What does this mean? Not all mattresses are created equal and some can negatively impact your health. Some mattresses, like memory foam and synthetic ones, can contain harmful chemicals and toxins. Like formaldehyde, benzene, and chemical flame retardants. Your mattress can release harmful chemicals while you sleep. You’re breathing in toxins called chemical off-gassing for hours every night. This can lead to health problems like cancer, infertility, and brain development issues.
- Formaldehyde has been linked to cancers of the paranasal sinuses, nasal cavity, and nasopharynx
- Benzene has been linked to increased risks of acute myeloid leukemia
- Chemical flame retardants could lead to thyroid issues, especially in women who are post-menopausal
How to fix it? If your mattress isn’t natural and you want an organic one, shop for these certifications and materials.
- GOTS – Global Organic Textile Standard. This is the top global standard for processing organic fibers in textiles. It ensures that manufacturing is ethical and good for the environment.
- GOLS – Global Organic Latex Standard. This certification ensures that the latex inside your mattress is composed of more than 95% organic raw material.
- OEKO-TEX STANDARD 100 confirms that all textile materials are safe and free from toxic chemicals and dyes.
- California’s Prop 65 label, identifies toxic chemicals
Check the materials in the casing and support layers of the organic mattress. The casing should have certified organic cotton and certified organic wool meaning the casing is free of pesticides and bleach. The wool acts as a natural flame barrier so no chemical flame retardants! The core of the mattress should be natural latex instead of any foams. Natural latex is a healthier option that offers coolness, support, and pressure point relief.
Where to start? We know that mattresses are expensive. Even with many organic and natural options on the market, they all need a hefty investment. Start simple by swapping your bedsheets for cotton or linen. Another option is to buy an organic mattress pad or topper. You can save funds and wait for seasonal sales to buy a new mattress when the time is right.
Our personal recommendation is the Saatva brand of mattresses. A few of us here at the office own them. They have a strong build quality making them not cheaply made. The Zen Haven is a comfortable option made from organic latex. Did you know mattresses and box springs have metal coils inside of them that may act like antennas, amplifying EMF? Well, with a latex mattress, no springs are needed!
We love them so much we have an affiliate link – use it to save 15% on your next purchase: https://bit.ly/drrobmattress
P.S. I (Nina, the author of these emails) just bought mine this weekend after months of research. Saatva has a 365-night home trial on all mattresses. You can sleep on it for a year and return it for a refund minus a $99 fee if you’re not satisfied. That is a hard deal to beat!
