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Organic mattresses

Here at Babyvibe, we’ve spent the last few weeks seriously researching mattresses, particularly because we were looking for a new one for our little product testers. Our conclusion in this particular subject: it’s wise to go au naturel when it comes to crib mattresses in order to provide a healthy sleeping environment for your little one.

Why go organic?

Conventional crib mattresses are made of synthetic materials, including polyurethane foam (foamified petroleum), polyester and vinyl/PVC or nylon, and are often treated with toxic chemicals. The concern is that mattresses made with these synthetic materials are off-gassing.

Apparently, polyurethane foam off-gasses toluene, which is an industrial solvent and a volatile organic chemical (VOC). Vinyl/PVC, which is used to cover crib mattresses, contains many chemical additives such as phthalates, antimony, and various biocides that may release over time.

Chemicals that leach from standard mattresses are now being linked to many childhood disorders, cancer, ADHD, and more. There may also be a link to SIDS. Considering a baby may spend up to 70 per cent of his or her time sleeping and playing on a crib mattress, we think it’s important to consider purchasing an organic crib mattress.

What is in organic crib mattresses

Organic mattresses are a healthy option. Without synthetic materials, you don’t have to worry about off-gassing. Organic or natural mattresses are better for people with asthma, allergies, or sensitivities, and are great for babies. Synthetic materials are not breathable while natural materials are. Mattresses with natural materials allow for better air flow and help the body maintain a more comfortable temperature. In addition, to being free of synthetic chemicals, natural, organic crib mattresses use wool, which is naturally flame resistant. Wool is also hypoallergenic, moisture resistant, bacteria resistant and dust mite resistant.

The options

There are two main types of organic mattress: coil innerspring and natural rubber. Coil innerspring is made of layers of pure wool, metal coils, and covered in organic cotton. Natural rubber has a natural rubber core, a layer of pure wool, and is covered in organic cotton.

For protecting the crib mattress from little piddles, there are wool puddle pads and wool mattress covers, which are readily available. And don’t forget organic sheets as well! You can look to spend $300 to $500 for an organic crib mattress.

Standard mattresses

In our pursuit of the perfect mattress, we found that once you graduate to a twin or larger size conventional mattress, polyurethane foam is still the foam of choice. More luxurious mattresses by Simmons, Serta, etc, will use a combination of fabrics such as wool, silk or soy. However, they still have that foam. To opt for truly natural, organic mattresses (twin to king), you are looking at anywhere from $800 to $3,000. Sleep Country carries a natural latex mattress with bamboo, which is reasonably priced.

Fire retardants

Through our saga of researching mattresses – crib and standard – we found that in Canada there is not a requirement for fire retardants to be used. The talk of the toxic formaldehyde or PDBEs used as a fire retardant in mattresses is pretty much exclusive to the United Sates where there are strict flammability standards for mattresses. We found that mattresses made in Canada by manufacturers like Simmons Canada are not sprayed with these chemicals as Canada does not have the same flammability standards.

Is organic the only option?

For those who own a conventional mattress, and you don’t want to get rid of it, but are concerned about off-gassing, or you can’t afford the natural mattress, you can always buy a wool mattress pad, which will help protect you from the off-gasses. When you are searching for any mattress (crib or standard), we think the best thing is to contact the manufacturer and ask them what they use for materials and chemicals. However, make sure you have a list of chemicals and materials that you are concerned about and the manufacturer will tell you whether or not that is in the mattress.

Where to find them

Most baby stores like Crocodile Baby in BC and e-children in Alberta carry organic crib mattresses. We found the Sleeptek Natural Rubber Mattress, which is also available in twin, and the Sleeptek Innerspring Organic Mattress at Crocodile Baby (available online and in store).

Other brands available in Canada, include the NaturePedic line, which is available online at Natural Beauty Canada, Organic Lifestyle, Oh Simple Baby. Other online stores that carry organic mattresses include The Little Tree House, Mom Knows Best, and more.
In North Vancouver, SnugSleep makes wool overlays, wool duvets, and wool pillows, which are available at many stores and online. They also make custom natural beds.

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