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What is an "organic crib mattress" and why do I want one?
You’ve heard of organic vegetables and organic milk, but what on earth is an organic mattress? 
Is it really healthier?
Well, quite simply, yes. Organic vegetables are healthier because they do not have chemical pesticide residues. Organic milk is healthier because it comes from cows that are not given artificial chemical hormones. Likewise, organic crib mattresses do not have all the chemicals that regular crib mattresses have. Organic mattresses are made with organic and non-toxic materials instead of conventional and chemically questionable materials.
But that’s just the beginning. A typical crib mattress is made with many chemicals that have been linked to childhood health problems. Fire retardants, plasticizers, and other chemicals are in the foam and vinyl cover of a crib mattress. Parents and physicians are recommending organic crib mattresses as a way to avoid unnecessary exposure to these chemicals.
What are the certification standards for an organic crib mattress?
Organic crib mattresses, like all other certified products made with organic fiber and textiles, are certified under the Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS). The largest U.S. GOTS approved certifier is Oregon Tilth Certified Organic (OTCO).
In particular, the GOTS standard requires that all fiber and fabrics, with limited exceptions, must be made from certified materials that meet the National Organic Program (NOP) standard and are processed in accordance with the Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS). All other components (such as innersprings, fire protection, etc.) must meet stringent non-toxic standards. Naturepedic is an OTCO certified organic processor of fiber and textiles and is certified to manufacture organic mattresses.
Are mattresses labeled "eco" or "green" just as good?
No. "Eco" and "green" are not regulated terms and can be misleading. For example, "plant derived" or "soybean" foam used in many "eco" mattress models are over 80% petroleum/chemical based and are not really "made of soybeans." "Bamboo" fabric, also common in "eco" models is really rayon. It is typically made using environmentally toxic chemicals with no trace of the bamboo plant in the finished product. Many of these "eco" materials may sound good, but they are not really "natural" and are certainly not focused on eliminating harmful chemicals.
What makes the Naturepedic baby crib mattress so special?
In addition to organic cotton, Naturepedic mattresses provide important benefits including a non-toxic food grade waterproof / dust mite proof surface and an extra firm innerspring, all while avoiding the use of potential allergens such as latex and wool.
Why would I want an organic baby crib mattress?
An organic baby crib mattress provides a healthier and more chemical free sleeping environment for your child. This means less exposure to potentially harmful chemicals.
What’s the difference between natural and organic cotton?
Natural cotton is grown conventionally but is not processed with harsh chemicals (such as chlorine bleach and various dyes). Organic cotton is not only unbleached and undyed, but is also grown without the use of synthetic pesticides, herbicides, or chemical fertilizers. It provides a completely natural and chemical-free filling material.
Do I need a mattress pad with a waterproof mattress?
Mattress pads are always a good idea. Firstly, no one wants to clean a mattress in the middle of the night. Secondly, they add a nice layer of breathability under the baby. Using DrySleep™ technology, the Organic Waterproof Protector Pad provides full waterproof protection while maintaining a degree of breathability.
What is polyethylene and why do I want it?
Polyethylene is an environmentally friendly plastic that is used throughout the food packaging industry for its purity and non-toxic properties. The polyethylene surface of the No-Compromise Organic Baby Crib Mattress is specially formulated using only pure food grade materials, creating the ultimate non-toxic and waterproof mattress cover. It is also easy to clean and will not stain.
What about fire protection?
When it comes to bedroom fires, a moment or two can mean the difference between life and death. Naturepedic uses a non-toxic and naturally derived fire protection system that is safe and effective. It meets and exceeds all Federal and State flammability standards without the use of potentially harmful chemicals.
What’s wrong with polyurethane foam?
Polyurethane foam is essentially “foamified” petroleum and is extremely flammable. As such, it is heavily treated with fire retardant chemicals such as PBDEs (the most common of which was just banned by the state of California and across Europe). Many other questionable chemicals are also added in the fabrication process. Polyurethane foam disintegrates over time, breaking down into small particles that easily become airborne while releasing substantial VOCs throughout its lifecycle. For more information, please read the Five Problems With Crib Mattresses.
What’s wrong with vinyl/PVC?
Vinyl/PVC is largely regarded as one of the most toxic plastics in use today. It also poses numerous environmental concerns. Mattress covers made from vinyl/PVC contain many chemical additives such as phthalates, antimony, and various biocides which are released over time. For more information, please read the Five Problems With Crib Mattresses
What about nylon mattress covers?
Many companies have begun replacing vinyl/PVC with a woven nylon fabric. While nylon is definitely an improvement over vinyl/PVC, it is still not as pure and non-toxic as polyethylene. It is also not truly waterproof and will stain (it must be treated with a chemical coating in order to make it water resistant). Nylon mattress covers also typically contain the same questionable fire retardants and biocides as vinyl/PVC.
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