Why Choose a Natural Mattress? Part III: Cotton & Latex

In Part I of this series, we explained the potential dangers hidden in many factory-made (conventional) mattresses, and in Part 2, we talked about the amazing benefits of wool as a natural alternative. Today we’re looking at why cotton and natural latex also make the perfect natural mattress materials.

COTTON

Cotton is a time-tested natural material, used widely in bedding since the 18th century. Known for its light weight and characteristic smoothness, the use of hand-sewn and hand-tufted cotton is as luxurious as it is practical. Cotton is also highly versatile - while cotton batting makes for a great cushioning layer within the spring-based mattresses, a 100% cotton casing is perfect for the outer layer of the mattress thanks to its exceptional breathability, moisture-wicking and hypoallergenic properties.

We use organic cotton whenever possible and practical, but ensure that all of our cotton suppliers adhere to high environmental standards. We try to source cotton as locally as possible too, with over 95% of our stock coming from North American suppliers and mills.

NATURAL LATEX

Natural latex is extremely durable and can be made to a specific density or firmness, providing for a highly customizable mattress design.

It not only rivals the supportiveness and comfort of memory foam, but is much more breathable, due to the space between the particles - which lends it a unique springiness. In fact “hot sleepers” are frequently amazed at how much cooler they feel on a natural latex mattress. And while memory foam can have a strong “off-gassing” odor that seems to linger, natural latex is relatively odorless (although some people may notice a hint of fresh rubber smell when they first get it).

We use two kinds of latex in our mattresses and accessories: 100% natural Talalay, and 100% organic Dunlop, each named for the simple heating and cooling processes that produce them.

Both types of natural latex come from the sap of a rubber tree, and as such, are renewable resources. Natural rubber is also a relatively sustainable choice because rubber trees grow quickly, heal from the extraction process quickly, and a single tree can be tapped for up to 30 years.

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These natural materials, combined with our traditional techniques such as hand-stitching and hand-tufting allow us to avoid the substances (i.e. glues, dyes, fabrics, and flame retardants) used in many conventional mattresses with proven health risks, as well as those that we just don’t know enough about yet.

But beyond the peace of mind that comes with knowing exactly what you’re sleeping on, a mattress made with all-natural materials can provide unsurpassed comfort, support and safety. So you can set yourself up for the best (and healthiest) sleep, night after night.