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Mattresses

Standard mattresses are made with Polyvinylchloride plastic (PVC), and petroleum-based Polyurethane foam, with added Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) including formaldehyde, flame retardants, and toxic glues. Mattresses of natural, non-toxic materials are a worthwhile investment.

Look for a mattress or futon made of cotton, wool, or rubber, that uses polyethylene plastic as a shell. Wool is naturally flame retardent and cotton used is treated with non-toxic, borate flame inhibitors.

Bed frames that are made of metal, or sustainably grown wood, and have a non-toxic finish are best.

Organic bed linens are available as well.

Healthy Child partner Naturpedic sells a natural, chemical-free mattresses. They also offer answers to many questions you may have about standard vs. natural mattresses.

Healthy Child partner Greennest also offers crib and adult size natural and organic mattresses, futons and linens.

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Spotlight on the Experts

Melinda Gray

Melinda Gray completed her Master of Architecture at UCLA Graduate School of Architecture and Urban Planning in 1982. A licensed architect in the state of California, she has more than 15 years experience with small and large scale projects in the Los Angeles area. Her experience includes the design of sound studios, stages, and offices, retail stores, a medical diagnostic clinic, UCLA hospital renovations, a preschool renovation, … Read More »

Little Green Steps

What’s wrong with Polyurethane foam?

Polyurethane foam is essentially “foamified” petroleum and is extremely flammable. As such, it is heavily treated with fire retardant chemicals such as PBDEs (the most common of which was just banned by the state of California and across Europe). Many other questionable chemicals are also added in the fabrication process. Polyurethane foam disintegrates over time, breaking down into small particles that easily become airborne while releasing substantial VOCs throughout its life cycle. (from Naturpedic)

What is polyethylene and why is it good?

Polyethylene is an environmentally friendly plastic that is used throughout the food packaging industry for its purity, recyclability, and non-toxic properties. The polyethylene surface of the No-Compromise Organic Baby Crib Mattress is specially formulated using only pure food grade materials, creating the ultimate non-toxic and waterproof mattress cover. It is also easy to clean and will not stain. (from Naturpedic)