When it comes to getting a good night’s sleep, your mattress is one of the most important elements to helping you wake up feeling rested and refreshed. However, some users want a little more from their beds, like greater comfort and eco-friendliness. For many, natural and organic mattresses are the way to go. The right organic or natural mattress can be just the thing for better sleep or accompanying furniture rentals in Toronto to shape your space.
Organic vs. Natural: What’s the Difference?
At first glance, you might think organic and natural mean the same thing in this case: that your mattress is made of natural, organic materials rather than synthetic ones. While some manufacturers use the terms interchangeably, there are some distinctions between organic and natural.
In the case of organic mattresses, a truly organic mattress is made of non-toxic, fully-certified organic materials like wood, cotton, or natural latex. These are natural fabrics that contain zero chemicals. Take note that some mattresses labeled “made with organic materials” are not always 100% organic. The trick is to look for mattresses labeled GOTS. GOTS stands for Global Organic Textile Standard, and this is your indicator that you’re getting a genuine organic mattress. That GOTS label certifies that only organic raw materials were used in the construction of the mattress and that the finished product meets the GOTS standard. GOTS does allow for specific non-organic components like steel coils or plant-based PLA used inside an organic mattress.
If your organic mattress contains latex, it’s also a good idea to keep an eye out for a GOLS label. GOLS stands for Global Organic Latex Standard. This label ensures that you’re buying a mattress with natural latex rather than a synthetic one. Natural latex lasts much longer than synthetic, so keep that in mind when considering the long-term.
Meanwhile, natural mattresses differ from organic ones in that they contain some synthetic materials. Most natural mattresses still use natural products like bamboo fiber, silk, cashmere, cotton, or wool. These are natural rather than man-made materials, giving you a healthier, more eco-friendly alternative to traditional mattresses.
Some of the most notable advantages natural mattresses have are their cost-effectiveness and ease of use. Natural mattresses are typically more affordable than organic mattresses, thanks to the lack of fully certified, costly organic materials. Thanks to smart packaging and shipping methods, they also offer good value as mattresses in a box.
Benefits of Using a Natural or Organic Mattress
Photo by Haley Owens
While there are some distinctions between using a natural or organic mattress, they both offer greater value compared to conventional mattresses. Natural and organic mattresses typically provide benefits like greater comfort and healthier sleep, which can make a world of difference. Some of the most useful benefits you can look forward to including:
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Greater Comfort
One of the most integral elements of any mattress is the comfort it provides. A comfortable mattress is vital to a good night’s sleep, and natural mattresses provide ample comfort. Organic latex mattresses in particular are great for providing a comfortable sleeping surface. The latex tends to mold itself to your body’s natural contours, giving you a more comfortable sleeping surface. This also means these mattresses offer great support for your back, regardless of your sleeping position. Molding to the body also makes natural and organic mattresses great for motion isolation, so you’re less likely to disturb the person next to you when you move around in your sleep.
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Hypoallergenic Properties
Natural and organic mattresses are usually a good choice for sleepers with allergies or respiratory issues. Those respiratory problems are usually caused by harsh chemicals that are incorporated in the conventional mattress-making process. As natural and organic materials lack those chemicals, your mattress is less likely to cause issues that could disrupt your sleep. These mattresses also feature few pores and other areas where dust can collect, making them a good choice if you have dust allergies. Finally, these mattresses are also water-resistant and anti-microbial, which means fewer problems with germs, mould, mildew, or bed bugs in Orillia and better sleep for you.
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Improved Sustainability
As these mattresses are made from organic materials, they’re more sustainable and environmentally-friendly options compared to conventional mattresses. Organic materials are renewable products, unlike the materials used to make traditional mattresses. For example, latex extraction is designed to extract sap from rubber trees without causing harm. With proper care, trees can produce sap for up to 30 years, after which the land is replanted and the trees used to make furniture. Organic mattress production is designed to create sustainability at every step to reduce your carbon footprint and minimize strain on the environment. If you’re considering going green, look into renewable, eco-friendly resources like recycled hardwood in Toronto for all your home improvement needs.
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High Durability
Unlike synthetic materials, organic materials tend to last longer before breaking down. Organic, natural textiles tend to be durable, flexible, and long-lasting in general. For example, organic wool can be stretched up to 50% when wet and 30% when dry, and still bounce back when stress is released. Wool is naturally elastic and flexible, making it resistant to tearing and compressing. Not only will an organic wool mattress last years, it will also maintain its shape for that time, giving you comfortable sleep every night. Think of these mattresses as an investment; for the price you’re paying, the mattress will give you restful, comfortable sleep for years to come.
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Low Maintenance
One of the best qualities organic mattresses have to offer is that they’re low-maintenance. Since they resist dust, mold, and water and tend not to trap allergens, they tend to require less cleaning. You still have to do some cleaning yourself, but in-depth cleaning likely won’t be necessary and the mattress maintains itself apart from cleaning it personally. For the most part, you can maintain your organic and natural mattress with regular brushing, and exposure to sunlight if it gets too moist. This low maintenance also adds to the durability of these mattresses; being so resistant makes them less susceptible to wear and tear, whether from the environment or heavy cleaning.
Organic and natural mattresses are a great pick if you’re looking for a new and upgraded mattress. Not only are they comfortable, but they’re also longer-lasting and more environmentally friendly than conventional mattresses. Consider investing in a new organic or natural mattress to give yourself more restful sleep, and do your part for the environment.
