5 Excellent Benefits Of An Eco-Friendly Mattress

When purchasing a new mattress, you have an almost overwhelming number of options, from traditional innerspring mattresses to the memory foam “bed in a box” and everything in between. One type of mattress that’s starting to capture a lot of attention is the organic or eco-friendly mattress. But what exactly is an eco-friendly mattress, and why should you buy one?

As the name implies, an organic mattress is one that’s made using all-natural materials, is free of or contains very low levels of toxic chemicals, and complies with the same organic standards that apply to other products. Instead of using hazardous chemicals in the production of polyfoam or covering the mattress with potentially carcinogenic substances for fire resistance, organic mattresses use Talalay latex derived from rubber trees, organic bamboo and cotton, and naturally flame-resistant fabrics like wool for a safe mattress with reduced levels of chemicals and pesticides that offers the same level of comfort and support as a traditional mattress.

Opting for an eco-friendly mattress has many benefits for you and the environment, not the least of which is that such beds are sustainable and biodegradable, thereby reducing your carbon footprint. Just as importantly, they are better for you and your family’s health.

5 Reasons to Invest in an Organic Mattress 

Organic Mattresses are Hypoallergenic

For people with allergies or respiratory issues, organic mattresses often bring relief. Often, chemicals and pesticides used in traditional mattresses exacerbate these issues, so opting for a mattress free of these substances helps alleviate discomfort. And because eco-friendly mattresses are typically made with organic wool and natural Talalay latex, they are naturally resistant to dust, mold, and mites. Traditional mattresses have a tendency to retain moisture, which creates the ideal breeding ground for allergens, including fungus and mildew. Wool, though, does not retain moisture, preventing the development of allergens that cause congestion, sneezing, and runny noses.

Organic Mattresses Contain Few, If Any, Toxins

Conventional mattresses often contain a wide range of toxins used in production, including volatile organic compounds (VOCs), formaldehyde, mercury, lead, phthalates, PDBE’s, and ozone-depleting. Not only are these chemicals bad for the environment, but they are bad for your health. When you’re sleeping on a mattress, not only are you potentially breathing in these toxic substances, but your skin, your largest organ, is possibly absorbing them as well. Opting for an organic mattress prevents you from coming in contact with these toxins and helps protect your health.

Organic Mattresses are Naturally Fire Retardant 

The chemicals used on mattresses to make them flame-resistant are well-intended, but the potential risks they present are just as great, if not greater, than the risk of fire. Many of the chemicals used to treat mattresses and make them fire retardant are actually highly toxic, especially to children, and can cause a host of health issues. For example, one common fire-retarding chemical has been linked with causing early puberty, glucose sensitivity, and weight gain. Considering the amount of time, you or your kids spend on their mattress, exposed to these chemicals, it makes sense to try to avoid them. Organic mattresses should be chemical free, so they do not use fire retardant chemicals, but they still comply with federal safety regulations due to their natural resistance to flames. You can sleep easy knowing that you will be safe from both toxic chemicals and fire with an eco-friendly mattress.

Organic Mattresses Help Regulate Temperature 

Memory foam mattresses are popular, but one of the chief complaints about them is their tendency to retain heat. For people who tend to sleep hot, this heat retention can lead to an uncomfortable night’s sleep. The organic latex used in eco-friendly mattresses, is actually better at temperature regulation, especially when combined with wool, cotton, or bamboo. For example, wool naturally helps to regulate temperature by absorbing moisture; when you are hot, it wicks away perspiration so you remain cool and comfortable, and when it’s cooler, it helps maintain a dry layer next to your skin and generate more heat. Instead of developing hot and cold spots around the mattress, the materials in an eco-friendly mattress maintain a consistent, comfortable temperature throughout, regardless of the season.

Organic Mattresses are Durable 

Organic mattresses tend to be more durable than their traditional counterparts, in large part because the natural fibers and materials are less likely to break down over time. Generally speaking, mattresses need to be replaced every 7-10 years, but an organic mattress can potentially last upwards of 20 years. This is in large part thanks to the durability of wool, which is a strong fiber that resists tearing and compression longer, extending the life of your mattress.

Conclusion

When you’re in the market for a new mattress, doing some research to determine the options that are healthiest for you and the planet is worthwhile. Opting for an eco-friendly organic mattress will not only prevent exposure to harmful toxins and other substances that can make you sick, but the extra durability will also save you money in the long run.