Some mattress companies will make any number of claims to encourage consumers to buy, and the result is often a process that doesn’t always convey clear information.
The most common marketing practice is hype, short for hyperbole. Basically, it means exaggerated language, but consider this definition, too: “language that describes something as better or worse than it really is.” When you get right down to it, claiming that any product is “chemical free” is misleading.
The term chemical free, taken literally, is a misnomer. Everything is made of chemicals—from your drinking water to your cell phone--and your own body. What’s important about chemicals for a mattress shopper is toxicity. You want to find an organic mattress that doesn’t contain the kinds of hazardous chemicals that will harm your health. These range from the polyurethane and formaldehyde in memory foam to chemical fabric finishes to dangerous flame retardants found in most mattresses.
What makes a healthful mattress?
The materials. Finding the right materials will bring you safer sleep and peace of mind--about every member of your family.
For a healthful, natural mattress core, no material can top natural latex. (Not “part natural” or “some natural”—but natural latex.) Natural latex literally comes from a tree—Hevea brasileana, the rubber tree. The latex sap is collected, whipped into a froth in a centrifuge, then steam-baked to produce sheets of natural latex foam.
Next, be sure to look for natural casing materials, such as pesticide-free organic cotton. And for natural fibers that allow a mattress to meet federal flame retardancy requirements. Most manufacturers rely on inexpensive but highly-toxic chemical flame retardants to cut costs. Though a naturally flame-resistant barrier (such as organic wool batting) may cost more, you’ll avoid the bioaccumulative compounds found in most flame retardants.
Finding your mattress
The mattress-buying process can be frustrating, but if you know what to look for, it can be a lot simpler. Natural latex is supremely supple and durable (often lasting longer than 20 years). And customizable models allow highly personalized comfort. The right organic mattress is a wonderful investment in your long-term health and well being.
If you’re on a modest budget, consider buying a more basic mattress with natural materials. You can still avoid chemical flame retardants without breaking the bank.
It’s time to sleep naturally, and sleep well!
This article was brought to you by SavvyRest, more information is available at www.savvyrest.com. Written by Toshy, March 31, 2015 - 2:56pm