

DETOXIFY
It’s a toxic world. And for that reason, the list of “toxins to avoid” could go on for days. That’s why it seems logical (& easier on the pocket book) to prioritize those items that seem most urgent to swap-out for healthier versions.
BEDS ARE IMPORTANT
I didn't even know that organic mattresses were "a thing" (who knew?). But after I researched, getting one went to the top of my "wish" list.
Mattresses are pricey $$$$, but since we spend about 1/3 of our life in bed, it made sense to pinch my pennies to upgrade to organic mattresses (one at a time, when they were on sale).
The average 75-year-old, has spent the equivalent of 25 years in bed
HIDDEN DANGERS OF TRADITIONAL MATTRESSES
Traditional mattresses often contain toxic chemicals/materials that may include:
Flame retardants (DPDE) – Banned in many countries but not in the U.S.
Boric acid – An insecticide (yep, you’re sleeping on bug killer).
Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC's) – found in paint, gasoline, and in mattress glue.
Formaldehyde – Used as a mattress adhesive. The same stuff used in cigarettes and building materials.
Coil springs – Can expose us to electromagnetic frequencies (EMF's).
These hidden dangers can cause a vast range of health concerns:
Autism
Allergies
Asthma
Cancer
Fertility problems
Thyroid issues
Hormone Imbalances
Developmental problems in children
Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS)
Sleep Apnea
Heart Problems
Convulsions
Skin irritations.
OFF-GASSING
The off-gassing produced by toxic chemicals used in mattresses is particularly concerning. It made me crazy (or crazier than usual) to think that my children were breathing in toxic fumes for 8 hours a night, during the precious time when their bodies were trying to rest, repair, and heal. Children are much more vulnerable to toxic burden, as their bodies are young/growing and not designed to endure the toxicity of our modern world.
SNEAKY LABELS
As it turns out, organic mattresses are NOT created equal and tricky labeling can deceive the consumer. Mattress manufacturers are not required to disclose the chemicals used in their beds and words like "natural" means virtually nothing.
The USDA requires that a mattress be made of 95% organic materials to be labeled as organic.
There are several 3rd party certifications to look for.
GOTS – Global Organic Textile Standard is a worldwide certification that assures at least 95% of the materials used are certified organic.
GOLS – Global Organic Latex Standard certifies that the latex used is at least 95% organic.
OEKO-TEX – Unlike GOTS, this certification speaks to the manufacturing process (not the raw materials used), ensuring that harmful chemicals are not present and that the product is safe for humans.
HOW TO CHOOSE A NON-TOXIC MATTRESS (WHAT I CHOSE)
The right organic mattress is free of dyes, pesticides, glues, GMO fibers, and toxins that are linked to allergies, sleep apnea, hormone imbalance, fertility issues, heart problems, cancer, etc. It should also be certified by a third party (GOTS, GOLS, etc).
An organic mattress is a big investment, so I wanted to collect all the facts before I pulled the trigger. It took me several months (like 5 to be exact) to research, which included two weekend road trips to visit showrooms. I eventually narrowed it down to my top 3 mattresses:
Essentia – We now own two of these (also used by Hippocrates Health Institute at their wellness center in Palm Beach).
Naturepedic – We own one of these as well and love that the firmness is customizable.
Savvy Rest – Worth checking out.
The organic mattress market is expanding, and there are quite a few other brands that may be easier on the wallet:
Favorite non-toxic bedding:
The Company Store- great organic comforters and sheets.
Cozy Earth- the softest, coziest sheets ever!
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