When shopping for a crib mattress, it is important to know that you are purchasing one that is organic and non-toxic. Conventional mattresses may contain toxic chemicals and off-gassed substances that can harm your child.
There are many great organic crib mattresses available. These mattresses are only made from organic materials that have GOTS or OEKO-TEX certifications.
1. CertiPUR-US
A certified organic mattress is the best choice to make sure your baby`s bed doesn`t contain toxic chemicals. There are many certifications to help you make an informed decision.
CertiPUR-US is one of the most trusted certifications for foams. It identifies mattresses that are made with low VOC emissions for indoor air quality (less than 0.5 parts per million), no ozone depleters, PBDEs, TDCPP or TCEP flame retardants, formaldehyde, and heavy metals like lead and mercury.
The mattress itself is made from flexible polyurethane foam that`s GREENGUARD Gold and CertiPUR-US certified, meaning it contains no banned phthalates or ozone depleters, and is safe for children and the environment. It can also be machine washed and waterproof. The two-sided design allows you to easily switch between a firmer toddler side and an infant side.
2. GREENGUARD Children & Schools Certificate
GREENGUARD Children & Schools Certification (formerly GREENGUARD Gold Certification) evaluates products that are intended for use in environments where children and sensitive individuals may be more susceptible to the harmful effects of chemical emissions. It provides stricter certification criteria, considers safety factors to account for sensitive individuals, and ensures that a product is acceptable for use in environments such as schools and healthcare facilities.
UL Environment, the environmental business unit of UL (Underwriters Laboratories), launched this program in 2005 to help reduce indoor air pollution and improve the quality of the air we breathe. It also helps manufacturers create – and buyers identify – interior products and materials that have low chemical emissions.
When a building product or material receives GREENGUARD Gold certification, it has been scientifically proven to meet the world`s most rigorous third-party chemical emission standards. This helps architects to build more environmentally sustainable, healthier and energy efficient buildings.
3. Dual Firmness
Dual firmness is a feature that allows parents to flip the mattress over to a softer side as their baby grows into toddlerhood. A crib mattress with a firm side to accommodate infants and one that is soft enough for toddlers will provide a safer sleeping surface, according to the AAP safe sleep guidelines.
Your baby can also adjust their sleeping position easily without disturbing you. The mattress also conforms to the shape of your baby`s body, which can help relieve pressure points.
It is important to search for certifications that guarantee the safety and non-toxicness of the mattress` materials. CertiPUR-US, for example, is a program that tests the integrity of organic and natural materials. Its rigorous standards also help to minimize the risk of harmful off-gassing.
4. Washable & Hypoallergenic
Low-quality mattresses can trap heat and mold, as well as trigger allergies. You should be aware that it may contain toxic chemicals, which can be absorbed through your baby`s skin or breath.
To reduce these risks, look for a mattress that is washable and hypoallergenic. These materials are designed to keep dust mites and other allergens at bay while also providing a breathable surface for your baby to sleep on.
The Naturepedic organic crib mattress is a great example of a washable and hypoallergenic product that is made without harmful chemicals or substances that could affect your baby`s health. The mattress is CertiPUR-US certified and GREENGUARD Gold certified for low emissions, and it`s covered with an organic cotton cover to reduce the likelihood of your baby inhaling VOCs that polyurethane foam emits.
5. Recyclable
Modern parents should have a breathable organic crib mattress without chemicals. They`re concerned with issues such as Sudden Infant Death Syndrome, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), toxic flame retardants, and heavy metals.
CertiPUR US certification is a good way to ensure that your baby`s mattress has organic and non-toxic components. It`s free from harmful chemicals such as mercury, PBDE flame-retardants, ozone depleters and chlorofluorocarbons.
GREENGUARD gold is another certification worth considering. It`s backed UL, which is one of the most independent standards-setting organizations in America. Plus, you`ll get a waterproof cover that meets food contact standards, so cleanups are quicker and easier.