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We’re not just editors, we’re also moms. After reviewing clean mattresses for a decade in our family home, these are our top selections for organic and nontoxic crib mattresses.
Babies under a year old sleep a lot — upwards of 12 – 16 hours a day. This sleep is critical in supporting both their cognitive and physical growth. But how much thought do you give to what they’re sleeping on? Traditionally, crib mattresses are made of or topped with polyurethane foam, which comes from petroleum, and they often contain potentially dangerous fire retardants. Plus, crib mattresses’ vinyl linings can emit harmful phthalates. Yuck.
Below, we discuss the essentials of organic crib mattresses and round up the best healthy crib mattresses on the market. Read on to learn more. 👶
Why are organic and nontoxic crib mattresses important?
Natural or organic mattresses reduce exposure to harmful chemicals commonly found in conventional mattresses. They can also be resistant to allergens, and offer durability through high-quality materials. These mattresses are often made with natural materials like organic cotton or wool, promoting better air quality and a safer sleeping environment for babies.
Let’s talk about potentially harmful chemicals. You know that weird smell when you first open something from a factory, like a mattress? That’s called off-gassing, and polyurethane foam is known for it. What you’re smelling are volatile organic compounds, or VOCs, and according to the American Lung Association they can be harmful in high amounts. In general, the less synthetic a mattress is, the less VOCs it emits. Crib mattresses are also often lined in vinyl — great for its waterproofing ability, sure, but not so great since it emits phthalates, chemicals linked to harmful health effects like disrupting your endocrine system.
“We know these flame retardants are hazardous…the fact that you found these chemicals in crib mattresses is evidence of an ongoing problem that we as a nation have been unwilling to confront.”
-Dr. Jerome Paulson
Since mattresses must contain flame retardants to meet government flammability standards, many companies use synthetic ones like boric acid, PBDEs, and antimony trioxide. Children are most vulnerable to the potential toxic effects of these synthetic chemicals because they’re still developing, according to the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences. Dr. Jerome Paulson, a George Washington University pediatrician stated in the Chicago Tribune “We know these flame retardants are hazardous…the fact that you found these chemicals in crib mattresses is evidence of an ongoing problem that we as a nation have been unwilling to confront.”
What should you look for when purchasing organic crib mattresses?
Alright, so we’ve gone over how some crib mattresses can be less than ideal for a baby’s health. So how do you shop for a better option? Your best bet is to look for third-party certifications that indicate product safety. The following are the ones we look for when it comes to organic crib mattresses:
- GOLS Certified (Global Organic Latex Standard): This certification ensures that the latex in your crib mattress contains more than 95% certified organic raw material. Stringent environmental and social criteria must also be met throughout the products supply chain in order to be certified.
- GOTS Certified (Global Organic Textile Standard): In order to receive a GOTS certification, 95% of a product’s materials must be certified organic. This certification is the gold standard for organic cotton, wool, and other textile components. They also monitor strict worker protections that ban exposure to toxic chemicals and child or forced labor.
- GREENGUARD Certified: A crib mattress with this certification ensures the product won’t emit VOCs at a harmful level. GREENGUARD’s standards is one of the world’s most rigorous and comprehensive for ensuring the lowest emissions and off-gassing.
- OEKO-TEX Certified: A crib mattress with this certification means it’s free of 100 commonly used toxic substances and allergens (from raw materials to final product).
- MADE SAFE: This nontoxic certification requires your crib mattress to validate that over 6,500 substances on the banned and restricted list have been avoided or constrained.
- USDA Certified Organic: This seal guarantees that the raw materials used in your crib mattress, such as cotton or wool, are at least 95% organic. However, unlike GOTS certification, it does not account for chemicals used during production or certify the entire mattress.
In general, look for mattresses made of natural materials like “organic cotton, organic wool, and natural latex,” says Golub. Some of these materials are naturally flame resistant, like wool, helping you avoid more harmful flame retardants. All crib mattresses should also be firm, which is crucial to babies’ health. “A firm mattress is essential at this stage of an infant’s growth to help prevent SIDS and other sleep-related accidents,” says Golub. The Consumer Product Safety Commission recommends babies sleep on their backs on a firm mattress with no pillows or blankets.
Our criteria:
There are a lot of organic crib mattress brands on the market — from niche organic cotton crib mattress brands to affordable organic baby mattress lines from larger manufacturers — so we’ve selected the best sustainable brands making nontoxic crib mattresses for your little ones using the criteria below. We regularly update this list with emerging standouts.
- ORGANIC | Each brand’s mattresses are made of natural or recycled materials like cotton, wool, latex, and recycled or clean polymers that meet third-party specs. We also look for brands that are PFAS-free.
- SAFETY & CERTIFICATIONS | Each brand features third-party certifications like GOLS, GOTS, and USDA Certified Organic to guarantee your little one’s safety. We’ve vetted these brands to make sure they never contain harmful substances found in traditional mattresses.
- FIRMNESS | Every mattress is firm to give your baby a safer sleeping experience and to reduce the risk of SIDS.
- PRICE | While we’ve selected mattresses across a range of price points, they’re all high quality and long lasting.
While you’re on the hunt for the best crib mattress, you might also be interested in the best nontoxic cribs. (We’ve got you covered with organic crib sheets and organic baby clothes too!) Need your own mattress upgrade? Head here for our guide to the best eco-friendly mattresses.
Best Overall | Most Affordable | Best Mini Crib Mattress
1. Naturepedic
Natural & Nontoxic Materials | GOTS-certified organic cotton, non-GMO sugarcane PLA fibers
Sizes | Baby, mini, oval, twin
Ships To | Contiguous US & Canada
Price | Starts at $269
Naturepedic offers not one, not two, but three crib mattresses for your little one. Yet regardless of which you choose, they’re all 100 percent organic and waterproof. The waterproofing element is made from food-grade polyethylene that still meets fire safety and food contact standards. For maximum safety, Naturepedic’s mattresses are GOTS, MADE SAFE, and GREENGUARD GOLD certified. Enjoy a lifetime limited warranty and a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Customer Review | ““I thought it would be hard to get excited about a mattress purchase, but boy was I wrong. This thing is excellent in build quality, the comfort and support it provides are far superior to the foam mattresses we have used previously. I strongly recommend and have already repurchased as a gift. Thanks again, Naturepedic!”” – Matt (Read all reviews.)
2. Avocado
Natural & Nontoxic Materials | GOTS-certified organic cotton, GOLS-certified organic latex, organic wool, organic coconut husk
Sizes | Dual-sided crib mattress, kids, twin
Ships To | US
Price | Starts at $249
Avocado, a leading name in the mattress industry, has created some of the most organic, sustainable, and well-crafted crib mattresses around. These baby beds are handmade at a GOTS and GOLS organic certified factory in Los Angeles with safe and natural materials — including organic cotton, wool, and latex. Avocado is also one of the first mattresses to receive EWG certification. Avocado’s mattress makes our list for its organic ingredients and comfort. (I’ve literally napped on my daughter’s crib mattress because it’s that dreamy.) It’s also dual-sided for two levels of firmness to transition from baby to toddler stage. With a 25-year warranty, a 30-night trial, and a range of price points, this B Corp touts the very best.
Customer Review | “Love that it’s non toxic and it’s so comfortable. Probably more comfortable than my bed. The fabric is so soft and the quality is great. Smells fresh too!” – Melissa T. (Read all reviews.)
3. Brentwood Home
Natural & Nontoxic Materials | GOTS-certified organic cotton
Sizes | Twin, twin XL, full
Ships To | US
Price | $459
Ready to transition out of the crib? Brentwood Home’s Juniper kids mattress is designed for worry-free sleep (and is great for bunk beds!). The gel-infused memory foam layer is made with CertiPUR-US plant-based BioFoam, and has a GOTS-certified organic waterproof liner. (The team has truly thought of it all!) Brentwood’s kids’ mattresses are GREENGUARD Gold certified, climate neutral, and made in the USA — so it’s as safe for the planet as it is for your bundle of love.
Customer Review | “I purchased this mattress for my grandson and am very happy with the quality, and the fact that its a safer, and made without the toxic chemicals of many mattresses.” – Kristen G. (Read all reviews.)
4. My Green Mattress
Natural & Nontoxic Materials | GOTS-certified organic cotton & wool, GOLS-certified organic latex & organic coconut coir
Sizes | Dual-sided crib, kids twin, kids twin XL, kids full, kids queen
Ships To | US & Canada
Price | Starts at $360
For a soothing and healthy night’s rest, consider My Green Mattress. Available in both crib and kids sizes, these certified organic mattresses are GOTS- and GOLS-certified, and made with natural, renewable materials like cotton, wool, Dunlop latex, and coconut fibers. These natural materials help protect your children from off-gassing, which is typically found in mattresses made with chemical flame retardants and polyurethane foams (you’ll find none of that here!). Breathable, pressure relieving, and dust, mold, and mildew free, you can rest easy knowing your kids will be getting safe and healthy sleep all night long. Free shipping is available across the contiguous US.
Our Editor’s Review | “The first thing I noticed when we did reading time that night was how luxurious the mattress felt. It had just enough plushness on top to give that delicious, sinking-into-a-cloud feeling without being a bean bag that destroys your back. Because here’s the thing about sleeping on a cloud: It’s not very good for your spine! Our bodies need enough support from our sleeping surfaces to keep us in alignment, and luckily the Pure Eco mattress provides that support beneath the cushy hand-tufted 100% organic GOTS-certified wool and cotton top. (Another cool thing about the wool? It acts as a non-chemical alternative flame retardant!)” – Stephanie Fallon, Contributing Editor [Read the full review.]
5. Organic Dream
Natural & Nontoxic Materials | Certified organic cotton
Sizes | Standard, mini, Pack and Play
Ships To | Contiguous US
Price | Starts at $130
Organic Dream makes crib mattresses in the USA from high-quality materials that are GREENGUARD GOLD certified and hypoallergenic. The washable, breathable mattresses come with two stages of firmness to easily transition from infant to toddler sleep support. The #1 Pediatrician recommended mattress, the organic material is clean and free from pesticides, fertilizers, and toxic chemicals. Your baby will rest easy so you can, too.
Customer Review | “My husband and I have so much peace of mind knowing our little one is sleeping safely at night on his OrganicDream. Organic was a big part of what we were looking for… #ExcellentMattress” – Del C. (Read all reviews.)
6. Obasan
Natural & Nontoxic Materials | GOTS- & GOLS-certified organic latex, coconut husk & cotton
Sizes | Standard
Ships To | US & Canada
Price | $425
Obasan‘s organic crib mattress is a luxurious, handcrafted product made in Canada using 100% GOTS and GOLS certified organic materials. Completely free of synthetic materials, it eliminates off-gassing, chemical flame retardants, and harmful additives, offering a safe and healthy sleeping environment for babies. Designed to fit standard North American cribs, it features dual organic layers for optimal support, a removable fire-resistant outer casing, and comes with a complimentary organic wool moisture pad for temperature control and protection. Obasan’s commitment to quality ensures a toxin-free, eco-friendly mattress that prioritizes the health of both your baby and your home.
Customer Review | “We purchased two crib mattresses from Obasan and we are thrilled! Knowing our babies are sleeping on safe, organic mattresses was super important to us. We are very happy to have a local manufacturer of organic beds.” – Pamela (Read all reviews.)
7. Lullaby Earth
Natural & Nontoxic Materials | Polyurethane-free foam, EWG Verified (which means no PFAS are ever used)
Sizes | Dual-sided crib mattress
Ships To | US
Price | $180
Lullaby Earth’s dual-stage mattress will have your baby sleeping soundly for years to come. Its lightweight core is made with 50 percent foam, and the waterproof surface is made with food-grade polyethylene (both of which are entirely recyclable!). It’s both MADE SAFE and GREENGUARD GOLD certified, and crafted without flame retardants, toxic chemicals, polyurethane foam, and more. Safe, sustainable, and stylish enough for any nursery or bedroom.
Customer Review | “I have 4 kids, and this mattress is better than any cheap one we have tried. It’s comfortable, holds its shape, and fits great in the crib or toddler bed. Don’t hesitate- the customer service is excellent too!” – jenn4kids (Read all reviews.)
8. KUB
Natural & Nontoxic Materials | Virgin natural linen & cotton
Sizes | Standard-size crib
Ships To | Contiguous US
Price | $200
For sweet dreams with added protection, KUB’s crib mattresses have it covered! Designed with over 1000 support points all wrapped up in breathable linen and cotton, this elasticky yet super soft crib mattress offers unmatched comfort for a night of soothing rest. Even more impressive, tests done by a CPSC-accredited lab found that babies get a whopping 97% more air when they breathe through a KUB Crib Mattress compared to a regular waterproof one. It’s also machine washable so you can keep this crib mattress in its best shape, worry-free. Orders ship for free within 1 — 3 business days, throughout the contiguous US. Need we say more?
Customer Review | “The mattress is amazing! The core is not built with foam, so it’s very airy and breathable. During sleep, my baby got plenty of airflow even with her face down. Happy with the purchase!” – Emily H. (Read all reviews.)
9. Essentia
Natural & Nontoxic Materials | GOLS-certified latex, GOTS-certified organic cotton
Sizes | Standard
Ships To | Contiguous US
Price | $699
Essentia’s LaLa Organic Crib Mattress is ahead of the class when it comes to clean certifications. Their natural memory foam mattresses are GOLS and GOTS certified, as well as nontoxic, ethically sourced, and sustainably made. Designed to support and cradle your little one without restricting blood flow or emitting allergens, these thoughtfully made mattresses are vegan, cruelty-free, and biodegradable to boot!
Customer Review | “Love love it! My 18 month old daughter likes to sleep on her belly with her knees tucked up, and as soon as we switched to this mattress she had fewer night wake ups. I love the quality and love how comfortable it is for my little girl!” – Sophie S. (Read all reviews.)
10. Nestig
Natural & Nontoxic Materials | Organic cotton cover & fill, food grade polymer
Sizes | Crib mattress, mini air mattress
Ships To | US
Price | Starts at $129
For washable and breathable crib mattresses that are built to last, check out Nestig. The brand not only designs and builds cribs and other nursery furniture, but they also offer a great collection of crib mattresses from trustworthy bedding brands. Here you’ll find Naturepedic, Lullaby Earth, and Newton crib mattresses, each with their own special features, based on your needs. Removable, washable covers make it easy to care for your mattress when accidents happen, and if replacement covers are needed, Nestig carries a selection of mattress covers for when you’re in a pinch. Most of these mattresses are GREENGUARD GOLD certified and made in the USA, for peace of mind.
Customer Review | “What a literal breath of fresh air to open the mattress package and have absolutely no odor! We can all sleep soundly knowing the baby is dreaming on a healthy mattress.” – Anonymous (Read all reviews.)
What are common harmful substances found in crib mattresses?
While you can find more affordable crib mattresses than the options on this list, it’s important to recognize that not all crib mattresses are created equal. Most conventional crib mattresses available online and in-store contain harmful substances that impact your home’s air quality and most importantly, your baby’s health with chronic, long-term exposure. Here are a few to look out for:
- Polyurethane is a commonly used foam in mattresses, but it can release VOCs through off-gassing. (That new mattress smell? It might be the polyurethane!) This can cause respiratory irritation and headaches.
- Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) are gasses emitted from certain solids or liquids, including many synthetic materials used in mattresses. (They’re also common in paints!) VOCs have health impacts ranging from mild irritation and nausea to liver, kidney, and central nervous system damage. Some VOCs are even known carcinogens.
- Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) are a group of man-made chemicals used in some mattresses and furniture for their water and stain-resistant properties. Research on these “forever chemicals” by the CDC and the EPA has linked PFAS to conditions such as liver damage, thyroid disease, obesity, hormone suppression, and cancer.
- Chemical flame retardants, like brominated or halogenated flame retardants, are added to mattresses to ensure they meet fire safety standards. These flame retardants have been linked to health issues such as endocrine disruption, neurodevelopmental issues, and cancer, especially in vulnerable populations like infants or the elderly.
- Fiberglass is used in some mattresses as an inexpensive flame retardant, but fiberglass fibers can be released into the air and environment if the mattress cover is removed or torn. Aside from short-term irritation, chronic inhalation of fiberglass can worsen respiratory conditions like asthma or bronchitis.
Featured image is from Naturepedic
