Americans are becoming increasingly aware of the effect of synthetic materials on their health and the earth. No wonder, “organic” is a buzzword everyone is familiar with these days. Today, along with food, many people are considering organic mattresses to make life more eco-friendly. These are mattresses that are padded with natural materials such as wool or cotton.
Benefits of using an organic mattress
There are several benefits of sleeping on an organic mattress. The main advantages are as follows:
- It is hypoallergenic
Organic mattresses are not treated with chemicals of any kind. Thus, they are great for people who have allergic reactions to chemical toxins typically used in other mattresses. As they are made from organic cotton and wool, which are free from dyes, pesticides, bleach, etc., they are less likely to trigger allergies. In addition to the absence of chemicals, organic mattresses made from wool have a self-cleaning feature. These wool fibers contain scales that do not allow allergens or moisture to accumulate on the mattress. Thus, it reduces the risk of mold or dust mites, which might trigger respiratory allergies. Similarly, using a mattress with natural latex is believed to improve respiratory health.
- It regulates temperature
Sleeping on an organic mattress is excellent for hot summer nights and cold winter nights. This is because organic latex mattresses can keep the body cool during the summer and warm in winter. The natural materials used in these mattresses wick away moisture, lower the humidity around the body. Wool is considered a temperature-regulating textile with hygroscopic fibers. These fibers allow moisture to pass through them without making the material feel damp. Wool can absorb 30% of its weight in moisture without feeling clammy.
On the other hand, in winter, wool acts as a natural insulator. The absorbent fiber picks up moisture from around your body, keeping the air around you dry. This helps regulate the body temperate and lets you sleep comfortably through the night.
- It is durable
Organic mattresses are a lot more durable than their synthetic counterparts. This is because the materials in them do not break down easily, as organic materials are more flexible, long-lasting, and strong. For example, organic wool can be stretched to up to 30% of its length while dry and up to 50% when wet. The wool’s natural structure ensures that the wool can get back to its original shape when the stress is released. Ideally, an organic mattress can last for around 20 years.
- It is biodegradable and sustainable
If you care about your carbon footprint, you need to consider not only how the mattress behaves when it is on your bed but also how it behaves after it has lived its life. Mattresses made out of cotton, wool, or other organic materials like coir are biodegradable and sustainable. This means that the mattress will have a low impact on the ecosystem. When it breaks down, it will fertilize the soil and replenish the biological diversity. As it contains no chemicals, the mattress will not contribute to global pollution levels. Sustainability is another important feature when it comes to materials like natural latex, that makes organic mattresses covetable. To extract this material, trees do not need to be cut down. Instead, the latex can be extracted by merely cutting the bark of the trees.
- It is ergonomic
Organic bedding is comfortable and supportive too. The latex supports the spine and minimizes pressure points to conform to your body shape. Simultaneously, the elasticity of the latex and wool keeps the mattress from compressing, and, thus, it retains its original shape for longer.
- No unpleasant smells
When you buy a new mattress, you may notice a strange smell for the first few days. This is not something you will have to worry about with organic mattresses. This is because the unpleasant smell emitted by mattresses comes from volatile organic compounds not present in organic mattresses.
Tips for picking an organic mattress
If you’re looking for an organic mattress, simply having the word “organic” in its name does not make it a great product. Here are a few tips that can help you find the best mattress for your bedroom.
- Look at all the materials
Some mattresses that claim to be organic only have specific products that can be certified as organic. The other components in these mattresses may not meet the standards required for the organic certification. Thus, you will need to clarify these details from the salesperson. You also need to clarify that the mattress does not contain chemicals, such as boric acid, flame retardants, antimony, formaldehyde, or synthetic latex. If you do not get straight answers from the store, check online reviews to get a more in-depth picture. Manufacturers should also be willing to tell you where the materials were sourced from.
- Check the certification
For a mattress to be categorized as organic, it must only use natural products, which have been grown without any chemicals or pesticides. It is important to note that natural mattresses are not the same as organic mattresses. Products that meet these standards must be certified by third-party organizations with certifications such as Global Organic Latex Standard (GOLS) or Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS). Mattresses with GOLS and GOTS certifications contain latex, of which, at least, 95% is organic. Similarly, the Greenguard certification guarantees that the mattress is safe for children and the elderly and has low levels of phthalates, VOCs, and other such chemicals. You must ensure that the mattress has a valid certificate.
- Ask about how the mattress was made
To be certified as organic, the mattress must be constructed without glue or adhesive. This is because the glue can emit harmful gases and odors. To understand this, you will have to question the salesperson about this individually.
- Not all latex is bad
Just because a mattress uses latex does not mean that it isn’t chemical-free. Natural latex is extracted from rubber trees, and if this tree is grown without chemical fertilizers and pesticides, it can be categorized as organic.
- Avoid spring padding
When you’re looking for an organic mattress, always look for mattresses without metal springs and coils. These may be the cheapest mattresses but aren’t necessarily the healthiest choice. According to one study, sleeping on a spring mattress can increase the risk of melanoma cancer. These springs also act as incubators for mold, dust mites, and mildew. Instead, consider solid foam mattresses with no open areas inside the mattress where mold and mildew can accumulate.
- Buy the right size
It might interest you to know that you spend one-third of your life on the bed. Hence, you must get a mattress that is comfortable to sleep on. Do not compromise on the size of the mattress. When you select a mattress, choose one with at least one foot of space on all sides around you. If you share your bed with a partner, you need to have at least 1 foot of space between you.
- Consider the way you sleep
The ideal mattress for you depends a lot on the way you sleep. People who like to sleep on their sides may need a mattress that reduces pressure and tension. Organic mattresses with latex are ideal in such cases. On the other hand, people who sleep on the back need mattresses that offer firm cushioning and promise to retain their shape over time.
- Look at the price tag
One of the main challenges for organic mattresses is that they usually have a higher price tag than other mattresses. However, as these mattresses last longer, if you were to divide the price by the number of nights you can use the mattress for, you will see that the per-night price is quite low. This means that when you look at the price of an organic mattress, look at the warranty period offered. Most good organic mattresses offer a 20-year warranty.
Best organic mattresses in 2020
There are several mattress companies that are manufacturing and marketing organic mattresses these days. By choosing one of these mattresses, you will prioritize the earth’s health and your health and comfort. It is important to note that there is no single organic mattress that is suited to everyone. Pricing is also an important consideration, with the price of an organic mattress ranging from $1,200 to over $2,000. When you’re looking at prices, you should also look at the warranty offered.
Next, it’s the type of material used that is an important deciding factor. Rubber or latex mattresses are firmer than cotton or wool mattresses. Some people prefer soft mattresses that take the shape of the body, whereas others like firm mattresses. It is also important to note that some of these mattresses may take up to 48 hours to regain their natural shape.
Some of the best brands available in the market are the following:
- Pure Green Natural Latex Mattress
With OEKO-Tex certifications, this organic mattress has a quilted cover made from organic wool from New Zealand that ensures breathability. It also contains 100% natural latex foam. The combination of materials keeps the mattress comfortable and firm. It is ideal for people who like to sleep on their back or their side.
- Brentwood Home Cypress Mattress
This mattress is constructed with 3.5 inches of gel memory foam, wool rosettes from New Zealand, and CertiPUR-US foam. The mattress is designed to allow for even weight distribution and ventilation to regulate body temperature and keep you comfortable while sleeping.
- My Green Mattress
This mattress is made from 100% natural GOLS-certified organic Dunlop latex. It offers strong lumbar support and is ideal for people who prefer to sleep on their side.
- Happsy Organic Mattress
This mattress, made from organic cotton, is comfortable and plush. It is constructed with 8-inch pocketed springs that absorb body heat and keep you cool during the summer. This also reduces motion transfer, which ensures both you and your partner can sleep comfortably.
- Tuft & Needle King Mattress
This organic mattress is made from proprietary foam engineered by the company. It offers the benefits of both memory foam and latex, with none of the disadvantages associated with those materials. This type of mattress is suitable for all kinds of sleepers.
- Naturepedic 2-in-1 Organic Cotton Ultra Quilted Mattress
This mattress has an organic, waterproof cotton top layer and a USDA-certified organic cotton filling. The top surface is not only waterproof but also stain-resistant; it is non-toxic and keeps bugs and dust mites at bay. Thus, this mattress is ideal for children or parents of newborns.
- LUCID 10 Hybrid Mattress
This mattress is made from natural latex foam and gel memory foam to offer the ultimate comfort and support. It also contains charcoal infusions and aloe vera to keep moisture away and eliminate odors.
- Live & Sleep Gel Memory Foam Mattress
This mattress, infused with memory gel, keeps you cool in the summers and supports your body to keep you comfortable. The top cover is made from breathable linen for a luxurious, cloud-like sensation. The mattress also disperses body heat and prevents the mattress from developing hot spots.
All the above mattresses are available in a range of sizes: single, double, queen, and king, and come in multiple thickness variations. Some of the other features to look for when buying a mattress are barrier cloths, durability, warranty, and comfort. So, take your time and look around. No matter what you’re looking for, there exists an organic mattress that’s perfect just for you.
