Best Organic, Non-Toxic Mattresses Of 2022

Many mattresses claim to be “organic” or “natural,” but what do those buzzwords mean exactly? Different certification seals represent achievement of different standards—for example, in order for a mattress to have a U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) organic seal, it must consist of at least 95% organic materials. 

While many mattresses don’t bear that seal, Consumer Reports notes that manufacturers can use the term “organic” even if only a portion of the materials used are certified organic. Still, other certifications—such as Certi-PUR and Greenguard—can provide transparency, ensuring that certain parts of the mattress weren’t made with certain materials or chemicals.

If you’re considering buying a more natural mattress, look for one with endorsements from ethical, organic and environmental certifying authorities like the Global Organic Latex Standard (GOLS) and Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS). 

To find the best organic, non-toxic mattresses available, we analyzed data on more than 650 mattress options and ranked them in terms of materials used, price, comfort, their try-and-return policies and more. See which mattresses made the list and learn about organic mattresses, the benefits of getting one and how to choose the right one for you. Note: This ranking focuses exclusively on queen size mattresses. Prices and availability of mattresses are subject to change. 

Best Organic, Non-Toxic Mattresses of 2022

Bear Original Mattress

Price: $749 | Type: Foam | Certifications: GreenGuard Gold and CertiPUR-US |

4.5

Bear Pro Mattress

Price: $1,465 | Type: Foam | Certifications: GreenGuard Gold and CertiPUR-US

4.3

Nolah Natural 11-Inch Mattress

Price: $1,799 | Type: Latex hybrid | Certifications: OEKO-TEX 100 Class 1 certified and made with organic cotton and wool

4.0

Bear Hybrid Mattress

Price: $1,732 | Type: Hybrid | Certifications: GreenGuard Gold and CertiPUR-US |

3.5

Birch Natural Mattress

Price: $1,799 | Type: Hybrid | Certifications: GreenGuard Gold, eco-INSTITUT and made with GOTS-certified organic cotton and materials |

3.5

Avocado Green Mattress

Price: $1,599 | Type: Hybrid | Certifications: GreenGuard Gold, Standard 100 by OEKO-TEX Class 1 and made with GOLS-certified organic latex and GOTS-certified organic wool and cotton |

3.0

Avocado Vegan Mattress

Price: $1,599 | Type: Hybrid | Certifications: GreenGuard Gold, PETA-approved and made with GOTL-certified latex and GOTS-certified cotton |

3.0

What Is an Organic Mattress?

While there are stricter requirements for a mattress to be USDA-certified organic (and mattresses with that seal are few and far between), a mattress can use the term “organic” if just some of its materials are certified organic, according to Consumer Reports. 

Mattresses with “organic” or “natural” labels test for various chemicals or emission limits. These mattresses might be environmentally-friendly, sustainably sourced and/or made with non-toxic or organic materials. It all depends on its seals of certifications. Here are some certifications to look for when purchasing an organic mattress: 

  • Global Organic Latex Standard (GOLS). GOLS awards its seal to mattresses manufactured from at least 95% organic latex, with additional restrictions on the other latex featured in the mattress. 
  • Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS). Similar to GOLS, this certification ensures at least 95% of materials in a mattress are certified organic and prohibits use of certain materials.

Other certifications that indicate a mattress meets more rigorous safety, health and environmental guidelines include:

  • GreenGuard Gold 
  • CertiPUR-US
  • Standard 100 by Oeko-Tex
  • Eco-INSTITUT 
  • MADE SAFE

Benefits of an Organic Mattress

Despite often carrying a heftier price tag, an organic and natural mattress can provide the following benefits: 

  • They may be hypoallergenic. Organic mattresses are often made with materials that are safe for people with allergies and may help minimize allergens that can impair sleep quality. 
  • They may be pollutant-free. Organic mattresses are often made without harmful chemicals like volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which can trigger unpleasant symptoms like allergies, dizziness, headaches, nausea and throat irritation.
  • They may have a smaller impact on the environment. Mattresses that carry organic standard certifications may follow sustainability best practices from sourcing materials to production processes.

How to Choose an Organic Mattress

Here are few details to consider when shopping for an organic mattress:

  • Affordability. Although mattresses are a long-term and worthwhile investment, how much you can spend on one comes down to your budget. Choose an organic mattress that accommodates your budget while also satisfying the basic requirements of an organic mattress.
  • Mattress features. Organic mattresses come with various features that satisfy different sleep needs. If you’re a hot sleeper, consider a mattress with cooling technology. If you experience body pains, consider a medium-firm mattress that prioritizes ergonomics-backed comfort.
  • Certifications. Quality organic mattresses should have third-party credentials to back them up. Look for a mattress certified by at least one recognized certifying authority before purchasing one.
  • Your sleeping position. Whether you’re a back sleeper, side sleeper, stomach sleeper or combination sleeper, there’s an organic mattress ideal for your sleeping style. For instance, back sleepers may enjoy a medium-firm mattress that evenly distributes body weight and gently cushions their body.