Organic Mattresses for Kids

More About Organic Mattresses for Kids

Is an organic kids mattress worth it?

Yes. A 2015 study found phthalates, phthalate alternatives, unreacted isocyanates, and flame retardants in a majority of crib mattresses tested, and twin mattress for young kids are no different. Kids and babies are more vulnerable to harmful compounds than adults for a few reasons: they have thinner skin and can absorb chemicals through it more easily. They also have more skin surface area compared to their size than adults. They breathe faster than adults, so take off-gassing substances into their lungs, and they do more hand-to-mouth contact.

How do chemicals from conventional kids mattresses enter a child's body?

Conventional mattresses release chemicals through two routes: airborne VOCs and dust particles. Polyurethane foam contains additives like flame retardants that aren't chemically bonded to the foam structure, so they gradually escape as the mattress ages and breaks down from friction. Lightweight chemicals become airborne VOCs that your child inhales and ingests through breathing. Heavier compounds like flame retardants settle into household dust. Children ingest approximately 100 milligrams of dust daily through normal hand-to-mouth contact—double what adults ingest. These chemicals also absorb directly through skin, which matters more for children since they have thinner skin with greater surface area relative to body size compared to adults. Over years of nightly exposure, these chemical loads accumulate.

Do organic kids mattresses need time to off-gas?

Truly organic mattresses made with GOLS certified latex, GOTS certified cotton, and GOTS certified wool don't off-gas harmful VOCs the way polyurethane foam mattresses do. You might notice a natural rubber smell from latex or a lanolin scent from wool when you first unpack an organic mattress, but these are inherent material odors, not chemical off-gassing. They typically dissipate within a few days with normal room ventilation. These natural scents don't indicate toxicity—they're just the smell of the organic materials themselves. If you're transitioning from a synthetic mattress that does off-gas, the difference will be immediately noticeable.

What certifications should I look for in an organic kids mattress?

GOLS (Global Organic Latex Standard) certification verifies that latex contains at least 95% organic material and was processed safely. GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard) certification ensures cotton and wool are genuinely organic and processed without harmful chemicals. MADE SAFE certification screens the entire finished product against 6,500 potentially harmful substances. ecoINSTITUT certification requires 100% ingredient disclosure for latex and very low chemical residue limits. OEKO TEX certification tests the finished product for harmful substances, though it doesn't require organic materials. CertiPUR-US only applies to polyurethane foam and has less transparent standards than other certifications. For maximum safety, prioritize mattresses with both GOLS and GOTS certifications covering all major components.

Organic Twin Mattress and Sizing Non Toxic Beds for Kids

Can I use an organic kids mattress in a bunk bed?

Yes, just know if you get an all-latex (instead of hybrid option with springs) it will be heavy! Latex is very dense. Most bunk beds require mattresses under 8-9 inches thick, and several organic kids mattresses come in low-profile versions specifically designed for bunk beds—Savvy Rest and My Green Mattress in particular. See above.

Are organic kids mattresses firm enough for safe sleep?

Organic kids mattresses designed for children ages 2 and up come in various firmness levels, and most are appropriately supportive for healthy spinal development. Natural latex provides really good support, especially Dunlop latex. Hybrid organic mattresses combine latex or wool comfort layers with innerspring coils for responsive support. For toddlers transitioning from cribs, a medium-firm organic mattress typically works well—firm enough for proper spinal alignment but not so hard it's uncomfortable. Some organic mattress brands like Birch offer dual-sided mattresses that flip to a firmer side as your child grows, which is nice.

Can I find an affordable organic mattress for my child?

Yes, several brands offer truly organic kids mattresses at accessible price points. The Happsy organic twin mattress (made by Naturepedic's parent company) provides GOLS latex and GOTS cotton and wool at a lower price than premium organic brands. My Green Mattress offers affordably priced organic hybrids with transparent certifications. The Latex for Less organic mattress available through Amazon combines competitive pricing with legitimate GOLS and GOTS certifications. While organic mattresses cost more upfront than conventional options, they last significantly longer—natural latex maintains its structure for 15-20 years compared to 7-10 years for polyurethane foam. When calculated per year of use, organic mattresses often cost less over time while eliminating years of chemical exposure. If you think your child will be tall one day, consider a Twin XL instead of a Twin, offered by some of the companies above, and it will last a long time!

What is the best organic waterproof option for organic kids mattresses?

In general, it’s smartest to pair an organic mattress with an organic waterproof mattress protector. I have options and lots of information listed here! In general, avoid protectors using vinyl, PVC, or unspecified "waterproof backing" which typically contains concerning chemicals you're trying to avoid by buying organic in the first place.

Or, Naturepedic has a dual-sided kids mattress with a waterproof PLA (made from sugarcane) side, so you can flip it as your child outgrows nighttime accidents. PLA is semi-natural, made from sugarcane, and is a nice alternative to a separate cover and definitely better than PVC or plastic. You can read more about PLA here on my free Fabric Guide.