What Is a Non-Toxic Mattress?

A non-toxic mattress is safer for the environment and your health because it reduces exposure to harmful chemicals, improving indoor air quality and promoting healthier sleep. These mattresses often prioritize using organic and natural materials, such as certified organic latex, cotton, and wool, which are certified to standards such as the Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) and Global Organic Latex Standard (GOLS). They avoid polyurethane foam, memory foam, flame retardants, or fire socks, all of which can release Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) that may impact indoor air quality. They minimize the use of chemical adhesives. Most importantly, they rely on certifications such as OEKO-TEX® STANDARD 100 Class I, MADE SAFE®, EWG Verified®, Greenguard Gold, and the UL® Formaldehyde-Free Claim Verification to indicate that the mattress has been screened and tested for levels of harmful chemicals.

NON-TOXIC CERTIFICATIONS

HEALTH RISKS

Are you concerned about what's in your mattress? According to the EPA, indoor air can be more polluted than outdoor air, partly due to common household products and furnishings. Many mattresses contain petrochemical-based polyurethane and memory foam, which, along with chemical adhesives and flame retardants, can emit odors and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). While these emissions can affect indoor air quality, it’s important to note that the impact on health can vary. Choosing products with certifications that limit the use of harmful chemicals may help improve indoor air quality and potentially reduce exposure to these substances.

FLAME RETARDANTS

In the U.S., mattresses must meet flammability standards, often through chemical flame retardants. Research links long-term exposure to some retardants with health issues like hormonal imbalances and reduced thyroid and liver function. Some manufacturers use synthetic fire barriers like Kevlar, polyester, or fiberglass, which can emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs) affecting indoor air quality. For safer options, choose mattresses with clear material disclosures and certifications for lower chemical use.

TOXIC CHEMICALS

Research suggests a potential link between exposure to pesticides and herbicides and increased cancer risk, though the specific risks from items like mattresses are not well-defined. Even "natural" mattresses can contain problematic materials, such as conventional cotton treated with pesticides, wool processed with harsh chemicals, and latex foam from rubber trees treated with pesticides and other chemicals. These details are often not disclosed on mattress labels. Consumers concerned about chemical exposure should seek certified products that indicate reduced chemical use.

GREENWASHING

The FTC's Green Guides offer clear standards for environmental marketing claims. They require that marketers who promote their products as non-toxic provide competent and reliable scientific evidence to support that their products are safe for both people and the environment. However, customers should be cautious, as some brands might label their mattresses as non-toxic, green, or healthy based merely on the inclusion of some natural materials. This can be misleading if the presence of natural materials does not significantly impact the overall environmental and health safety of the product. Consumers are advised to research products thoroughly and look for transparent and comprehensive information about the materials and processes used.

LOOK FOR CERTIFICATIONS THAT APPLY TO THE WHOLE MATTRESS

MADE SAFE® SCREENS FOR KNOWN AND SUSPECTED CHEMICAL TOXINS

MADE SAFE® screens against 6,500 known and suspected harmful chemicals. The MADE SAFE® seal means the finished mattress and its materials have been screened against chemicals known to be harmful to humans and ecosystems. The following is a conversation with MADE SAFE® CEO Amy Ziff about the certification and review process:

GOTS & GOLS CERTIFIED ORGANIC

The Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) is a leading organic standard, recognized by the USDA. It ensures processes are organic from the farm to the finished product. As for GOLS, it's essential as well, but only applies to latex. Avocado mattresses are GOTS-certified organic (CU863637) and use GOLS-certified organic Dunlop latex (CU863637).

FORMALDEHYDE-FREE CERTIFIED

The polyurethane foams, adhesives, and flame retardants used in a mattress often contain formaldehyde — exposure to which is known to cause adverse health effects. The Formaldehyde-Free Claim Verification by UL Environment is given to products that have been screened to be free from formaldehyde. Avocado is proud of its Formaldehyde Free Products.

GREENGUARD GOLD CERTIFIED

The GREENGUARD Gold certification means the finished product meets standards for low chemical emissions. Every Avocado mattress is GREENGUARD Gold certified.

OEKO-TEX
STANDARD 100

Our OEKO-TEX STANDARD 100 Class I certification applies to the entire mattress, topper, and pillow, not just the organic cotton cover or latex foam. This means every component has been lab-tested for harmful levels of toxic substances. Avocado is one of the only innerspring mattresses in America that meets this lab-based safety standard for the full product.

OUR ORGANIC MATTRESSES

GREEN MATTRESS

Mattress Certifications: GOTS Organic (CU863637), OEKO-TEX® Standard 100 Class I (24.HUS.86422), MADE SAFE®, EWG Verified®, GREENGUARD Gold, UL® Formaldehyde-Free Claim Verification. Latex certifications: GOLS (CU863637), eco-INSTITUT® (1119034212-001), and FSC® (C156318). Brand certifications: Avocado is a Certified B Corporation, holds The Climate Label certification, and is a member of 1% for the Planet®.

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ECO ORGANIC MATTRESS

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VEGAN MATTRESS

MattressCertifications: GOTS Organic (CU863637), OEKO-TEX® Standard 100 Class I (24.HUS.86422), MADE SAFE®, EWG Verified®, GREENGUARD Gold, UL® Formaldehyde-Free Claim Verification. Latex certifications: GOLS (CU863637), eco-INSTITUT® (1119034212-001), and FSC® (C156318). Brand certifications: Avocado is a Certified B Corporation, holds The Climate Label certification, and is a member of 1% for the Planet®. warranty. PETA® Approved and Certified Vegan.

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