I need to buy new mattresses. Which are environmentally better: foam (100 percent plastic), latex (assuming plant origin, not petrochemical), or horsehair and springs (I’m certain the horses did not surrender their hair willingly)? I firmly believe one’s bed should be a true getaway, a peaceful place to escape from the world and lose oneself in happy dreams. It’s no place for worries about toxic chemicals, non-renewable resources, animal cruelty, or king-size environmental footprints. So if you’re in the market for mattresses, choosing the eco-friendliest one you can is a great way to go. Let’s line up the options and give them a good bounce — I don’t want you to lose any sleep over this decision. Polyurethane foam is very common in the mattress world; it’s found in straight-up foam mattresses, memory foam (aka viscoelastic foam, a high-density polyurethane) mattresses, and sandwiched into innerspring models that also contain nylon, polyester, and steel springs.
You note one problem with the stuff already, Caroline — it’s (nonrenewable, petroleum-based) plastic. Another issue with PU foams is that they off-gas volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which loyal readers will recognize as vile chemicals that can cause everything from headaches to cancer. On top of that, there’s the flame retardant issue. Here in the States, we are customarily offered beds, furniture, and plenty of other household items legally soaked in dangerous chemicals to keep them from going up like torches in the event of a house fire. These chemicals have terrible effects on our health. There has been good news on this front lately: The worst of them have been phased out of production, and new regulations that went into effect last year let furniture makers skip some flame retardants. But older foam mattresses (pre-2007) might have them, and baby mattresses are even more likely to be treated. Doesn’t exactly make for sweet dreams, does it? For all these reasons, foam mattresses aren’t going to win any green contests.
If you do end up with one, letting it air out on a deck or in a garage for several days will reduce the VOC problem. And did you know that it’s possible to obtain a flame retardant-free mattress legally — with a doctor’s note? The things I learn writing this column. So on to your next suggestion: latex, which can be made synthetically or from the sap of rubber trees. The natural variety is indeed a renewable resource, and it’s flame-resistant by nature, so it often comes without the chemical cocktail (with these, manufacturers can comply with fire-safety laws by including a wool layer — another naturally fire-resistant material). That makes them a better choice, but be aware that most of these mattresses are made from a blend of natural and petro-style latex for durability. This brings us to the other (bedroom) suite of natural mattress-stuffers: horsehair, wool, and cotton. You don’t hear much about horsehair mattresses (at least, not on this side of the pond) because they’re often extremely expensive — we’re talking $10,000 up to $80,000.
In fact, let’s not even get into where the horsehair comes from (OK, slaughterhouses, most likely): If you are even considering buying one of these, I implore you, purchase one of the other two all-natural options instead and donate the rest of that cash to your environmental nonprofit of choice. You’ll sleep better at night, I promise. May I point you to wool and cotton instead? Wool mattresses are favored among the green set because they’re renewable and, as we discussed, naturally flame-resistant. Go for brands that come from organically raised, humanely treated sheep for extra bona fides (look for California-produced PureGrow Wool). Likewise, cotton mattresses are plant-based (and often get their flame resistance from a wool wrap); go for organic cotton to minimize the impact of synthetic fertilizers and pesticides. The downside of these natural options? They ain’t cheap (though they aren’t horsehair-level extravagant). No matter which stuffer you choose, look for a quality, durable mattress that will last — the longer its life, the smaller the overall impact of your sleeping habits.
And as for the mattresses you’re replacing, Caroline? Do consider finding a recycling facility for them. Many of a mattress’s components can (and should) be made into fresh new items. Then treat yourself to a nap on that new bed. All this comparison shopping can be exhausting.An organic mattress is made with all-natural materials, which are non-toxic and free from harmful chemicals and synthetic materials. They are breathable and keep you cool in the summer and warm in the winter.When it comes to mattresses, an organic choice is preferred for individuals who suffer from allergies, asthma, and other respiratory problems. In addition, organically made mattresses are healthy for babies and young children. Mattresses that are certified organic are usually made from a mixture of layers of natural wool and/or organic cotton, along with natural organic latex. Although more expensive than traditional spring/foam mattresses, they are comparable in price to the popular memory-foam mattresses that are on the market.
The natural latex/wool combination is usually the most expensive option, whereas an organic cotton/spring design would be at the lower end of the price scale. For allergy sufferers, an all-natural mattress that carries the 'Greenguard Environmental Institute' certification is a plus, as that means it's been designed to meet indoor air quality and low emission standards. Here are some of the drawbacks associated with these mattresses.), natural latex mattresses have among the longest life spans of any mattress type, with the exception of mattresses made of horsehair.The durability and longevity of foam mattresses are directly proportionate to the density. The denser the foam the longer the mattress will last. For example, Ms. Robertson noted that Polyurethane foam is 1.9 pounds in density. Tempur-pedic foam is 5.3 pounds in density. And in sharp contrast, an all-natural Dunlop latex rubber mattress is 40 pounds in density."The difference in density between other mattresses and an organic latex mattress can be compared to the difference between the texture of angel food cake and pound cake," she explains.
The intense density of natural latex mattresses enables them to remain comfortable and last for 40 or 50 years, in some cases. Yet, synthetic or blended latex mattresses break down quicker and lose support because they use fillers.Why Choose An Organic Crib Mattress? An organic crib mattress is a healthy, safe, and clean choice for your baby.A regular, traditional crib mattress may contain potentially toxic materials and chemicals, including:With an organic crib mattress, there are no dangerous chemicals or other man-made additives to worry about.The materials are naturally free of dust-mites and mold, which minimizes allergy symptoms or other sensitivities arising.For any mattress you choose, do your research and insist on 100% organic materials. Not all "eco-friendly" or "green" mattresses are created equal.All components and the manufacturing process need to be non-toxic and the mattress shouldn't contain materials such as phosphorus, boric acid, antimony, arsenic, polyurethane foam or plastics.