We spend a lot of time in our beds. Assuming 7 hours a night, 7 days a week, and we’re pushing 50 hours of sleep each week. That all adds up to an average of 26 years of our lives spent in bed. Whether we lounge around to read, catch up on news, or snuggle in for a movie before some shut-eye, the actual number of hours we spend in our beds each week could be significantly more
If we’re spending that much time in bed, atop our mattresses, whether for actual sleep or merely for leisure, we’re still in close contact with something that might not be as good for our health as we assume.
Traditional mattresses release gaseous chemicals that come from the polyurethane, chemical fire retardant coatings and other non-natural materials. These chemicals are leaking out right where you breathe in.
Organic mattresses are made from only natural materials like cotton, latex, wool and coconut husks. You can sleep soundly knowing that your sleeping on a surface that isn't leeching harmful chemicals into your body.
Higher-Quality Materials
Not all mattresses are made equally. When we think of mattresses, generally, we compare the material they’re made from. Is it foam or a coil spring mattress? Is it soft, medium, or firm? When you first start researching the next mattress you’d like to purchase, it’s important to take a deeper look at not only the type of material the mattress is made of, but also where the materials are sourced.
Traditional mattresses are less expensive for a reason, and you’ll often get what you pay for. Synthetic components, such as polyurethane foams, are a mix of toxic chemicals. The residual chemicals still on the mattress can include not only the fire retardant, but also formaldehyde, pesticides, and more.
Organic mattresses are made from materials of natural and organic origin, including organic latex, cotton, wool, and other natural ingredients. This means that while you sleep, binge watch, or read, you’ll be breathing in clean, chemical-free air and have a safer, healthier night’s sleep.
Transparency from Organic Mattress Manufacturers
There is a certain level of transparency that organic mattress manufacturers present. They have to be able to back up their “organic” claim with a host of information and proof of the quality of materials and the health benefits of having an organic mattress under your bedsheets. There is also a strict standard they have to meet in order to be able to assign the organic certification to their mattresses. This is called the Global Organic Textile Standard. Natural latex mattresses can be GOLS certified using certified organic latex.
Organic Mattresses Still Have Fire Protection
Did you know mattress makers in the United States are subject to a series of regulations as well, the main one of which has to do with layering a chemical-based fire retardant on our mattress? This means that if there is a fire in your home, a mattress will smolder rather than burst into flames.
As mentioned, all mattresses have to pass federally mandated fire protection requirements. The reason traditional mattresses use such intense fire protection is that they’re normally filled with a foam made of polyurethane, and it’s incredibly flammable. Organic mattresses have fire protection, but it’s organic instead of chemical. In most organic mattresses, a layer of organic wool is sewn into the cover. This natural fire barrier is safer for the environment and, most importantly, safer for your family. The fact that organic mattresses aren’t coated in fire retardant is a primary health benefit. With their high standards, organic mattresses couldn’t claim to be organic if a chemical fire retardant was used on them. So when you opt for an organic mattress made with natural and organic materials, you get a healthier mattress that’s also fire-safe.
Cost Difference
While the origin of materials might not be the first thing you notice, you’ll probably take quick notice of the comfort and feel of an organic mattress. Are the differences worth it? What are the key differences between an organic mattress and a traditional one?
Your health will always be a primary focus. With an organic mattress, there is a built-in mini list of pros. The materials used to make organic mattresses are superior. They’re higher quality and come from natural origins, as opposed to being made with synthetic materials. Conventional mattresses are made from a variety of chemicals, and if you’re on the mattress for so many hours a day, you’ll be breathing in those chemicals, and your respiratory system will be subject to chemical exposure.
Organic mattresses can have a higher initial cost, but it’s important to remember that the purchase of an organic mattress can be seen as an investment to benefit your health.
Creating an Organic Home
The discovery of organic products for your home can be an exciting yet daunting journey. Taking small steps can be the best way to start. Both price and selection can be barriers to taking the first steps. A good place to start is your sleeping pillow. Putting your head on a comfortable and natural pillow sets the stage.
Check under the sink and try to eliminate toxic cleaners and fragrances. Then move on to larger items such as bedding and then your mattress. Focus on the smallest members of your family. Babies and young children have smaller, more sensitive lungs, and generally spend a lot more time sleeping. If you can start with one room at a time for your house, make sure to get an organic mattress for the most vulnerable in your home first. Chemicals can hinder the endocrine system, so even from a young age, exposure to healthy and organic materials can make all the difference in one’s health.
The team members at Plank and Coil are organic mattress experts and can answer any of your questions about investing in your and your family’s health. Come in today to peruse the various organic mattresses and organic products for your home.