With so many baby crib mattresses available on the market, understanding the benefits and differences of each type can be confusing. If you’re considering going organic, you’re in the right place. To help you decide whether an organic crib mattress is what you really want, we’ve clarified what an organic crib mattress is and outlined the primary differences between organic and conventional options.
What is an Organic Crib Mattress?
An organic crib mattress is made by using natural materials that are certified organic. It is free from synthetic materials, chemicals, pesticides, and other toxins.
Organic crib mattresses are designed to provide your baby with a healthier and more eco-friendly sleeping environment. Regular crib mattresses can contain various substances that may not be suitable for babies.
You can avoid worrying about such issues by deciding on a certified organic crib mattress, as they must adhere to strict standards set by certifying bodies to ensure their organic integrity.
Materials used in Organic Crib Mattresses
Organic crib mattresses contain different mixes of approved organic materials, such as organic cotton, organic wool, organic latex, and sometimes organic coconut husk fibers.
These materials are cultivated without synthetic pesticides or harmful chemicals, promoting a healthier and more natural sleeping environment for babies.
However, if you are buying an organic crib mattress, do not rely solely on its name. You should carefully read the label and its specifications. Carefully check which parts of the mattress are certified organic, as there is a chance not all of them are.
Best Organic Crib Mattress:
The Naturepedic organic crib mattress rocks because it’s super safe and made from organic materials. There are no nasty chemicals, just natural materials like organic cotton. Breathable, comfy, and easy to keep clean, it’s a long-lasting choice that’s good for your baby and the planet.
Organic Certifications:
- GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard)
- GOLS (Global Organic Latex Standard)
GOTS and GOLS Explained
GOTS stands for the Global Organic Textile Standard, while GOLS stands for the Global Organic Latex Standard.
These certifications offer assurances regarding the organic and non-toxic nature of the materials used in the crib mattress. Without these third-party certifications, it is hard to know how “organic” a crib mattress really is.
1. Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS)
This certification is awarded to fiber-based products that meet stringent organic and environmental standards.
The Global Organic Textile Standard certification is the leading worldwide textile processing standard for organic fibers. It evaluates the entire supply chain, from harvesting the raw materials to environmentally and socially responsible manufacturing to labeling. This ensures that the textiles used in a product, such as the fabric covering a mattress, are certified organic and non-toxic to a strict standard.
In other words, when you buy a product with GOTS certification, you can be assured that it meets high organic and environmental responsibility standards.
2. Global Organic Latex Standard (GOLS)
GOLS certification refers explicitly to the latex used in crib mattresses. It ensures that the latex is made from organic raw materials and is processed and manufactured in an environmentally and socially responsible manner.
In other words, when you buy a product with GOLS certification, you can be assured that the latex in the crib mattress is organic.
Does GOTS or GOLS certification reassure you are getting a 100% organic crib mattress?
While GOTS and GOLS certifications provide a high level of assurance regarding the organic nature of the materials used in crib mattresses, they don’t guarantee that the entire mattress is 100% organic.
The certifications ensure that the certified components meet organic standards but might not cover the entire mattress construction. The mattress might have other components, such as coils, support foam, or other materials, that might not fall under these certifications or might not be entirely organic.
Some companies even advertise their mattresses as “organic” or “natural” while they have only certain components certified as organic. So, if you’re specifically looking for a 100% organic crib mattress, it’s essential to check the detailed specifications and materials used by the manufacturer.
Organic vs. Conventional Crib Mattresses
The following comparison table highlights key differences between organic and conventional crib mattresses. Knowing them, you will easily decide which crib mattress type suits your needs better.
| Aspect | Organic Crib Mattress | Conventional Baby Mattress |
|---|---|---|
| Materials | Made from natural, organic materials (e.g., organic cotton, wool) without synthetic chemicals or pesticides | Often made from synthetic materials like polyester |
| Allergens | Hypoallergenic, less likely to trigger allergies | May contain allergens or chemicals that could cause allergies |
| Environmental Impact | Environmentally friendly, sustainable production | Production may involve more environmentally harmful processes |
| Chemicals | Free from harmful chemicals like formaldehyde, phthalates, and flame retardants | May contain chemicals and flame retardants that emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and other toxins |
| Breathability | Natural materials often provide better breathability and temperature regulation | May have less breathability |
| Price | Typically more expensive due to the use of organic materials and eco-friendly processes | Generally more affordable due to the use of synthetic materials and conventional manufacturing |
| Longevity and Durability | Tend to be more durable due to their high-quality materials | Usually less durable |
| Off-Gassing | Typically have minimal or no off-gassing | Might emit a chemical smell initially due to the synthetic materials and treatments used in their production |
| Regulations and Certifications | Often adhere to stricter regulations and might carry certifications that guarantee their organic status | May not have the same level of certification |
| Environmental Impact | Beyond the materials used, the production processes for organic mattresses tend to have a lower environmental impact compared | May involve more resource-intensive manufacturing methods |
| Waterproofing | May use natural, breathable waterproofing materials or may require separate waterproof covers | Some conventional mattresses come with waterproof covers or layers |
Final thoughts:
Organic crib mattresses made from natural materials like cotton or wool are generally safer for babies as they lack harmful chemicals. While certifications like GOTS and GOLS ensure organic integrity, it’s important to check labels, as not every mattress part might be completely organic.
Comparing organic to regular mattresses shows significant differences in safety, durability, and environmental impact, emphasizing a choice that prioritizes a baby’s health and a healthier planet.
