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Anyone concerned about the environmental impact of mattress manufacturing may consider purchasing an organic mattress. These contain organically grown materials, such as cotton and latex.
While many mattress companies market their products as organic, natural, or eco-friendly, it is a good idea to look into their practices before making a purchase.
Below, learn about the potential benefits of an organic mattress for the environment and a person’s health. We also list five of the best organic mattresses available for adults and children.
However, please note that the statements below are based only on research. No one at Medical News Today, including the writer, has tried these products.
The mattress manufacturing process creates volatile organic compounds (VOCs). These easily become gases and are potentially harmful to human health and the environment.
According to the National Library of Medicine, short-term exposure to VOCs may cause headaches, dizziness, and irritated airways. Long-term exposure may damage the liver, kidneys, and nervous system.
In a study from 2014, a team of environmental engineers found that some crib mattresses emit as many as 30 types of VOCs, including some with known negative health effects.
VOCs can also contribute to air pollution and smog.
Companies that make organic mattresses tend to use materials that do not release VOCs into the air. Some organic mattresses are also recyclable or biodegradable, and some manufacturers practice sustainable farming.
However, the extent of the benefits vary, depending on the specific materials and processes that the company uses.
When looking for an organic mattress, it is a good idea to check that the company has organic certification from a third party.
The Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) certification is among the most stringent and requires that 95% of the mattress’ materials are organic.
The Global Organic Latex Standard (GOLS) applies the same standards to latex mattresses. Both GOTS and GOLS certifications prohibit the use of potentially harmful chemicals, such as flame retardants and polyurethane.
The Oeko-Tex Standard 100 certification does not confirm that a mattress is made from organic materials — it indicates that the product contains no harmful substances.
Avocado Crib Mattress
The company’s website states that their crib mattress is made from the same materials and has the same certifications as their mattress for adults.
The crib mattress is suitable for babies and children up to the age of 4, they say, due to its dual-sided design.
One side has a layer of coconut husk, designed to provide a firm sleeping surface for infants. The other side is more plush and is suitable for older children. This extends the life of the mattress and improves its value.
This product is available for purchase online.
Naturepedic Baby Crib Mattress
The company’s website advertises this as a safe and environmentally friendly option, saying that it contains organic cotton filling and is free from harmful chemicals, such as flame retardants.
They also state that it is hypoallergenic and easy to clean, due to its waterproof cover, which is made from sugarcane.
Naturepedic have numerous certifications, including from GOTS, the GreenGuard, and the Forest Stewardship Council.
Their products come with a 30-day moneyback guarantee. Naturepedic also make mattresses for older children and adults.
PlushBeds Botanical Bliss
This organic latex mattress is available in medium and firm designs. The company’s website claims that also eases tension in pressure points and is microbe-, mold-, and mildew-proof.
The mattress contains natural, GOLS-certified latex and a layer of GOTS-certified wool, to regulate body temperature, as well as a GOTS-certified cotton cover.
It comes in a standard or a split construction, allowing partners with different sleeping positions to use it on an adjustable frame.
This product is available for purchase online.
EcoSleep Hybrid
According to Brooklyn Bedding, the company that makes this mattress, it contains a combination of sustainably-sourced wool, 100% organic cotton, and a surface layer of natural latex on each side of the mattress. The latex layer is thicker on one side, allowing people to choose the firmness that suits them best.
This product is Rainforest Alliance-certified, indicating that its materials came from responsibly-managed forests and farms. However, the only organic material in this mattress is the cotton.
Additionally, because it contains wool, this mattress may not be an option for vegans.
The EcoSleep Hybrid is made in the United States, and it comes with a 10-year warranty. A person can try it risk-free for 120 nights.
This product is available for purchase online.
Avocado
This mattress comes in a range of sizes and contains GOLS-certified latex and GOTS-certified cotton and wool. It contains no synthetic fibers, such as polyester, and no chemicals that release VOCs.
According to the company’s website, they source their materials from forests that they co-own, allowing them to trace their materials and ensure sustainability.
They also claim to be the first carbon-negative mattress company, offsetting more carbon emissions than they create.
A person can try Avocado’s mattress for 1 year, and it has a 25-year warranty. The company also makes a wool-free vegan mattress.
It is worth noting, however, that the costs of Avocado’s mattresses may be higher than those of many other brands.
An organic mattress may be made from cotton, wool, or natural latex and help a person avoid exposure to VOCs, compounds that may be harmful to health and the environment.
Some companies that make organic mattresses also use sustainable farming techniques and take further steps to reduce their impact on the environment.
Any company can describe their products as organic, so it is a good idea to look for official certifications, such as those of GOTS or GOLS. These two ensure that at least 95% of the material is organic.