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Organic Mattresses: Top 9 Benefits and Considerations

Picture of Jessa Taash
Jessa Taash

July 26, 2024

Organic Mattress

We spend a third of our lives sleeping!  Shouldn’t your mattress be a healthy haven? With so much time dedicated to sleep, our mattresses must provide a comfortable, supportive, and healthy environment. 

Made from natural materials like certified organic cotton and wool, organic mattresses offer a variety of benefits, including improved comfort, temperature regulation, and reduced exposure to harmful chemicals. But with so many choices available, finding the best organic mattress for your needs can be a challenge.

In today’s world, avoiding toxic chemicals can seem almost impossible. While you can’t eliminate your exposure to toxins, you can reduce it by using organic mattresses. 

If you’re considering investing in the top organic mattress, it’s essential to understand its benefits. So keep reading about the benefits of choosing the organic mattress, as well as important considerations to keep in mind when making your purchase.

We’ll also highlight the potential benefits of an organic mattress topper if you’re looking for a more budget-friendly way to upgrade your sleep setup.

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What is an organic mattress?

In mattresses terms, The word “organic” means made with natural, non-toxic materials like cotton, wool, and natural latex. Organic mattresses are made with non-toxic, natural materials like cotton, wool, and natural latex such as Talalay and Dunlop. These mattresses avoid the use of harmful chemicals during the manufacturing process.

Many materials in organic mattresses are certified by the Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) and Global Organic Latex Standard (GOLS), guaranteeing their organic integrity.

It’s important to note that while there are many natural mattresses available, they are not always the same as organic beds.

Natural mattresses may use more natural materials than synthetic ones, but can still contain some synthetic components. Stay tuned to read more on the benefits and considerations of organic mattresses.

Benefits

Selecting an organic mattress goes beyond just a good night’s rest. It’s a win-win for your health and the planet! Organic beds prioritize natural materials and eco-friendly practices. Let’s find out the reasons to switch to organic bedding.

organic mattress

1. Hypoallergenic

One of the primary benefits of organic mattresses is their hypoallergenic properties. Dust mites, pet dander, mold, and other allergens can accumulate in traditional mattresses, leading to poor sleep and exacerbated allergy symptoms. 

Allergies continue to be a widespread issue, affecting over 50 million Americans each year. For those who suffer from indoor environmental allergies, the bedroom environment and the mattress play a crucial role in triggering allergic reactions. 

However, research shows that organic mattresses can provide significant relief for allergy sufferers. 

Studies have found that up to 84% of allergy sufferers experience reduced symptoms when using an organic mattress. This is due to the hypoallergenic nature of organic materials like natural cotton and wool, which are resistant to dust mites, mold, and mildew. The organic mattresses are free from synthetic materials and chemicals that can contribute to off-gassing and further aggravate allergies or asthma.

2. Sleep Quality

Switching to an organic mattress can significantly improve sleep quality. Users report an average 20-30% increase in sleep satisfaction after making the switch.

Organic mattresses, such as the Avocado Eco Organic Mattress, provide numerous benefits: superior temperature regulation, hypoallergenic properties, and enhanced pressure relief. 

The organic cotton, wool, and latex materials used in these mattresses create a healthier, more comfortable sleeping environment compared to traditional synthetic options. An organic mattress topper or organic crib mattress also delivers these sleep-enhancing qualities. 

For side sleepers, the best organic mattress options offer the perfect balance of contouring comfort and spinal alignment. Investing in an organic mattress, mattress pad, or mattress protector is an effective way to improve overall sleep quality and duration. For families, organic crib mattresses and organic twin mattresses ensure safe sleep for children.

3. Off-gassing Reduction And Non-Toxic

Conventional mattresses can release harmful chemicals known as VOCs (volatile organic compounds) during off-gassing. These chemicals can irritate the respiratory system and potentially contribute to headaches and fatigue.

The good news? Organic mattresses offer a significant reduction in off-gassing. Organic materials like cotton and wool can significantly reduce off-gassing compared to synthetic foams and fabrics.

Studies show organic cotton mattresses can reduce off-gassing by up to 90%. Organic wool mattresses are also highly effective, blocking over 80% of volatile organic compounds. 

This dramatic reduction in chemical exposure has important health benefits. Lowering off-gassing lowers the risk of respiratory issues, hormone disruption, and other negative effects associated with inhaling toxic mattress fumes. 

4. Durable

Organic mattresses, particularly those made with natural latex, offer superior durability and longevity compared to traditional mattress types.

The use of high-quality, organic materials like latex and cotton allows organic mattresses to resist sagging and maintain their shape and support for up to 20 years or more, significantly outlasting the 6-10 year lifespan of conventional memory foam or innerspring mattresses. This extended lifespan is a key benefit of organic mattresses.

5. A Smart Investment

The organic mattress industry is experiencing robust growth, with a market expansion rate of around 8% annually. This surge reflects increasing consumer interest in healthier, sustainable sleep solutions.

Investing in an organic mattress not only offers personal health benefits but also aligns with a growing trend towards eco-friendly, non-toxic living.

6. Temperature Regulation

Unlike conventional mattresses that can trap heat, organic materials excel at temperature regulation. Breathable cotton allows for airflow, preventing you from feeling stuffy.

Wool wicks away moisture and helps you maintain a comfortable sleep temperature all night long. 

7. Eco-Friendly

Organic mattresses are not only beneficial for your health, but they also have a positive impact on the environment. The materials used in organic mattresses, such as organic cotton, organic wool, and natural latex, are sustainably sourced and produced using eco-friendly manufacturing processes. 

These natural materials are biodegradable and can be easily recycled or composted at the end of the mattress’s lifespan. This eco-friendly approach to mattress bedding not only provides a healthier sleep experience but also contributes to a greener, more sustainable future.

8. Naturally Fire-Resistant

Organic mattresses often utilize naturally fire-resistant materials like wool to meet safety standards without the need for harmful chemical flame retardants.

Wool is an excellent natural fire retardant due to its ability to absorb moisture and slow the spread of flames. 

Studies have shown that wool is self-extinguishing, meaning it does not continue to burn once the source of ignition is removed. This makes wool a safer and more environmentally friendly alternative to synthetic flame retardants that can off-gas toxic chemicals.

9. Health Benefits

Organic mattresses offer numerous health benefits, including reduced exposure to toxic chemicals and allergens. Made from natural materials like organic cotton and wool, they are hypoallergenic and free from harmful substances such as flame retardants and synthetic foams.

These mattresses improve indoor air quality, reduce respiratory issues, and enhance overall sleep quality.

Considerations

Before making a purchase, it’s essential to consider the following factors to ensure you get the best organic mattress for your needs:

Price

Organic mattresses tend to be more expensive than traditional mattresses like memory foam, innerspring, and standard hybrid mattresses, with prices ranging from around $1,000 to $3,000 or more for a queen size.

This is due to the higher-quality, natural materials used in organic mattresses, such as organic latex, wool, and cotton, as opposed to the synthetic foams and materials found in many traditional mattresses. 

The Avocado Green Mattress, one of the top-recommended organic mattresses, starts at around $1299 for a twin and $1799 for a queen. In contrast, budget traditional mattresses can be found for as low as $300-$600.

So if you are looking to invest in a healthier, more sustainable sleep surface you should prepare to pay a premium for an organic mattress option.  Remember, a good night’s sleep is priceless!

Availability

Organic mattresses are generally less widely available than traditional mattresses, which are stocked by most major retailers. While the availability of organic mattress options has improved in recent years. 

Many major mattress brands including Avocado Green Mattress, My Green Mattress, Amazon, Birch, and Naturepeding, etc now offer organic or natural mattress lines, including organic mattress toppers, organic cotton mattresses, organic crib mattresses, organic twin mattresses, organic mattress protectors, organic mattress pad, avocado eco organic mattress, organic baby mattress, organic mattress cover and organic wool mattress and much more.

So, always check the availability of these mattresses before making a purchase. 

Maintenance

Organic mattresses made with natural materials require less intensive maintenance compared to their traditional counterparts.

Organic mattresses are less prone to issues like sagging and breakdown. Proper care, such as regular rotation, use of a mattress protector, and gentle cleaning, can extend the lifespan of an organic mattress up to 20 years or more.

In contrast, traditional mattresses made with synthetic foams and materials often require more frequent replacement, typically every 7-10 years, as they are more susceptible to wear and tear.

Organic mattresses are generally easier to maintain, as they do not off-gas or require special cleaning agents that can be harmful to the environment. By understanding these maintenance differences, You can make an informed decision about long-term care and investment.

Certification Verification Tips

When shopping for an organic mattress, look for third-party certifications like GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard) and GOLS (Global Organic Latex Standard) on the product. These certifications are the gold standard for verifying that a mattress contains a significant percentage of certified organic materials like cotton, wool, or latex. 

Be wary of companies that only provide “supplier certificates” rather than certifications for their own manufacturing processes and final products.

So, look for the certifying agency’s name and identification number on the certification. Reputable third-party certifying agencies include Control Union, Oregon Tilth, and TÜV Rheinland. Avoid mattresses that only have first-party or second-party certifications, as these are less reliable.

Finally, look for independent third-party test results that verify the mattress is free of harmful chemicals like volatile organic compounds (VOCs), formaldehyde, and heavy metals. This additional verification can give you confidence that the organic claims are authentic.

Trial Period

When it comes to trial periods, organic and traditional mattress retailers often have different approaches. Many online-only organic mattress brands offer generous 100-120 night or even 365 nights (by Avocado Green) trial periods

This extended trial period is crucial for organic mattresses, as materials like natural latex or memory foam may require a longer break-in period to fully conform to the sleeper’s body.

In contrast, brick-and-mortar traditional mattress retailers typically have shorter trial periods, often around 30 days. While this may provide less time to adjust, the in-person testing experience can help customers determine comfort and support more quickly.

So, you should carefully review the specific trial, return, and exchange policies of any mattress, whether it’s an organic or traditional model.

FAQs: Organic Mattresses: Benefits and Considerations

Several major brands offer certified organic mattresses made with natural materials like latex, wool, and cotton. Some of the top organic mattress brands include:

 

Avocado Green Mattress – Offers a range of organic hybrid mattresses made with GOLS-certified organic latex, GOTS-certified organic wool and cotton. They have a variety of firmness options.

Birch by Helix – Produces organic mattresses made with natural latex, organic wool, and organic cotton. Their Birch Luxe model is a highly-rated organic hybrid mattress. 

Saatva Zenhaven – An organic latex mattress that is flippable, allowing you to choose between a plush or firm side. It uses GOTS-certified organic materials.

Turmerry – Specializes in all-natural latex mattresses made with organic cotton and wool. They offer customizable firmness levels.

My Green Mattress Kiwi – An affordable organic hybrid mattress designed for kids, made with organic cotton, wool, and latex.

Yes, organic mattresses make a significant difference. They are made from natural, non-toxic materials, which improve indoor air quality and reduce exposure to harmful chemicals.

Organic mattresses also offer hypoallergenic benefits, better temperature regulation, and enhanced durability. They support sustainable practices, making them beneficial for both your health and the environment.

While organic mattresses tend to be more expensive upfront, the long-term benefits in terms of health, durability, and sustainability  make them a worthwhile investment. 

Organic mattresses are typically made from a combination of the following natural and sustainable materials:

Certified organic latex – Derived from the sap of rubber trees, organic latex provides pressure relief and a comfortable sleep surface.

Certified organic wool – Used as a natural fire retardant and for its moisture-wicking properties, organic wool helps regulate temperature.

Certified organic cotton – A breathable, hypoallergenic material used throughout the mattress.

Recycled steel innersprings – Some organic mattresses incorporate a supportive innerspring unit made from recycled steel.

Not everyone needs to buy an organic mattress. Organic mattresses are generally more expensive than conventional mattresses, so they may not be worth the investment for those on a tight budget.

Moreover, people who do not have sensitivities to the chemicals and materials commonly found in conventional mattresses may not need to pay the premium for an organic option.

However, for those concerned about exposure to potentially harmful chemicals or who prioritize eco-friendly and sustainable products, investing in a high-quality organic mattress certified by reputable third-party organizations like GOTS and GOLS can be worthwhile.

Final Thoughts: Organic Mattresses: Benefits and Considerations

Organic mattresses offer a compelling choice for a healthier and more sustainable sleep experience. From potential health benefits to reduced off-gassing and eco-friendly practices, they provide a multitude of advantages.

While the price tags are higher upfront, consider it an investment in long-term comfort, well-being, and the environment.

Remember, a good night’s sleep is priceless. By considering your needs and priorities, you can find the perfect organic mattress. So why not explore the world of organic sleep and discover the difference it can make?

Tempted to try organic sleep? Share your thoughts below! Your feedback helps us continue providing valuable information to readers seeking healthier, more sustainable sleep options.

Picture of Jessa Taash
Jessa Taash
Jessa Taash, a distinguished Sleep Wellness Advocate at Sleep Advisory, leverages cutting-edge research and expert collaborations to enhance sleep quality. Her evidence-based strategies and scientific insights are pivotal in guiding individuals toward achieving transformative, restorative sleep, establishing her as a trusted authority in sleep wellness. For inquiries or personalized sleep consultation services, reach out to Jessa at jessataash@sleepadvisory.com

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