31 Best Eco-Friendly Mattresses: Non-Toxic, Healthy, Organic

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James Miller
By 
James Miller is our resident organic sleep expert at TheRoundup. He has more than 12 years experience researching, testing and reviewing non-toxic mattresses and bedding, and is committed to sustainable and eco-friendly living without compromising on quality or breaking the bank.
James Miller
Category: 
Updated: February 8, 2025

The best eco-friendly mattresses combine non-toxic certifications, healthy organic materials, and unbeatable comfort.

They're better for the environment (because they're biodegradable and sustainably made) and better for your health (because they don't off-gas any toxic chemicals into your bedroom).

In contrast, conventional mattresses are made from synthetic fossil-fuel-based materials like polyurethane foam, and treated with chemical flame retardants that do off-gas. A 2024 study found high quantities of up to 100 VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds) in the bedroom during sleeping hours.

Since 2011, my team and I have personally tested over 100 organic mattresses in our homes. We evaluated each mattress based on comfort, material quality, certifications, durability, and real-world testing to determine which models stand out in different categories.

Today, I'll reveal my top 10 healthy mattress recommendations for different needs (such as affordability, back pain relief, cooling, and firmness), plus 21 great alternatives you can choose from if my top picks aren't quite right for you. 

Quick Picks

Let's take a closer look at the mattresses that impressed our team in testing.

KEY FACTS

Materials: Organic Latex, Organic Cotton, Organic Wool
Certifications: GOTS | GOLS | USDA Organic | GreenGuard Gold | Oeko-Tex Standard 100 | eco-INSTITUT
Type: Layered Latex
Firmness: Medium (5.5) or Medium-Firm (7)
Sizes: Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, Cal King, Split King, Split Queen, Split Cal King
Height: Height: 9" (22.9 cm), 10" (25.4 cm), or 12" (30.5 cm)
Sleep Trial: 100 nights
Warranty: Lifetime
Shipping: Free

Why It's Best Overall: PlushBeds Botanical Bliss stands out as the best overall eco-friendly mattress because it combines customizable firmness, an outstanding range of organic certifications, and back pain relief features. 

The Botanical Bliss is made of certified organic materials that are environmentally friendly, sustainably sourced, and biodegradable. It's fully certified non-toxic and is completely free from mercury, lead, and other heavy metals. It won't off-gas any harmful chemicals such as chlorofluorocarbons, chloroform, cyanide, or PBDE flame retardants.

This is what I call a Layered Latex mattress. It's different from most solid latex mattresses because it is comprised of 6 different layers which all work together to deliver optimum comfort.

Why It's Best for Back Pain: The fact that the Botanical Bliss mattress is frequently recommended by orthopedic specialists and chiropractors indicates just how effective it is at reducing or even eliminating back pain.

It offers outstanding contouring, lumbar support, and pressure point relief which sets it apart from most competitors.

Personal Experience: The Botanical Bliss is the most comfortable mattress I ever tried, bar none. We went for a split King with a medium-firm side for me, and a medium side for my wife who is a side sleeper.

We both feel the PlushBeds Botanical Bliss gives us the best sleep we've ever had. That's the reason why, of all the new mattresses I've tested, this is the one I still sleep on today.

Thanks to the Botanical Bliss I wake up every morning with zero backache, and I've seen many other customers report the same thing. It's a true game-changer.

This isn't the cheapest organic mattress on the market, but in my opinion, it is the best value for money and worth every penny. What's more, PlushBeds regularly offers significant discounts of up to 50%, and even free bedding as part of the deal.

Pros & Cons

Provides outstanding comfort
100% certified non-toxic
Organic, eco-friendly & fully biodegradable
Choice of firmness and thickness
Superior contouring & pressure relief
Not the cheapest, but regular discounts make it great value

Verified Customer Reviews

  • Night and day difference
    We upgraded to a king size mattress and won’t turn back! My husband used to only sleep a broken 3-4 hours a night but after switching to a clean organic mattress, he’s sleeping so much better.

    Kayla L
    ★★★★★

  • The Best
    Absolutely love this bed. Most comfortable bed I’ve ever owned. My husband and I couldn’t be happier. Definitely get this. You won’t be sorry.

    Dianne T
    ★★★★★

  • Most comfortable sleep!
    I love this mattress! It's so comfortable and supportive at the same time. I've been sleeping so well ever since we got it. Love it!

    Elizabeth C
    ★★★★★

Alternatives for Best Organic Mattress Overall

  1. Avocado Green Mattress - One of the best mattresses from a responsible, sustainable brand. Not quite as comfortable as Botanical Bliss but everything else is great.
  2. Naturepedic Serenade - Very good quality certified organic hybrid, in a similar price range but the Botanical Bliss is slightly better in terms of comfort.
  3. Awara Premier Natural Luxury Hybrid - Great alternative if you need a longer trial period but the Botanical Bliss just felt more luxurious.

Alternative Organic Mattresses for Back Pain

  1. Saatva RX Mattress - This non-toxic luxury hybrid has been specially designed for people who suffer from chronic back & joint pain. But it is a lot more expensive than the Botanical Bliss.
  2. Latex For Less Organic Mattress - A solid latex mattress with 2 firmnesses in 1. Flip it to choose between medium and firm. A cheaper but less luxurious alternative. Many customers report it has helped with their back pain.

You can compare more options in our Organic Mattresses for Back Pain guide.

KEY FACTS

Materials: Organic Latex, Organic Cotton, Organic Wool, Recycled Steel 
Certifications: GOTS | GOLS | EWG Verified | FSC | GreenGuard Gold | Made Safe | OEKO-TEX Standard 100 | Climate Neural
Type: Hybrid
Firmness: Medium Plush (4), Medium (6), or Firm (7)
Sizes: Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, Cal King
Height: Plush 15.5" (39.4 cm), Medium 13" (33 cm), Firm 11" (27.9 cm)
Sleep Trial: 1 Year
Warranty: 25 Years
Shipping: Free

Why It's Best Hybrid: The Avocado Green Mattress stands out from its competitors thanks to its certified organic materials, customizable firmness options, and balanced hybrid construction. It's a healthy choice that is fully certified as non-toxic.

Avocado, as a brand, is highly committed to sustainability and eco-friendly practices, including owning the entire supply chain. This is their most popular mattress. Most customers love it, with 90% awarding it 4 or 5 stars according to Yotpo.

Why It's Best for Side Sleepers: The medium and plush versions of this mattress offer extra pressure relief that is essential for people who sleep on their side. It helps relieve sore hips and neck, and improves sleep quality for any side or combination sleeper.

Personal Experience: My wife loved the low motion transfer on the Avocado Green Mattress. I have been accused in the past (probably fairly) of being a restless sleeper, but with this mattress, she wasn't disturbed at all whenever I decided to turn.

I have to agree this is a very comfortable mattress. Everything about it feels perfectly balanced. The combination of comfort, an impressive range of certifications, and a fair price point make the Green Mattress a great choice for almost any type of sleeper.

The only small downside is that it isn't fully biodegradable due to the steel coils and perimeter, but this would be the case for any hybrid mattress as metal is inherent in the design. When compared to other hybrids, the Avocado Green is the mattress I would recommend.

Pros & Cons

Eco-friendly brand
Certified non-toxic
Fully customizable
90% of customers love it
Not fully biodegradable due to innerspring layer

Alternatives for Best Hybrid

  1. Naturepedic Serenade - This is a high-quality hybrid and there is little to choose between it and the Avocado.
  2. Awara Premier Natural Luxury Hybrid - Fewer certifications than the Avocado Green but still great quality and comes at a more affordable price.
  3. Nolah Natural Mattress - Highly rated and Consumer Reports recommended natural latex hybrid at a competitive price, but fewer certifications than Avocado.

Alternatives for Side Sleepers

  • Naturepedic EOS Pillow Top Mattress - Exceptional pressure relief and the option to configure each side of the mattress separately. It's more expensive than the Green Mattress by Avocado, but some people find the extra features worth the cost.
  • Brentwood Home Oceano Luxury Hybrid Mattress - The medium-soft firmness of the Coeano feels just right for side sleepers and it has a zoned support system to provide targeted relief. It's a budget alternative to the Avocado Green.

You can view and compare more options in our Organic Mattresses for Side Sleepers guide.

KEY FACTS

Materials: Organic Latex, Organic Cotton, Organic Wool, Upcycled Steel Coils
Certifications: GOLS | GOTS | Oeko-Tex® Standard 100 | eco-INSTITUT
Type: Hybrid
Firmness: Medium (5) or Medium-Firm (6.5)
Sizes: Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, Cal King
Height: 11" (27.9 cm)
Sleep Trial: 90 Days
Warranty: 15 Years
Shipping: Free

Why It's Most Affordable: The Eco Terra Beds Hybrid Latex Mattress is our pick as the most affordable organic mattress because it's a handmade, non-toxic, and fully organic product at a very reasonable price point. At just $1099 for a Queen, it's cheaper than comparable products from PlushBeds, Avocado, and Naturepedic. 

The trade-off is that it lacks some features that make those brands special. But if budget is a concern for you, this is a very solid entry-level product.

Personal Experience: I tested the medium-firm option and found it to still be a little on the soft side. If you like a firm mattress, this might not be the brand for you.

However, the average customer feedback score of 4.9 suggests that most people find it very comfortable, and there is a lot to like about the brand. I think this is great value and perfect for anyone who wants a healthy mattress on a budget.

Pros & Cons

Affordable price
Handmade in Los Angeles
No chemicals, toxins, or polyurethane
Not fully biodegradable
Fewer certifications
Shorter warranty

Alternatives for Most Affordable

  1. Latex For Less - This mattress is made from certified organic latex and as the name suggests it's one of the most affordable mattresses of its type.
  2. My Green Mattress Kiwi - This medium-firm mattress is healthy and sustainable but still comes in at a reasonable price.
  3. DreamCloud Luxury Hybrid - Dreamcloud's hybrid luxury mattresses are CertiPUR-US foams, but they're not certified organic.

KEY FACTS

Materials: Natural Latex, Natural Wool, Organic Cotton Cover
Certifications: GOTS | GOLS | FSC | GreenGuard Gold | Made Safe | Climate Neutral | Formaldehyde-Free Verified | Oeko-Tex Standard 100
Type: Latex
Firmness: Medium (5)
Sizes: Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, Cal King, Split Cal King
Height: 9" (22.9 cm)
Sleep Trial: 1 Year
Warranty: 25 Years
Shipping: Free

Why It's the Best Latex Mattress: The Avocado Organic Latex Mattress stands out due to its sustainability and comfort. This is a solid latex mattress made from a minimum of 95% certified organic latex and a fire-resistant layer of natural wool. It's cooler than memory foam, and much better for the environment because it doesn't contain any synthetic material.

This organic mattress contains only pure latex (no blends) and contains no chemical flame retardants, foams, or adhesives. That's why we rate it as one of the most environmentally friendly mattresses available right now.

Personal Experience: I was very impressed by this new and improved Avocado Organic Latex Mattress.

In the past, I tested the previous version of this mattress and it was very firm. But this redesigned version comes as a medium, rated 5/10 on the firmness scale, which is just right for the majority of people. It feels like you're hovering above the mattress rather than actually pressing into it.

My wife and I both appreciated the low motion transfer which helped us both get an undisturbed night's sleep. I love the fact that it contains no springs or memory foam, so it's perfect for your health and the environment.

Pros & Cons

Minimal environmental impact
No synthetic materials
Fully certified organic & non-toxic
Low profile but incredibly supportive
More expensive than other mattress types but worth the extra

Alternatives for Best Organic Latex Mattress

  1. Latex For Less Natural Latex Mattress - This is an affordable alternative with strong certifications, but its warranty period is shorter than the Avocado Organic Latex mattress.
  2. Spindle Natural Latex Mattress - A more expensive option that is often out of stock in some sizes, but it is great quality when it's available. It features interchangeable firmness and has a very high customer rating.

KEY FACTS

Materials: Organic Cotton, Organic Wool, Organic Latex, Plant-Based PLA, Steel Coils
Certifications: GOTS | EWG Certified | Made Safe | GreenGuard
Type: Hybrid
Firmness: Up to Extra Firm (8)
Sizes: Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, Cal King
Height: 12" (30.5 cm)
Sleep Trial: 100 Nights
Warranty: 25 Years
Shipping: Free

Why It's the Best Firm Organic Mattress: Naturepedic's EOS Classic Organic Mattress is our pick as the best firm option because it can be fully customized with a choice of 5 different firmness levels (up to Extra Firm). On the Queen, King, and California King sizes these can be configured separately on the left and right sides.

Naturepedic gives you the option to swap layers for free as many times as you like within the first 100 days after purchase. This allows you to find your perfect comfort level with the full backing of the brand's excellent support team.

Even if you find the extra firm mattress is too hard, it's easy to swap for a setting that's just right.

Personal Experience: The Extra Firm configuration gave the firmest feel of any of the natural and organic mattresses I tested.

This surface is ideal for regular stomach sleepers. But since this doesn't suit everybody, the fact that you can configure the left and right sides separately is essential for couples like my wife and me who have different needs.

I have full confidence in Naturepedic's environmental commitment and the quality of the organic materials used to make the EOS Classic. So I am happy to recommend this to anyone looking for a firmer mattress that's certified organic and chemical-free.

Pros & Cons

Firmest organic mattress I tested
Customize each side separately on Queen or above
Swap layers for free to get the perfect feel
No chemicals, glues, or adhesives
Expensive
Shorter sleep trial than Saatva and Avocado

Alternatives for Best Firm Mattress

  1. Saatva Classic Mattress -  (Firmness 8/10) The firm version of the Saatva Classic is very nice and firm, ideal for stomach sleepers. It does contain memory foam (whereas the EOS uses latex), but at least the foam is certified non-toxic. So while not ideal for the environment, it's safe for you and your family.
  2. PlushBeds Botanical Bliss -  (Firmness 7/10) My top pick is also available in a medium-firm configuration. It's slightly softer than Saatva Classic and Naturepedic EOS but has many other benefits as I described earlier.
  3. Spindle Natural Latex Mattress -  (Firmness 7.5/10) The firmer of the two Spindle mattress options is extremely robust and supportive. Despite being a great product, unfortunately, it's frequently out of stock.

KEY FACTS

Materials: Organic Wool, Natural Talalay Latex, Steel Coils
Certifications: GOTS | OEKO-TEX® Standard 100 | Rainforest Alliance | eco-INSTITUT
Type: Hybrid
Firmness: Plush (4)
Sizes: Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, Cal King, Split King
Height: 16" (40.6 cm)
Sleep Trial: 100 Nights
Warranty: 20 Years
Shipping: Free

Why It's the Best Plush Mattress: The Plush (Box-Top) version of the Organica by Amerisleep mattress stands out from other plush options because it is an 8-layered hybrid that provides an incredibly soft yet supportive feel. It's free from fiberglass, chemicals, and adhesives for a healthier sleep.

Amerisleep designs and makes its mattresses in California using certified organic materials, which support local farming and manufacturing.

Personal Experience: My eldest daughter is a side sleeper who prefers a soft mattress, and has been looking for a new mattress that offers a soft yet supportive sleep surface. In the Organica Plush, she's found the perfect balance of plushness and pressure relief. 

I checked the mattress over and it's obvious to me that the build is very high quality. The certifications confirm that the mattress is safe, and that the materials are sustainably harvested, healthy, and free from harmful chemicals and VOCs. 

Pros & Cons

Certified Non-Toxic
Edge Support
Cooling & Naturally Breathable
May be too soft for those with back pain
Shorter warranty than other brands

Alternatives for Best Plush Mattress

  1. Happsy Organic Mattress - (Firmness 4/10) The plush version of the Happsy mattress is a soft 4/10 and can be reduced to 2/10 by adding a mattress topper (sold separately). The Happsy mattress is an organic bed-in-a-box with a very decent selection of certifications, but it does lack feedback from existing customers.
  2. Avocado Luxury Organic Mattress Ultra Plush - (Firmness 3/10) The ultra-plush configuration of the Avocado Luxury mattress is achieved by adding a box top. This makes it a much more expensive option than the Organica Plush by Amerisleep, although it is a little softer and of fantastic quality.

KEY FACTS

Materials: Charcoal-Infused Memory Foam, Polyurethane Base Foam with Up to 20% Plant-Based Bio Foam, Natural Wool, Polyester
Certifications: CertiPUR-US | GreenGuard Gold | Oeko-Tex Standard 100
Type: Memory Foam
Firmness: Medium (5) or Gentle-Firm (6)
Sizes: Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, Cal King
Height: 11" (27.9 cm) or 13" (33 cm)
Sleep Trial: 1 Year
Warranty: 25 Years
Shipping: Free

Why It's Best Memory Foam: The Brentwood Home Cypress mattress is better than regular memory foam options because it is CertiPUR-US certified, which proves it has very low emissions that are well within safe limits. 

Most memory foam mattresses on the market are made from 100% viscoelastic polyurethane foam derived from fossil fuels and treated with chemical blowing agents. To make things worse, they're sprayed with chemical flame retardants, which can off-gas harmful VOCs.

In contrast, the top layer of the Cypress mattress is BioFoam which is partially plant-based. It's free from PBDEs (Polybrominated Diphenyl Ethers), CFCs (chlorofluorocarbons), ozone depleters, formaldehyde, lead, and mercury.

If you need a latex-free mattress due to allergies but want to avoid all the harsh chemicals that most memory foam mattresses contain, then the Brentwood Home Cypress is the safest memory foam mattress at an affordable price.

Personal Experience: As a hot sleeper, I normally shy away from memory foam because it's known to sleep hot (not to mention its health and environmental issues).

The Brentwood Home Cypress is better for the environment than conventional mattresses, although not as good as the other organic mattresses I've listed on this page.

The good news is that with the Cypress, I was able to get a decent night's sleep without overheating. That's because this mattress is charcoal-infused and comes with cooling technology that makes it supportive and breathable.

This, combined with the non-toxic certification and plant-based materials, means that I'm happy to recommend the Cypress as a much better, more eco-friendly, and healthier alternative to regular memory foam.

Pros & Cons

Healthier than regular memory foam
Better for the environment vs regular memory foam
Doesn't sleep hot
Not organic
Not biodegradable

Alternatives for Best Non-Toxic Memory Foam

  1. Puffy - CertiPUR-US certified, sleeps cool, is good for lower back pain, and has a lifetime warranty, all at a very low price. However, it isn't organic or biodegradable and has only half the lifespan of mattresses made with organic materials.
  2. Nectar Memory Foam Mattress - Similarly priced to the Puffy mattress and with a similar spec. There's little to choose between them other than the fact that Puffy also throws in some free pillows. Both have fewer certifications than the Brentwood Home Cypress.
  3. Layla - The Layla Memory Foam Mattress uses copper gel which is antimicrobial and has a pleasant cooling effect. It also has CertiPUR-US certification but lacks the other labels that the Cypress mattress has, and shares the same environmental drawbacks as both the Puffy and Nectar alternatives.

KEY FACTS

Materials: Organic New Zealand Wool, Natural Latex, Steel Coils, Organic Cotton
Certifications: GOTS | GOLS | eco-INSTITUT | GreenGuard GOLD
Type: Hybrid
Firmness: Medium-Firm (6.5)
Sizes: Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, Split King, Cal King
Height: 12" (30.5 cm)
Sleep Trial: 365 Nights
Warranty: Lifetime
Shipping: Free Delivery & Setup

Why It's Best for Hot Sleepers: The Saatva Latex Hybrid Mattress stands out over its competitors thanks to its unique vented airflow channels, which further improve air circulation.

It's true that natural latex mattresses are much better than regular mattresses in terms of their cooling properties, because organic latex is a naturally breathable material. But Saatva's unique design means it gets the vote in this category.

The organic New Zealand wool layer and organic cotton cover are moisture-wicking to enhance the cooling effect even more.

Personal Experience: I'm a hot sleeper, but not excessively so. If like me you only sleep slightly hot, then the advanced cooling properties of the Saatva Latex Hybrid Mattress might not be necessary for you.

The fact is that most of the other organic latex and latex hybrids I've listed have excellent cooling properties that are perfect for most hot sleepers. However, if you have a serious overheating problem at night, then the Saatva Latex Hybrid is certainly the best organic mattress you'll find in terms of breathability.

The Saatva Latex Hybrid is a medium-firm mattress and isn't customizable, so it may not suit those who want an extra plus or extra firm surface. I certainly found it very comfortable.

The manufacturing quality is excellent, as you would expect from a mattress at this price point, and the materials are certified organic, chemical-free, and sourced sustainably.

Pros & Cons

Extra breathability
High-quality organic materials
No synthetic glues or chemicals
Not customizable
Expensive

Alternative Options for Hot Sleepers

  1. Brentwood Home Oceano Luxury Hybrid - The cooling gel and Air Luxe foam layers on the Oceano mattress do a great job of regulating your temperature. However, as both of these are memory foam, it's not as good as others from an environmental perspective.
  2. Bear Elite Hybrid - Similar to the Oceano, the Bear Elite Hybrid features very effective copper-infused cooling technology in its memory foam layers, but as a result, it isn't fully biodegradable.
  3. Birch Natural Mattress - The Birch mattress is another that has excellent cooling properties and is a great option for those who sleep hot. It has better certifications than the Oceano or Bear Elite, and uses latex instead of memory foam.
  4. PlushBeds Cool Bliss - The Cool Bliss features the world's first-ever GreenGuard Gold certified memory foam which is lab tested to prove that it dissipates body heat faster than its competitors. It's more expensive than the Oceano, Birch, or Bear mattresses, but we found it to be a better product.

KEY FACTS

Materials: Organic Latex, Organic Wool, Organic Cotton, Steel Coils
Certifications: GOTS | GOLS | USDA Organic | GreenGuard Gold | eco-INSTITUT
Type: Hybrid
Firmness: Medium (5.5) or Medium-Firm (7)
Sizes: Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, Split King, Cal King
Height: 12" (30.5 cm)
Sleep Trial: 100 Nights
Warranty: Lifetime
Shipping: Free

Why It's the Best Organic Mattress for Couples: The PlushBeds Luxury Bliss is perfect for couples who share a bed because it offers complete motion isolation. That means that the design of the mattress ensures that when one partner moves, the other isn't disturbed (also known as motion transfer).

The Luxury Bliss mattress also has strong edge support, which means both partners can use the full width and length of the bed without causing the mattress to sag or risking rolling off.

PlushBeds offers a choice of firmness levels (medium or medium-firm) for all sizes, which should suit most people. For extra customization (or for couples who just can't agree), you can order the Split King size and choose a different firmness for the left and right sides.

Personal Experience: As a restless sleeper, I can confirm from my testing that the PlushBeds Luxury Bliss does completely eliminate motion transfer. In my case that makes for a rested and happy wife, and therefore a happier life!

Although we personally opted for the Botanical Bliss which is slightly more comfortable and eco-friendly, I would say that the Luxury Bliss is a better option for couples where one partner is a restless sleeper.

It's slightly cheaper too, but still carries all the organic certification you need in a healthy natural mattress.

Pros & Cons

Eliminates motion transfer
Edge support for maximizing space
Choice of firmness
Left/right customization (Split King size)
Organic & chemical-free
Not fully biodegradable due to innerspring layer

Alternative Options for Couples

  1. Saatva Solaire Adjustable Firmness Mattress -  The Saatva Solaire features adjustable firmness on both sides (with 50 settings to choose from), and has a dual air chamber design that virtually eliminates motion transfer. It is made from natural materials but they're not certified organic. The high price reflects that this is a high-end luxury mattress.
  2. My Green Mattress Natural Escape - A mid-priced hybrid mattress with better-than-average motion isolation and exceptional customer feedback.
  3. Naturepedic EOS - The EOS is the only mattress other than the Saatva Solaire that offers dual firmness in queen size and larger. It's cheaper than the Solaire and doesn't have the unique air chambers, but they're on par in terms of comfort.

KEY FACTS

Materials: Organic Cotton, Eco Foam, Natural Latex, Recycled Steel Coils, Natural Thistle Pulp, REPREVE® Recycled Polyester
Certifications: CertiPUR-US | GreenGuard GOLD
Type: Hybrid
Firmness: Medium-Firm (5-7)
Sizes: Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, Split King, Cal King
Height: 15.5" (39.4 cm)
Sleep Trial: 365 Nights
Warranty: Lifetime
Shipping: Free Delivery & Setup

Why It's Best for Heavy Sleepers: The Saatva HD is best for heavy sleepers because it's a luxury hybrid mattress that has been specifically designed for larger body types.

The extra strength of heavy-duty components such as the high-density foam and reinforced steel coils (which are 25% stronger than the industry standard) means that the mattress can support heavier individuals weighing up to 500 lbs (227 Kg).

The HD mattress is chiropractor-recommended. It's endorsed by the American Chiropractic Association and has a seal of approval from the Congress of Chiropractic State Association.

Despite the focus on durability, Saatva hasn't neglected the essential health and environmental criteria. The Saatva HD still retains the non-toxic certifications and eco-friendly materials of other organic mattresses.

Personal Experience: I was very impressed by the Saatva HD, this is one seriously heavy-duty mattress that looks and feels as if it could withstand an incredible amount of wear and tear with ease. I particularly like the reinforced edge support which is designed to make it easy to get into and out of bed, even for heavier people.

One thing to note is that you can't use the HD mattress with adjustable bed frames, or with regular foundations or box springs. You can use it on a solid platform or base, or one with a minimum of 3" wide slats. Alternatively, if your bed frame does require a foundation, Saatva offers a special HD foundation (sold separately) that is specially designed for use with this mattress.

Pros & Cons

Luxury feel
Highly durable and supportive
Specially designed for heavier body types
American Chiropractic Association Approved
Easy to get in and out
Expensive
Not certified organic
Not compatible with regular foundations, box springs, or adjustable bases

How to Choose the Best Eco-Friendly Mattress

To choose the best eco-friendly mattress, you should examine its certifications and evaluate how the design, features, and price meet your individual needs.

Certifications are a great way to confirm whether a mattress is genuinely organic, healthy, and environmentally friendly. They make it easy for you as a consumer to verify a brand's claims and prevent greenwashing.

1. Check for Environmental & Organic Certifications

The following environmental & organic certifications help you identify mattresses made from organic materials that are non-GMO, sustainably grown, and responsibly harvested.

  • GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard) organic certification verifies that the cotton and wool used in mattresses contain at least 95% certified organic fibers, and also prohibits the use of chemicals in textile processing.
  • GOLS (Global Organic Latex Standard) certification is issued by Control Union and confirms that the latex used in mattresses contains at least 95% certified organic raw material.
  • USDA Organic certification also applies to natural materials like cotton and wool. It verifies the organic status of raw agricultural materials rather than processed materials and therefore is less stringent than GOTS.
  • FSC Certified when used in mattresses applies to latex and is used to verify that the rubber trees were harvested sustainably in a way that supports biodiversity, protects ecosystems, and follows fair labor practices.

By their nature, organic materials are free from harmful chemicals, pesticides, synthetic materials, and toxic dyes.

However, these labels are not enough to confirm that a mattress is healthy and chemical-free because they usually only apply to specific materials and not the mattress as a whole. For example, typically a mattress might be labeled as containing GOTS-certified organic cotton, and yet still contain other potentially harmful synthetic materials.

To verify the safety of a mattress, you also need to check for health certifications.

2. Check for Health Certifications

The following certifications and labels are used to confirm that a mattress is safe, healthy, and non-toxic.

  • GreenGuard GOLD certification ensures a mattress has low chemical emissions. It is especially relevant for anybody concerned with indoor air quality and exposure to VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds).
  • OEKO-TEX Standard 100 certifies that all mattress components (fabric, foam, thread, etc.) are tested for harmful substances, ensuring they meet strict safety limits.
  • Made Safe certification guarantees that a mattress is free from known toxic chemicals, including flame retardants, VOCs, and endocrine disruptors.
  • eco-INSTITUT certification verifies that a mattress meets strict VOC, heavy metal, and pollutant emission limits, ensuring low off-gassing and safer indoor air quality.
  • CertiPUR-US certification verifies that memory foam is free from harmful chemicals (such as formaldehyde, heavy metals, and ozone depleters) and that it meets low VOC emission standards. It applies only to foam and some hybrid mattresses.

Ideally, an eco-friendly mattress should have at least one certificate from each of the above lists to verify that it is both sustainable and non-toxic.

Once you've checked the certifications, there are various other criteria to consider according to your personal needs and preferences.

3. Consider Individual Needs and Budget

The following criteria have been included in each of our mattress recommendations above and are relevant to different people depending on your circumstances.

  • Firmness - Mattress firmness levels are generally measured on a scale of 1-10 with 1 being the softest and 10 being the firmest (although such extremes are rare and most fall between 3 and 8). If you don't have a specific preference, choose firmness based on your sleeping position and body weight (e.g., softer for side sleepers, firmer for back/stomach sleepers).
  • Size - The most common adult mattress sizes range from Twin (smallest) to California King (largest). Check the dimensions of your bedroom to make sure your new mattress will fit, taking into account any existing furniture and the size of your bed frame.
  • Height - The height of your mattress (sometimes referred to as the depth) affects whether it will fit with your existing bed frame and bedding. In particular, fitted sheets have a pocket size (measured in inches) which must be equal to or greater than the mattress height.
  • Warranty - A good quality organic mattress can last as long as 20-25 years if cared for properly. Therefore, be wary of any warranty of less than 15 years as this may indicate that a manufacturer lacks confidence in the quality of their product.
  • Trial - This is the period during which you can test the mattress in your home and have the right to return it if you are not happy. Sleep trials generally range between 90 and 365 days.
  • Shipping - Most mattress brands offer free shipping but beware of any that don't as it could be a hidden cost. Some brands (such as Saatva) also offer an in-room setup service for free, while others offer this as an optional extra.
  • Budget - Organic mattresses are more expensive than synthetic alternatives due to the higher cost of materials. But in terms of quality, longevity, and the impact on your health and the environment, you get what you pay for. We all have a finite budget but you should consider a mattress as a long-term investment and get the best you can afford.

When we conduct mattress reviews, we consider each of these factors as part of our overall review process.

How We Review

Our stringent review process involves a thorough evaluation of the environmental, social, and sustainability policies of each mattress company. We then check their products, analyzing their material composition and verifying the validity of any certifications.

This gives us a shortlist of mattresses to test.

When testing mattresses we ensure that a member of our team or their family personally sleeps on a mattress for a minimum of 30 days. We take into account all of the criteria listed above, as well as the overall comfort and feel of the mattress and how it performs in real-world scenarios.

The resulting scores are compared on a like-for-like basis, taking into account value for money and existing consumer feedback, to produce the final set of recommendations you've seen in this guide.

A new mattress is a significant investment. But given the many benefits of organic mattresses, we know just how important it is to have all the information you need to make a clear and informed choice.

What are the Benefits of Eco-Friendly Mattresses?

The key benefits of eco-friendly or organic mattresses over regular synthetic mattresses are that they are significantly less harmful to the environment and your health.

What are the Environmental Benefits?

The main environmental benefits of organic mattresses are listed below.

  • Ensures Sustainable Sourcing – Organic mattresses use materials like GOTS-certified cotton, GOLS-certified latex, and FSC-certified wood. To obtain these labels, a brand must demonstrate that the materials are sourced using responsible farming and forestry practices that reduce deforestation and soil degradation.
  • Eliminates Chemicals – Organic materials are grown without synthetic pesticides, herbicides, or fertilizers, which prevents harmful chemicals from polluting air, soil, and water sources.
  • Improves Biodegradability – Natural latex, wool, and cotton break down more efficiently than synthetic materials. This helps prevent landfill buildup and reduces microplastic pollution that can harm ecosystems. Hybrid mattresses might contain small elements such as steel springs that don't biodegrade, but others such as latex or layered latex may be entirely biodegradable.
  • Lowers Carbon Footprint – Many organic brands prioritize responsible manufacturing, renewable energy, and carbon-neutral shipping, all of which reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
  • Helps Ecosystems – Organic farming for materials like cotton and latex promotes biodiversity and water conservation, and reduces soil erosion.

As well as benefiting the planet, the natural materials in organic mattresses provide a range of health benefits that enhance sleep quality and the air quality in your home.

What are the Health Benefits?

The main health benefits of organic mattresses are listed below.

  • Reduces Exposure to Toxins – Organic mattresses are free from harsh chemicals, flame retardants, and synthetic adhesives. They reduce the risk of respiratory issues, headaches, and skin irritation.
  • Improves Indoor Air Quality – Organic materials like GOTS-certified cotton and GOLS-certified latex help to minimize indoor air pollution because they do not off-gas harmful VOCs.
  • Reduces Allergens – Natural materials like organic wool and latex are naturally hypoallergenic and antimicrobial. This means they are resistant to common allergens such as dust mites, mold, and bacteria.
  • Prevents Overheating – Organic wool and latex provide breathability and moisture-wicking properties, helping to regulate your body temperature and maintain a cooler sleep environment.
  • Supports Spinal Alignment – High-quality organic latex contours to the body, providing proper support and pressure relief, which can help reduce back pain and improve sleep posture.

In contrast to the safety and sustainability of organic mattresses, conventional mattresses can introduce toxic chemicals and environmental concerns that impact both health and the planet.

Why Are Conventional Mattresses Bad?

Conventional mattresses present several notable disadvantages concerning health, environmental impact, and durability. They are typically made from synthetic materials such as the following.

  • Polyurethane (PU) foam (derived from petroleum-based chemicals like polyols and isocyanates)
  • Memory foam (a viscoelastic polyurethane foam with added chemical compounds for viscosity and elasticity)
  • Synthetic latex (made from styrene-butadiene rubber), polyester fabrics
  • Virgin steel innerspring coils

The finished products are often treated with chemical flame retardants, adhesives, and VOC-emitting finishes.

All of this can have a significant impact on the environment.

Environmental Impact

More than 18 million mattresses are discarded in the US every year. Around 14.7 million of these end up in landfills, according to the EPA (Environmental Protection Agency). This is a huge problem when you consider the fact that most conventional mattresses are made from synthetic materials that won't biodegrade.

The presence of polyurethane mattresses in landfills can lead to the slow and steady release of microplastics and other harmful chemicals into the surrounding soil, according to a 2023 study "Solving the plastic dilemma: the fungal and bacterial biodegradability of polyurethanes" (Parth Bhavsar et al).

Producing synthetic mattresses uses up a considerable amount of fossil fuel resources. A 2021 study titled "Material Flows of Polyurethane in the United States" (Chao Liang et al) found that domestic PU production uses approximately 1100 kt of crude oil and 1100 kt of natural gas annually.

The PU production process involving these fossil fuels generates significant carbon dioxide emissions, contributing to increased levels of greenhouse gas in the atmosphere

Health Risks

The synthetic materials used in regular mattresses can emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs) such as formaldehyde, toluene, and benzene into the air in your home.

Most mattresses on the market are full of chemicals that can pollute the air in your bedroom, and harm your body, according to the EWG (Environmental Working Group)'s Healthy Living Home Guide.

Prolonged exposure to VOCs can lead to potential health issues such as headaches, respiratory irritation, and, in severe cases, increased cancer risk according to Dr Will Cole, a leading functional medicine expert.

It is estimated that 92% of synthetic mattresses are treated with chemical flame retardants. These can cause endocrine and thyroid disruption, immunotoxicity, reproductive toxicity, cancer, and adverse effects on fetal and child development, according to the NIEHS (National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences).

Durability Issues

Conventional mattresses, especially those made with lower-quality materials, have a typical lifespan of between 8 and 10 years, less than half that of organic mattresses. They usually degrade faster, leading to sagging and loss of support, which in turn can cause discomfort, sleep loss, and back pain.

Synthetic mattresses are cheaper, but because they need to be replaced more often, they represent poor value for money over the long term. Plus, every replacement means yet another old mattress typically ends up in a landfill.

Taking into account the numerous disadvantages of synthetic materials, it makes no sense to buy this type of mattress when organic and eco-friendly materials can be used instead.

What Materials Are Eco-Friendly Mattresses Made From?

When you switch to a mattress that is eco-friendly and/or organic, there are no potentially harmful synthetic components. Instead, the following healthy and sustainable materials are used.

  • Organic latex is used as a natural alternative to synthetic foam. It provides support, pressure relief, and durability without harmful chemicals or VOCs.
  • Organic cotton is used for mattress covers, padding, and quilting in place of regular cotton, nylon, or polyester. It provides a breathable, soft, and chemical-free sleeping surface.
  • Organic wool serves as a natural fire barrier, moisture-wicking layer, and temperature regulator, eliminating the need for chemical flame retardants while enhancing comfort.
  • BioFoam is a plant-based alternative to traditional memory foam, incorporating renewable materials like soybean or castor oil to reduce petroleum use and VOC emissions.
  • Recycled polyester, made from reclaimed plastic bottles, is used in mattress covers or padding to reduce environmental impact.
  • Recycled steel is used to make the springs in hybrid mattresses, as a less carbon-intensive alternative to virgin steel.

Not every organic mattress will contain all of these materials. The exact composition depends on the manufacturer and the mattress type.

What Are the Types of Mattress and Their Pros and Cons?

Organic mattresses come in three main types: Latex, Hybrid, and Memory Foam. There are some differences between these types that you should be aware of before deciding which to buy.

Latex

Latex mattresses are constructed using one or more layers of natural latex, usually with a natural wool layer on top which acts as a fire barrier. All of this is wrapped in a certified organic cotton cover. They do not contain springs. The layers are often joined using hand-tufting in place of glue.

This type of mattress is the most durable and can be 100% organic and biodegradable. However, it is also typically heavier and harder to move, and can be the most expensive.

Example: Avocado Organic Latex Mattress

Hybrid

A hybrid mattress is made up of multiple layers made from different materials. Typically, a layer of steel coils will go at the bottom, with a latex "comfort layer" on top, then a wool batting layer as a fire barrier. Individual layers may be encased in organic cotton, with the entire mattress wrapped in an organic cotton cover or encasement.

Hybrid mattresses are typically cheaper than pure latex. They offer good support and excellent motion isolation. The downsides are that they are not fully organic (due to the steel coils) and the coils can wear out quicker than solid latex.

Example: Avocado Green Mattress

Memory Foam

An eco-friendly memory foam mattress uses plant-based or CertiPUR-US-certified BioFoam instead of traditional petroleum-based polyurethane foam.

They are typically the cheapest option. However, the trade-off is that they are the least durable, and they can sleep hot unless the manufacturer adds a cooling gel layer. Also while the foam is non-toxic, it can still contain a percentage of synthetic material, which means even an eco-friendly memory foam mattress is unlikely to be fully biodegradable.

Example: Brentwood Home Oceano

James Miller
James Miller
James Miller is our resident organic sleep expert at TheRoundup. He has more than 12 years experience researching, testing and reviewing non-toxic mattresses and bedding, and is committed to sustainable and eco-friendly living without compromising on quality or breaking the bank.

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Why Trust TheRoundup

Our core values mean we always prioritize sustainability over profit. We carefully evaluate and personally test every product to ensure they meet our high standards. All products recommended in this article were tested in accordance with our Review Methodology.

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