Buying mattresses used to be a luxury for many people. In the modern world, it’s become more than just an ordinary purchase. Mattresses are now essential furniture that one must buy with utmost care and consideration. When you spend a third of your life asleep, the bed you sleep on has a great significance in your life. When millions of people buy mattresses for their homes, the quality and manufacture of those mattresses also significantly impact the planet. Today, consumers make a conscientious effort to minimize their carbon footprint and help save the environment. The current market leans toward organic mattresses over traditional options, but there are some must-know differences between the two.
Organic mattresses
An organic mattress consists only of naturally grown and processed materials. Offerings like the Essentia Organic Mattress are top-shelf choices for anyone who wants to sleep on an organic surface that contains no chemicals or toxic materials in its manufacturing process.
Such mattresses provide a healthier alternative for people with allergies, asthma, and other respiratory problems. Organic mattresses come in all shapes, sizes, and designs to suit even the pickiest of customers. Whether you want a pocket spring mattress or a memory foam mattress, organic options are available for every budget and taste.
Some organic mattress materials include wool, cotton, latex, and buckwheat.
1. Wool
Wool is an excellent material for mattresses because it provides heat regulation and dust mite resistance. On the flip side, wool is not the most durable organic material, so it may work best in low-traffic bedrooms like the guest room.
2. Cotton
Cotton is a popular material for organic mattresses because it supports the body and provides comfort. Cotton also regulates temperature and dissipates moisture better than other materials. The drawback here is that cotton tends to sag more over time, though it is more durable than wool.
3. Latex
This material comes from the sap of rubber trees, making for a durable and long-lasting mattress. It’s also naturally hypoallergenic and resistant to mold and mildew. Organic mattresses made from latex may be free from substances that trigger allergies in the human body.
Since latex is a naturally occurring material extracted from rubber trees, there’s little or no risk of exposure to harmful chemicals.
4. Buckwheat
Buckwheat is an excellent option for people who prefer an organic mattress with good ventilation. This type of mattress is also naturally resistant to mold and dust mites.
Organic options are more expensive than their conventional counterparts, but they provide significant health benefits that are certainly worth the price. For example, sleeping on a buckwheat mattress can help you save money during the year by avoiding the health-related expenses stemming from allergies.
Traditional mattresses
Traditionally manufactured mattresses are primarily made using toxic materials that can harm one’s health. These mattresses also tend to be less resilient against pests. For instance, the average mattress contains several pounds of dust mites and their excrement, a very allergenic substance to humans.
In a typical store-bought mattress, there are synthetic chemicals like polyurethane, PVC, polyester, polyethylene terephthalate (PET), and other materials.
The materials used in the manufacturing of traditional mattresses release VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds) — commonly known as “new car smell” — which can cause respiratory issues and allergies. It is estimated that a mattress can release up to 90% of these chemicals into the air when someone sleeps on it.
These chemicals can trigger allergic reactions in many people, especially those with asthma or skin sensitivities. Additionally, the manufacturing chemicals emit gas during the day, which builds up inside your mattress and becomes stale air at night when you sleep.
This air then becomes a medium for dust mites and other allergens to thrive, making your bed an ideal breeding ground for them.
Pros and cons of organic and traditional mattresses
Organic mattresses have a few benefits over traditional mattresses.
1. Lifespan
Firstly, organic mattresses usually have a longer lifespan than their conventional counterparts. This longevity is because organic beds don’t consist of synthetic materials. So there’s little or no wear and tear of the mattress’ padding layers.
You can rejoice in the fact that an organic mattress will last you anywhere from fifteen to twenty-five years. On the other hand, conventional mattresses do not have any natural resistance to allergens and dust mites. The average lifespan of a traditional bed is about ten to fifteen years.
2. Chemical Exposure
Organic mattresses emit no VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds), unlike their traditional counterparts. These chemical-free beds provide a healthier alternative for people with allergies and asthma. Organic mattresses are also free of respiratory irritants that can make breathing difficult.
VOC chemicals can cause health-related problems such as eyes, nose, and throat irritation. Breathing difficulties and nausea are possible outcomes as well.
3. Comfort
Organic mattresses and traditional mattresses both come in a broad array of firmness, softness, and back support options. Additionally, consumers can supplement either type with a mattress topper, making organic and conventional beds an even match for comfort.
4. Price
Traditional mattresses are less expensive than their organic counterparts. However, these types require special care and should be covered with mattress protectors to avoid as much exposure as possible to dust mites and other allergens.
Traditional beds are better options for people with a low budget since they’re cheaper than organic mattress types.
The bottom line is that organic mattresses have some notable advantages over traditional mattresses in terms of health and lifespan, and some drawbacks in terms of price.
What to look for in a mattress
Now that you know the difference between organic and traditional mattresses, think about firmness, price, and size when shopping for a mattress. Your material preference can affect your comfort level and budget regardless of an organic or traditional type.
Parting shot about mattress materials
Everyone should always aim to get the best sleep possible for overall health. Most people do not know about the materials manufacturers use when creating mattresses, but the chemicals involved can harm your long-term health.
Organic options are better for overall skin, respiratory, and respiratory systems because they are free of these chemicals. Natural beds are not only more environmentally friendly but also healthier for your family and pets.
