10 Best Organic Mattresses For Non-Toxic Sleep (2024 Review)
The Good Trade editors endorse products we’ve personally researched, tested, and genuinely love. Learn more about our methodology and business model here.
We’ve reviewed dozens of the best organic, nontoxic, and eco-friendly mattresses across price points — these are our top 10 selections.
We spend nearly a third of our lives sleeping — and there’s no better place to invest in our wellbeing! Choosing an organic mattress and bedding is not only better for the environment but also for our health. 🌿
Our editorial team has reviewed dozens of mattresses over the last decade, and we’ve also delved behind the labels to understand certifications, manufacturing processes, and comfort.
In this guide, we’ll discuss what we’ve learned and our top organic mattress choices for 2024.
Updated July 2024: We’ve updated the prices to reflect the current offerings.
Why choose an organic mattress?
Traditional mattresses often contain harmful substances, including polyurethane, VOCs, PFAS, fiberglass, and flame retardants. A growing body of research links these substances to harmful impacts on immunity, hormone health, and the nervous system. The off-gassing smell from these materials can linger for months, and as a mattress wears down, it releases more harmful emissions. The older your traditional mattress is, the more likely it’s releasing harmful VOCs.
Organic mattresses use certified organic materials, including natural wool, latex, and cotton. They avoid the risks associated with conventional mattresses and ensure a more eco-friendly production process. The Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) is the primary global body that governs a rigorous certification process for organic fibers. We’ve outlined all the relevant organic certifications here.
While many greenwashing companies use words like “natural” and ”organic” as unfounded marketing terms, less than 2% of mattresses on the market receive organic certifications.
What is our review process?
Unlike other review sites, we don’t just order mattresses to a showroom; we actually bring these beds into our homes and sleep on them for months (or years!) to test long-term comfort and durability. In addition to hands-on testing, we regularly tour mattress factories in person, investigate proper certification and material use, interview the brands’ leadership teams, scour online reviews, and annually survey our audience for up-to-date consumer preferences.
Every mattress on this list has received rigorous certifications for safety and eco-friendly production and has been tested firsthand by one or more of our editors.
Our criteria:
- ORGANIC CERTIFICATIONS | Every mattress on this list has received rigorous certifications for safe materials and eco-friendly production; each brand’s specific certifications are listed in the icon section above their feature. None of the mattresses on this list contain harsh flame retardants, and all are free from toxic chemicals, PFAS, VOCs, and fiberglass.
- COMFORT | Comfort is key, so we try each mattress ourselves, spend hours scouring online reviews, and represent all the feedback from our readers that we collect through surveys, comments, and emails. The brands on this list are here because they are organic and people love to sleep on them.
- AFFORDABLE | Every brand on this list sells directly to the consumer online and ships the mattress to your home, removing retail costs and reducing the final price. We’ve provided a range of options, from budget to luxury, without compromising safety.
- ECO-FRIENDLY & GIVE BACK | All of the brands on this list employ eco-friendly production practices that help reduce water pollution, sequester carbon in the soil, and support biodiversity. Many of these companies also give back to their communities by donating high-quality organic mattresses to housing shelters and families in need.
Behind the scenes of our testing process:
Our editors have toured mattress factories to see how nontoxic mattresses are made, tested and compared models in showrooms, and personally slept on the mattresses on this list for years so we can stand by our recommendations to you!
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#1. Birch
Best For | Best overall
Organic & Eco-Friendly Certifications | GOTS Certified organic cotton, GREENGUARD Gold Certified & OEKO-TEX Certified Talalay latex, eco-INSTITUT Certified
Features | Made in the USA, 100-night trial, 0% financing options, 25-year warranty
Mattress Type | Organic hybrid mattresses
Firmness Options | 6–7/10 (medium firm)
Sizes Available | Kids Twin, Kids Full, Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, California King
Queen Price | $1405
Birch’s natural and organic mattress may just be the coziest mattress ever. The NYC-based brand boasts OEKO-TEX and Rainforest Alliance certifications and, for every mattress sold, Birch plants one tree through the National Forest Foundation. This green mattress is made with organic, natural, hypoallergenic, and anti-microbial materials, including a natural cotton cover, hygroscopic wool (from New Zealand), and sustainably-tapped latex to keep even the warmest sleeper cool. For support, the individually wrapped steel coils (steel made in the USA) offer extra comfort and optimized pressure relief. We’ve personally tested this mattress and found it soft and springy, while still feeling supportive (see that it’s a medium firmness) and offering excellent edge support. We especially love the support of the Birch Luxe! With all its awards and natural mattress components, Birch makes it easy to sleep soundly and safely.
Our Editor’s Review | “This mattress helps me sleep better, so much so that I’ve gone from avoiding bedtime to looking forward to it. Now, I just have a more challenging time getting up. After my first night on the Birch Luxe, my daughter had to wake me up, and I typically don’t even need an alarm clock. In addition to deeper, better-quality sleep, I’ve also noticed my body feels refreshed and ache-free. I also went from a restless side sleeper to a comfy combo sleeper — spending a good part of the night on my back and sans any pillow between my knees.” – Randi Donahue, Contributing Editor [Read the full review]
Birch offers fully sustainable materials, top ratings for pressure relief, and a mid-range price with frequent promotions. It also has the lowest return rate of any brand on this list (virtually none!).
#2. Avocado Green Mattress
Best For | Most comfortable
Organic & Eco-Friendly Certifications | GOTS Certified organic cotton & wool, GOLS Certified organic latex, GREENGUARD Gold, MADE SAFE, OEKO-TEX, Climate Neutral Certified, PETA-Approved Vegan option available
Features | Awarded #1 Consumer Reports ratings, handmade in the USA, up to a 1-year mattress trial, 25-year warranty
Mattress Types | Organic hybrid mattresses and organic latex mattresses
Firmness Options | Multiple firmness options available
Sizes Available | Crib, Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, Split King, California King
Queen Price | $1199
Avocado Green Mattress is high on our list for its organic ingredients, range of products, and comfort. (I’ve literally napped on my daughter’s crib mattress because, you guessed it, it’s an Avocado and it’s that dreamy). Consumer Reports polled its users on over 100 mattress brands and ranked Avocado #1 by a wide margin.
Co-founders Alex and Jeff D’Andrea couldn’t find an affordable, safe, and nontoxic mattress for their family (specifically one without petroleum-based polyurethane foam, toxic fire retardants, chemical adhesives, dangerous pesticides, or other offgassing chemicals). Even in a crowded marketplace, a truly green mattress at an affordable price point didn’t exist, so they set out to make one.
While many bed-in-a-box companies white-label products from the same factories and greenwash their eco-claims, Avocado owns their entire supply chain and meets the most stringent standards for ecology and social responsibility. Every mattress is handmade in California with GOTS Certified organic cotton and wool from India, and GOLS Certified organic latex from India and Guatemala. All of Avocado’s mattresses are GREENGUARD Gold Certified for low emissions, and extremely comfortable for a wide range of sleepers.
The brand also offers a vegan-certified mattress, organic cotton mattress pad protectors, and bedroom furniture, handmade from reclaimed or sustainably sourced wood. As members of 1% for the Planet, Avocado gives back to environmental and social nonprofits, is a Certified B Corporation, and is even a Climate Neutral Certified brand. Our editors have tried the flagship mattress, the luxurious plush mattress, and the more affordable Eco Organic mattress!
Our Editor’s Review | “After the first week on my Eco Organic mattress, my Fitbit sleep score looked less erratic than before, and over the past year I have noticed fewer interruptions to my sleep. I look forward to slipping into bed each night thanks to how comfy my Avocado mattress is, and it’s easier to get out of bed in the morning since I’m getting better rest. (My cat is obsessed with the mattress too, hah!)” – Emily McGowan, Editorial Director [Read the full review]
Avocado is the industry leader in sustainability and social impact certifications and earns the highest long-term comfort ratings from our team and reader surveys.
#3. Bear
Best For | Most affordable, and good for muscle recovery
Organic & Eco-Friendly Certifications | GREENGUARD Gold, CertiPUR-US Certified foam, eco-INSTITUT Certified
Features | Made in the USA, 100-night trial
Mattress Type | Memory foam mattresses and natural latex hybrid mattresses
Firmness Options | 7/10; multiple firmness options available
Sizes Available | Kids Twin, Kids Full, Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, Split King, California King
Queen Price | $649
The Bear Hybrid is a GREENGUARD Gold Certified mattress designed for athletes and the most active people. A luxury mattress with coils and cooling foams, it boasts a Celliant Sleep Technology to promote better sleep and faster muscle recovery. Bear’s mattresses are GREENGUARD Gold and CertiPUR-US certified, ensuring low VOCs and beds that are free from toxic chemicals and harsh flame retardants. In our testing, we’ve found the Bear Original to be an excellent budget-friendly option for back sleepers who prefer a firmer feel. The Bear Natural offers a cozy pillowtop feel on top of a firm base — which would also make it a good option for folks who toss and turn, since there’s low motion transfer.
Bear Mattress Review | “I’ve slept sweetly for three years on my Bear mattress. 🐻 As a nurse and very active person, I need as much muscle recovery as possible overnight. Even my dog’s a huge fan. Every morning when I wake up, he’s quick to claim my spot. Highly recommend this mattress to anyone looking for lasting comfort and durability.” – Bethany Hartley, Contributing Editor (Read all reviews)
Bear is a quality budget option. At an accessible price point, the brand doesn’t compromise on certifications to ensure that the mattress contains no harmful chemicals or substances.
#4. Awara
Best For | Hot sleepers
Organic & Eco-Friendly Certifications | GOLS Certified organic latex, GOTS Certified wool, OEKO-TEX and GREENGUARD Gold Certified materials, Repreve Certified materials
Features | 365-night trial, lifetime warranty, free shipping
Mattress Type | Organic hybrid
Firmness Options | 6–7/10 (medium firm)
Sizes Available | Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, California King
Queen Price | $1049
Purchasing a quality mattress is an investment, and it can feel like a daunting decision. But Awara makes it easy to take the leap with a 365-night trial, premium customer service, and a forever warranty. Our editor took the plunge with an Awara (and in her dream size, the Cal King!) and she and her husband have slept like babies and never looked back.
We love Awara’s natural luxury hybrid mattress for its breathability and organic components, as well as the nine-inch contouring support core for pressure relief. It’s firm yet plush, and we feel confident the mattress is supporting our bodies and aiding in a healthy night’s sleep. Its ability to keep hot sleepers cool at night is outstanding (hello, fellow sweaty sleepers! 👋), the latex is breathable and the coils boost airflow. The mattress comes straight to your door in a cardboard box, and it’s as easy as rolling it out and using the fabric handles to place it on your bed frame for a supremely cool and comfortable night’s sleep.
Our Editor’s Review | “Before this mattress, I slept on cheap box store options, never truly understanding the impact a quality mattress can have on my sleep. Not any longer after the Awara! While a big ticket item, the investment has been worth it for my sleep quality. The firmness is just right and the mattress has retained its plushness even after five years of sleeping on it (and moving it between houses).” – Kayti Christian, Contributing Editor
Hot sleepers rejoice! Awara’s hybrid is constructed to help you stay cool, but be aware that the mattress may be too firm for some sleepers.
#5. PlushBeds
Best For | Side sleepers and customizable mattresses
Organic & Eco-Friendly Certifications | GOTS Certified cotton & wool, GOLS Certified organic latex, USDA Certified Organic, eco-INSTITUT Certified, GREENGUARD Gold Certified
Features | Handmade in the USA, 100-night trial, lifetime warranty, Vegan Certified mattresses available
Mattress Type | Organic hybrid mattresses and organic latex mattresses
Firmness Options | Multiple firmness options available
Sizes Available | Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, Split Queen, King, Split King, California King, Split California King and kids mattresses
Queen Price | $1199
PlushBeds is a leading online luxury mattress manufacturer and retailer, specializing in organic mattresses and bedding. All products are handcrafted in their GOLS and GOTS Certified organic production facility in California, with free shipping within the contiguous USA. The company offers a thorough selection of certified organic and eco-friendly mattresses at accessible prices, especially through key holidays, so keep an eye out for their promotions. Each of the brand’s mattresses is GREENGUARD Gold Certified, ensuring your bed has met some of the world’s most rigorous and comprehensive standards for low chemical emissions (plus, the brand never uses PFAS in its production). The company also provides environmental scholarships for college students, gives back to environmental and social nonprofits, and offsets 100% of its carbon emissions via TerraPass. For us side sleepers, we especially love PlushBeds memory foam options, which is one of the best types of mattresses for side sleepers. It doesn’t give us too much — or too little — firmness. Medium is just right!
PlushBeds Mattress Review | “This bed is by far one of the best investments I’ve ever made! I’ve struggled with neck and back pain most of my life and never thought I would find relief in a bed, but that’s exactly what happened. My husband and I couldn’t be happier with our purchase from Plushbeds and would definitely recommend this product to anyone!” – Brandi Perry (Read all reviews)
Discounts Available | Use code GOODTRADE100 for an additional $100 off your purchase.
Plushbeds offers a true luxury mattress at a fair price with a fantastic range of firmness and customizable options. It is also a family-run company that keeps production in the USA.
#6. Brentwood Home
Best For | Memory foam-like mattresses
Organic & Eco-Friendly Certifications | GOTS Certified organic cotton & wool, GOLS Certified organic latex, Fair Trade Certifications, OEKO-TEX Certified materials
Features | Responsibly made in USA, 1-year sleep trial, 25-year warranty, in-home delivery, free shipping
Mattress Type | Organic hybrid mattresses and organic latex mattresses
Firmness Options | Multiple firmness options available
Sizes Available | Crib, Kids Twin, Kids Twin XL, Kids Full, Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, Split King, California King, 11″ and 13″ height options available on select mattresses
Queen Price | $679
A California brand through and through, Brentwood Home has been handcrafting natural luxury mattresses here in Los Angeles since 1987. The company sources its natural, organic, and nontoxic materials directly — following rigorous standards for environmental responsibility and the health of the consumer. You’ll get your dreamiest (and greenest) sleep on Brentwood’s Hybrid Latex Mattress, it represents the pinnacle of eco-conscious mattress design and is GREENGUARD Gold Certified. Brentwood Home also gives back to several social and environmental initiatives and partners with Carbonfund to offset its carbon footprint. They are your best if you’re looking for an affordable option that doesn’t compromise on the organic certifications, their twin mattress is the most affordable on our list and makes going organic more reasonable for the whole family.
Brentwood Home Review | “Very relaxing, the latex feels exquisite and provides an almost floating feel when in bed, once you have been sleeping on it for a few weeks. I have experienced a cool sleep with the latex and cannot imagine sleeping on anything else again […] I researched latex mattresses for about a month before deciding on this one. Everything about it from the coils, 4 inches of latex, extra handles, covering material and price point make it the very best latex hybrid mattress anyone can buy.” – Sarah S. (Read all reviews)
Brentwood is our favorite all-natural latex mattress at an affordable price, and it’s perfect for hot sleepers who prefer a softer (but not too soft!) mattress.
#7. Saatva
Best For | Luxury shoppers, or heavy people who prefer additional support
Organic & Eco-Friendly Certifications | GOLS Certified organic latex, 100% natural New Zealand wool, GREENGUARD Gold Certified
Features | Made in the USA, made with recycled steel coils, Guardin botanical antimicrobial treatment, 180-day trial, eco-friendly production, gives back to charity
Mattress Type | Organic innerspring mattresses and hybrid mattresses
Firmness Options | Multiple firmness options available
Sizes Available | Crib, Kids Twin, Kids Twin XL, Kids Full, Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, Split King, California King
Queen Price | $1645
Saatva is a leading disruptor in the mattress industry. From latex to memory foam, the company has an impressive collection to fit every person’s sleep needs and, by cutting out retail commissions, the company can sell to consumers at a fraction of the cost. Saatva’s disruptive model goes even further than distribution as the mattresses are made with plant-based, eco-friendly materials and crafted in the USA. The company also gives back, donating hundreds of natural mattresses to high-need organizations around the country.
Several of our editors rave about the luxury innerspring mattress — it’s their forever pick. For a memory foam mattress comparable to iComfort and Tempur-Pedic (but at a fraction of the cost), we love Loom & Leaf, Saatva’s memory foam line. While memory foam is not an all-natural material, these mattresses are CertiPUR-US certified, meaning the foam is low in VOCs. For a latex option, Saatva’s Zenhaven Mattress is 100% all-natural Talalay latex, which is naturally hypoallergenic and resistant to mold, microbes, and dust mites. The Talalay manufacturing process is entirely water-based, minimizing the amount of environmentally harmful byproducts.
Saatva Mattress Review | “I am a budget shopper, but after countless beds on sale and nights with less than stellar sleep, I caved. I called Saatva with twenty questions before I pulled the credit card lever… The bed came and it has been the best sleep my husband [and] I have ever gotten and it has been that way for TWO years now.” – Dutch (Read all reviews)
Saatva is the most expensive mattress on the list, but for a good reason: Its luxury innerspring is comparable to a Tempurpedic at a fraction of the cost, plus it has nontoxic certifications.
#8. Leesa
Best For | Medium-firm mattresses that are just right, with breathable & moisture-wicking options
Organic & Eco-Friendly Certifications | GOTS Certified organic cotton, OEKO-TEX Certified Talalay latex, low-VOC & CertiPUR-US certified foam
Features | Designed & assembled in the USA, made with sustainable Joma Wool® and recycled steel supports, no PFAS added, risk-free 100-night trial, 10-year limited warranty, free no-contact delivery, payment plans available
Mattress Types | Hybrid mattresses and memory foam mattresses
Firmness Options | 6/10 (medium firm)
Sizes Available | Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, California King; options available for plus size sleepers
Queen Price | $1574
For a cooling and supportive rest for our medium-firm mattress lovers, you can’t get better than Leesa’s Natural Hybrid Mattress! Made in conjunction with home decor icons West Elm, this premium mattress is consciously crafted using sustainable materials for a healthy and nourishing sleep. Each layer of this hybrid mattress serves a unique function; this includes a thick responsive support layer made from nearly 1,032 active response springs alongside a buoyant and breathable Talalay latex layer that’s naturally antibacterial, antimicrobial, and temperature-neutral. All this and more is topped with pure New Zealand wool made from sustainably sourced Joma Wool® to wick away moisture and odor — and help promote a restorative and comfortable snooze! When we tested the Leesa Natural, we found it to be temperature-stable (while still feeling cozy), and have low motion transfer (no bouncy interruptions if you sleep with someone who tosses and turns.) With every purchase, Leesa gives back to both social and environmental initiatives, including donating mattresses to families in need and recovering ocean-bound plastic. Give this mattress a whirl risk-free for 100 nights and see why this eco-friendly and expertly made latex mattress is a hot sleeper’s dream!
Our Editor’s Review | “After sleeping on it for a couple of weeks, our Leesa x West Elm Natural Hybrid Mattress feels even more comfortable and slightly contoured to our bodies. My husband and I have both been sleeping more soundly, and any of those minor neck or shoulder pains we’ve had have gone away (!). We credit this to the uniquely designed, individually encased springs. They adjust to the body during the night, so you’re supported in any position you find yourself in. I’ve found it makes a huge difference in how good I’m feeling in my body during the day.” – Courtney Jay Higgins, Contributing Editor [Read the full review]
Leesa has the ideal level of firmness for most sleepers, cooling elements, and fully organic materials. It is also a strong pick if you’re not particularly budget-conscious.
#9. My Green Mattress
Best For | Child & crib mattresses
Organic & Eco-Friendly Certifications | GOTS organic certified cotton & wool, GOLS Certified organic latex & coconut coir, MADE SAFE Certified, GREENGUARD Gold Certified, OEKO-TEX Certified
Features | Made in the USA, 365-night sleep trial, 20-year warranty, free shipping, hand button tufting, financing available
Mattress Type | Organic hybrid mattresses and organic latex mattresses
Firmness Options | 7/10 (medium firm)
Sizes Available | Crib, Twin, Twin XL, Full, Full XL, Queen, King, California King
Queen Price | $1124
As a brand with an impressive number of certifications including GOLS, GOTS, OEKO-TEX, GREENGUARD, and MADE SAFE, My Green Mattress offers two hybrid mattresses, a children’s mattress and a crib option crafted from organic coconut coir. Fully hypoallergenic and toxin-free, this Illinois-based company fits its high-quality mattresses with a custom-design Madison spring system. This includes a 7-zone innerspring and nearly 1,140 pocketed coils alongside a thick layer of 2-inch Dunlop latex for a supportive yet comfy rest. My Green Mattress is backed by a 20-year warranty and a year-long sleep trial, so you can rest easy commiting to your purchase (trust us, it’s worth it!). Go for these mattresses if you have bunk beds or trundle beds in your home, as My Green Mattress specially designs options that work with these setups, at an affordable price!
My Green Mattress Review | “My son and I both love this mattress! It is so comfortable! I want it for myself! He thinks it’s very comfortable too. It is perfect for his bunk bed. I started to get worried that it would be too thin but it is not at all. This company has the most amazing customer service too. Very pleased! When I am in need of another mattress I will definitely shop here.” – Brianne F. (Read all reviews)
My Green Mattress is fully organic and hypoallergenic and our top selection for kids and crib mattresses, with quick shipping and affordable prices at all sizes.
#10. Spindle
Best For | Latex mattresses with customizable firmness
Organic & Eco-Friendly Certifications | GOTS Certified organic cotton & wool, GOLS Certified organic Dunlop latex, OEKO-TEX Certified wool & latex
Features | Adjustable firmness, 365-night trial, free shipping, 10 and 25-year warranty programs, made in USA, gives back
Mattress Type | Organic hybrid mattresses and organic latex mattresses
Firmness Options | Multiple firmness options available
Sizes Available | Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, Split King
Queen Price | $1699
Looking for something that falls between extra soft and extra firm, but not sure exactly where to land? Spindle’s customizable organic latex lets you adjust the layers of foam for your perfect firmness. The mattresses are made from three layers of organic Dunlop latex, surrounded by a quilted cover made from organic wool and organic cotton. That’s it — the brand keeps it simple with high-quality materials, free from chemical flame retardants, synthetic rubber, or harmful VOCs.
Spindle mattresses ship with one layer of firm latex, two layers of medium (3 inches each), and a 1-inch organic cover. This means you can re-position the layers based on your personal firmness preferences. With a 365-night trial, you’ll find the most luxurious latex layering configuration for you — or you’ll get your money back.
Spindle Mattress Review | “We knew we wanted latex, but weren’t sure about exactly what. […] A reconfigurable mattress with multiple firmness options, all latex, and a good guarantee was exactly what I needed to try buying online. I’m so glad I did. I tend to like firmer beds so I used the medium-firm layering first. It was a bit too hard for my partner and I so we just rearranged the layers to the medium ordering. It sleeps perfect! I really can’t recommend this mattress enough. They also sell additional layers, so if you need softer or firmer than the standard layers allow, you’re covered” – Ian B. (Read all reviews)
Discounts Available | Use code TGT100 for an additional $100 off the flagship 10″ Spindle mattress
Spindle is the most customizable of all the options and allows you to build to your own comfort level. Genius!
Our editors’ top considerations when shopping for an organic mattress:
There are now over 175 bed-in-a-box mattress brands to choose from 🤯. Selecting a new mattress is totally daunting! Mattress shopping is an incredibly personal decision — and a steep investment — so it’s important to find the perfect fit. (Of course, our favorite brands listed above offer sleep trials to make sure you’re completely satisfied, but it’s never fun having to coordinate the return of a mattress that didn’t work out for you.) Here’s a look at what factors you might consider depending on the type of sleep preferences you have!
Start your search with a budget and mattress size in mind, which may help you narrow down the type of mattress within your price range. We’ve listed the types of mattresses below in order from least expensive to most expensive.
Which type of mattress should you choose?
- Innerspring mattresses are ideal for people who prefer a more traditional mattress feel (think: a little bouncy), and for folks who tend to sleep hot thanks to the good airflow around the springs.
- Pros: Often more affordable, supportive, and breathable
- Cons: You might notice squeaking or creaking, there’s not much motion isolation (so you’ll feel it if your partner tosses and turns), and innerspring mattresses may wear out faster than other types
- Memory Foam mattresses are excellent for side sleepers and people who deal with joint pain. The foam offers greater motion isolation than innersprings do, which means you won’t wake up if your bedmate moves or gets up a lot.
- Pros: Contours to your body, offering motion isolation and pressure relief
- Cons: Can retain heat (watch out, hot sleepers), and depending on the materials you might experience off-gassing odors
- Hybrid mattresses offer a balance of innerspring and foam mattresses. We think of them as the “Goldilocks beds” because they’re just right for a wide range of people. You’ll get support and comfort no matter how you sleep (especially if you sleep in multiple positions!).
- Pros: A balance of support and comfort (not too firm or soft)
- Cons: Can be heavy depending on the materials used, and more expensive because of the multiple components
- Latex mattresses offer similar contouring and support to memory foam, which makes them a good choice for smell-sensitive people or folks with allergies. Latex is also naturally well-ventilated, making it a great choice for hot sleepers. And, of course, latex is a natural material so you can feel better about the eco-impact of your mattress.
- Pros: Hypoallergenic, responsive without being too bouncy (or making you feel like you’ve sunk into quicksand, like some memory foam), and has impressive durability for many years of use
- Cons: All-natural latex mattresses can get very heavy if they’re not mixed with other materials and often carry the highest price tags
Which firmness should you look for?
- Back Sleepers typically enjoy medium-firm to firm mattresses. For support and spinal alignment, look for memory foam, latex, and firmer hybrid mattresses.
- Side Sleepers will typically sleep well on soft to medium mattresses. Look for softer memory foam and hybrid mattresses to get relief when you’re lying on your shoulders and hips.
- Stomach Sleepers will likely snooze best on firm mattresses. Look for firm innerspring and foam mattresses that reduce sinking so you can keep your spinal alignment.
What certifications ensure a mattress is organic?
While there are a range of natural materials that offer nontoxic sleep, we look for brands that carry additional certifications to ensure their mattresses are as safe as they claim to be. Here are the certifications we look for when it comes to organic (and sustainable) mattresses.
- GOTS Certified: The Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) is the gold standard for organic cotton, wool, and other textile components. Only textile products made from 95% certified organic raw materials can become GOTS Certified. There are also stringent worker protections that ban exposure to toxic chemicals and child or forced labor. Because GOTS rigorous certification requires both environmental and social criteria throughout the entire textile supply chain, it is the gold standard for ensuring health and safety.
- GOLS Certified: The Global Organic Latex Standard (GOLS) ensures that the latex in your mattress (and pillows) contains more than 95% of certified organic raw material. Similar to GOTS, GOLS also requires both environmental and social criteria throughout the entire textile supply chain.
- MADE SAFE: MADE SAFE is a nontoxic certification for everyday products, like mattresses, bedding, and skincare. This certification is extremely stringent, and every product is screened to validate that over 6,500 substances on the banned and restricted list have been avoided or constrained, eliminating the worst hazards commonly found in products used in our homes and daily routines.
- GREENGUARD Certified: A GREENGUARD Certification means that your mattress meets some of the world’s most rigorous and comprehensive standards for low emissions of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) into indoor air. GREENGUARD Gold certification ensures the lowest emissions and off-gassing (making it especially good for folks who might be extra sensitive).
- OEKO-TEX Certified: OEKO-TEX is a consistent, independent testing and certification system that ensures every component in a mattress is free from harmful substances (from raw materials to the final product).
- CertiPUR-US: While CertiPUR-US doesn’t consider organic or natural materials, it does set a nontoxic standard for the flexible polyurethane foam used in many hybrid and memory foam mattresses. This certification ensures that foams meet safety standards and are made without ozone depleters, flame retardants, mercury, lead, formaldehyde, and phthalates, and have low VOC emissions.
- B Corporation: B Corporations meet the highest standards of social and environmental performance, transparency, and legal accountability to balance profit and purpose. Organizations must be verified through B Lab, a nonprofit dedicated to ensuring a fair and sustainable global economy to become a B Corp.
- Climate Neutral Certified: Climate Neutral Certified brands measure and offset their entire carbon footprint and implement plans to reduce future emissions — we look for these when searching for more sustainable options. Some companies even claim to be carbon-negative by removing more carbon than they emit, although that is not an official certification.
- Fair Trade Certification: One of the most rigorous social standards, the Fair Trade certification means that materials are sourced ethically and workers are paid fair wages.
- USDA Certified Organic: The USDA Organic seal assures consumers that raw materials like cotton or wool are 95% or more organic. This seal does not cover any chemicals used in the production process — or the entire mattress like GOTS does.
- eco-INSTITUT Certification: The eco-INSTITUT label is awarded to mattresses that have been tested for harmful substances, odors, and emissions in order to ensure healthier indoor air quality.
- FSC Certified: The Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) examines wood components like bed frames, as well as paper packaging materials. This certification ensures that these products come from responsibly managed forests.
- PETA-Approved Vegan: The PETA-Approved Vegan certification assures shoppers that no animal products were used in the manufacturing process (such as wool, down, or leather). Many organizations offer other vegan certifications, too, like the Vegan Action certification. Just make sure that the entire mattress is vegan — not just a handful of the components.
- 1% for the Planet: Members of 1% for the Planet donate 1% of annual sales to environmental causes, which is a bonus when we’re looking for sustainable bedding options.
What are common harmful substances found in traditional mattresses?
While you can find more affordable mattresses than the options on this list, it’s important to recognize that not all mattresses are created equal. Most conventional mattresses available online and in-store contain harmful substances that impact your home’s air quality as well as your health with chronic, long-term exposure. Here are a few to look out for:
- Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) are gasses emitted from certain solids or liquids, including many synthetic materials used in mattresses. (They’re also common in paints!) VOCs have health impacts ranging from mild irritation and nausea to liver, kidney, and central nervous system damage. Some VOCs are even known carcinogens.
- Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) are a group of man-made chemicals used in some mattresses and furniture for their water and stain-resistant properties. Research on these “forever chemicals” by the CDC and the EPA has linked PFAS to liver damage, thyroid disease, decreased fertility, high cholesterol, obesity, hormone suppression, and cancer.
- Chemical flame retardants, like brominated or halogenated flame retardants, are added to mattresses to ensure they meet fire safety standards. These flame retardants have been linked to health issues such as endocrine disruption, neurodevelopmental issues, and cancer, especially in vulnerable populations like infants or the elderly.
- Fiberglass is used in some mattresses as an inexpensive flame retardant, but fiberglass fibers can be released into the air and environment if the mattress cover is removed or torn. Aside from short-term irritation, chronic inhalation of fiberglass can worsen respiratory conditions like asthma or bronchitis.
- Polyurethane is a commonly used foam in mattresses, but it can release VOCs through off-gassing. (That new mattress smell? It might be the polyurethane!) This can cause respiratory irritation and headaches, and some research suggests potential endocrine disruption.
Other important considerations when choosing a mattress:
- Are you a sweaty sleeper? Hot sleepers will like the breathability of latex, hybrid, and innerspring mattresses. If you do opt for foam, look for gel-infused or open-cell foam for extra airflow. If looking into hybrid mattresses, we recommend looking for ones with natural fabrics in the top layers — like organic cotton, wool, and natural latex.
- For cold sleepers, beds that you sink into will cover a larger surface area of your body (so think soft!), and you’ll benefit from the heat retention qualities of memory foam and other foam mattresses.
- If you snore, you might want to look for mattresses compatible with adjustable bed frames to elevate your head and breathe more easily. Research has shown that even a 12-degree incline can be an unobtrusive way to reduce snoring and help you sleep through the night.
- If you have allergies, consider hypoallergenic mattresses made from organic latex and bamboo viscose or rayon. These materials also help protect against dust mites!
How to care for an organic mattress (and why they last longer!)
A mattress can be a steep investment — especially when you opt for an organic or natural one. But the perks of a well-crafted mattress include longevity, with many of our favorite mattresses lasting for 25+ years while still maintaining quality and comfort. (And, compared to more “mainstream” brands that release more VOCs and can crumble as they age, you won’t get that funky smell or degradation with natural mattresses). That doesn’t mean you don’t have any upkeep; in order to keep your mattress cozy for the long haul, here’s how to best take care of it:
- Always use a mattress protector to prevent spills from absorbing into the mattress (the number of times we’ve spilled coffee in bed has taught us this lesson firsthand).
- Rotate and flip the mattress according to the manufacturer’s suggested timeline. Each timeline may differ, but the standard is to rotate once every three to six months.
- Snuggle up with natural and organic bedding to get the most breathability out of your new mattress — it’s a game-changer!
- Clean spills immediately (and use a mattress protector, as noted above) to keep your mattress dry and mold-free. If you live in a humid environment, consider getting a dehumidifier to reduce moisture retention.
Why trust The Good Trade editorial team?
The Good Trade’s editors are a diverse team of writers and sustainable product enthusiasts who offer trusted brand recommendations based on our own hands-on testing and extensive research of third-party verifications, certifications, and accreditations. We rigorously test the products featured in our guides so we can provide you with sincere recommendations that meet our standards for sustainability and health.
We’ve slept on mattresses from these brands for over ten years, and have recommended them to friends and family based on our own experience. Additionally, we’ve met with the teams of each and every brand — often the founders and makers of the mattresses — and even toured massive mattress manufacturing facilities to see just how each mattress is made. We’re especially proud to be able to offer direct feedback to each brand to push their sustainability and nontoxic certifications further to ensure our readers can *actually* get a healthier night’s sleep.
We’ve also personally tested and reviewed the best organic bedding brands, including mattress toppers, protectors, and pillows, so you can make the most informed decision. If you have any questions or are in search of a recommendation, drop a note in the comments and we’ll point you in the right direction!
Header image from Amber Interior Design
Emily McGowan is the Editorial Director at The Good Trade. She studied Creative Writing and Business at Indiana University, and has over ten years of experience as a writer and editor in sustainability and lifestyle spaces. Since 2017, she’s been discovering and reviewing the top sustainable home, fashion, beauty, and wellness products so readers can make their most informed decisions. Her editorial work has been recognized by major publications like The New York Times and BBC Worklife. You can usually find her in her colorful Los Angeles apartment journaling, caring for her rabbits and cat, or gaming. Say hi on Instagram!
