As the saying goes, it’s what on the inside that matters, and this holds true, especially when it comes to mattresses. When choosing a mattress, you need to factor in the materials used to manufacture it and not pick one based solely on how it looks & feels or its price. Most mattresses include toxic materials that could hamper your health in the long run. Thus, if you are curious as to what’s inside a mattress, then read this blog as we decode it for you.
Further reading: Ultimate Non-Toxic and Chemical-Free Mattress Guide
A] What’s Inside Your Mattress?
Your mattress can affect your health in several ways, which is why a good quality mattress is essential for your overall health & well-being. Premium mattresses like natural latex mattresses have the right texture, size, firmness, durability and longevity. These are also non-toxic mattresses made from 100% natural materials.
To better understand what’s inside the mattress, let’s check out the three different layers it has.
1. Support Layer of the Mattress: This is the main part of the mattress that gives your body much needed support and determines the firmness. The support contains either springs or foam, or both and generally fall into two categories:
- Standard Spring System (open coil): This mattress is made with an open coil spring system, hence the name open coil mattress. This type of mattress is highly popular and features interconnected springs topped with varied comfort layer options. Standard spring mattresses are cheaper in comparison to pocket spring mattresses.
- Pocket Spring System (pocketed coil): Pocket spring mattresses are made with hundreds of individual pocket springs, with each pocket spring enclosed within its fabric pocket. Each spring works independently and reacts only to the pressure applied to that area. This results in a high level of personalised support and response for its consumers.
The foam layer in these mattresses may consist of different foam densities and/or springs. Learn more about spring mattresses vs coir mattresses.
2. Comfort Layer of the Mattress: The comfort layers are the top part of the mattress closest to the body. They cover the support layer from all sides and are often thick by a few inches. It consists of varied materials designed to provide the utmost comfort, such as memory foam, latex foam, and polyurethane foam.
3. The Top Cover: The top cover is the last layer of the mattress that covers the comfort and support layers. They are usually made of organic cotton or wool and can be plain, tufted, or quilted. The covers may also be absorbent, removable, washable, breathable, and even regulate your body temperature.
Read: Natural Latex vs Memory Foam Mattress
B] Why Does Mattress Material Matter?
You spend a lot of time on your mattress, most probably, one-third of your life, so the material must be safe and comfortable. Also, you are the most vulnerable when you sleep. So, make sure that the chosen materials aid your health. If you choose a non-toxic mattress, it will eventually lead you towards a healthier lifestyle.
Also, if a mattress fails to provide enough support or pressure relief to the body, it may result in aches and pains the next day, making you feel tired and grumpy. This may especially be a significant concern for individuals with chronic back pain.
- Foam mattresses are not an ideal material for mattresses. They are usually marketed as high-quality but don’t offer much support. It is also not a good option for those with weak joints and muscles.
- Some memory foam mattresses may contain isocyanates, which can lead to irritation of the eyes, skin, nose, or throat. The chemicals can also cause asthma or tightness in the chest.
- Here, organic mattresses made from natural latex are highly recommended as they take your health and comfort into consideration. They offer several benefits like providing the necessary support that relaxes your joints. They are naturally fire-resistant, naturally springy, hypoallergenic, and requires low maintenance.
Read: Benefits of Choosing the Right Mattress
C] Why Non-Toxic and Chemical-Free Mattress is Ideal?
Natural & organic are two predominant words that have managed to make place everywhere, from food to clothing to almost everything in our daily life. Mattresses aren’t left behind in the race. Some significant reasons that make non-toxic and chemical-free mattresses ideal are as follows:
- Environment Friendly: A non-toxic organic mattress is manufactured without any chemicals to ensure it does not pose any risk to human health. It provides you with the safest sleeping environment, alongside being safe for our planet, owing to their biodegradable nature.
- More Breathable: Mattresses that are too old can be extremely unhygienic and lead to allergies. It’s not the dust mites but their faecal matter that can cause allergies. Other elements like pollen, mildew, pet dander can also cause allergies. Thus, the longer you use the wrong mattress, the higher the chances of an allergic reaction.
- More Longevity: While chemical-laden mattresses tend to flatten or break after a time, organic mattresses ensure not only safety but also longevity & durability. The natural latex used in these mattresses is manufactured in different densities and stacked according to individual requirements, which can be later rearranged as per your choice.
- Reduces Allergy Problems: A chemical-free or non-toxic mattress is a wise choice for those who have sensitive skin or suffer from allergy problems. Mattresses made with chemicals can irritate your skin or trigger allergies. Organic mattresses are hypoallergenic, which means they significantly reduce the risk of allergies caused by dust, chemicals, or other such pollutants.
D] How To Choose The Right Mattress?
Mattresses are the foundation of good sleep. The fundamentals of choosing the right one may vary from person to person. Some might want a mattress to support their backs and joints, while some may use it as a cushion against pain and pressure points. Below we have listed a few tips to help you choose the right mattress.
1. Requirements: Before you buy a mattress, remember to ask yourself questions like what type of surface do you prefer sleeping on – hard or soft? What do I most and least like about my current mattress? What should my new mattress have? Answer all these questions to select a mattress that meets your needs.
2. Firmness: Mattresses generally range from plush to firm, while their feel varies from brand to brand.
- Side sleepers need a mattress that allows hips and shoulders to sink while supporting the lumbar and waist region. Here, a plush to medium-firm mattress is ideal.
- Back sleepers require a supportive surface that supports natural alignment and avoids muscle tension. Mattresses in the medium to the firm range will most likely be suitable.
- Stomach sleepers need supportive beds that prevent their upper body from bowing down, preventing neck or back pain. For stomach sleepers, mattresses in the firmer range with a slight comfort layer may be your best choice.
3. Size of the Mattress: The size of the mattress depends on who is going to sleep on it. Is the person tall or short? Do they need added length? These questions can help you make a better decision. Also, consider the length of the surface your mattress will be laid on and the furniture around it to determine your perfect mattress size.
4. Budget: Most mattresses available online are cost-effective. But, while choosing a premium mattress, don’t let the price influence your decision. Check for certifications and warranties to purchase a good quality mattress that offers an extended guarantee.
Further Reading: Mattress Buying Guide: What to Look For in a Mattress?
Final Word
There are many factors to consider when buying a mattress, the top being to determine what’s inside a mattress. Non-toxic organic mattresses are a superior choice compared to other commercial mattresses. They are not only safe but also offer high durability, greater comfort, and are hypoallergenic. So, go ahead and purchase the best organic non-toxic mattress right away. This will help enhance your health and well-being.