Shopping for a new mattress can be a daunting task, and it’s especially difficult if you’re in the market for something unique like a natural or organic mattress. Searching for the best natural mattress is a task that many sleepers find challenging after learning about the dangers of harsh chemicals and fire retardants that may be in their bed.
It is my hope that after reading this guide, you will have all the tools you need to successfully pick the best natural or organic mattress.
Want more info on natural mattresses? Click here to find out why these beds made the list!
Best Organic & Non-Toxic Mattresses
- Editor’s Pick – Saatva Latex Hybrid
- Best Organic Hybrid Mattress – WinkBeds EcoCloud
- Best for Back Pain – Birch
- Best Dual-Sided Organic Mattress – Brooklyn Bedding EcoSleep
- Best Luxury Organic Mattress – Zenhaven
- Best Heavy Sleepers – GhostBed Natural
- Best Organic Latex Mattress – Brentwood Home Hybrid Latex
- Best Cooling Organic Mattress – Avocado Green
- Best Firm Organic Mattress – Awara
- Best Organic Mattress for Combination Sleepers – Plushbeds Botanical Bliss
Why Did These Beds Make the List?
Before I dive into my selections, remember that everyone’s sleep needs are different, so I suggest using this list as a starting point for your mattress search. To make my list, a mattress had to be high-quality and feature natural or organic materials allowing you to not only have a great night’s sleep, but also rest assured you are helping the environment.
But enough chat! Let’s get on with the list.
Editor’s Pick — Saatva Latex Hybrid
The Saatva Latex Hybrid is a firmer hybrid model, combining latex foam and individually pocketed coils for excellent bounce and mobility. It has good pressure relief, so I would recommend it for back sleepers, stomach sleepers, and combination back/stomach sleepers. The Saatva Latex Hybrid is a firmer hybrid model, combining latex foam and individually pocketed coils for excellent bounce and mobility. It has good pressure relief, so I would recommend it for back sleepers, stomach sleepers, and combination back/stomach sleepers. The Saatva Latex Hybrid is a firmer hybrid model, combining latex foam and individually pocketed coils for excellent bounce and mobility. It has good pressure relief, so I would recommend it for back sleepers, stomach sleepers, and combination back/stomach sleepers.Saatva Latex Hybrid Mattress
Material
Latex
Trial Period
180 nights
Shipping Method
Free white glove delivery
Firmness
Firm: 7.5/10
Warranty
15-year warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
Saatva Latex Hybrid Mattress
Material
Latex
Warranty
15-year warranty
Firmness
Firm: 7.5/10
Shipping Method
Free white glove delivery
Trial Period
180 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
Saatva Latex Hybrid Mattress
Material
Latex
Firmness
Firm: 7.5/10
Trial Period
180 nights
Warranty
15-year warranty
Shipping Method
Free white glove delivery
Price Range
$$$$$
The Saatva Latex Hybrid is a really supportive mattress that’s great for those who suffer from back pain. Its layer of individually wrapped coils will help keep hips and shoulders aligned for a neutral spinal alignment, while its layer of all-natural Talalay latex, which will provide some nice pressure relief in the lumbar region.
The Saatva Latex Hybrid is made with organic cotton and wool, Talalay latex, and coils which make this mattress a more eco-friendly option than those produced with chemicals. Also, Talalay latex is more cooling than materials like memory foam, and the combination of latex and coils make this a breathable mattress that’s great for hot sleepers.
Learn more in my full Saatva Latex Hybrid review.
Best Organic Hybrid Mattress — WinkBeds EcoCloud
This is one of the most sustainable mattresses I’ve tested. It is also a fantastic mattress for combination sleepers, who will like its bounciness and appreciate how comfortable it feels in a range of positions. It also features zoned support, making it good for those with pain concerns. This is one of the most sustainable mattresses I’ve tested. It is also a fantastic mattress for combination sleepers, who will like its bounciness and appreciate how comfortable it feels in a range of positions. It also features zoned support, making it good for those with pain concerns. This is one of the most sustainable mattresses I’ve tested. It is also a fantastic mattress for combination sleepers, who will like its bounciness and appreciate how comfortable it feels in a range of positions. It also features zoned support, making it good for those with pain concerns.WinkBeds EcoCloud Mattress
Material
Latex
Trial Period
120 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Soft: 5/10
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
WinkBeds EcoCloud Mattress
Material
Latex
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Firmness
Soft: 5/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
WinkBeds EcoCloud Mattress
Material
Latex
Firmness
Soft: 5/10
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
The hybrid WinkBeds EcoCloud Mattress is a bed in a box that features the simplest construction of all the mattresses on this list. It’s made with just two layers: one is all-natural Talalay Latex, and the other features pocketed coils. These layers are wrapped in an organic cotton cover. The Talalay Latex does a good job of dissipating body heat, so this mattress should work for people who don’t like to sleep hot.
The combination of Talalay Latex and coils results in a bouncy, responsive, and medium-firm feel. You shouldn’t feel “stuck” in this mattress, so it should be easy to change positions. This means it could be a good fit for combo sleepers, who change positions throughout the night. (Just note that you probably won’t want to spend a ton of time on your side, because the bouncy mattress doesn’t offer much body-contouring.)
Think the WinkBeds EcoCloud could be the mattress for you? Learn more in my full review.
Best for Back Pain — Birch
The Birch mattress is an all-natural bed that uses organic cotton and wool fibers to create a structure that’s as eco-friendly as it is cozy. We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress. The Birch mattress is an all-natural bed that uses organic cotton and wool fibers to create a structure that’s as eco-friendly as it is cozy. We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress. The Birch mattress is an all-natural bed that uses organic cotton and wool fibers to create a structure that’s as eco-friendly as it is cozy. We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress.Birch Mattress
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
100 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Medium-firm: 7/10
Warranty
25-year warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for average weight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for average weight side sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for average weight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Birch Mattress
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
25-year warranty
Firmness
Medium-firm: 7/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
100 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.Back Sleeping
Ideal for average weight back sleepers.Side Sleeping
Ideal for average weight side sleepers.Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for average weight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Birch Mattress
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Medium-firm: 7/10
Trial Period
100 nights
Warranty
25-year warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.Back Sleeping
Ideal for average weight back sleepers.Side Sleeping
Ideal for average weight side sleepers.Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for average weight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
This hybrid mattress seems tailor-made for back or stomach sleepers committed to going green. All Birch products are GREENGUARD Gold certified, meaning they’ve passed testing for harmful chemicals and volatile organic compounds. The cover is made from organic cotton and quilted with wool fibers, while the comfort layer is made entirely of all-natural, moisture-wicking wool. The all-natural approach also extends to the bouncy Talalay Latex layer, which sits underneath the comfort layer. All of this is supported by pocketed springs.
The Birch mattress’ construction results in a firm, bouncy sleeping surface that should work well for most back or stomach sleepers. The mattress’ bounce should keep you positioned on top of the bed, while the firmness should prevent your hips from sinking in too far, helping you maintain a neutral spinal alignment. When you’re on your back, the wool layer and cotton cover help cushion your lumbar region. (If you’re a side sleeper or you prefer a softer mattress, you can add an additional—and pricey— pillow-top.)
Have I piqued your interest? Learn more in my full Birch Living Bed review.
Best Dual-Sided Organic Mattress — Brooklyn Bedding EcoSleep
An all-organic, two-sided mattress—is that an ecoflip? Close. It’s the EcoSleep from Brooklyn Bedding. Sustainable shut-eye is within your grasp with this latex hybrid bed. An all-organic, two-sided mattress—is that an ecoflip? Close. It’s the EcoSleep from Brooklyn Bedding. Sustainable shut-eye is within your grasp with this latex hybrid bed. An all-organic, two-sided mattress—is that an ecoflip? Close. It’s the EcoSleep from Brooklyn Bedding. Sustainable shut-eye is within your grasp with this latex hybrid bed.EcoSleep Hybrid Mattress
Material
Latex
Trial Period
120 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping minus HI and AK
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Warranty
10-year warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
EcoSleep Hybrid Mattress
Material
Latex
Warranty
10-year warranty
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Shipping Method
Free shipping minus HI and AK
Trial Period
120 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
EcoSleep Hybrid Mattress
Material
Latex
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
10-year warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping minus HI and AK
Price Range
$$$$$
This eco-friendly mattress gives you an option between medium and firm feel all in one. All you have to do is flip the mattress and you can completely change the surface of the mattress. I really like this mattress for strict back sleepers, and for lightweight side and back sleepers. If you are over 200 pounds, you may find some discomfort in your shoulders while on your side, and on the stomach your hips may sink a bit.
The EcoSleep uses organic wool, latex, and pocketed coils to create a supportive, bouncy, and comfortable surface that you can feel good about sleeping on. Since it is so bouncy, you can feel quite a bit of movement if you sleep with a partner or pet who tosses and turns.
Learn more in my full EcoSleep mattress review.
Best Luxury Organic Mattress — Zenhaven
The Zenhaven is extremely durable, so you know you are investing in a mattress that will last a while. Another great perk of this latex bed is that it’s naturally cooling, which hot sleepers should appreciate. You also get two firmness levels in one with this bed since it is flippable. The Zenhaven is extremely durable, so you know you are investing in a mattress that will last a while. Another great perk of this latex bed is that it’s naturally cooling, which hot sleepers should appreciate. You also get two firmness levels in one with this bed since it is flippable. The Zenhaven is extremely durable, so you know you are investing in a mattress that will last a while. Another great perk of this latex bed is that it’s naturally cooling, which hot sleepers should appreciate. You also get two firmness levels in one with this bed since it is flippable.Zenhaven Mattress
Material
Latex
Trial Period
180 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Warranty
20-year warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
Zenhaven Mattress
Material
Latex
Warranty
20-year warranty
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
180 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
Zenhaven Mattress
Material
Latex
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Trial Period
180 nights
Warranty
20-year warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
The Zenhaven mattress uses a full latex core without springs, making it a pretty unique mattress since most latex beds are constructed with a layer or two of coils. In this mattress, you’ll find Talalay latex, cotton, and wool. Together, these all-natural materials offer a great mix of comfort and support. You also get two firmness options with the Zenhaven in one mattress. It has a flippable design with one side being firm and the other soft.
Depending on your body weight and sleeping preferences, that will inform which side of the Zenhaven mattress I suggest. Generally, side and back sleepers will probably like the firm side more while side sleepers may prefer the soft side. Saatva, who makes the Zenhaven, is known for affordable luxury products. All of their beds come with free white-glove delivery which means you don’t have to lift a finger.
If you are sold on a latex bed check out my full Zenhaven mattress review to see if this is the perfect choice for you.
Best for Heavy Sleepers – GhostBed Natural
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress. We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress. We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress.GhostBed Natural Mattress
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
101 Nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Warranty
25-year warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.Side Sleeping
Ideal for average weight and heavyweight side sleepers.Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
GhostBed Natural Mattress
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
25-year warranty
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
101 Nights
Price Range
$$$$$
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.Side Sleeping
Ideal for average weight and heavyweight side sleepers.Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
GhostBed Natural Mattress
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Trial Period
101 Nights
Warranty
25-year warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.Side Sleeping
Ideal for average weight and heavyweight side sleepers.Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
The GhostBed Natural is an organic latex hybrid, with all the features of a springy, latex bed. I chose the Natural because of its eco-friendly materials, as well as its coiled support for heavier people, especially heavier back sleepers.
Though this bed has more of a medium-soft feel for heavier sleepers, its latex and coiled layers should offer the durability and support they need, making it a good choice for them. This bed should also please combination sleepers, who should experience a bouncy feel that makes mobility a breeze. Finally, this mattress sleeps very cool, making the Natural a breathable choice for hot sleepers.
Thinking the GhostBed Natural could “sustain” your needs? Read more in my full GhostBed Natural mattress review.
Best Organic Latex Mattress — Brentwood Home Hybrid Latex
If you’re in the market for an organic mattress that’s bouncy and supportive, you may want to consider the Brentwood Hybrid Latex. Built with layers of pocketed coils, recycled materials, and latex foam, this bed is as cozy as it is good for the environment. We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress. If you’re in the market for an organic mattress that’s bouncy and supportive, you may want to consider the Brentwood Hybrid Latex. Built with layers of pocketed coils, recycled materials, and latex foam, this bed is as cozy as it is good for the environment. We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress. If you’re in the market for an organic mattress that’s bouncy and supportive, you may want to consider the Brentwood Hybrid Latex. Built with layers of pocketed coils, recycled materials, and latex foam, this bed is as cozy as it is good for the environment. We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress.Brentwood Home Hybrid Latex Mattress
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
365 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Soft: 6/10
Warranty
25-year limited warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Brentwood Home Hybrid Latex Mattress
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
25-year limited warranty
Firmness
Soft: 6/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
365 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
Brentwood Home Hybrid Latex Mattress
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Soft: 6/10
Trial Period
365 nights
Warranty
25-year limited warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.Couples
This bed has great motion isolation so you will not feel your partner tossing and turning at night.Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.Financing Options
When you picture what an organic mattress looks/feels like you are probably picturing something like the Brentwood Home Hybrid Latex. This mattress is bouncy, natural, and made of natural materials. You’ll find a great mix of support and comfort, especially if you’re a stomach sleeper or back sleeper. The mattress has enough support to hold your hips up and keep the spine aligned, but also gives enough cushioning to actually stay comfortable.
Learn more from my full Brentwood Home Hybrid Latex review.
Best Cooling Organic Mattress — Avocado Green
The Avocado Green Mattress is an eco-friendly mattress made with organic cotton, natural latex, and pocketed coils. This durable mattress is extremely bouncy making it a great pick for combo sleepers who move around throughout the night. The Avocado Green Mattress is an eco-friendly mattress made with organic cotton, natural latex, and pocketed coils. This durable mattress is extremely bouncy making it a great pick for combo sleepers who move around throughout the night. The Avocado Green Mattress is an eco-friendly mattress made with organic cotton, natural latex, and pocketed coils. This durable mattress is extremely bouncy making it a great pick for combo sleepers who move around throughout the night.Avocado Green Mattress
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
365 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Medium-firm: 7/10
Warranty
25-year limited warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
Avocado Green Mattress
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
25-year limited warranty
Firmness
Medium-firm: 7/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
365 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
Avocado Green Mattress
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Medium-firm: 7/10
Trial Period
365 nights
Warranty
25-year limited warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
If you’re in the market for an organic mattress and you’re prone to sleeping hot, check out the Avocado Green mattress. It should keep you sleeping cool thanks to its breathable, organic cotton cover and heat-dissipating, 100% natural latex. The mattress features an especially durable construction, so it should let you enjoy cool sleep for the foreseeable future.
But hot sleepers aren’t the only people who might appreciate this mattress. The Standard version should also be a good fit for back sleepers and combination sleepers. The taut, bouncy latex and pocketed coils offer firm support, which helps keep the spine in neutral alignment. The mattress’ bounciness also makes it easy to move around, so switching between positions shouldn’t be a hassle. (If you like the look of this mattress but prefer a more plush feel, you can invest in the Pillow-top version, which has an extra 2” of latex on top.)
Curious to learn more? Check out my full Avocado Green mattress review.
Best Firm Organic Mattress — Awara
If you’re looking for an eco-friendly mattress that only utilizes organic materials, the Awara could be a great fit for you! The mix of bouncy latex with firm pocketed coils could also be a winning combo for combination sleepers. If you’re looking for an eco-friendly mattress that only utilizes organic materials, the Awara could be a great fit for you! The mix of bouncy latex with firm pocketed coils could also be a winning combo for combination sleepers. If you’re looking for an eco-friendly mattress that only utilizes organic materials, the Awara could be a great fit for you! The mix of bouncy latex with firm pocketed coils could also be a winning combo for combination sleepers.Awara Mattress
Material
Latex
Trial Period
365 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Warranty
Limited lifetime warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
Awara Mattress
Material
Latex
Warranty
Limited lifetime warranty
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
365 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
Awara Mattress
Material
Latex
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Trial Period
365 nights
Warranty
Limited lifetime warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
First, we should talk about the Awara’s natural materials; made with an organic cotton cover and Dunlop latex comfort layer, the Awara provides comfort without the use of the chemicals that are present in many foam beds. Along with that, the Awara uses pocketed coils to provide strong support and bounce, so you’ll feel more on top of the bed than sunken in.
Overall, I would say the Awara has a firm feel that will be appreciated by back sleepers. It did a great job of keeping my hips from sinking into bed, keeping my spine in great alignment. So if you’re someone that likes a firm mattress, the Awara is a great bed that uses natural materials to avoid back pain.
Learn more in my full Awara mattress review.
Best Organic Mattress for Combination Sleepers — Plushbeds Botanical Bliss
The PlushBeds Botanical Bliss is a great organic option that could be fantastic for combination sleepers as well as hot sleepers. Latex is naturally taut and bouncy, making it easier to move around and does a fantastic job at regulating temperature. The PlushBeds Botanical Bliss is a great organic option that could be fantastic for combination sleepers as well as hot sleepers. Latex is naturally taut and bouncy, making it easier to move around and does a fantastic job at regulating temperature. The PlushBeds Botanical Bliss is a great organic option that could be fantastic for combination sleepers as well as hot sleepers. Latex is naturally taut and bouncy, making it easier to move around and does a fantastic job at regulating temperature.PlushBeds Botanical Bliss Mattress
Material
Latex
Trial Period
100 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Warranty
25-year warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
PlushBeds Botanical Bliss Mattress
Material
Latex
Warranty
25-year warranty
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
100 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
PlushBeds Botanical Bliss Mattress
Material
Latex
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Trial Period
100 nights
Warranty
25-year warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
The Plushbeds Botanical Bliss uses layers of latex that make for a supportive mattress that still has a plush feel. This should make it easy for combination sleepers to switch positions. The top layer of Talalay latex is softer and allows for nice pressure relief, while the Dunlop latex layer provides some firm support. The Botanical Bliss also sleeps cool, thanks to latex which is naturally more breathable than some other mattress materials like memory foam.
All the materials in the Botanical Bliss are GREENGUARD Gold Certified, meaning it’s free from harmful chemicals or volatile organic compounds. Each latex layer is 100% natural and its cover is made from organic cotton and wool.
Want to learn more? Check out the full Plushbeds Botanical Bliss Mattress Review.
Why the Demand for Natural and Organic Mattresses?
It should be no surprise that the word “organic” is slowly creeping its way into the mattress market. It’s in the supermarkets up and down every aisle. It’s on your cereals, your produce, and even your milk and eggs. But what is the hype all about, and is it worth carrying your love for “organic” into the bedroom?
First off, let’s ask the question: Why the sudden push toward natural or organic mattresses?
In the 1970s, we saw the first required use of flame retardants in mattresses. This law was imposed to address fires caused by smoldering cigarettes, the leading cause of deadly mattress fires at the time. The turn of the century brought a decline in smokers but the need for a new law. In 2007, a law was passed that required mattresses to not only resist the smolder of a dying cigarette but also the open flame of a lighter, match, or candle. While this decreased the number of deadly mattress fires, it also opened the door to a new and dangerous threat: highly toxic flame retardants.
Flame retardants are extremely harsh chemicals that can have lasting effects on your body. The worst of them are polybrominated diphenyl ethers (also known as PBDEs). PBDEs are linked to decreased sperm count, thyroid problems, slow brain development in newborns, and even cancer. These particles can be released into the air and absorbed from products when TVs or computers heat up, while sleeping on a mattress, or when products degrade.
As the world began to explore fire retardant chemicals and barriers to satisfy the new regulation, people began to slowly wonder about the effect on their bodies from these chemicals, especially while they were sleeping. The result ended up being a strong push toward natural and organic mattresses.
The Organic, Natural, and Healthy Mattress Spectrum
In this guide, we’re going to talk through a number of different mattress recommendations, but it’s important to remember through all of this that all mattresses fall on a spectrum of organic, natural, and healthy.
It is true that some mattresses are 100% natural and organic from top to bottom. However, most fall somewhere along a spectrum from 0% organic/natural to 100% organic/natural.
Generally speaking, the closer to 100% organic, the more you’re going to pay. While having a 100% natural mattress is wonderful, it’s not always in the budget for many sleepers.
There are a number of quality mattresses that are 20-50% natural/organic but are still excellent mattresses because they are targeting the material components that come closest to sleepers. Loom & Leaf is a good example of this type of half-organic mattress. Loom & Leaf uses a natural thistle fire barrier, organic cotton cover, and some plant-based foams. Of course, some of the foams are not plant-based and the percentage of plant-based material is not tremendously high, but it is a good step in the right direction and quite affordable.
Also, I do think it’s important to note the distinction between natural/organic and healthy. A mattress may not be organic/natural, but the materials may still be healthier than those in many other mattresses on the market. There are many mattresses that use CertiPUR-certified foams (see below for more info), which indicates that the foams exclude a number of harmful chemicals and substances. These types of mattresses can still provide a healthy sleeping surface, even if they are not certified as organic or natural.
For this guide, we’ll be focusing on those mattresses that are certified to one or more natural, organic, or eco-friendly standards and/or those mattresses that use one or more organic/natural components, but if you are interested in all mattresses, see my full mattress reviews list.
How Do Organic and Natural Mattresses Meet High Flammability Standards?
There are several different ways a mattress can meet the high standard set by the 2007 regulation. The first method is that the surface of the mattress can be sprayed or soaked with fire-retardant chemicals. However, this method is no longer permitted due to the obvious risk of coming in direct contact with these dangerous chemicals.
The second method involves the use of fire-retardant foams, but this method also uses PBDEs and other hazardous material. The first two methods obviously are not organic in any sense of the word.
The last method is the one that most manufacturers use today (natural and conventional), and that’s using fiber or fabric barriers to enclose the interior of the mattress, where most of the combustible material is found. Silica-based fire socks that encase the mattress (between the foams and the exterior mattress cover) are the most common. These fire socks melt in the event of a fire, smothering the flames. Thistle and wool are more natural alternatives; both of these prevent fires in a similar way.
What Is an Organic Mattress?
So what makes a mattress truly organic? Beyond the fact that it doesn’t contain harmful flame retardants and chemicals, are there other criteria it has to meet? Absolutely. To bear the label “organic,” a mattress must be tested by a USDA-approved third-party certifying agent and earn a special organic certification.
There are many different types of certifications a mattress can earn, but most of them mean that a large portion of the raw materials are organic and organic processes were used in manufacturing.
A mattress may be labeled as organic, but without a sticker of certification, that claim is empty and no one has verified it. Sadly, words like “organic” and “all-natural” are commonly tossed around, but without the certifications, I would advise taking them with a grain of salt. Here are some of the most popular certifications to look for:
- CertiPUR-US certified foams are made without ozone depleters, PBDEs, TDCPP, or TCEP flame retardants, mercury, lead, other heavy metals, formaldehyde, and phthalates as regulated by the Consumer Product Safety Commission. They also produce low VOC emissions for indoor air quality (less than 0.5 parts per million).
- GOLS (Global Organic Latex Standard) certified latex is produced in an environment where all materials and manufacturing processes to make latex adhere to strict and specific global organic standards.
- GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard) certified materials are materials produced in an environment where all materials and manufacturing processes to make textiles adhere to strict and specific global organic standards.
- Organic Exchange certified applies to products that have been properly tracked from the source as a raw material to the finished product, guaranteeing organic processes and manufacturing.
- GreenGuard certified applies to a mattress that has been tested to ensure that its chemical and particle emissions meet acceptable indoor-outdoor air quality pollutant guidelines (low emission).
- Oeko-Tex Standard 100 certified latex has been tested for the presence of 100 known harmful substances.
- USDA Certified Organic applies to a mattress that has been produced without a prohibited method or substances; testing is regularly overseen by a USDA authorized certifying agent.
SHEETS: Organic cotton sheets
What Are the Benefits of a Natural or Organic Mattress?
- Fewer Chemicals: A natural or organic mattress’s biggest draw is going to be its lack of harsh chemicals and toxic, chemical flame retardants. Many organic materials are naturally flame retardant. This also means the off-gassing (smell after opening) of the mattress will not be as strong.
- Sustainable and Biodegradable: For the environmentally conscious sleeper, this can be a huge positive. The manufacturing and materials mean a smaller environmental footprint. Many companies highlight their efforts in these areas.
- Hypo-Allergenic: Chemicals and flame retardants can sometimes cause allergic reactions, skin irritations, and even respiratory problems. Sound familiar? With an organic mattress, the materials are processed without the addition of any of these dangerous substances all the way from the plantation to your bedroom.
- Kid-Approved: Infants and children as especially susceptible to the harsh effects of dangerous chemicals. Choosing an organic mattress helps limit their exposure to these chemicals.
What Materials Make the Best Organic and Natural Mattresses?
When it comes to shopping for the best natural or organic mattress, keep in mind that some materials are going to perform better than others in terms of sleep performance. For this guide, we’re going to look at latex, memory foams, innersprings, and poly foams.
Memory Foam
Memory foam is a polyurethane foam that has viscoelastic properties. Memory foam mattresses are known for their ability to mold around your body. It has a slower response time, but with that comes a deeper amount of hug, compression, and pressure relief. If you want to find out more about memory foam mattresses, take a look at some of our top rated memory foam mattress roundup!
What Is Natural Memory Foam?
By definition, memory foam is made from polyurethane. Plant-based natural memory foams replace a portion of the polyurethane with plant-derived oil. The use of plant-based foams or all-natural glues and binders are just two simple ways that you can enjoy all of the benefits of a traditional memory foam but in a gentler and more natural way.
Additionally, memory foams can still be CertiPUR-certified, so while they may not be organic or all-natural, they don’t contain mercury, lead, heavy metals, formaldehyde, ozone depleters, PBDEs, TDCPP, or TCEP and have low VOCs.
Poly Foams
Poly foams fall into the same camp as memory foam. You cannot have a 100% organic poly foam because by definition, they require polyurethane to be manufactured. As with memory foam, this doesn’t necessarily mean they are unhealthy. They may still be CertiPUR-certified in addition to green, eco-friendly, and other health-conscious certifications. However, a poly foam will not be organic.
Latex
Latex mattresses are also foam-based, but their foams are a little different than memory foams. Unlike memory foams that are made of polyurethane, natural latex foams are made from natural sap from rubber trees.
Natural Latex vs. Synthetic Latex
All latex mattresses are made of natural latex, synthetic latex, or a blend of the two. A 100% natural latex only uses the sap from latex trees. Synthetic latex is usually made from styrene-butadiene rubber (SBR). Lastly, you have foams that use a blended mix of both natural and synthetic latex components.
TOPPER: Natural latex mattress topper
Bear in mind that an all-natural latex mattress is not cheap. Plan on spending $2,000 to $4,000 for this type of natural mattress. A synthetic or blended latex will generally fall closer to $1,000.
Dunlop Latex vs. Talalay Latex
Natural or synthetic latex is usually produced using one of two different methods: Dunlop and Talalay. Dunlop latex is created by pouring a large amount of latex into one large mold, while Talalay latex is created using a small amount of latex with air added to create a lightweight, porous foam. Whether you prefer the feel of Dunlop or Talalay, neither technique affects how natural the foam is; the main difference is going to be in the feel (Dunlop feels a bit denser, while Talalay is bouncier).
PILLOW: Natural latex pillow
There are other latex production methods, but Dunlop and Talalaly are by far the two most common.
Coils
An organic coil mattress typically uses organic cotton batting or natural pillow-top foams in combination with traditional spring or pocketed coil systems. While these may not be the most organic option on the market, they can be a great choice if you prefer the feel of a standard spring mattress.
As an offshoot of traditional coils, there are also hybrid mattresses. A hybrid mattress is a mattress that combines a coil-based foundation with foam layers on the top, typically memory foam or latex foam. An organic hybrid mattress is made with organic plant-based memory foam or natural latex foam.
Why Buy a Natural/Organic Mattress?
Buying an organic or natural mattress is a great way to remain environmentally conscious, even when you sleep! There are numerous benefits, including decreased exposure to chemicals and fire retardants and the fact these mattresses are hypoallergenic, sustainable, biodegradable, and in general healthier. To prove the organic nature of a mattress, look for some of the most popular certifications these natural mattresses can receive, and don’t buy into false marketing claims.
Summary: The Best Organic Mattresses
| Mattress | Best For | Price (Queen) | Coupon | Review |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Saatva Latex Hybrid | Editor's Pick | $1,849 | Saatva Coupon | Read Our Review! |
| WinkBeds EcoCloud | Hybrid | $1,999 | WinkBed Coupon | Read Our Review! |
| Birch | Back Pain | $1,699 | Check Coupons Page | Read Our Review! |
| Brooklyn EcoSleep | Dual-Sided | $1,249 | EcoSleep Coupon | Read Our Review! |
| Zenhaven | Luxury | $2,495 | Zenhaven Coupon | Read Our Review! |
| GhostBed Natural | Heavy Sleepers | $1,945 | GhostBed Coupon | Read Our Review! |
| Brentwood Home Hybrid Latex | Latex | $1,199 | Brentwood Coupon | Read Our Review! |
| Avocado Green | Cooling | $1,599 | Avocado Coupon | Read Our Review! |
| Awara | Firm | $1,898 | Awara Coupon | Read Our Review! |
| Plushbeds Botanical Bliss | Combination Sleepers | $3,099 | PlushBeds Coupon | Read Our Review! |
Our Review Process
Our Sleepopolis reviewers personally test each mattress. We start by unboxing the mattress to figure out how difficult (or easy) it is to get the mattress from the box to the bed. Then, we spend time laying on the bed in different positions, taking time to assess it on our backs, stomachs, and sides. Next, we perform our Sleepopolis tests, using specialized tools to measure qualities like motion transfer, bounce, and pressure relief. Our last step is to open up the mattress and take a look at each layer. These steps allow us to give our final verdict on the mattress. Jump back to our mattress picks.
