Mattresses are subjective. What works for someone else might not be best for you. This means you’ve got to think strategically when searching for your next bed. Keeping these key factors in mind will help you bypass some and hone in on the best organic mattresses.
Material
All materials in organic mattresses are sustainably sourced, antimicrobial and hypoallergenic, so you don’t have to worry about them triggering your allergies or asthma. Mold and mildew can’t grow on the natural latex foam in organic mattresses. Organic latex foam is great for people who have allergies and hot sleepers because not only is it antimicrobial, but it’s also perforated for better airflow.
Organic mattresses include several materials like Dunlop latex, recycled steel coils and organic cotton or wool. Each material will impact the mattress’s performance, so it’s important to understand what you’re getting before you buy. Not to mention, some materials may increase the price, like Talalay latex.
Body type
Your body type also matters when shopping for an organic mattress. Some materials are better suited for heavier body types because they offer the support and durability they need.
Your body type also will influence how the mattress feels to you. A petite person will put less pressure on the mattress, which means it will feel firmer to them. Someone over 230 pounds will sink further into the mattress, making it feel softer. It’s important to keep your body type in mind to choose a firmness level that best suits your needs and preferences.
Sleeping position
- Side sleepers need a softer mattress that relieves pressure points at the shoulders, hips and knees.
- Back and stomach sleepers should seek a firmer mattress that will keep their spine in neutral alignment throughout the night.
- Combination sleepers have the most flexibility, but you should choose firmness based on the position you spend the most time in.
Certifications
When shopping for an organic mattress, third-party certifications ensure that you’re getting a bed that contains organic, sustainably sourced materials.
These are the most important certifications to look for when comparing organic mattresses:
- CertiPUR-US: This certification ensures that the mattress foams are free of toxic flame retardants, heavy metals and other harmful substances. It also means the bed has low volatile organic compound emissions.
- GOTS: Global Organic Textile Standard is a third-party organization with established criteria for organic fibers. A mattress with a GOTS seal has at least 95% organic fibers.
- GOLS: Global Organic Latex Standard certifications mean that the mattress contains at least 95% raw and organic latex.
- GreenGuard Gold: This certification means that the mattress meets chemical emission standards.
- Oeko-Tex Standard 100: This certification is specific to the textile of mattresses. Seeing a mattress with an OEKO-TEX Standard 100 certification means textiles have been tested for harmful substances.