Choosing the right furniture for your baby can be extremely overwhelming, especially for new parents who are trying to avoid harmful chemicals. With so much deceptive marketing, itโs tough to know whatโs truly safe. This is especially true when it comes to a crib mattress, where your newborn will spend a significant amount of time. Non-toxic, organic, and breathable mattresses are crucial because they ensure your baby sleeps in a safe environment, free from harmful chemicals like PVC, phthalates, and flame retardants. At the same time, these mattresses need to be comfortable (to avoid overheating) and supportive to help your baby sleep well as they grow. So, what are the best non-toxic crib mattresses?ย
With all of that in mind, weโve put together this list of the best organic and non-toxic crib mattresses to help you make an informed choice for your babyโs health and comfort.
Note: This article contains affiliate links, meaning In On Around will make a small commission at no additional cost to you. This helps us maintain the site. As always, we value full transparency & only work with brands we love and trust.
This article is co-authored by Kathlyn Carney and Catherine Power.ย
- Published On:
- Updated On: December 11, 2024
Summary:ย
- Opt for a breathable mattress made with organic ingredients, like wool. Ideally one with a high-quality certification, like from Greenguarg Gold, GOTS, and MADE SAFE.
- Best Brands = Naturepedic, Avocado
Table of Contents
Is A Non-Toxic or Organic Crib Mattress Really Necessary?
When it comes to your babyโs health, choosing a non-toxic or organic crib mattress is a top priority. Babies are more vulnerable to the effects of harmful chemicals due to their underdeveloped organs and systems, and their bodies absorb toxins more readily than adults. Crib mattresses often contain slow-release chemicals used as a flame retardant, which can be off-gassing into the air and affecting your babyโs health. Since babies spend so much time sleeping (up to 16 hours a day) choosing a safe, breathable mattress is absolutely crucial. Sleep should be a restorative time for detox, not a period of exposure to chemicals.ย
Common Toxins In Crib Mattresses
Sleep is absolutely critical for proper growth and development, especially for newborns and infants. During this important time, you want to ensure that your baby is not breathing in or absorbing harmful toxins that can affect their health.ย
Many conventional crib mattresses contain various chemicals that can off-gas into the air, potentially exposing your baby to dangerous substances (and polluting your indoor environment).ย
Here are some common toxins found in crib mattresses that youโll want to avoid:
Flame Retardants
- Common flame retardants in crib mattresses include organophosphorus compounds, halogenated chemicals, and tris-based substances. MADE SAFE reported that these chemicals have been linked to serious health issues, including endocrine disruption, fertility problems, cancer, thyroid dysfunction, lower IQ, hyperactivity, and neurodevelopmental delays.ย
- There are different names for flame retardants that have been linked to these health issues. One common one is polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) which have been found in higher levels in children than adults. Chemicals like Firemaster 550 contain carcinogenic compounds such as tetrabromophthalate (TBPH). Chlorinated tris was even banned from children’s pajamas in the 1970s due to its cancer-causing properties, but is still used in mattresses.ย
- Unfortunately, even newer halogen-free flame retardants, while less likely to build up in the body, are not completely safe. According to Gimme the Good Stuff, other materials such as boric acid, silica, melamine, vinylidene chloride, and fiberglass, are also used to meet flammability standards. Fiberglass, in particular, can cause skin irritation or respiratory issues.ย
- The Environmental Working Group explains that flame retardant exposure can be an ongoing issue because they tend to leach out slowly. While some states have started banning certain flame retardants, many mattresses containing these harmful chemicals are still on the market. To avoid exposure, opt for mattresses that use safer, chemical-free alternatives without flame retardants or fiberglass. [1, 2, 3]
PFAS
- PFAS, also known as “forever chemicals,” are used in crib mattresses for waterproofing due to their liquid-repellent properties. They are rarely disclosed by manufacturers and are linked to serious health issues like cancer and endocrine disruption. PFAS can accumulate in the human body. We know this because they have been detected in nearly all Americans’ blood that was tested. [4, 5]
- You can learn more about PFAS here: Per/Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) โ What Are Forever Chemicals & How Do We Avoid Them?
Latex
- Latex mattresses are often made from styrene, a known human carcinogen (NIH). Many mattresses with natural latex may contain petroleum or may only contain 50% natural latex. This is because latex can be blended with polyurethane foam and treated with VOCs (see more information on these two substances below). [6, 7]ย
- When buying crib mattresses, look for mattresses labeled as 100% natural latex.ย
- Kathlyn here, latex is also a common allergy for kids and adults! If you have a latex allergy or are concerned about your child having one, you may want to get a mattress that doesnโt contain latex at all, even if it is 100% natural.ย
Adhesives
- Adhesives are commonly used in crib mattresses to bind materials together. However, some adhesives, like n-propyl bromide (nPB), have been linked to neurotoxicity, cancer, and mucous membrane irritation, leading to stricter U.S. regulations on their use.
- Other adhesives, such as formaldehyde-based or water-based glues, may also pose toxicity risks. Unfortunately, their exact formulations are often not disclosed by manufacturers to keep their formulations secret from competitors. Safer mattress options avoid adhesives altogether, using methods like stitching, clips, or heat bonding. [8, 9, 10, 11, 12]ย
PCV
- Polyvinyl chloride (PVC), often used to make crib mattresses waterproof, is one of the most harmful plastics to human health. Its production releases toxic chemicals like dioxins, vinyl chloride, lead, and phthalates into your home (CHEJ). These chemicals have been linked to health issues, including hormone disruption, asthma, and other long-term risks.
- To avoid exposure, steer clear of mattresses labeled as “waterproof” or “stain-resistant” unless the waterproofing method is clearly disclosed. [13, 14, 15]
Vinyl and Plasticizers
- Crib mattress covers are often made of vinyl and softened with plasticizers. Phthalates have been used as plasticizers, which can harm the reproductive system and increase asthma and allergy risks. While three harmful phthalates were banned in children’s products in 2009, some crib mattresses may still contain them. Manufacturers now use plasticizers without phthalates, but concerns remain about their safety due to limited data.
- It is best to purchase crib mattresses and mattress covers that are not made of vinyl or plastic. Wool is a better option for mattress covers! [16]
Phthalates
- As we mentioned above, phthalates should be avoided in crib mattresses because of the potential impact they can have on the reproductive, respiratory, and immune systems. Along with plasticizers, another culprit of phthalates in crib mattresses is fragrance. Fragrance can be used to mask odors.ย
- To continue to minimize the risk of phthalates, choose crib mattresses that are not scented, treated with chemical antimicrobials, and made of vinyl/plastic. [17, 18, 19]ย
Polyurethane Foam
- Polyurethane foam, the main material in most crib mattresses, is made from petroleum and can contain harmful chemical additives like formaldehyde, benzene, and toluene. While some believe older foam mattresses are safer because they are “off-gassed,” degrading foam can release more hormone-disrupting flame retardants over time. [20, 21]
Soy Foam
- Soy foam in crib mattresses is often marketed as eco-friendly but typically contains a small percentage of soy mixed with polyurethane foam, which still includes petroleum-based components and chemical additives. This makes it no safer or more sustainable than traditional polyurethane foam.
VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds)
- Crib mattresses often release volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which are chemicals used in manufacturing that can off-gas into the air, causing a strong odor. It is recommended to let these mattresses air out or off-gas for as long as possible before a baby sleeps on them. This is because VOC exposure can lead to immediate health issues like respiratory irritation, headaches, nausea, and allergic reactions. And prolonged exposure may increase the risk of asthma and cancer.ย
- Studies show that new crib mattresses release significantly more VOCs than older ones, particularly in the area of the crib where the baby sleeps because the babyโs body heat intensifies emissions. Opting for mattresses with low or no VOC certifications can help reduce these risks. [22, 23, 24]ย ย
Whatโs The Difference Between An Organic Crib Mattress And Non-Toxic Crib Mattress?
โOrganicโ and โnon-toxicโ are thrown around a lot, but what do they actually mean, and are these terms regulated?ย
An organic crib mattress is made from certified organic materials like cotton, wool, or natural latex, grown without harmful chemicals or pesticides. These mattresses are regulated and must meet specific standards set by certification organizations (such as the Global Organic Textile Standard, or GOTS), ensuring they are truly organic and free from toxic chemicals. They are also free from chemical treatments like flame retardants, making them a healthier option for your baby. Make sure that your โorganicโ mattress is certified by a reputable certification body – there ARE some brands that misrepresent this label without actually being certified.ย
A non-toxic crib mattress focuses on eliminating harmful chemicals like flame retardants, phthalates, and PVC but doesnโt necessarily use organic materials. Since there are no specific regulatory standards for the term “non-toxic,” this label can vary, and the materials used may still include synthetics.
Tips On Avoiding Greenwashing In Crib Mattresses
As weโve mentioned, there is PLENTY of greenwashing in the mattress industry. Here are some simple tips to find better options:
- Look for safer alternatives to fiberglass and other harmful chemicals that meet fire safety standards, such as wool.
- Select a crib from a manufacturer that is transparent about the materials used.
- Avoid mattresses made with PVC or vinyl.
- Opt for a mattress without polyurethane foam or soy foam, if possible.
- Check the type of mattress your child uses during the workday if theyโre at daycare.
- Regularly clean the crib mattress with a high-quality vacuum to remove dust and toxic chemical buildup.
- Consider choosing an EWG VERIFIED crib mattress, which meets rigorous standards and criteria based on the latest scientific research. [25]ย
The best way to avoid greenwashing this is to look for specific certifications, including:
โ Greenguard Gold
- One of the main purposes of this certification is to keep air quality safe. Mattresses with the Greenguard Gold have been tested for, and are within limits of, several hundred VOCs, including formaldehyde and phthalates. Unfortunately, this certification does not test for flame retardants or PFAS. [26]
โ OEKO-TEX
- The OEKO-TEK Class 1 certification prohibits the use of certain flame-retardants and dyes to be used in mattresses and sets limits for VOC emissions. Unfortunately, just because a mattress received this certification does not mean that organic materials were used. [27]
โ Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS)
- To obtain a GOTS certification, it must contain at least 70% organic fibers. And to receive the GOTS-certified organic certification, at least 95% of the mattress must be made of certified organic materials. Additionally, to receive a GOTS โthe entire manufacturing and distribution process is environmentally safe and socially responsible.โ [28]ย
- The GOTS certification will not certify a mattress that contains:
- Polyurethane foam
- Heavy metals
- Formaldehyde
- Certain flame retardantsย
โ Global Organic Latex Standard (GOLS)
- To receive the GOLS certification, the mattress must be made of at least 95% organic latex. Unfortunately, the remaining 5% could be made from less desirable materials. Mattresses that receive the GOLS have been third-party tested, too! [29]
โ MADE SAFEย
- This is a nontoxic certification for household items. If the item has a MADE SAFE label, the ingredients have been screened for ones that are โeither known or suspected to cause harm to human health, animals, aquatic life, or ecosystems.โ MADE SAFE screens about 6,500 ingredients! [30]ย
โ Eco-INSTITUTยฎ for latex
โ 100% Organic Cotton
โ Organic Wool (Untreated)
โSafeโ, โnaturalโ, โorganicโ, โgreenโ, โeco-friendlyโ โall-natural wool,โ โpure wool,โ etc. doesnโt cut it. You want to look for the above certifications.
Breathability Counts For Comfort & Safety
A breathable mattress is key to keeping your baby comfortable and safe while they sleep. It helps regulate body temperature and reduces the risk of overheating or suffocation, so your little one can sleep soundly. Natural materials like cotton and wool are great because they allow air to flow freely, keeping things cool and cozy.ย
Thatโs why non-toxic, organic mattresses often hit the markโtheyโre made with these breathable materials, giving you peace of mind that your baby is resting in a safe, comfy environment.
5 Best Organic, Non-Toxic, and Breathable Crib Mattresses
The Naturepedic Crib Mattress options are incredible! They have 3 different options for you that are all made with GOTS-certified organic cotton, UL/Greenguard Gold Certified, MADE Safe Certified, and EWG Certified. Learn more about them below:ย
Classic vs. Breathable vs. Breathable Ultra
- Classic: $269-$329
- 100% certified organic
- GOTS-certified organic cotton fabric and filling
- Waterproof surface made from sugarcane
- Heat-sealed seamsย
- Extra-firm support
- Snug fitย
- 150 coil innerspring
- wavesupportโข core
- UL/Greenguard Gold Certified
- MADE Safe Certified
- GOTS Certifiedย
- EWG Certifiedย
- No flame retardants, vinyl/PVC, phthalates or allergenic latex
- Breathable: $359-$399ย
- 100% GOTS Certified organic cottonย
- Waterproof surface made from non-GMO sugarcane
- 360 degrees of airflow
- Removable, breathable and washable layer is also a built-in mattress protector
- 252 coil innerspring
- wavesupportโข core
- 2-Stage option: 2-stage dual firmness provides a firmer side for infants and a medium-firm side for growing toddlers
- UL/Greenguard Gold Certified
- MADE Safe Certified
- GOTS Certifiedย
- EWG Certifiedย
- No adhesives or polyurethane foam
- Passes flame standards without fire retardants or chemical additives
- Breathable Ultra: $459-$499
- 360 degrees of airflow
- Removable, breathable, machine-washable layer is extra thick for maximum breathability and doubles as a mattress protector
- Improves temperature regulation
- 252 coil innerspring
- wavesupportโข core
- 2-Stage: 2-stage dual firmness provides a firmer side for infants and a medium-firm side for growing toddlers
- 100% GOTS-certified organic cotton
- UL/Greenguard Gold Certified
- MADE Safe Certified
- GOTS Certifiedย
- EWG Certifiedย
- Waterproof surface made from non-GMO sugarcane
- No adhesives or polyurethane foam
- No vinyl/PVC, phthalates, or allergenic latex
- Passes flame standards without fire retardants or chemical additives
ย
Avocado Crib Mattresses are also a great option for your infant and toddler! There are three different options, all of which are GOTS-certified, EWG-verified, Climate Neutral Certified, and made in the US! Avocadoโs crib mattresses use organic cotton, hemp, wool, and a coconut husk pad infused with organic latex. Check out all three below:ย
Organic vs. Eco vs. Luxury options
- Organic: $395-$439
- Dual-firmness crib mattress
- Greenguard Gold certifiedย
- MADE-SAFE certified
- EWG verifiedย
- Climate Neutral Certified
- Handmade in the USA
- 2-stageย
- Made with coconut coir, GOTS-certified organic cotton and wool, and GOLS-certified organic latex
- Fits standard-size baby cribsย
- Firm base support
- Ships Flat
- No polyurethane foams, chemical glues or adhesives, vinyl waterproofing or polyethylene, or flame retardant chemicals
- Tested for PFAS chemicalsย
- Eco: $224-$249ย
- Most affordable optionย
- Available in single and dual-sided
- 241 individually wrapped innerspring coils, providing superior support and comfort for your baby
- Naturally coolย
- GOTS-certified organic cotton and wool
- EWG verifiedย
- Climate Neutral Certified
- Handmade in the USA
- No polyurethane foams, vinyl, flame retardants, antimicrobial treatments, fiberglass, or waterproofing chemicals
- Tested for PFAS chemicals
- Luxury: $1,241-$1,379ย
- GOTS-certified organic crib mattress
- 2-stageย
- 170 ultra-premium cotton-wrapped coils
- EWG verifiedย
- Greenguard Gold certifiedย
- MADE-SAFE certified
- Climate Neutral Certified
- Formaldehyde Free certified by the UL Environmentย
- Handmade in the USA
- Made to orderย
- Fits standard cribsย
- Earned the Good Housekeeping Sealย
- No petroleum-based polyurethane foams, chemical adhesives, vinyl waterproofing, polyurethane, polyethylene, or flame-retardant chemicals
- Tested for PFAS chemicalsย
- $279-$338
- 360ยฐ air circulation
- WaveSupportโข design – meets Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and pediatrician firmness recommendations
- 2-stage option (available with Breeze Air)
- Polyester fill and polyester used for the interlinings with food-grade polyethylene waterproof surface
- Breathable cover uses polyester fabric, polyurethane (TPU) waterproof backing and elastane elastic band
- GOTS certified organic cotton
- Greenguard Gold Certified
- Formaldehyde Free Verified
- MADE-SAFE Certified
- EWG verifiedย
- Made in the USA
- $425
- GOTS and GOLS certified organic latex, coconut husk, cotton, and woolย ย
- Complimentary fitted organic wool moisture pad
- Moisture-wicking wool for temperature control
- Pressure-relieving certified organic rubber
- Fits all standard North American crib frames
- Made in Canadaย
- No off-gassing, chemical flame retardants, vinyl waterproofing, and no junky polyurethane foams
- Chemical- and dye-free
- Opt for the organic cotton option
- $650-$1,000
- Handcrafted to your unique specificationsย
- Can choose the thickness in inchesย
- Can choose the fabric – the 100% organic cotton is GOTS Certified and the other options are OEKO-TEK Certifiedย
- Made from wool which is naturally flame-resistantย
- Dust mite and mildew resistant, anti-microbial, anti-bacterial
- Hypoallergenicย
- 100% Pure certified materialsย
- No chemicals and synthetics (including Dyes, Bleaches, Finishes, Carbonized Wool, Plastics, Latex, Vinyl, Springs)
- No glues and flame retardants
- No off-gassing and zero VOCs
Donโt Forget The Mattress Pad/Protector
These also must be breathable! These are our favorite optionsโฆ
- Waterproof: $59-$79ย
- Three-layer system consists of 100% GOTS-certified organic cotton on top and bottom with an ultra-thin waterproof layer in the center
- TPU polyurethane barrier
- MADE SAFE certifiedย
- Greenguard Gold Certifiedย
- UL Validatedย
- Machine wash and dry
- No vinyl/PVC, phthalates, butane rubber, or other questionable waterproofing materials
- Breathable: $69-$99ย
- GOTS-certified organic cotton surfaceย
- 3-dimensional polyester lattice structureย
- TPU polyurethane barrier
- Waterproof backing
- Sewn and finished in the US
- Uses a polyester blend
- Breathe Safe Cover: $39-$59
- Breathableย
- Waterproof backing
- Machine washableย
- Waterproof Pad: $119-$139
- Breathable
- Waterproof backing
- Machine washable
- Gentle Start Cover: $59
- Breathable
- Waterproof backing
- Machine washable
What If I Canโt Access Or Afford A Non-Toxic Crib Mattress?
Donโt overwhelm yourself if you canโt afford a non-toxic crib mattress! If youโre opting for a traditional crib mattress, follow these tips:ย
- Offgas as long as you can to get those VOCs and SVOCs out
- HEPA vacuum the mattress thoroughly before use
- Get a non-toxic organic mattress cover
- Invest in an air purifier (still an investment, but more affordable than a new mattress)
Final Thoughts: Breathable Non-Toxic Crib Mattress
Clearly, there are a lot of crib mattress options on the market. It can be overwhelming, but luckily there are great options available like Naturepedic and Avocado.
Hey Parents, Your Mattress Matters Too!
Weโre narrowed down the best adult mattresses too! Check out this article for information on upgrading the one item you use the most in your bedroom: The Most Organic, Safe, and Affordable Nontoxic Mattresses.
Let me know your thoughts and key takeaways in the comments below!
xoxo,
Want to read more? Check out our other articlesย here!ย
Other references on Non-toxic crib mattress from: Babylist, Branch Basics, Green Child Magazine, Wellness Mama, Gentle Nursery, Gimme The Good Stuff, MADE SAFE, EWG, CDC, NIH, International Archives of Occupational and Environmental Health, National Toxicology Program, EPA, CHEJ, Healthy Child, Consumer Reports, Green Active Family, Springer Nature
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Frequently Asked Questions โ Non-Toxic Crib Mattress
Click on the below FAQs to learn more about the safest, non-toxic crib mattress and the best breathable organic crib mattress.
A non-toxic crib mattress is free from harmful chemicals like flame retardants, VOCs, and phthalates, ensuring a safe sleep environment for your baby.
Look for GOTS-certified materials, such as organic cotton or wool, to ensure the mattress meets stringent organic and safety standards.
