An Organic Crib Mattress - A Key Part of a Healthy Nursery Environment

Organic crib mattresses, made from eco-friendly materials such as organic cotton, can be a great choice for your baby's nursery. Many parents-to-be are unaware that conventional mattresses are typically made with synthetic materials that can break down and release harmful chemicals into the air.

Babies, with their sensitive immune systems, can be particularly susceptible to inhaling these chemicals or absorbing them through the skin. Thus, the purchase of an organic crib mattress along with natural wood furniture and other eco-friendly products can help you create a healthier nursery that benefits not only your baby, but your family and the environment as well.

Whether you're awaiting the birth of your first child or already have children, you probably already know that newborn babies tend to need a lot of rest. In fact, according to experts, babies can initially spend an average of 16 hours a day asleep! Given this fact, the sleeping environment you prepare for your baby is especially important. Read on to find out more about the dangers of traditional crib mattresses and why buying a natural crib mattress is a better choice.

Conventional Crib Mattresses

Many conventional mattresses are filled with polyurethane foam which contains a variety of chemical additives. In fact, polyurethane, a petroleum product, contains known carcinogens. In addition, it is extremely flammable.

To address the danger of using polyurethane foam, manufacturers treat mattresses with toxic industrial flame retardants that contain harmful ethers such as polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs). PBDEs can leach out of the mattress and into the air. They have been linked to thyroid problems and other neurobehavioral disruptions. Due to this danger, PBDEs have been banned in Europe since 2004. In the United States, legislation banning manufacturers' use of PBDEs has been passed in the states of California and Washington.

Conventional mattresses typically have an outer shell made from vinyl/PVC (polyvinyl chloride) which contains phthalates. Phthalates are animal carcinogens and have been linked to damage of the liver, kidneys, lungs and reproductive systems.

Young children are particularly vulnerable to toxins and chemicals, especially during the first years of life so you don't want to expose your baby to these dangers unnecessarily. Let's take a look at some of the benefits of organic crib mattresses.

Organic Crib Mattresses

Mattresses are manufactured with eco-friendly materials such as certified organic cotton which is grown without synthetic pesticides, heavy metals or genetically modified organisms.

Waterproof layers are constructed from polyethylene which is considered to be non-toxic and environmentally friendly.

Mattresses are constructed with non-toxic fire protectant.

Manufacturing materials and processes are better for the environment.

It is important to note that manufacturers can be somewhat liberal with labeling. So be sure to do your research. Review the product information and look for crib mattresses made with "100% certified organic" fibers.

As you set up your baby registry and begin your preparations, consider first how a product will contribute to the environment you are creating for your precious little one. You would never willingly lie your baby down on a pile toxins and carcinogens that you could see. So remember that there are unseen dangers as well. The good news is that you can make healthier choices for your child. An organic crib mattress is a great first step.