6 Tips for Buying a Natural Mattress
Buying a new mattress is a big decision, so here are six reasons to go all natural
You’ve walked through mattress stores before, where you can find beds ranging from $1,000 to well over $10,000. However, you don’t always know what’s inside of these products. Chemicals laced within the materials are commonplace for everyday mattresses. You want something more natural.
Organic or natural mattresses are smart alternatives to the questionable products sold today. Here are some tried and true tips to make buying your natural mattress a breeze.
Tip #1: Verify Sustainability
Mattress retailers may refer to their products as a “natural,” but be cautious of the claims. Most natural products are also sustainable. Look for certifications regarding sustainability on the mattress. It’s usually a prominent feature. Manufacturers who strive for a sustainable product want to advertise their achievements. The certification will often be boldly advertised.
Tip #2: Test One Out
A wool mattress or similar natural bedding product is different from synthetic items on the market. A good rule of thumb is to try a mattress in person. Lay down on it. See how it feels on your body. Some mattresses can be 4 or 5-inches thick, for instance. You may not be accustomed to this type of mattress.
You can consider stacking two mattresses together if thickness is an issue. It’s not unheard of to add a wool product on top of a latex type. Natural mattresses are yours to customize and enjoy for many years.
You never actually know how a mattress will feel until you get under the covers. That’s why we encourage any serious shoppers to request a Shepherd’s Dream sample bedding kit. There’s just a nominal fee of $50 to $60 to cover shipping costs to and from your home. Plus, we’ll subtract this cost from the merchandise total of your order if you decide to purchase wool bedding items totaling more than $500.
Tip #3: Ask About Care
Eco-friendly mattresses are certainly a world apart from everyday products. As you shop around for the best natural bed, ask about care requirements. Many wool mattresses require a sunning out period, which is when you take it out in the sun in order for the materials to air out. Evaporative processes occur while the materials have a chance to expand in the warmth.
Consider other care tasks, such as spot cleaning. Most natural products should be cleaned as needed. Tossing any wool item, for example, into the washing machine isn’t suggested by most manufacturers.
Tip #4: Learn About Frames
There are numerous natural bed frames available for mattresses today. Solid surfaces, slats and traditional frames may be tempting you as the shopping process continues. However, wool and other natural mattresses like to breathe and remain supported.
We recommend choosing slat frames for wool mattresses. The slats allow air to flow in and around the mattress. Moisture evaporates away, which protects the material from microbes. Slatted frames also provide the necessary support for the mattress and resting person.
Consider the warranty information, too. Some natural mattresses will only hold their warranties as long as they’re on an approved frame.
Tip #5: Be Ready to Flip and Rotate
Natural and wool mattresses don’t have any synthetic supports within their structures. They’re made of strong yet natural materials. Avoid dents and lumps in the mattress by regularly flipping and rotating it. These mattresses are relatively lightweight so this task can easily be done when you change the sheets.
You can also prolong the lifespan of a natural mattress by sleeping on every inch of your bed. Alter your sleeping position each night so that the material uniformly wears down over time.
Tip #6: Understand Wool vs. Latex
Both wool and special types of latex can be used to create natural mattresses. Sheep provide the wool, but latex comes from rubber trees. It’s actually a processed form of rubber. You can mix and match these mattress types in order to gain the right texture for your sleeping pleasure. Some people might stack the mattresses or use various mattress toppers.
Wool tends to be firmer than latex. If you’re looking for a softer bedding choice, natural latex is a great place to start. Many people prefer a firmer surface, however, so that their backs are supported. Ideally, try both mattress types because your final decision is up to your own personal preferences. Purchase what feels best to you.
Choosing wool or latex mattresses is just the beginning of the journey. You’ll notice the difference almost immediately as you slip into a deep sleep each night. As an added bonus, you won’t be exposing your body or the planet to harmful chemicals and toxins. We think it’s well worth the hassle, and we hope these tips help make the process easier!