How to Choose an Organic Mattress: We spend a third of our lives on mattresses -- Organic Living's Nathalie Windstein describes the important considerations in the buying process

Our home is like a third skin, the foundation of our life and the essence of our family environment. All too often the largest effort placed on living a healthy lifestyle is concentrated solely on the body within. Organic food, natural beauty products and holistic remedies are all major elements, but they are only part of the solution. It may be a rude surprise to discover the average mattress is riddled with dangerous combinations of suffocants, stabilizers and fire retardants.

When purchasing a new mattress, it is imperative to protect our family by choosing an organic mattress that is made with only non-toxic materials. In the bedroom, we are in direct contact with the mattress and pillow for a third of our lives. Because of this intimate proximity, the quality of air we breathe while sleeping may be more significant to our health. Asleep, we are not likely dreaming of what is in our mattresses. It’s an object most people seldom contemplate. But if the chemicals commonly used in conventional mattresses were sitting in beakers on a desk, we might be inclined to move them some distance away.

Choosing an organic mattress may seem like a daunting task, but there are key factors to consider when in the market for a truly non-toxic, healthy mattress. Quality organic mattresses currently on the market are made with 100 percent natural rubber latex. Technically, a manufacturer can make a mattress with only 30 percent natural rubber and 70 percent synthetic chemical foam and advertise the mattress as “natural.” Look for that certified Global Organic Latex Standard natural latex.

An organic mattress is defined by the materials of which it is comprised, meaning organic cotton, eco-wool and natural latex. Be sure an organic mattress is made with third-party certified organic materials. For example, Global Organic Textile Standards certification means that the mattress and/or textile materials meet stringent organic and non-toxic standards.

By law, all mattresses must be flame-retardant compliant. A true organic mattress will not be sprayed with chemical flame retardants, but will instead be constructed with a layer of wool that acts as a natural flame retardant. When it comes to chemical exposure, the cumulative load has a powerful effect on our well-being.

The standard mattress industry asserts that chemicals stay locked inside every mattress, and chemical manufacturers want us to trust that their products are safe. Organic Living believes that it is better to be proactive about our health and safety. Search for a comfortable, durable organic mattress that is made with the purest materials available and sleep without fear.

Nathalie Windstein is co-owner of Organic Living, in Phoenix, which offers many healthy home products, including a wide selection of organic mattresses. For more information, phone 602-224-5313 or visit OrganicLivingAz.com. See their ad in the April issue for a 10% off coupon on your next purchase.