What Materials Are Used in Quality Mattresses?

Most people have no idea what's inside their mattress, and the mattress industry loves it that way. But what's under the cover makes all the difference in how you sleep, how long the mattress lasts, and what chemicals you're breathing in every night.

Cheap Mattresses are typically made with low-density polyurethane foam (memory foam), synthetic fibers, and chemical flame retardants. These materials are inexpensive to produce, but they break down quickly, off-gas harmful volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and trap heat. Within a few years, memory foam compresses and loses support, leaving you with a sagging and uncomfortable bed. Many conventional mattresses use fiberglass as a cheap fire barrier.  Seriously... WTH???  If the mattress cover tears or is removed, fiberglass can contaminate your home and cause serious respiratory issues.

Conversely, Quality Mattresses use natural, durable materials that last 15+ years and don't expose you to chemicals.

Here's what to look for:

1. Natural Latex

Natural latex is the key... you don't want anything described as "blended" or "synthetic".  Natural latex is made from rubber tree sap - it's resilient, breathable, and naturally resistant to dust mites and mold. Latex provides pressure relief without the sinking feeling of memory foam, and it doesn't off-gas VOCs.

2. Cotton

Organic cotton is soft, breathable, and grown without synthetic pesticides or herbicides. GOTS-certified organic cotton ensures the fabric was processed cleanly too.

3. Wool

Wool acts as a natural flame retardant (no chemicals needed), wicks moisture, and regulates temperature. Wool keeps you cool in summer and warm in winter.

4. Pocketed Coil Systems

Look for high-quality innerspring support made from individually wrapped coils that provide responsive, durable support and excellent airflow. Handcrafted mattresses like Hypnos and Whitney Natural use pocketed coils built to last decades.

5. Organic or Natural Fire Barriers

Wool and rayon are both popular, natural flame retardants. Avoid mattresses with chemical flame retardants or fiberglass.

The materials inside your mattress affect everything: your comfort, durability, health, and how well you sleep. If you don't know what's inside your mattress, or if the brand won't tell you... that's a red flag. At The Organic Bedroom, we're proud to carry mattresses with high-quality, natural materials, and we love sharing what's in each of our mattresses.  Give us a call or stop by our showroom in Raleigh, NC to learn more.

Also in Organic Bedroom's Mattress Tips