As we begin preparation for our second child, I am gathering information about how we may ensure a healthy, clean, and environmentally friendly environment for our new baby (I figure, and yes, it’s cliche, “the more you know . . .”). Recently I learned a little bit about organic and natural fiber mattress and mattress covers, which I hope is helpful to other parents and caregivers:
Organic Wool Mattresses: Organic Merino Wool mattresses are an excellent choice for either a crib mattress or a regular adult mattress. Wool naturally absorbs and releases water, is fire, dust mite and mold-resistant. For parents that use co-sleepers, an organic merino wool moisture pad is a great idea. Organic co-sleeper pads add an additional layer of comfort to the sometimes flat and flimsy co-sleeper mattress. In addition, these moisture-resistant pads help keep your co-sleeper dry through the night.
Organic Cotton Mattresses: Most cotton used in bedding today is full of pesticides that you don’t want to subject your baby to on a nightly basis. Choosing a crib mattress made from organic cotton is wise, as these mattresses do not release vapors and are fire retardant for extra protection. You can also purchase an organic cotton mattress pad designed to fit a standard co-sleeper. Some organic co-sleeper mattresses come with an organic cotton cover for additional peace of mind.
Pure & Natural Latex Mattresses: Contrary to popular belief, natural latex is safe for a baby. Resistant to mold, bacteria and dust mites, these mattresses are absolutely comfortable. Make sure that your young one doesn’t have a latex allergy before purchasing this type of mattress. Many natural latex crib mattresses come with organic cotton or wool quilted cover for extra comfort.
As far as crib bedding goes, you want to use the same criteria used to find the right crib mattress. The materials should be natural and organic. Organic cotton crib sheets and bedding are always a smart choice. Just because you’re shopping for organic and natural bedding, doesn’t mean it has to be plain white. Look for fun print sheets that use AZO-free dyes. Whatever kind of crib mattress and crib bedding you get, make sure that it fits your crib perfectly. It’s always recommended that you purchase your crib first before getting the mattress as the mattress has to fit snuggly into the crib with no gaps left between the crib and mattress. You’ll be sleeping a lot more soundly knowing that your baby’s crib is safe and healthy.
Thoughts, recommendations? Any suggestions on bedding, mattresses, and matress covers that worked (or didn’t) for your baby or older child? Also, if you parented with good health and the environment in mind prior to the invent of such eco and health conscious items as organic bedding, mattresses, etc., what measures did you take to do so? That is, what did you do that was environmentally friendly then and works well now for eco and health conscious parents and their children?
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Thanks for this information! Ed and I have been thinking about getting ourselves a new mattress, since ours is about 8 years old and has a depression in the middle, making us roll toward eachother no matter how many times we flip it!
Do you know of any retailers that are carrying these mattresses?
Abbie, several on-line retailers offer organic wool, cotton, and natural latex mattresses and bedding. These days you can even find reasonable prices on organic bedding at such retailers like Target. In my opinion, find a reputable small business (perhaps an online company in the Connecticut area, since that is nearby to you) and order from there. I have met wonderful sales reps at parenting meetings in my neighborhood here in Northern Virginia.
It is always better to prefer your child interest when choosing bedding for your children. There are many children who like to sleep with their favorite cartoon character. Like my child who likes Bob the builder and i go with his choice which why I bought from Character Comforts.
My husband and I chose the mattress below for our new baby (born in April). Then I reused merino sweaters from Goodwill as the mattress pad (in coordinating colors with the decor) by cutting them into 3×8 inch strips and sewing them with a zig-zag stitch in long strips!! Cost $9 and works great!
Link to mattress: http://www.toysrus.com/product/index.jsp?productId=3491533
Thanks Connie! Great recommendations and creative solution for chem free, environmentally responsible bedding for babies, :-)
Folks like you, who can sew, make me ache for the skill, :-)
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