Top 8 Organic & Non-Toxic Bed in a Box Mattress Brands

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James Miller
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James is an environmentalist, sustainability expert and senior editor at TheRoundup, specializing in testing non-toxic, organic and eco-friendly products. James, his wife and two daughters believe in chemical-free and zero-waste living. They aim to leave the planet in a better state than we found it, for future generations to enjoy.
James Miller
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Updated: July 12, 2025

A bed-in-a-box mattress is a compressed, rolled, and vacuum-sealed mattress that ships in a compact box and expands to its full size after being unboxed.

Most manufacturers make bed-in-a-box mattresses using toxic materials, such as synthetic foam, polyester, and chemical adhesives. These materials release VOCs (volatile organic compounds) linked to breathing problems, hormone disruption, and environmental damage.

Fortunately, there are a handful of non-toxic bed-in-a-box mattress brands that combine the convenience of a compressed mattress with chemical-free materials like certified organic cotton, natural latex, and ethically sourced wool.

I've tested them all, and every recommended option in this guide meets strict non-toxic and environmental standards, all without compromising on comfort.

What Are The Best Non-Toxic Mattresses in a Box?

Quick Picks

KEY FACTS

Materials: Certified Organic Cotton, Organic Latex & Organic Wool
Certifications: Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS), Global Organic Latex Standard (GOLS), GREENGUARD Gold, Eco-Institut, OEKO-TEX, Forest Stewardship Council (FSC)
Sizes: Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, Cal King, Split King, Split Queen, Split Cal King
Firmness: Medium (5.5/10), Medium-Firm (8/10)
Thickness: 9", 10", 12"
Warranty: Lifetime
Sleep Trial: 100 Nights
Packaging: Vacuum-Packed & Sealed, Cardboard Packaging
Time to Expand: 1-2hrs (Full Size), 24-48hrs (Optimal Support)
Price Point: $$$$

Why It's Best Overall: The PlushBeds Botanical Bliss Organic Latex Mattress is best overall because it's incredibly comfortable and packed full of high-quality certified organic materials.

While the 11" Avocado Green offers firm support for back pain, and the Birch Luxe excels for hot sleepers and couples, PlushBeds provides the most balanced combination of comfort and certifications.

The breathability of this mattress is outstanding, thanks to the organic cotton knit cover that effectively pulls moisture away from the body. This allows air to move freely through the surface and keeps you dry and comfortable.

The cotton used is organically and ethically grown, with no synthetic fertilizers or pesticides. That matters to me, as I don't want to sleep on something soaked in chemicals.

If you struggle with lifting heavy boxes or want an easier experience, you have the option to request an optional in-home setup service. The delivery team brings the mattress into your home, installs it where you want it, removes all packaging, and even recycles your old mattress.

Pros & Cons

Organic materials with extensive certifications
Customizable height and firmness options
Natural cooling and breathability
Handcrafted in California
Shorter sleep trial than some
Slightly more expensive upfront (although often discounted)

KEY FACTS

Materials: Organic Cotton, Natural Wool, Natural Latex, Individually Wrapped Coils
Certifications: GOLS, GOTS, GREENGUARD Gold, Fair Trade
Sizes: Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, California King
Firmness: Medium-Firm (6.5/10)
Thickness: 11.5"
Warranty: Lifetime
Sleep Trial: 100 Nights
Packaging: Vacuum-Packed & Sealed, Shipped in Cardboard Box
Time to Expand: 1-2 hours
Price Point: $$$

Why It's a Great Option for Hot Sleepers: The Birch Luxe Natural Mattress is a great option for hot sleepers because it has a top layer of natural wool that is incredibly effective at drawing away body heat.

Why It's Recommended for Couples: It's also recommended for couples because the firm edge support means that the whole of the mattress can be used to sleep on.

The build quality of the Birch Luxe Natural Mattress stood out during testing. After two months of nightly use, the edge support was still firm (I often sit there to tie my shoes), and I didn't notice any body indentations. This is definitely a mattress built to last!

It also outperformed all other mattresses I tested in terms of "new mattress" smell. Most new mattresses (no matter how good their eco-credentials) have a factory smell, but the Birch Luxe had none when I unpacked it.

The Birch Luxe offers similar cooling properties to the Happsy mattress, but it's firmer than the plush Happsy option (rated 4/10) and so more suitable for back sleepers.

Pros & Cons

Premium natural and organic materials
Excellent breathability and temperature regulation
Firm edge support
Made in the USA with transparent sourcing
No handle to aid moving
$99 Return fee

KEY FACTS

Materials: Organic Dunlop Latex, Talalay Latex (Plush), Organic Wool, Organic Cotton, Recycled-Steel Pocket Coils
Certifications: GOTS, GOLS, OEKO-TEX 100, MADE SAFE, EWG VERIFIED, GREENGUARD Gold, Climate Neutral, Certified B Corp, 1% for the Planet
Sizes: Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, Cal King
Firmness: Plush (4/10), Medium (7/10), Firm (9/10) 
Thickness: 11" (Firm), 13" (Medium), 15.5" (Plush)
Warranty: 25 Years
Sleep Trial: 365 Nights
Packaging: Vacuum-Compressed Roll-Pack in Recycled LDPE/Brown Paper
Time to Expand: 1-2hrs (Full Size), 24hrs (Optimal Support)
Price Point: $$$

Why It's Ideal for Back Pain: The Avocado Green Mattress is ideal for back pain because it features a zoned support system that offers excellent back support.

The Avocado Green felt sturdy and high-quality. I found the cotton cover soft and breathable, with a natural scent from the wool and latex (not the chemical odor you get with toxic foam beds).

There's very little sink with this mattress (I tested the firm 11" option). My shoulders and hips stayed level, and my spine felt well-aligned whether I was on my back or stomach.

However, for side sleeping, the 11" option was too firm, and I developed some pressure at my hips and shoulders after a few nights. Side sleepers should consider Avocado's medium (13") or plush (15.5") options, or alternatively, the side sleeper pick, Awara, offers excellent pressure relief.

Pros & Cons

Excellent support with up to 1,379 individually wrapped coils
Naturally cooling and breathable
Handcrafted with needle-tufted construction
Durable construction
Poor motion isolation/transfer
$99 return fee plus shipping costs

KEY FACTS

Materials: Organic Latex, Organic Cotton, Organic Wool Batting, Plant-Based PLA Layer, Glueless Encased Coils
Certifications: GOTS, GOLS, MADE SAFE, GREENGUARD Gold, EWG VERIFIED
Sizes: Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, Cal King
Firmness: Plush (4.5-5/10), Cushion-Firm (6-6.5/10), Firm (7-8/10)
Thickness: 11"
Warranty: 25 Years
Sleep Trial: 100 Nights
Packaging: Roll-Packed with Recyclable Kraft Paper
Time to Expand: 1hr (Full Size), 6-12hrs (Optimal Support)
Price Point: $$-$$$

Why It's Effective for Allergy Sufferers: The Naturepedic Serenade Organic Hybrid Mattress is effective for allergy sufferers because its certified-organic latex, cotton, and wool are naturally hypoallergenic and resist dust mites and mold.

The hybrid design of the Naturepedic Serenade Organic Hybrid Mattress gave an immediately responsive comfort without a break-in period during testing (I was sleeping on it within 6 hours).

Temperature regulation was also a standout feature of this mattress. It performed exceptionally well across different room temperatures thanks to the breathable latex construction combined with organic cotton and wool materials.

Reinforced perimeter coils delivered stronger edge support than I expected, and the glueless wrapped coils delivered consistent bounce and support without excessive sinkage.

Naturepedic and BedInABox both reduce allergy symptoms, but BedInABox (reviewed next) is the better choice for people with latex allergies.

Pros & Cons

Chemical-free construction
Natural materials wick moisture and dissipate heat
Quick expansion
No adhesives in coils
Just one height option
High bounce factor (might disturb partner)

KEY FACTS

Materials: BioLux® Gel Memory Foam, BioLux® Support Foam, Organic Cotton Cover
Certifications: CertiPUR-US, OEKO-TEX, USDA BioPreferred
Sizes: Twin XL, Queen, King, Split King
Firmness: Medium-Firm (6/10)
Thickness: 11"
Warranty: 25 Years
Sleep Trial: 120 Nights
Packaging: Vacuum-Sealed and Rolled in a Compact Box
Time to Expand: A few minutes (Full Size), 24-48hrs (Optimal Support)
Price Point: $$-$$$

Why It's a Standout Option for Latex Allergy Sufferers: The BedInABox Eco-Lux Mattress is a standout option for latex allergy sufferers because it does not contain any latex. Naturepedic (reviewed above) is our other allergy-friendly pick, but it does contain GOLS-certified organic latex.

This mattress comes with a long list of trusted third-party certifications that confirm all foams used meet strict standards for emissions, durability, and safety. In fact, the BedInABox Eco-Lux Mattress carries the most certifications of all the memory foam mattresses I tested, although fewer than 100% organic options like the PlushBeds Botanical Bliss.

The foam layers provide a balanced medium-firm feel that works well for back, side, and combination sleepers. During testing, I found this mattress to be supportive, comfortable, and cool throughout the night.

Although only the cotton cover carries organic certification (the mattress is not fully organic), BedInABox uses low-emission and non-toxic materials in the rest of the construction.

Avocado and Awara offer a longer sleep trial (365 nights) than BedInABox (120 nights), making them better for cautious buyers who like to thoroughly test a mattress before committing.

Pros & Cons

34% renewable materials
Good contouring for hips, shoulders, and back
The most certified memory foam mattress on the market
Limited size options
Not fully organic

KEY FACTS

Materials: Organic New Zealand Wool, Organic Dunlop Latex, Water-Based Glue, Individually Wrapped Steel Coils
Certifications: GOLS, Rainforest Alliance, FSC, OEKO-TEX, GREENGUARD Gold
Sizes: Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, Cal King, Split King
Firmness: Medium-Firm (6.5/10)
Thickness: 12"
Warranty: Lifetime
Sleep Trial: 365 Nights
Packaging: Compressed, Rolled, and Boxed
Time to Expand: 30mins (Full Size), 24hrs (Optimal Support)
Price Point: $$

Why It's Perfect for Side Sleepers: The Awara Premier Natural Hybrid Mattress is perfect for side sleepers because the adaptive latex foam layer beneath the plush Euro top does an excellent job of aligning the spine and relieving pressure on the shoulders, hips, and legs.

This mattress combines GOLS-certified organic Dunlop latex with individually wrapped coils to create a medium-firm feel that prevents pressure point build-up during sleep.

The organic New Zealand wool used in this mattress serves dual purposes as both a natural fire retardant and moisture-wicking layer, eliminating the need for chemical flame retardants or a fireglass layer.

Awara's 365-night trial and lifetime warranty are the most generous I tested, and show confidence in their product.

Pros & Cons

Multiple eco-certifications
Superb pressure relief
Generous sleep trial and warranty
Affordable price
No choice of firmness

KEY FACTS

Materials: GOLS-Certified Organic Arpico Latex, GOTS-Certified Organic Wool, GOTS-Certified Organic Cotton, Fabric-Encased Steel Coils
Certifications: GOTS, GOLS, OEKO-TEX, Eco-Institut
Sizes: Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, Cal King, Split King
Firmness: Medium (4-5/10), Medium-Firm (5-6/10)
Thickness: 11"
Warranty: 15 Years
Sleep Trial: 90 Nights
Packaging: Compressed and Roll-Packed in A Box
Time to Expand: 1hr (Full Size), 24hrs (Optimal Support)
Price Point: $$

Why It's the Best for Under $1,500: The Eco Terra Hybrid Latex Mattress offers high-quality certified organic materials, hand crafted quality and a good level of comfort, all at an affordable price point.

The Eco Terra Hybrid Latex Mattress impressed me with its consistent comfort, thanks to single-source latex that avoids the flaws of cheaper blends.

Responsive latex and coils offer solid pressure relief and spinal support. Whether I slept on my back, side, or stomach, the support felt well-balanced and adaptable.

The Eco Terra 90-night trial and 15-year warranty are the least generous options of all the brands in this guide. However, for the price, it's still an excellent option to consider.

Eco Terra, Awara, and Happsy all offer queen-sized organic mattresses under $1,500, but Eco Terra has the lowest entry price (when on sale at $999).

Pros & Cons

Excellent edge support
Good temperature regulation and cooling
Affordable pricing for organic latex hybrid
Handcrafted in the USA
Poor motion isolation
Shorter than average sleep trial and warranty
Less luxurious than PlushBeds, Birch, Avocado, or Naturepedic options

KEY FACTS

Materials: Organic Cotton, Organic Wool, Organic Latex, Glueless Pocket Coils
Certifications: GOTS, GOLS, GREENGUARD Gold, MADE SAFE, 1% for the Planet, EWG Verified
Sizes: Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, Cal King
Firmness: Plush (4/10), Medium Firm (7/10)
Thickness: 10"
Warranty: 20 Years
Sleep Trial: 120 Nights
Packaging: Shrink-Wrapped in A Cardboard Box
Time to Expand: 30mins (Full Size), 48hrs (Optimal Support)
Price Point: $$

Why It's a Top Choice for Cooling Properties: The Happsy Organic Mattress is a top choice for cooling properties because its breathable coil system and organic wool work together to wick away moisture and regulate temperature.

This mattress (I tested the medium firm option) provided the perfect level of pressure point relief when I slept on my back and stomach during testing. However, I found that when side sleeping, it did give me a small amount of hip pain.

If you're a side sleeper who prefers a super plush mattress, you can add a topper to your plush Happsy Organic Mattress and take the firmness level down to a 2/10.

Pros & Cons

Certified organic materials
Excellent temperature regulation
Made in the USA
Medium firm gives limited pressure relief for side sleepers

What is a Mattress in a Box?

A mattress in a box is a sleep surface that has been compressed, rolled, and vacuum-sealed for easier shipping and handling, making it convenient for customers to receive them via standard shipping methods.

This streamlined delivery method has its advantages, but also a few trade-offs worth knowing before you buy.

What are the Pros and Cons of Bed-in-a-Box Mattresses?

Bed-in-a-box mattresses have gained popularity due to their convenience, but they're not without their problems. Here's a list of the most common pros and cons so you can make an informed purchase.

Pros

The main reasons people love bed-in-a-box mattresses include the following.

  • Easy Shipping and Handling: The compact size makes it easier to maneuver through tight spaces, such as stairwells and hallways.
  • Cost-Effective: Generally less expensive than traditional mattresses due to reduced shipping and storage costs.
  • Convenience: Delivered right to your doorstep, often with free shipping.
  • Quick Setup: Most boxed mattresses fully expand within hours and can be slept on the same day.
  • Minimal Contact Delivery: Ideal for those who prefer not to deal with in-store sales or in-home delivery crews.

But there are some drawbacks worth considering.

Cons

  • Limited In-Store Trials: You may not be able to try before you order.
  • Off-Gassing: Synthetic materials emit an unpleasant chemical smell, which can take weeks to clear. This is why it's so important to buy a non-toxic bed-in-a-box mattress, like the ones listed in this guide.
  • Durability: Not all bed-in-a-box options are built to last as long as traditional mattresses. However, all the options listed in this guide are both non-toxic and durable.
  • Environmental Impact Varies: Not all brands use sustainable materials or eco-friendly packaging, particularly in lower-priced models.

An organic mattress helps you avoid most of these issues.

Why Is an Organic Mattress Better?

An organic mattress is better because it reduces your exposure to toxic chemicals while supporting sustainable farming and manufacturing practices.

Organic mattresses are made from certified organic materials like latex, cotton, and wool, and contain no pesticides, flame retardants, or off-gassing foams.

To guarantee that your mattress is genuinely organic, you should look out for trusted certifications. Of all the mattresses I tested, PlushBeds and Avocado offer the most comprehensive organic material certifications, while Naturepedic specializes in chemical-free construction.

What Are the Best Non-Toxic Mattress Certifications?

The best mattress certifications include GOTS (found in PlushBeds, Birch, Avocado, Naturepedic, Eco Terra, and Happsy), GOLS (featured in all recommendations except BedInABox), GREENGUARD Gold, Eco-Institut, OEKO-TEX, Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certification, MADE SAFE, EWG VERIFIED, and CertiPUR-US.

You can read more about all of these certifications, and almost 100 more, in our Sustainability Certifications for Eco-Friendly Consumers article.

Getting a certified mattress is an important step to getting a good night's sleep, as is choosing the right firmness.

How Do I Choose the Right Mattress Firmness?

To choose the right mattress firmness, you need to know your sleeping position. The three most popular options are as follows.

  • Side Sleepers: Medium - Consider Awara (my top side sleeper pick) or the plush Happsy option (ideal if you weigh less than 130 pounds).
  • Back Sleepers: Medium to firm - Avocado's zoned support system excels here, while the Birch Luxe offers a balanced medium-firm feel.
  • Stomach Sleepers: Firm - Avocado's firm 11" option is the clear winner if you sleep on your stomach.

Properly caring for your mattress will help it maintain its correct level of firmness for years.

How to Care for Your  Bed in a Box Mattress

Proper care extends the life of your mattress and helps maintain a healthy sleep environment. The following tips will help keep your mattress in top shape.

  • Rotate Regularly: Rotate your mattress 180 degrees every 3 months to prevent body impressions and promote even wear.
  • Use a Mattress Protector: Choose an organic or hypoallergenic mattress protector to guard against spills, sweat, dust mites, and allergens without reducing breathability.
    Clean Spills Immediately: Blot (don't rub) liquids with a clean towel, then spot clean with a mild detergent and cold water (avoid soaking the mattress).
  • Air It Out: Strip the bed and let the mattress air out once a month to reduce moisture build-up and keep it fresh.

With consistent care, your mattress will stay supportive, clean, and comfortable for many years, and you won't need to return it.

What are Return Policies and Trial Periods for Bed in a Box Mattresses?

Return policies and trial periods let you test a mattress at home and send it back for a refund if it doesn't work for you.

Most online mattress brands offer trial periods lasting between 100 and 365 nights. This gives you several months to sleep on the mattress and decide whether it's right for you.

If it falls short of your expectations, return it during the trial period.

Every option listed in this guide has decent return polices and trial periods, so you won't be stuck with something that causes discomfort or doesn't live up to the promise. It's a risk-free way to find the right fit for you without stepping into a showroom.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Purple mattresses non-toxic?

Purple mattresses are non-toxic because they use materials that are CertiPUR-US certified and free from harmful chemicals like phthalates and formaldehyde. However, it's not a brand I tested due to a lack of organic certification.

What are the long-term health effects of sleeping on toxic mattresses?

The long-term health effects of sleeping on toxic mattresses are increased exposure to harmful chemicals like VOCs. Research published in Environmental Science & Technology links VOCs emitted from mattresses to eye, nose, and throat irritation, headaches, and cancer.

What are the common VOCs found in mattresses?

Common VOCs found in mattresses include formaldehyde, benzene, toluene, acetaldehyde, and methylene chloride. Synthetic foams, adhesives, flame retardants, and vinyl covers release these chemicals. To avoid VOCs, you should buy non-toxic mattresses like the ones in this article.

How can I dispose of an old non-toxic mattress responsibly?

To dispose of a non-toxic mattress, consider donating it, recycling it responsibly, or composting its natural materials if possible.

What is the difference between a mattress and a bed in a box?

The difference between a mattress and a bed in a box lies in the packaging and delivery. Companies compress and vacuum-seal bed-in-a-box mattresses to reduce shipping costs, whereas delivery teams transport traditional mattresses at full size.

What bed frame do you need for a mattress in a box?

Manufacturers design most mattresses in a box to work with many types of bed frames and foundations, including slatted platforms and adjustable bases, but you should always check the manufacturer's recommendations for optimal support.

James Miller
James Miller
James is an environmentalist, sustainability expert and senior editor at TheRoundup, specializing in testing non-toxic, organic and eco-friendly products. James, his wife and two daughters believe in chemical-free and zero-waste living. They aim to leave the planet in a better state than we found it, for future generations to enjoy.

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