Many people are unaware of the adverse effects that conventional mattresses have on their health. The raw materials used in these mattresses are man-made, petrochemical-derived, and non-renewable. Chemicals, dyes and flame retardants used in their production and finishing can permeate through the mattresses only to be inhaled or absorbed by the skin.
The best eco-friendly and safe option is to select a mattress made from natural latex, organic wool or organic cotton or hemp. These eco-friendly options reduce the dependence on conventional petrochemical based raw materials or non-organic cotton which subsequently results in a decrease in carbon emissions and the usage of pesticides. Mattresses that use synthetic additives, unsustainable wood, and conventional cotton should be avoided.
Eco-friendly mattress materials:
Natural latex
The sap from the common rubber tree is tapped and harvested to produce natural rubber. These trees grow mainly in Indonesia and Malaysia. The rubber tree sap is whipped into latex foam. This process is eco-friendly because the tree heals itself after the sap is tapped from it. This makes natural latex a sustainable resource.
Organic cotton
Physical, biological and mechanical controls are used to grow and process organic cotton. This is done without the help of insecticides, fungicides and herbicides. Organic farming helps in fighting climate change and reduces atmospheric carbon dioxide in comparison to conventional farming.
Organic hemp
Stronger than cotton, organic hemp is ideally suited for bedding as it is also a better insulator and is more absorbent. Tufted hemp used to make the bedding is free of pesticides or fungicides as hemp is a hardy plant that is naturally resistant to mold and mildew.
Organic wool
This sustainable resource is not subjected to any chemicals or hormones which would otherwise be used in the sheep’s food or on the animal itself. The pure wool obtained is naturally fire-resistant and resistant to dust mites.
Choosing an eco-friendly mattress:
- It is important to keep in mind the following details while buying an eco-friendly mattress:
- The wood frame of the mattress should be from sustainable sources. Wood frames are chemical-free and better than particleboard which may emit formaldehyde.
- The core of the mattress should preferably be natural latex.
- A combination of latex and inner springs may form the core..
- The mattress should be wrapped with either organic wool or organic cotton.
- The fabric in which the mattress has been wrapped should be biodegradable.
- Other raw materials like hemp and bamboo are great eco-friendly options as well.
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