‘Natural’ and ‘organic’ are two words that have replaced everything from food to clothes, so why should your mattress be left behind?
The two most important reasons to switch to a chemical-free mattress are:
- Your mattress is old, and you’re looking to replace it with a comfortable and eco-friendly option.
- You are concerned about the toxic materials in your mattress and want to replace it for good health.
But, choosing from the available options can be a daunting task. As such, this ultimate guide will help you make an informed decision, ensuring you select the best non-toxic mattress.
1] What is an Organic Non-toxic Mattress?
An organic non-toxic mattress is made sans any chemicals, ensuring it does not pose any risk to human health. When you switch to an organic non-toxic mattress, it will provide you with the safest sleeping environment. They are also safe for our planet, as they are biodegradable.
Most organic mattresses are marketed in several ways like green or natural. But, not all live up to their claims or are genuinely authentic.
Most mattresses that claim to be ‘organic’, in fact, contain toxic chemicals that can harm kids and adults as well as cause allergies. Thus, even if a mattress is labelled non-toxic, you need to consider certain factors to ensure they are completely natural and 100% non-toxic and chemical-free.
1.1] Types of Toxins You May Find in Mattresses
- Most manufacturers use Polyurethane foam, which is the main element in the top layer. Polyurethane foam comprises diisocyanate and polyol, which is derived from
- petroleum and poses a risk to human health and is unsafe for the environment.
- Polyurethane foam made with soybean is non-toxic and non-biodegradable.
- Petrochemicals used in the mattress foam also makes the mattress toxic.
2] Types of Non-toxic Mattresses Available
Organic mattress: Cotton, latex, and wool are three materials used in organic mattresses. While some companies may claim that their mattresses are 100% organic, you should verify their claim by checking their certifications such as Oeko-tex certification or GOLS certification.
Besides certificates, when you shop for an organic mattress, check the material used. All of the best organic mattresses are made with 100% natural latex rubber. Materials like polyfoam or memory foam are not organic, so be vigilant. Also, polyfoam is manufactured and not harvested, so it can’t be organic.
Eco-friendly Mattress: Eco-friendly mattresses are designed keeping the environment in mind. All eco-friendly mattresses come with an Eco-INSTITUTE certification that indicates the product is safe and doesn’t contain any hazardous chemicals or produce any toxic odours or emissions. Eco-conscious or eco-friendly mattresses that are non-toxic, comfortable and safer to sleep. Most all organic mattresses are also eco-friendly and are the first choice for kids.
Green Mattress: Most brands are manufacturing green mattresses, but the term could be misleading. It could either mean they are using chemical-free materials or the manufacturing ways are eco-friendly. Either way, it doesn’t signify that a mattress is 100% non-toxic and chemical-free.
3] Types of Material Used in Non-toxic Mattresses
Natural latex foam: Natural latex is derived from rubber (tree) sap, which is a sustainable crop. Rubber trees don’t require pesticides and are tapped many times before cutting. Due to this, the process makes natural latex a more eco-friendly option. Natural latex foam, like the one used to craft aloha mattresses, is safe, ecological, resistant to mold growth, and long-lasting. On the other hand, synthetic mattresses are made from toxic chemicals that are unsafe for humans.
Wool: Wool, a natural flame retardant, is commonly used in manufacturing chemical-free mattresses. However, it might not be organic, as some brands treat it with chemicals. If the wool is obtained from a flock of sheep that grazes on land sprayed with pesticides or if they are given artificial hormones, then the wool cannot be considered non-toxic.
Cotton: Cotton is the most preferred material in clothing and is commonly used by mattress manufacturing brands. As cotton is hypoallergenic, soft, and breathable, it does provide comfort. However, to meet the rising demand for cotton, the crops are being sprayed with harmful pesticides. Thus, mattresses made with cotton may not be an ideal option if you are looking to buy organic latex mattresses in India.
4] Advantages of Non-toxic or Chemical-free Mattresses
Reduce allergy problems: A non-toxic or chemical-free mattress is a good choice for people who suffer from allergy problems. By being hypoallergenic, it can help reduce the risk of allergies caused by dust, chemicals, pollutants, or other VOCs.
More breathable: If you compare toxic and non-toxic mattresses, the non-toxic ones provide more breathability. Materials like natural latex foam help dissipate heat as it comes with enhanced air circulation, which is a natural by-product of latex. Natural latex mattresses are also excellent at body heat management, offering good ventilation and moisture regulation, which ensures a cool and comfortable sleep.
More longevity: Organic mattresses have a longer lifespan than traditional ones. Also, chemical-laden beds tend to break or flatten after some time. If the mattress has natural materials, it ensures not only safety but also longevity. A high-quality non-toxic organic mattress can sustain for years and years. For instance, organic latex mattresses come with a 20-year non-prorated warranty. That’s right!
Environment-friendly: Chemical-free and non-toxic mattresses are also environment-friendly. Not only do brands (like aloha) source the materials used in the mattresses sustainably, but they also ensure the mattress is biodegradable. This helps protect human health as well as helps safeguard the environment.
Buying Tips and Certifications
If a company claims the mattress is non-toxic and organic, verify the facts behind these claims. Verification of claims and certifications will ensure you buy the best non-toxic mattress for kids or yourself. When you choose a healthier mattress, you will be exposed to zero chemicals or pollutants. They are also eco-friendly and lasts longer.
Always choose a certified organic mattress for complete peace of mind. Some of the common certifications to look for are:
- OEKO-TEX certification
- Eco-INSTITUTE certification
- Global Organic Latex Standard (GOLS)
- GreenGuard Certification
- CertiPUR-US Certification