-author Arlene Blum, Executive Director of the Green Science Policy Institute, in a statement.

While there are some steps that parents can take to help keep their kids safe, the problem is pervasive, researchers argued.

The Canadian scientists found that found that the weight and temperature of the sleeping child helped create a plume of trace chemicals that filled their bedrooms.

These chemicals can harm the nervous and reproductive system. They also mimic and interfere with systems of hormones, or chemical messengers that help control virtually all bodily functions.

The researchers from the University of Toronto argued that much of the responsibility lies with manufacturers and policymakers. Decades-long campaigns have sought to ban phthalates and plasticizers in children’s toys and furniture, with limited success.

Even where these efforts have been successful, manufacturers don’t always follow them, and government regulators often don't enforce them.........

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