When it comes to making eco-friendly choices, one significant yet often overlooked areas is our bedroom, specifically our mattresses. I’ve needed a new mattress for many years but have delayed purchasing one because finding an eco-friendly brand seemed like a daunting task. However, as I delved deeper, I discovered that making an informed, eco-friendly choice is possible—and crucial for the environment.
In the UK, mattress disposal presents a considerable environmental challenge. According to the National Bed Federation, around 4.75 million mattresses every year end up in landfill or are incinerated in the UK – that’s equivalent to an area almost four times the size of the City of London.
Traditional mattresses, often made from synthetic materials like polyurethane foam, are not biodegradable and can take hundreds of years to break down. Additionally, these mattresses are typically treated with chemical fire retardants, which can leach into the environment, posing further ecological risks.
Given these statistics, I felt compelled to make a more sustainable choice. My journey towards finding an eco-friendly mattress involved a few key considerations which I want to share today, in the hope it will help you too:
1. Materials
The materials used in a mattress are a significant factor in its environmental impact. Natural materials such as organic cotton, natural latex, and wool are excellent choices. These materials are renewable, biodegradable, and often produced with fewer chemicals. For instance, organic cotton is grown without pesticides and synthetic fertilisers, reducing its ecological footprint.
Natural latex, derived from rubber tree sap, is another sustainable option. It is durable, biodegradable, and hypoallergenic. Wool is a fantastic material for regulating temperature and is naturally fire-resistant, reducing the need for chemical treatments.
In addition, hemp and flax are easy to grow and are known to be fantastic for durability, moisture wicking and resilience, which is essential when making such an important purchase.
However, these all-natural mattresses can be expensive. While the initial cost might be higher, the durability and health benefits often justify the investment. Additionally, supporting sustainable practices helps drive demand for eco-friendly products, potentially lowering prices over time.
2. Certifications
Eco-friendly certifications can help ensure that a mattress meets certain environmental standards. Look for certifications such as:
- Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS): This certification guarantees that the mattress contains at least 95% certified organic fibres and meets stringent environmental and social criteria.
- Global Organic Latex Standard (GOLS): This certifies that the latex is at least 95% organic and produced in a socially responsible manner.
- OEKO-TEX Standard 100: This certification ensures that the mattress is free from harmful substances.
- Cradle to Cradle: This assesses the product’s safety to humans and the environment and its design for future life cycles.
- Certified B Corps, are companies verified to meet high standards of social and environmental performance, transparency, and accountability.They commit to positively impact all stakeholders – workers, communities, customers, and our planet.
Consider too the locality of your mattress. Purchasing from local manufacturers can reduce the carbon footprint associated with shipping. Look for UK-based brands – especially those who use locally sourced raw materials and genuine craftspeople – or those with a transparent supply chain.
3. Manufacturing Process
The manufacturing process also impacts the eco-friendliness of a mattress. Companies that use renewable energy, reduce waste, and minimise water usage during production contribute positively to the environment. Furthermore, some brands go the extra mile by offering take-back programs, ensuring their mattresses are recycled or repurposed at the end of their life cycle.
Mattress recycling is a massive problem with only 14-24% of mattresses currently being recycled. While mattress recycling is relatively labour intensive, more and more opportunities are coming online throughout the UK where recyclable components are given a new lease of life. Synthetic foam can be made into carpet underlay and springs can be melted down and turned into new metal products. So be sure to recycle your mattress when buying new – there are plenty of ideas for doing that here, if you are unable to take advantage of a take-back programme.
4. Durability and Lifespan
A mattress that lasts longer is better for the environment because it reduces the frequency of disposal and the need for new resources. High-quality, durable mattresses might cost more upfront but save money and reduce environmental impact over time. Look for brands that offer extended warranties, indicating confidence in their product’s longevity.
In addition, opt for a brand that offers a generous trial period and hassle-free return policy. This ensures you can test the mattress and return it if it doesn’t meet your needs, without contributing to waste.
My Choice: Simba
During my search, one brand that caught my attention was Simba. They offer a range of mattresses combining synthetic and natural materials, aiming to balance comfort, support, and environmental responsibility. Simba’s use of innovative materials and their commitment to reducing waste in their manufacturing process stood out to me. While not entirely natural, their efforts towards sustainability make them a commendable option in the market. I love that they grow their own flax and hemp, use skilled people to stitch some of their range and offer a hassle-free recycling service for your old mattress. They also have a goal to be net zero by 2030 and use CertiPUR® recognised foam. And all done in the UK too – what’s not to love?!
Conclusion
Choosing an eco-friendly mattress is a worthwhile investment for both your health and the planet. While the journey to find the perfect sustainable mattress can be challenging and sometimes more costly, the benefits far outweigh the drawbacks. By considering the materials, certifications, manufacturing processes, and durability, you can make an informed choice that supports both your well-being and the environment. More brands are making strides in offering more sustainable options, making it easier for consumers to make environmentally responsible choices.
In the end, the peace of mind knowing that you are contributing to a healthier planet is priceless. So, after years of waiting, I finally decided to make the change, and it feels good to rest easy on a mattress that aligns with my values.
