Why choose an organic mattress?
Some synthetic materials used in conventional mattresses may off-gas harmful chemicals such as VOCs, formaldehyde, and flame retardants. Some flame retardant chemicals like PBDEs and organohalogens are associated with hormone disruption, developmental issues, and cancer risk. VOCs may cause irritation of eyes, nose, and throat, asthma attacks, headaches, and sleep disruption. Some synthetic fabrics may not be breathable and trap dust mites, mold spores, and pet dander, exacerbating indoor air quality and triggering allergies. Fiberglass is commonly used to replace PBDEs since they were banned, but it comes with a host of issues including skin irritation and asthma due to airborne particles. These airborne fiberglass particles are also considered a group 2B possible carcinogen. Microplastics are also a concern when dealing with synthetic materials.
Look for Natural Materials
- Organic Cotton: Choose mattresses made with 100% organic cotton to avoid pesticide residue.
- Wool: Natural wool is a great option for breathability and temperature regulation. Organic or sustainable wool is optimal to avoid pesticide residue. Wool is often used as a natural flame retardant.
- Latex: Natural latex (from rubber trees) is durable, hypoallergenic, and resistant to dust mites and mold. Look for mattresses made with 100% natural latex.
- Coir: This is coconut fiber used in some natural mattresses for support and durability.
Check for Certifications
- GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard): Ensures the mattress is made from organic fibers and processed without harmful chemicals.
- GOLS (Global Organic Latex Standard): Certifies that latex is organic and processed safely.
- OEKO-TEX Standard 100: Ensures the mattress is free from harmful substances and chemicals that could cause health problems.
- Greenguard Gold: Certifies low emissions for indoor air quality, especially for VOCs (volatile organic compounds) that can harm health.
Because we are a budget-minded group, we have listed both fully natural options and some with synthetic materials with lower price points. These synthetic options offer third-party certifications to protect against certain chemical exposures. We believe in informed choices and being able to choose the best items for your budget.
Our Picks
More Expensive Options
Mattress components will vary between models. Check individual listings for details.
Naturepedic $2199 – $4299
Materials:
Organic cotton, organic wool, sugar cane PLA, organic latex, encased coils
Certifications:
GreenGuard Gold
MadeSafe
EWG Verified
GOLS
GOTS
FSC
OCS
Soaring Heart $749 – $3199
Materials:
Organic cotton, organic wool, organic latex (materials vary by model)
Certifications:
GOTS
OEKO-TEX 100
Brentwood Home $521 – $2399
Materials:
Wool, cotton, plant-based memory foam
Certifications:
CertiPur (foam)
GOTS (wool and cotton cover)
Obasan $1539 – $2719
Materials:
Cotton, latex, wool
Certifications:
GOTS
GOLS
Mid-Budget Options:
Happsy $899 – $1699
Materials:
Organic cotton cover, organic wool batting, organic latex foam, metal pocketed springs, organic cotton filling.
Certifications:
GOTS
GreenGuard
MadeSafe
EWG Verified
Joybed $675 – $1490
Materials:
Organic cotton cover, plant fiber fire barrier, cotton cushioning, wool, coils
Certifications:
GOTS
My Green Mattress $659 – $1099
Materials:
Organic wool, organic latex, organic cotton
Certifications:
GOTS
GOLS
The Futon Shop $449.98 – $1499
Materials:
organic cotton and wool, organic latex. Some models contain coconut coir, hemp coir, horse tail, cashmere, and camel fur.
Certifications:
GOLS
GOTS
OEKO-TEX 100
Avocado Eco Organic $799 – $1899
Materials:
Interior filling: Latex Foam Rubber Pad (91%) and Wool Fiber (9%) Cover: 100% Organic Cotton
Certifications:
GOLS
GOTS
OEKO-TEX 100
GreenGuard Gold
MadeSafe
EWG Verified
Budget-Friendly Options
May contain synthetic materials but have certifications to protect against VOCs, phthalates, PFAS, heavy metals, and other chemicals.
ZINUS $129 – $699 (Also on Amazon)
Materials:
Memory foam, gel foam, polyester cover
Certifications:
CertiPur
OEKO-TEX
Tuft & Needle $219.27 – 752.31 (also on Amazon)
Materials:
Memory gel foam, poly foam, polyester and cotton blend cover
Certifications:
CertiPur-US
GreenGuard Gold