Updated Summer 2020
Sofas and Furniture can now be found here.
This post started out with my journey to find the best mattress for my extreme sensitivities. There are so many more options now. Still, many I don’t think are good enough.
We are going to look at my top picks for the best healthy spring mattresses (no latex or polyurethane) with price comparison (2020), all wool mattresses and other futons, and why I don’t use natural latex.
We are also going to look at more unusual options for those who don’t do well with any of those three categories or who want something simple.
I recommend all of the products here, some products have affiliate programs and some do not. Upon purchase, I earn a small commission through affiliate links at no extra cost to you.
First, a quick backgrounder on the Chemicals in our Mattresses
Conventional Mattress Materials
Conventional mattresses are usually made of polyurethane foam or synthetic latex which offgas VOCs. It’s difficult to find out exactly which chemicals were used in a particular mattress.
The worst offenders are synthetic memory foams, followed by polyurethane (though almost all polyurethane can meet CertiPUR certification which I discuss here), and then synthetic latex, which usually does not meet any green certifications on its own.
Going with a spring mattress does minimize the amount of foam and therefore chemicals in it.
“Soy Foam” is polyurethane with some soy.
Flame Retardants Might be Added
Look for mattresses that specify no chemical flame retardants – I list them here in this post. Sometimes boric acid is added but not disclosed. Newer flame retardants include Kevlar, which from what we know is safe.
Natural Latex can be a Problem
Most natural or non-toxic mattresses contain natural latex which I have major concerns about. I discuss that in the article as well as the top alternatives.
Chemical Coatings
You also want to avoid mattresses that are stain-resistant, as they contain harmful perfluorochemicals. Similarly, the chemical that makes sheets (and clothes) wrinkle-free releases formaldehyde.
Some mattresses are also adding an antimicrobial agent which you would generally want to avoid (there are some natural antimicrobials that might be OK).
If you need assistance choosing the best non-toxic mattress for you and your health concerns, please contact me for a one on one consultation.
1. Non-Toxic Spring Mattresses – Top Picks
Without: Latex, Polyurethane, Flame Retardants, Wool
i. My Green Mattress
The Echo is made of GOTs certified cotton and Oeko-Tex certified wool with springs. No polyester here. It is $1050 for a queen (firm).
For a proper spring mattress, this is the price to beat. They often run promotions which I post the codes for here.
You can buy it directly through them. You can also find them through Amazon, prices fluctuate.
ii. Naturepedic
The Chorus contains GOTS certified organic cotton, organic wool (with almost no odor), and polyester with springs. It’s $2000 for a queen.
This is my top brand, as I like the construction, it’s high quality and it’s a very well-liked and well-tolerated brand among the very sensitive.
Their kid’s mattresses, which come in queen sizes, do not contain wool. For those who cannot tolerate wool (they are firm), this is one of the top picks. $1600 directly through them. You can also find them through Amazon, prices fluctuate.
iii. Royal-Pedic
A cotton spring mattress (no wool) – the All Cotton line is not organic, the Natural Cotton line is organic but not certified. They also offer options with wool.
This is known to be high-end and comfortable, though like the others in this category they are firm.
It is around $3000. You can find the All Cotton on Amazon, prices fluctuate over time.
iv. Earthsake
Earthsake is a unique mattress. They make a hemp and spring mattress with no cotton and no wool.
For those with sensitivities to cotton and wool or who are in a humid environment, this may be a better choice.
A queen is $2600.
v. The Futon Shop
The Futon Shop has a good variety of very affordable mattresses. Some with springs and coils will be more comfortable than conventional futons. Look for the ones without latex or soy foam (which is polyurethane).
Some of their mattresses use boric acid, and I have heard from some really sensitive folks that they have reacted to the flame retardant-free versions as well (possibly to the boric use nearby, they think). Though many others who are sensitive have done really well with this brand.
Their prices are fantastic starting at $575. (US only. They don’t ship to Canada.)
2. Chemical-Free Wool Mattresses
i. Shepards Dream 100% Wool Futon
When I was furnishing my tiny house I went with the purest and simplest option I could find which is a 100% eco wool mattress from Shepard’s Dream.
It is a (relatively) economical choice at $1585 for a queen. (I have the skinny version pictured).
It does have a wool smell but it is not super strong, and it is firm, as it gets compacted with time. If you don’t like firm mattresses I would recommend using a topper with it or using the thicker version.
Shepard’s Dream has offered a 10% discount to my readers, you can mention my name, Corinne Segura for the discount.
ii. Heartfelt Layered Wool Felt
For those with extreme sensitivities, a layered option that can be washed can be very functional. Heartfelt Collective sells wool felts that can be layered and washed.
To put together what would come to about a conventional queen feel, it would cost about $1900. But you may not need that many layers, or you can combine the woof felt layers with something else.
iii. Savvy Rest Wool Futon (Cotton Cover)
Savvy Rest makes a futon style organic GOTS cotton covered organic wool mattress for $1800.
Is Wool Chemical-Free?
When looking at wool qualifications you may want to know various factors, depending on your sensitivities, such as the chemicals used to process the wool.
Certified organic wool is becoming more common, this link explains what that means. If a company claims all-natural, pure or eco-wool, you will want to take a look at what they mean by that. Wool doesn’t need to be organic to be free of harmful chemicals.
3. Natural Latex Mattresses
There are plenty of options for natural latex mattresses made in US and Canada. In fact, when looking for non-toxic beds, it’s difficult to avoid natural latex.
Make sure it is 100% natural latex and has GOLS certification. And test for odors/sensitivities to make sure it is tolerable.
These mattresses range from $800 to $5000.
Almost all of the green mattress brands offer natural latex, you can even find this now at Costco and IKEA. They are easy to find.
I’m not a fan of natural latex, so I’m only going to touch on it briefly.
i. The Futon Shop
Some of the most affordable options in the $800 range are by The Futon Shop.
ii. Topper from Amazon
The most economical option is to buy a 3-inch piece of latex. For around $200 (plus tax and shipping) you can get 3″ natural latex from Amazon (queen). I find that 3 inches is very comfortable to sleep on.
iii. IKEA MAUSUND
This non-toxic IKEA mattress is 85% natural latex, and 15% synthetic latex with wool wadding. If I was going to go with natural latex I would go with a large established brand like IKEA or the super simple topper from Amazon.
You will want to check this out in person to make sure the odor of the natural latex and the synthetic latex work for you.
Is Natural Latex Mold-Prone?
After one of my pillows became covered in grey mold after two years in low humidity, in a new, non-moldy house I started looking into this. Over the years I have seen many reports like this.
Melting, disintegration and visible mold on pillows, and on mattresses on slats in normal humidity, sometimes when brand new. Including two recent reports of a popular organic latex brand.
There are other cases of this on a forum, many private messages from people writing to me, and reports in Facebook groups.
It is not clear if this is a defect (these were all different brands), or whether there is a certain condition that leads to the latex breaking down or going moldy.
I have not seen the companies address the problem. The companies continue to claim that latex is mold resistant and that each of these cases is unusual.
I would not buy it again myself. If you do buy natural latex look closely at the warranty – it’s unlikely it covers mold. If you already have one in your house, please open it up to check on the latex layer.
Does Natural Latex Offgas?
Folks with MCS vary greatly in their ability to tolerate the natural smell of rubber and different brands work for different people. Here is a list of some of the ingredients that can be in natural latex.
Essentia, which makes natural memory foam claims that the VOC levels of their foam 36 μg /m3, about the same as that of natural latex. From my research, this is around the same levels as outdoor air – but it is not 0 VOC or 0 offgassing.
But there have been dramatically different odours from different brands and even from the same brand over time.
4. Natural Memory Foam
Most memory foam is made of polyurethane and it’s usually more toxic than your standard polyurethane foam, though they are not all the same.
There is a range of chemicals added to produce memory foam for the different brands.
The only non-toxic memory foam out there is Essentia, which is natural latex-based. VOC levels 36 μg /m3.
When researching “background VOC levels” I did find this to be within background levels (though everything ads up). Here is one study and here is another study to confirm this. Background levels of formaldehyde can be found here.
This mattress also contains essential oils – grapefruit seed, coneflower, and jasmine. I tested a sample and it has a noticeable scent. Though I would not say it is flowery, it is a bit sweet.
It contains Kevlar as a flame retardant.
You can find them through their website and on Amazon.
5. Non-Toxic Polyurethane (IKEA)
I would consider polyurethane in some situations. I personally would consider this material over memory foam (of any type), and usually over natural latex.
It does offgas a little bit, but for some folks who are less sensitive, this could still be considered non-toxic, especially if you give it a little bit of time to offgas.
If you have serious back or neck problems and need something with more cushion than the firm cotton and wool options, you may want to consider polyurethane.
This is the least expensive mattress type, so for some people, this is the only option. I would go with IKEA here. They don’t use flame retardants in the foam. Just go as simple as you can.
The MINNESUND for $100 is the least expensive. But for a little more you can add springs and reduce the amount of foam even more. The HASVÅG is $179.
I may use the aluminized tarps to sequester the offgassing, if needed.
Alternative Beds for the Chemically Sensitive
1. Buckwheat Hull Beds
Open Your Eyes Bedding sells organic cotton canvases and buckwheat hulls that you twist together yourself!
A mattress topper or pad may be needed for comfort.
You could fill the canvas with organic cotton batting, wool batt, or even recycled wool sweaters, and use the same twist system to make your own true DIY chemical-free mattress.
What I like about this is it can be totally customized as well as taken apart, washed and refilled.
2. Cotton and Kapok Futons
Futons are more affordable and often don’t use flame retardants. Look for organic cotton or wool filled. Avoid conventional (non-organic) cotton batting which still retains a lot of pesticide.
Look out for antimicrobial and even added pesticide treatments.
i. The Futon Shop is an obvious option for very affordable futons that many sensitive folks do well with. Starting at about $300.
ii. Rawganique has 100% organic cotton futons as well as cotton and wool. The company focuses on reducing chemical processing as much as possible.
iii. Zafu kapok fiber futons are really cool. They don’t compact as much as cotton and wool batting. They have an organic cotton cover, with eco wool and kapok fiber. This one came recommended by sensitive folks.
3. Silk Mattresses
I have seen silk-filled mattresses in the past, though they are hard to locate. They may be good if you cannot tolerate cotton, wool, kapok or latex.
Silk mattress toppers are easier to find, and you could build them up to make a mattress.
4. Cotton Sleeping Mat
This organic cotton mat by Dream Designs in Canada is thin but may be enough for some people who need a simple solution.
The futon companies above also make simple sleeping mats.
5. Camping Beds Used Indoors
i. Camping Cots
For a quick and easy solution, maybe a camping cot will do!
Let it offgas a bit first. The plus side is there is not much to offgas there, so some time in the sun should do it.
ii. Camping Pads/Mats
Camping beds can be used inside regular housing for those wanting a simple solution or for those with trouble tolerating regular beds.
Or they can be used in high moisture locations like tents, trailers/RVs and shelters.
a. Closed Cell Camping Mat
For sleeping pads, the most basic type is closed-cell foam.
This aluminized Thermarest is considered the most tolerable of the camping mats. They have non aluminized versions as well.
b. Open Cell Polyurethane Self Inflating Mat
I use the most deluxe Thermarest – the 10 cm thick Mondoking (it has polyurethane it in). I find it very comfortable.
It takes a bit of time in the sun to offgas but many MCSers can use these. I used it after two days in the sun. After a week it was ideal for me.
Setting up a camping cot inside
The general consensus for those with sore backs or who need the most comfort is a Thermarest on top of a camping cot.
Though with the MondoKing, most people likely don’t need a camping cot under it (though I would raise it or put a waterproof cover on it).
Thermarest claims to be flame retardant free.
For a more permanent set up, the MondoKing fits into this inexpensive Amazon Zinus Daybed.
iii. Polyester Fill Mat
Another type of simple sleeping mat is a Nufoam polyester fiber mat.
This may be more tolerable than the camping pads that have polyurethane.
Plus polyester does much better with moisture than cotton, wool, and other natural materials.
This is ideal for an RV.
iv. Airbeds
a. TPU Airbed
This phthalate and PVC-free TPU air bed by Lightspeed comes highly recommended by many chemically sensitive folks.
This is the alternative to PVC, and to polyurethane foam (if Thermarest doesn’t work for you).
I found it offgassed in 2 days. Which is faster than many types of beds with more material inside.
b. Polyester Airbed
Another PVC-free airbed is this polyester bed from Intex. Some tolerate the polyester better than TPU.
Mattress Covers to Seal in Toxins
1. Seal in Flame Retardants, Dust Mites, Mold Spores
i. Polyurethane Lined Covers
If you have an old mattress and you want to block flame retardants from migrating out of the mattress, use a cover like Organic Lifestyle’s Bed Bug Cover, which is also waterproof and will protect you from dust mites and bedbugs as well.
Another good use for this cover is when you are moving a mattress into a high humidity environment like a trailer, or you have to put a mattress on a flat surface like the floor for a while.
The polyurethane did have an odor to me but after some offgassing, I found it to be fine.
ii. Polyethylene Covers
Polyethylene covers are the least toxic but do not hold up very well after washing and are not usually marketed as mattress encasements.
I have used the Uhaul mattress encasements for temporary protection or disposable protection.
iii. Polypropylene Covers
There are polypropylene covers as well, they hold up a little longer than plain polyethylene. This All in One cover is a mix of polyethylene and polypropylene and is reported to be very tolerable by someone very sensitive to plastic.
They do not stop the offgassing from foam or scents that a mattress has picked up, unfortunately.
2. Mattress Encasement to Fully Block Offgassing and Other Contaminants
Block Offgassing with Aluminized Tarps
If you do not have a choice but to use a mattress that is offgassing or fragranced and you want to block the odors/chemicals, you can use aluminized tarps and tape.
I have used these to sequester many beds, especially when traveling.
Discard as soon as aluminum flakes off.
The other option would be thick mylar bags (not the thin sheets).
3. Mattress Cover to Block Dust Mites
Cotton Covers
If you just want a dust mite covers (that is not waterproof, and doesn’t block flame retardants), I use these Allersoft cotton mattress and pillow protectors.
That brand is not organic but were good for me after one wash. I’m really happy with them as they have reduced my allergies and the price is a steal.
For organic cotton versions, I like these pillow covers. These are still reasonable priced. But a full organic cotton mattress encasement is going to cost between $200-300 as opposed to the Allersoft which is under 100.
Pillows & Sheets for the Chemically Sensitive
1. Pillows
For pillows, you generally want natural fibers like wool or organic cotton. I used that organic cotton brand. When I was highly sensitive I needed to open it up and wash the natural oils off the cotton.
Healthy pillow fills also include down (I like Coyuchi down). Kapok, or buckwheat.
I like the Purple pillow as well, which is a type of flexible plastic grid that some very sensitive folks have reported to be safe and tolerable. I really like that it’s cleanable.
I’m not a fan of latex pillows for the reasons outlined in the mattress section.
Never use non-organic cotton batting, if you are avoiding chemicals, as the batts retain a lot of the pesticide.
Organic cotton batting sometimes still retains a strong smell from the oils of the cotton plant. Some of them have a zipper, so you can pull out the cotton batting and wash it.
I do like polyester as well, even though it’s not natural, because it’s more moisture-resistant than cotton. I don’t find it very toxic.
I use this organic cotton pillow with polyester filling, which needs to be washed or aired out before use. Polyester is also referred to as “down alternative”.
2. Sheets
Coyuchi also makes organic sheets, pillows and other bedding that is made with the chemically sensitive person in mind. You can find them on Amazon as well as through their website.
I highly recommend this company. They use natural dyes but the safest bet is always virgin fabric. If you react to the product you can return it. I’ve been really happy with all their products.
Cotton that has been processed into fabric (sheets, pillowcases, etc) no longer contains pesticides, in theory. But stay away from permanent pressed finish (wrinkle-free finish), and make sure the dyes are steadfast or all-natural.
Almost all cotton that is not organic has a chemical added to it smells. Look for GOTS certified fabrics which is the best certification for non-toxic textiles.
I use GOTS certified sheets which usually need one wash to get the smell out (probably the smell of cotton oils). I use these affordable organic pillowcases.
In a high moisture environment like a trailer, I use all polyester sheets and pillowcases instead of cotton.
Chemical-Free Blankets
1. Wool Blankets
I use wool blankets from Coyuchi – the natural color with indigo stripes. It does have a wool smell, so if you are sensitive to wool try their cotton blankets.
I really like wool because it’s hard for me to stay at the right temperature at night without them. The wool blankets were a super good investment in my case, as they stopped me from waking up throughout the night due to being too cold.
The wool blankets were a little difficult for me to wash though, I like these Pendelton washable wool blankets a lot too.
2. Cotton Blankets
I also tried these organic cotton blankets which I also really liked when I was very chemically sensitive.
These are thick and takes a long time to dry. Though I used to lug them everywhere with me while traveling.
3. Polyester Blankets
WhenI became less chemically sensitive, I used polyester blankets for mold avoidance.
They are cheap! from Walmart or Amazon).
If you are chemically sensitive you can try to wash out the odor.
Bed Frames for the Chemically Sensitive
A metal bed frame that is powder-coated is a very safe option. This metal bed is inexpensive for a twin (Amazon).
Or, if you can tolerate the natural smell of wood, go with a solid wood bed frame, with solid slats (not laminated slats), finished with a natural finish.
For wood frames check out Organic Grace which has simple frames for $780 (queen, ships from the US).
For something really simple and cheap this healthy Nomad Solid Hardwood Platform Bed (around 250 for a queen) on Amazon. It is made of low odor poplar with solid slats.
IKEA sells solid wood frames but the slats are laminated. They claim the glues are “non-volatile and non-polluting”.
The post on furniture contains a longer list of companies making solid wood furniture with non-toxic finishes.
How to Prevent Mold in Mattresses
In any house or trailer, tiny or big, make sure your mattress can breathe underneath (slats or box springs are used for a reason). Only certain types of beds like an air mattress may be able to go straight on the floor.
When building a tiny house, find a way to incorporate slats under your bed. I see too many tiny houses with the mattress on a solid floor. This is not a good solution if you want your bed to stay mold-free.
The picture above is my loft on the left. The slats are built right into the loft. It works great!
When camping, I do think a waterproof cover is the best idea, in a trailer you may be able to use something simple this Hypervent for airflow, though I have heard that that is not enough airflow in many situations.
Corinne Segura is a Building Biologist with 5 years of experience helping others create healthy homes.
Did you find this post helpful? If so you can buy me a coffee to support the research behind this blog. Thank you!
I appreciate the detailed information. I want to be health conscious and was told natural latex was the way to go but now I am concerned about it because of the reasons you listed above. I cannot have springs because I am very sensitive to EMF. From your description of wool, it sounds very firm and I need something soft or medium but not super firm. Which choice do you recommend?
Hi,
What is your opinion of Saatva? Apparently theu don’t have an odor and are covered with organic cotton even though the mattress isn’t considered 100% organic.
I was also considering their Zenhaven but leery of a possible latex smell
I purchased a 5″ Natural Wool & Organic Cotton Shiki Futon Mattress – (Shikibuton) from The Futon Shop. It is organic and chemical free, but has a strong somewhat grassy odor which I guess maybe comes from the organic cotton. We aired it out for two weeks and I have been sleeping on it for several months and smell is still there, though gradually fading. Overall I am happy with it, but just be aware that it is not odorless.
Thank you for running this useful and helpful site!
Yes thanks for sharing! The wool and the cotton both have their natural oils.
So glad I ran across this site – thank you so much for all this information. Do you have any thoughts on a mattress that can be used with an adjustable base foundation?
That would normally be polyurethane or natural latex.
Hi there – Thank you so much for your helpful, well-researched site. I have been agonizing over what brand of twin mattress to purchase for my three-year-old. I was considering a non-latex spring mattress through MyGreenMattress, however, I’m hesitant to purchase such an expensive mattress during the potty training years. I worry that any moisture/accidents (even with a cover) could cause mold in an all natural mattress. I have been considering the HAUGESUND mattress from Ikea, or the MEISTERVIK. The MEISTERVIK has no added flame retardants, but is all foam, which worries me due to the VOCs. The MEISTERVIK is coils, with some foam, but does have flame retardants on the zipper and stitch bond. I’m thinking one of these would be a good intro twin mattress until we’re out of the night-time potty training years, but I’m struggling which is a better choice. Any insight which is a safer choice is greatly appreciated! Both of my kids had a Naturpedic crib mattress, and I worry about safe sleep!
Hi
I’m in the exact same situation right now. Which mattress did you go with? I would invest to a more expensive mattress but only after the potty training years. I’m thinking about buying IKEA HAUGESUND or MORGEDAL mattress and use some kind of encasement to block possible odors. Does anyone have experience with these mattresses?
Hi Corrine! Thank you for this SUPER helpful and enlightening post! I first read it a few months ago when I first began thinking of getting a new mattress and now again multiple times since I plan on ordering one this weekend. After reading, I have decided on an all wool mattress. I saw that you personally went with Shepherd's Dream. I'm curious as to why you chose SD over the other two mentioned in your post (Savvy Mattress "pastoral" all wool, 100% organic, and The Futon Shop's 100% organic all wool option?) I am leaning toward the Futon Shop's 100% organic, all wool mattress because it is packed with 63 lbs organic wool as opposed to 39lbs with the other two options. Yet, I am curious as to why you chose Shepherd's Dream in case that would have me reconsider them. THANKS SO MUCH!
Foam mattresses are the only mattresses that seem to be comfortable for my back and I am sensetive to latex so I am considering getting a Magniflex mattress (made in Italy which is OEKO-TEX certified. What is the experience of people with MCS with these mattresses.
I’m guessing that’s polyurethane but it’s not clear. The website doesn’t say.
Don't forget Avocado Green!!
I don’t use or recommend natural latex
Despite the warning about natural latex not necessarily being mold-resistant, I decided to go with it for some other reasons. Would it make sense to use a waterproof encasement to protect it from mold and moisture?
We don't know what's causing it to mould and I continue to hear from folks about this growing mould when new on in low humidity. But yes I probably would make sure it's really dry first and then put a encasement on it to prevent sweat from getting in there.
Does anyone have experience with Avocado Mattresses? Also many comments were about natural latex…natural is an ambiguous term. Dunlop or Talalay or mix (and what is the % of each if mixed)…anyone can claim "Natural" but how much of the matress is actually natural…tricky
Other companies got in big trouble for claiming natural latex is 0 VOC. Plus how can it be natural mould resistant when it's so prone to mould? Unfortunately there is little oversight to what companies claim.
Hi thanks for a ton of great information. The more I read through this article to more I realized that the bed that my husband and I sleep on fits the description – solid wood frame, natural latex mattress, pure and untreated sheep wool, not metal in our bed. It is great that you put so much work into this article to educate others! It seem that our bed may be a good fit for you as well. Take a look at http://www.swissdreambeds.com. I hope it helps other as well. We really love it and always dread going on vacation unless its is relatives that have the same beds as we do!
Hi thanks so much for this website its a great resource for those of us struggling with MCS and i really appreciate the amount of work that must have gone into it. May I ask why you chose a pure wool matress as apposed to cotton or a mixture of the two (cotton surrounded by wool)? Does pure wool make for a "better" matress (I appreciate wool acts as a natural flame retardant but apart from that)? Also we are struggling to source a good (stable) metal double bed with integrated slats here (europe) and i was wondering if you could forsee a problem with buying a metal frame and getting some lengths of metal (say aluminium) cut at the DIY store and laying these down to form slats (I have issues with wood!). Found a company called Auping who make metal supports for the bed (the slats) but they seem incredibly expensive for what they are (a metal mesh: 600€ for a double). There seems to be another company that make similar from fibreglass but price is astronomical! Thanks 🙂
Yes, metal bed frames attract EMF's.. and don't sleep within 3 feet of electrical
points or leads or reading lamp. There are protective blankets for inner spring
mattresses if you have one. Here is the link. http://www.scenar.com.au/
Good luck.
Metal bed frames are safe? What about EMFs? I just read about this somewhere. Please help!
Hi Corinne! You wrote "Poplar wood on the interior too (should have used maple)." Why would you prefer maple over poplar? (I ask because I'm chemically sensitive, and am looking at a new Dapwood bed that has poplar slats). Is poplar prone to mold? Thanks!
It's fine for a bed. It's just hard to work with when you are building anything.
Thanks so much, Corinne!
No answers coming my way????
If you don't find one on Google you may have to try and custom make it.
Is it possible to get a shaped foam pillow for those with neck problems and MCS,
needing the support shape up under the neck?
Hi! Thanks so much for the great info!! Is there a reason you didn't look at Rubio Moocoat?
*Monocoat
I mention it in the post on sealers.
Also check http://reviewkid.com/tag/organic-mattress/ as well.
That is polyurethane. Quite misleading.
Hi Corinne. A quick mention that I have had natural latex mattresses for about a decade, both purchased through Organic Grace and I have had no detectable issues. We have toppers and then a layer of wool protection and on slats etc. I'm starting to think about replacing them despite no detectable issues, just because spores and bugs do tend to accumulate over time. Our pillows which we adore are from European Sleepworks and I've given their mattresses a try-out and will probably purchase there. They are pricey but I have a better feeling than I do about the other natural latex options around here. Btw I love the feel of inner spring but have come across too many studies like this: https://blogs.scientificamerican.com/guest-blog/left-sided-cancer-blame-your-bed-and-tv/
I am a Sr w/ severe MCS ( detergent on other's clothing bothers me) as well as all petroleum & usual cleaning & body care products. A foam mattress in the 90 started the MCS. A wool or futon mattress is too firm. what choice or choices do I have? Aren't mattress toppers foam? Help.
You can find all the options in this post. I would go for a spring mattress from the ones I mention.
For me the best option is the natural lattex mattress and especially when it comes buing a kids mattress! I bought recently a kids mattress from Coco-mat brand which is all metal free and made only with top natural materials, with no chemicals included (like the memorry foam mattresses) and it offers great body suuport. you could check their website and make a review for this brand, i would really like to see what you think about it! https://www.coco-mat.com/store/us_en/children-mattresses
I don't recommend these. The reason is in the post. Please read the post before posting ads.
This is great information, and pretty much the same conclusions I reached after years of research and bad choices (like a latex rubber mattress to which I reacted.) Now I am in Italy and the choices are different. I am trying to decide between a solid natural wool mattress with cotton cover (they do not use antiflame treatments with wool, thankfully) or a traditional mattress which has springs in the center and about 2 inches of wool surrounding them on all sides. I'll see if I can send you a picture. Since Baubiologie started in Germany, I wonder if they have similar choices there and have any discussion in your classes on this kind of traditional mattress?
Springs with cotton is good. Building Biologists are against springs because of possible EMF issues. I am no concerned about that. I think you would have to be extremely sensitive to EMFs for that to be on your radar. 100% wool is good and yes it is very compact. I use a 3inch wool mattress and it's FIRM. Sometimes my arms fall asleep but not enough for me to change it! It's find on wooden slats if you don't mind super firm. But something springy is a good idea. A topper can help but then again I'm not for any type of foam.
How to buy it ?. I found this site it reputable? There are here
https://latexmattresstoppershq.com/
Have you trust its? are You help me?
Thanks
What bedframe do you have?
I have wooden bed slats custom built into the loft area. I'll post a pic in this blog post.
I'm surprised at some of the inaccurate information on here. Essentia has a history of false advertising. I have a natural organic latex mattress from an online company with GOTS, Okeo-tek certification and it has absolutely no smell. True latex shouldn't have an odor. Nest Bedding has some quality control issues. If you do a thorough search on the internet you'll discover the problems. I'm also suspicious about the objectivity of people that review mattresses when they are getting free samples and a small commission. Too many bloggers are selling themselves out to the mattress industry and promoting false information based on questionable marketing tactics.
I have sampled 4 different brands of natural latex (that is meant for bedding) and it all has the same rubber smell. If you are not super sensitive you may not smell this. I have MCS and this blog is written for people who have a heightened sense of smell as well. Essentia used to say they are zero-VOC – their levels are 36 μg /m3. The same as natural latex. If you ask most naural latex companies if they are zero-VOC they will also say that they are. I agree though Essentia should have stated this level and now they do which is an improvement. It is actually rare for a company to disclose the actual VOC level of a foam so I respect them for doing that and not just saying low-VOC. I don't believe there is any false information on this post, please be specific if there is false information. I received some samples from Nest and Essentia to tell people what kind of smell it has. Whether a company has an affiliate program or not only comes in after I have chosen the products that I recommend.
I am now checking out Nest Bedding and realizing they have completely changed their products since I wrote this post. They used to sell simple natural latex with covers. I will update this post regarding Nest.
May i ask which online company you chose…i am hunting for a company i can trust and am so confused!
I used Shepards Dream for an all wool mattress and Coyuchi for blankets. The Amazon pillow I listed is what I use for a pillow. Simple GOTS organic sheets are from Amazon as well.
Nice info!
Last I checked, Essentia added essential oil to their foam, which is problematic for many with MCS. The Clean Bedroom is no longer open, as of May 2016
Thank you, I will update this.
The Clean Bedroom reopened last fall under new management.
Very informative information. This definitely helps us in our search for chemical free bed. Thank you.
Gotta ask yourself why so many comments have been deleted by the administrator. Talk about lack of transparency.
it's all Spam. Major spam.
Thank you for sharing! Very helpful information! I tend to wool mattresses (very simple and natural solution, and I always have more confidence in nature than in technology). My search shows that wool mattresses are very expensive, but I found an Etsy shop: https://www.etsy.com/shop/TheHomeOfWool which I liked very much. Very affordable and trustworthy. I look for reviews. It would be great if someone could help!
Best regards!
I would love to get a foam mattress. I think I will have to shop around. I want to get something that is free of chemicals. I'm sure there are some shops in my area that offer these. http://www.sureline.ca
l latex, or wool mattresses with cotton (or wool) covers are two great … furniturecovers.blogspot.com
Who did you use to make the custom latex cushions for the couch you had built?
just re-sizing mattresses from nest bedding. will then get a dressmaker to sew the cushion covers.
Excellent ideas. I am worried about latex. I know everyone says it's non-toxic to MCSers, but latex gloves smell and there are so many people with latex allergies. I can say "well, I'm not allergic to latex" and not care, but that would be like my neighbor bathed in perfume and saying "well, I'm not allergic to perfume so why should I care about you?"
I like the idea of the mattress pads piled on top of each other. Does anyone have personal experience with this. I like the idea they can be washed in a washing machine. Beds harbor all kinds of dust, dust mites, and maybe mold. It would be cool to be able to wash a bed!
Hi, there's a big difference between natural latex and synthetic latex rubber. The natural one still does have a rubbery smell but it is dissipating with time. I don't believe that it is technically toxic though natural scents bother many people.
I'm loving the all wool mattress, It's very firm but Im sleeping so much better than I was when I was breathing flame retardants all night.
Hi,Joe from Nest Bedding! Thanks for the link. So, here are some hopefully helpful comments.
My friend Lynne makes the twist buckwheat mattress, but that $300 is for the covers only, you still have to buy the buckwheat and stuff them. They are very firm. The Shepherds Dream mattress is very nice and also very firm.
Latex is a good option for those who like a little comfort as well as support. I have recently added USDA certified organic latex and talalay to my product selection.
Thanks!
Joe, Nest Bedding
Thanks for the info Joe! Look forward to checking out the samples from Nest Bedding!
Corrine,
Good info, if we can ever help out any of your east coast customer we would love to http://www.theorganicbedroom.com.
If this posted twice my apologies…
Joey