How To Combat Winter Allergies With A Chemical-Free Mattress

Spring is the worst time for allergies, but our reactions to dust and other allergens in our homes can get intense in winter as we crank up the heat.

But there are ways to control or reduce our allergic responses. One is to use proper bedding. Regular mattresses are processed with chemicals and the materials used in them are grown with pesticides. These can aggravate or cause allergies.

This is one reason why Canadians are starting to prefer non-toxic mattresses. Here’s what you need to know before choosing a mattress for your allergies.

What Are Chemical-Free Mattresses?

The terms ‘green‘, ’organic’, and ‘eco-friendly‘ indicate that the material in question is free of chemicals. But each word has a subtly different meaning. And you need to understand these claims if you want to pick a truly non-toxic mattress.

Non-Toxic/Chemical-Free

You will find the terms ‘non-toxic’ or ‘chemical-free’ attached to the brand name or product name. If a mattress says it is non-toxic, it means it is produced without toxic chemicals; instead, they may use natural or organic materials. Before buying it, determine how the mattress earned this claim.

Eco-Friendly

Eco-friendly mattresses mean they are made from materials and methods that create less waste and pollution. Eco-friendly mattresses are usually non-toxic and safe to sleep on.

Organic 

An organic mattress is made from materials that are grown and processed without chemicals, like pesticides. In some cases, however, only the mattress cover is made from organic materials. So, before you buy a mattress that’s organic, make sure most layers, if not all, are certified organic. Also, remember that some foams (like memory foam and poly-foam) can be toxin-free but not organic since they are not grown or harvested but manufactured.

Green 

This rather generic term can have several meanings. It can be organic or just eco-friendly. To make sure they are essentially chemical-free so as not to aggravate your allergies, ask about the method of manufacture and how the materials in it were grown.

Benefits of Chemical-Free or Non-Toxic Mattresses

There are many benefits to buying mattresses manufactured without chemicals and toxins.

1. Health Benefits 

Regular mattresses use adhesives, dyes, fire retardants, et cetera that can cause serious health issues. Chemical and toxin-free mattresses don’t contain these harmful chemicals.

2. Allergy Control 

If you have allergies, mattresses free from toxins and chemicals will alleviate your symptoms. The materials used in these beds are often hypoallergenic and emit minimum volatile organic compounds to minimize irritation in your respiratory system.

3. Comfortable Sleep 

Mattresses made from non-toxic materials are more breathable than those made with toxic materials. Plant-based foam, latex foam, and other organic materials wick moisture away from your body to provide a comfortable sleep.

4. Safer Environment

These mattresses are more environmentally-friendly since they use sustainable harvesting methods and produce less pollution.

5. Long-Lasting Product

Mattresses with chemicals break down quickly; mattresses without chemicals are not only safer and healthier, they also last longer. Plant-based foam mattresses can last 8-10 years while natural latex foam can last for around twelve. On the other hand, conventional mattresses only last 6 years or fewer.

Non-Toxic Materials You Can Rely On

These mattress materials will help you sleep well and allergy-free.

1. Memory Foam (Plant-Based)

Memory foam offers amazing contouring and pressure relief, something you can’t find with any other mattress. Traditional foam mattresses are made from harmful petroleum chemicals. On the other hand, plant-based memory foams are made from non-toxic plant-based oils. They are breathable and emit low levels of VOCs. That makes them safe for both the environment and you. Although not certified organic, they are safe for human health.

2. Natural Latex Foam 

Latex is made from rubber tree sap, and rubber tree is a sustainable and durable crop. They don’t need pesticides in order to be grown and can be tapped for sap many times before being cut. That’s why latex is an extremely eco-friendly material. Also, non-toxic latex is resistant to mould growth, extremely durable, biodegradable, and antimicrobial.

3. Organic Cotton 

Cotton grows fast and is hypoallergenic, soft, and breathable. That’s why it is ideal for mattresses.

However, since cotton is extremely popular, it is grown in bulk and often saturated with pesticides. So, when shopping for a chemical-free cotton mattress, make sure you check for the organic tag.

4. Organic Wool 

Wool is often used in chemical-free mattresses for its natural flame retardant capabilities. It also helps regulate body heat and moisture.

But regular wool is often treated with chemicals; organic wool, on the other hand, doesn’t carry any chemicals or preservatives. Also, for the wool to be organic, the sheep must not be given synthetic hormones or have grazed in fields sprayed with pesticides.

5. Coils

Innerspring and hybrid mattresses come with a coil base. In a hybrid mattress, these coils are contained in pockets for adequate contouring and independent movement. Also, since they are wrapped in fabric, dust mites and dirt can’t build up inside the mattress.

With these things in mind, you can shop for the toxin-free mattress for a comfortable sleep that won’t be aggravated by allergies. For more information, talk to our experts.

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