Many shoppers enjoy the peace of mind of knowing their mattress was sustainably produced without chemical pesticides, fertilizers, or genetically modified organisms. If you value sustainability and you’re looking for a way to reduce chemicals in the bedroom, an organic mattress might be right for you.
Organic materials such as latex, cotton, and wool are highly breathable and durable, and organic mattresses are typically free of chemical dyes, flame retardants, and adhesives.
We’ll examine the best organic mattresses and discuss factors to look for when selecting an organic model. If you’re interested in latex beds specifically, check out our guide to the best latex mattresses. Or, explore other types of mattresses in our general guide to the best mattresses of 2024.
The Best Organic Mattresses
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Best Overall Mattress
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Birch Mattress
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Best Value Mattress
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Latex for Less Hybrid Latex Mattress
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Most Comfortable Mattress
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PlushBeds Botanical Bliss
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Best Mattress for Pressure Relief
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Bear Natural
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Best Luxury Mattress Mattress
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Naturepedic Serenade
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Best Mattress for Back Pain
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Avocado Green Mattress
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Best Mattress for Side Sleepers
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Brentwood Home Oceano
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Best Mattress for Back Sleepers
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Eco Terra Hybrid Latex Mattress
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Best Overall Mattress
Birch Mattress
27% off mattresses + 2 free pillows. Use code: DOCTOR27
27% off mattresses + 2 free pillows. Use code: DOCTOR27
The Birch Mattress pairs natural latex and robust coils to create a sturdy, responsive sleep surface with considerable bounce and excellent overall support. Breathable and moisture-wicking materials make the mattress particularly well-suited to hot sleepers.
Ideal For
Hot Sleepers
Firmness
Medium Firm (6)
Sustainability
High
Cooling
Great Airflow
Pros & Cons
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Pros
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Natural latex is responsive and helps maintain a neutral temperature
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Reinforced perimeter coils provide sturdy edge support
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Sustainable certifications from GOTS, Fair Trade, GREENGUARD Gold, and eco-INSTITUT
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Cons
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Latex and coils may transfer some movement from one side of the bed to the other
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May cause pressure buildup for side sleepers under 130 pounds
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Our Take
The Birch Mattress is a hybrid that offers comfort and support for a wide range of sleepers. This makes it a good fit for couples who have different sleep positions and body types as well as those who tend to sleep hot.
Why We Like It
The mattress is certified low in chemical emissions by GREENGUARD Gold and the eco-INSTITUT. The latex also adheres to Rainforest Alliance criteria for sustainable production. The wool is certified by Wool Integrity NZ, which sets standards for animal welfare. As with most latex hybrids, the Birch delivers strong edge support and features a bouncy surface that doesn’t hamper movement. Wool, latex, and coils allow ample airflow to minimize heat retention. We found the mattress performed well for all sleep positions and weight groups, particularly individuals between 130 and 230 pounds.
How Does It Feel?
A GOTS-certified organic cotton cover encases the mattress. A wool-rayon fire barrier and a second layer of wool are designed to help maintain temperature neutrality by drawing warmth and moisture away from the sleeper. The principal comfort layer is constructed with natural Talalay latex that our testers found had a buoyant, airy feel. A pocketed coil support core with reinforced edges provides stability and support for the mattress. This sits on a final layer of wool and rayon. Altogether, the mattress measures 11 inches and has a medium firm (6) firmness level.
Sleeper Type Ratings
The ratings below indicate how suitable this mattress is for different sleeping positions and sleeper weights, taking into account factors such as support and pressure relief.
Best Value Mattress
Latex for Less Hybrid Latex Mattress
$200 off with code: SF200
$200 off with code: SF200
If you’re in the market for an eco-friendly mattress, you won’t find a higher-value pick than the Hybrid Latex Mattress from Latex for Less. Durable materials, generous bounce, and excellent temperature control make the mattress a well-rounded choice, and certifications from the GOLS and GOTS ensure every component is sustainably sourced.
Ideal For
Combination Sleepers
Firmness
Medium (5), Firm (7)
Sustainability
High
Cooling
Great Airflow
Pros & Cons
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Pros
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Aerated Dunlop latex sleeps cool and provides a responsive surface
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Two firmness options
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Carries GOLS and GOTS certifications for latex, cotton, and wool
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Cons
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May offer insufficient support for stomach and back sleepers over 230 pounds
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Side sleepers under 130 pounds may develop pressure points
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Some couples may experience noticeable motion transfer
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Our Take
Latex hybrids are among the most expensive mattress types on average, with many exceeding the $2,000 mark in a queen size. As the name implies, Latex for Less specializes in mattresses with relatively affordable sticker prices. The company’s Hybrid Latex Mattress delivers the responsive, long-lasting design sleepers expect from this type of mattress, but at a cost that falls well below average.
Why We Like It
Latex hybrids are ideal for anyone who enjoys the sturdy support of pocketed coils, but dislikes the deep hug and slow response of foam. The medium-feel design earned its most favorable ratings from side sleepers between 130 and 230 pounds, and back and stomach sleepers under 130 pounds. Due to its more supportive feel, the firm design was more comfortable for our side sleepers weighing more than 230 pounds, and back and stomach sleepers of at least 130 pounds.
Temperature control proved a major strength of the mattress during our tests. Moisture-wicking wool beneath the surface, ventilated latex in the comfort system, and coils promoting steady circulation all combine to deliver consistent cooling and thermoregulation. Another breathable component is the cover, which is made from organic cotton. The cotton and wool have each earned certification from the Global Organic Textile Standard, a leading authority for certifying sustainably sourced fabrics. Likewise, the latex layer is certified by the Global Organic Latex Standard.
How Does It Feel?
Dunlop latex forms the mattress’ comfort layer, creating a light bounce when you get in and out of bed. Thick pocketed coils enhance the responsive feel. Our testers noted excellent ease of movement when scooting across the surface and changing positions. While this buoyancy may limit motion isolation and lead to disruptive transfer for couples, it also prevents the excessive sinkage that can occur with memory foam or polyfoam hybrids. You can choose from two firmness levels. If you opt for medium (5), the latex conforms somewhat closely without hugging too much. The firm (7) feel contours to a minimal extent, so this is the better option if you need more support and less cushioning from your sleep surface. Both versions of the mattress are padded with wool directly beneath the surface, resulting in a bit of plushness.
Most Comfortable Mattress
PlushBeds Botanical Bliss
$1,250 off + free pillows, sheets, and mattress protector
$1,250 off + free pillows, sheets, and mattress protector
PlushBeds’ Botanical Bliss showcases the exceptional bounce and durability of natural latex. You can choose from two firmness levels and replace the different layers as needed over time, ensuring a lifespan that exceeds far beyond the seven-year average for mattresses.
Ideal For
Combination Sleepers
Firmness
Medium Firm (6), Firm (7)
Sustainability
High
Cooling
Great Airflow
Our Take
The PlushBeds Botanical Bliss is an all-latex mattress available in two firmness levels. Latex is naturally resilient, so this mattress responds to movement with a strong bounce — this helps ensure your body stays aloft when you change sleep positions or get in and out of bed. For added long-term comfort, you can remove and replace each latex layer as it wears out.
Why We Like It
Our team tested both of the Botanical Bliss’ firmness levels. The medium firm (6) model was most popular among our side sleepers up to 230 pounds and back sleepers under 130 pounds. The latex lightly conforms, cushioning your body without hugging too closely. Back and stomach sleepers weighing at least 130 pounds preferred the extra support of the firm (7) design, which responds to movement with a strong bounce and resists sinkage quite well.
All latex layers are ventilated to promote air circulation throughout the interior and the cover is made of breathable organic cotton, so the mattress sleeps cool and is a great choice for hot sleepers. The responsive surface also helps you move across the surface without feeling stuck. We found that the firm model offers sturdier edge support than the medium firm.
How Does It Feel?
A quintessential all-latex mattress, the Botanical Bliss is very springy — you’ll notice a lot of bounce when you get into bed or change sleep positions. While the medium firm model offers more cushioning, responsiveness is a defining quality of both designs. The mattress contains three to four individual latex layers, depending on whether you choose a profile of 9, 10, or 12 inches. The Talalay latex used in the comfort system is light and buoyant, while the Dunlop latex in the support core is dense and heavy.
The latex and cotton cover hold certifications with the Global Organic Latex Standard and Global Organic Textile Standard, respectively. You can choose from nine different sizes. In addition to the six standard options, these include split queen, split king, and split California king sizes for couples who use adjustable beds.
Sleeper Type Ratings
The ratings below indicate how suitable this mattress is for different sleeping positions and sleeper weights, taking into account factors such as support and pressure relief.
Best Mattress for Pressure Relief
Bear Natural
35% off + free pillows with code: SF35
35% off + free pillows with code: SF35
The Bear Natural combines springy latex and adaptive foam to create a hybrid design that excels at pain and pressure relief. A breathable cover, ventilated comfort layers, and steady airflow through the coils also makes this mattress a great option for hot sleepers.
Ideal For
Hot Sleepers
Firmness
Medium Firm (6)
Sustainability
Fair
Cooling
Great Airflow
Pros & Cons
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Pros
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Talalay latex creates a responsive, invitingly bouncy surface
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Coils are zoned for extra lumbar support and perimeter reinforcement
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Breathable materials and steady internal airflow ensure excellent thermoregulation
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Cons
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Couples may experience movement-related sleep disruptions
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Larger sizes are somewhat pricey
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Mattress is heavy and difficult to lift
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Our Take
If sharp pressure points along your spine are impacting your sleep, the Bear Natural may provide the relief you need. The mattress’ comfort system contains a top layer of Talalay latex, followed by adaptive foam. This combo creates a comfy balance of contouring and bounce, and sturdy coil support means most people won’t sink too deeply into the mattress.
Why We Like It
During hands-on tests, the Natural earned favorable ratings across the board from our team. Side sleepers weighing at least 130 pounds, back sleepers up to 230 pounds, and stomach sleepers under 130 pounds were particularly impressed with the balanced medium firm (6) feel. By including a foam layer in the comfort system, the mattress contours more closely and evenly than many competing organic hybrid models.
The Natural received high marks during most of our performance tests, as well. Temperature control, ease of movement, and edge support proved to be major strengths. We also noticed little to no off-gassing odor. Light sleepers who share their bed with a partner should consider a mattress that absorbs movement and produces less motion transfer — the Natural’s surface is fairly springy, and this may lead to sleep disruptions for couples.
How Does It Feel?
The Natural is both responsive and cushy, resulting in a light bounce when you get into bed and a deep cradle as your body settles. This extra cushioning makes the mattress more comfortable for people with pressure points compared to hybrids that only use latex comfort layers. Thanks to the zoned coils, you’ll also notice strong pushback around the lumbar region and less sinkage when you lie or sit along the perimeter. A breathable organic cotton cover completes the design.
Sleeper Type Ratings
The ratings below indicate how suitable this mattress is for different sleeping positions and sleeper weights, taking into account factors such as support and pressure relief.
Best Luxury Mattress Mattress
Naturepedic Serenade
15% off with code: SF15
15% off with code: SF15
Ideal For
Stomach Sleepers
Firmness
Medium Firm (6), Firm (8)
Sustainability
Medium
Cooling
Great Airflow
Pros & Cons
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Pros
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Coils are adhesive-free
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Accreditation from Made Safe, GOTS, GOLS, GREENGUARD Gold, and 1% for the Planet
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Three firmness options
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Cons
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Bouncy surface may allow movement to be felt on the other side of the bed
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Below-average pressure relief
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Both models may be a bit firm for sleepers under 130 pounds
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Our Take
A responsive surface, strong support, consistent cooling, durable construction — the Naturepedic Serenade showcases everything our team likes about latex hybrids, but without the expensive sticker price this type of mattress tends to carry. Two firmness options ensure most people can find a comfortable option regardless of their body type or preferred sleep position.
Why We Like It
Our team tested both of the Serenade’s firmness levels. The medium firm design earned its highest ratings from side sleepers between 130 to 230 pounds, but this model — which conforms to a moderate extent — was popular among most of our side and back sleepers across all weight groups. Back sleepers over 230 pounds and stomach sleepers weighing at least 130 pounds preferred the sturdier support of the firm model. Temperature control tests show the Serenade sleeps quite cool even by latex hybrid standards. Moisture-wicking wool beneath the surface, a latex layer that retains minimal heat, and coils that promote steady airflow all contribute to the breathable design. We also awarded the mattress high marks for edge support and ease of movement, but motion isolation and pressure relief scores were lower.
How Does It Feel?
The Serenade begins with a layer of GOTS-certified wool batting. This material acts as a natural fire barrier, and also has moisture-wicking properties to keep you dry. A second layer of plant-based batting adds extra plushness to the surface. The organic latex comfort layer contours gently to your body, so you’ll get some cushioning without the hug you’d receive from memory foam. Pocketed coils sandwiched between layers of organic cotton batting make up the support core. Reinforced perimeter coils push back against your weight when you get in and out of bed. The cover is made of organic cotton. The first thing you’ll notice about the Serenade is how responsive the surface feels. This bounce helps you move across the surface easily, and you shouldn’t sink too much when changing sleep positions. Breathable materials from top to bottom also help the mattress maintain a comfortable temperature. Medium firm (6) and firm (8) designs are available.
Sleeper Type Ratings
The ratings below indicate how suitable this mattress is for different sleeping positions and sleeper weights, taking into account factors such as support and pressure relief.
Best Mattress for Back Pain
Avocado Green Mattress
Up to 20% off organic mattresses
Up to 20% off organic mattresses
The Avocado Green boasts luxurious, eco-friendly craftsmanship with thick latex layers over coils composed of recycled steel. Gentle contouring and exceptional support make this mattress particularly well-suited to people who deal with frequent or chronic back pain.
Ideal For
Couples
Firmness
Medium (5), Medium Firm (6), Firm (7)
Sustainability
High
Cooling
Great Airflow
Pros & Cons
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Pros
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Composed of organic and recycled materials
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Zoned coils push back against the midsection and protect the perimeter
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Optional Euro-top and box-top designs create a gentler feel on the surface
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Cons
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Bouncy design can create disruptive motion transfer for couples
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Expensive pricing may be a barrier for budget-conscious shoppers
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Pillow-top and box-top designs cost extra
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Our Take
The Avocado Green checks all of the important boxes for shoppers seeking a high-quality organic mattress that alleviates pain, sleeps cool, and feels secure along the perimeter. Responsive latex over multi-zone coils also makes the Green feel exceptionally supportive. Standard models are on the firmer side, but you can upgrade to a softer design with the Euro-top and box-top options.
Why We Like It
As a firm (7) mattress, the Green scored stellar ratings from back and stomach sleepers on our testing team. Those weighing 130 to 230 pounds were particularly impressed. If you’re a side sleeper, the Euro-top upgrade may be necessary — this add-on makes the surface feel medium firm (6) for a closer contour and more cushioning beneath the shoulders and hips. Adding the box-top creates even more plushness. This medium (5) feel is well suited to side sleepers who weigh less than 130 pounds.
Ease of movement and edge support were two of the standout qualities we noticed during our hands-on tests. The surface is very bouncy, and most of us encountered little to no sinkage when getting on and off the mattress. Temperature control was another testing highlight. The materials promote plenty of airflow to help maintain a comfortable interior temperature, while the breathable organic cotton cover and moisture-wicking wool batting beneath the surface help you stay cool and dry.
How Does It Feel?
The Green is highly responsive. You’ll notice a strong bounce whenever you change positions, and you shouldn’t feel any resistance when moving on the surface. Two layers of Dunlop latex over zoned pocketed coils create an impressive support system. Adding the Euro-top or box-top makes the mattress feel softer without sacrificing robust reinforcement from the underlying layers.
The latex holds GOLS certification, the cotton cover and wool batting are GOTS-certified, and the coils are made using recycled steel. Keep in mind that adding the Euro-top or box-top increases the profile, so you may need a fitted sheet with deep pockets if you go this route.
Sleeper Type Ratings
The ratings below indicate how suitable this mattress is for different sleeping positions and sleeper weights, taking into account factors such as support and pressure relief.
Best Mattress for Side Sleepers
Brentwood Home Oceano
Up to 15% off organic mattresses
Up to 15% off organic mattresses
The Brentwood Home Oceano cushions your body with breathable wool batting, adaptive foam, and a coil-on-coil support system. With a medium soft (4) feel, this is one of the softest hybrids we’ve tested and a great option for side sleepers who prefer deep contouring.
Ideal For
Side Sleepers
Firmness
Medium Soft (4)
Sustainability
Medium
Cooling
Some Airflow
Pros & Cons
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Pros
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Zoned microcoils provide targeted support
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Plush surface is ideal for side sleepers under 230 pounds
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Company offsets carbon emissions
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Cons
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Stomach and back sleepers over 130 pounds may experience excessive sinkage
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Contains some synthetic materials
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14-inch profile may make it difficult to find fitted sheets
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Our Take
The Brentwood Oceano is a 14-inch hybrid mattress with a medium soft (4) feel. With a layer of memory foam, ease of movement, and coil construction that allows for breathability, the Brentwood Oceano is likely to suit side sleepers under 230 pounds who prefer a balance of contouring and responsiveness.
Why We Like It
The mattress is GREENGUARD Gold certified for low emissions. Because it’s on the softer side, the Brentwood Oceano was most suitable for our testers who weigh less than 130 pounds. For our side-sleeping testers, the plush memory foam provided excellent pressure relief. With its responsive coil layers, the mattress didn’t cause the “stuck” feeling that can sometimes occur with memory foam. The coils also help strengthen the edges and keep heat buildup to a minimum.
How Does It Feel?
A Tencel cover encases the mattress. This smooth plant-based fabric is made using a process designed to minimize environmental waste. A GOTS-certified organic wool layer acts as a non-chemical flame barrier and temperature regulator. This is followed by a layer of polyester and silk fibers meant to add airiness. The principal comfort layer consists of medium-density memory foam that allows some sinkage, providing contouring and pressure relief. This memory foam is partially made using soy-based polypol, and it features an open-cell construction with gel infusions intended to reduce heat retention. Beneath this layer is a 2.5-inch layer of microcoils for added bounce and breathability. A 1-inch polyfoam layer provides a transition to the pocketed coil support core. The coils are 8 inches tall and divided into seven zones with a reinforced perimeter. A final layer of polyfoam rounds out the base.
Sleeper Type Ratings
The ratings below indicate how suitable this mattress is for different sleeping positions and sleeper weights, taking into account factors such as support and pressure relief.
Best Mattress for Back Sleepers
Eco Terra Hybrid Latex Mattress
$300 off at Eco Terra
$300 off at Eco Terra
The Eco Terra is a latex hybrid available in medium (5) and medium firm (6) designs. These mid-range firmness options should hit the sweet spot for back sleepers who need a bit of cushioning and sturdy support to sleep comfortably.
Ideal For
Back Sleepers
Firmness
Medium (5), Medium Firm (6)
Sustainability
High
Cooling
Great Airflow
Pros & Cons
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Pros
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Made with GOLS-certified Dunlop latex and GOTS-certified textiles, upcycled steel, and no chemical adhesives
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Medium firm option excels for back sleepers under 230 pounds
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Competitive price-point
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Cons
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Limited motion isolation and pressure relief
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Insufficient support for stomach sleepers over 230 pounds
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Shorter sleep trial period than many organic mattresses
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Our Take
Why We Like It
We found that the medium firm option worked well for most sleep positions and body types. This option kept our testers mostly “on” as opposed to “in” the bed, preventing excessive sinkage. In contrast, the medium feel delivered more pressure relief for our side and back sleepers under 230 pounds. With its combination of wool, latex, and coils, the Eco Terra Hybrid Latex Mattress is designed to reduce heat retention overnight. The mattress is made without chemical adhesives and meets strict OEKO-TEX Standard 100 criteria for levels of harmful substances.
How Does It Feel?
Shoppers can select a medium (5) or a medium firm (6) feel when ordering the Eco Terra Hybrid Latex Mattress. Both models are 11 inches thick. Each model features a GOTS-certified organic cotton cover, a layer of GOTS-certified organic wool, and 3 inches of Dunlop latex. The latex gently cradles your body to relieve pressure, making you feel like you’re sleeping on the mattress, rather than in it. The support core is composed of upcycled steel pocketed coils. These feature reinforced edges and additional support in the center to promote spinal alignment.
Sleep Type Ratings
The ratings below indicate how suitable this mattress is for different sleeping positions and sleeper weights, taking into account factors such as support and pressure relief.
Best Overall Mattress
Birch Mattress
27% off mattresses + 2 free pillows. Use code: DOCTOR27
SHOP NOWNatural latex and a coil support core makes this bed and incredible natural option for most sleepers.
SEE MORE DETAILS
Best Value Mattress
Latex for Less Hybrid Latex Mattress
$200 off with code: SF200
SHOP NOWWhile Latex is generally the most expensive mattress material, Latex for Less provides a high quality latex bed at an affordable price.
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Most Comfortable Mattress
PlushBeds Botanical Bliss
$1,250 off + free pillows, sheets, and mattress protector
SHOP NOWThis customizable latex bed features multiple firmness options and configurations, making it possible to dial in a feel that’s perfect for you.
SEE MORE DETAILS
Best Mattress for Pressure Relief
Bear Natural
35% off + free pillows with code: SF35
SHOP NOWThe density and consistency of this latex bed conforms to the body and relieves more pressure than the average latex mattress.
SEE MORE DETAILS
Best Luxury Mattress
Naturepedic Serenade
15% off with code: SF15
SHOP NOWMultiple firmness options, high-quality materials, and superior durability makes this a great luxury pick.
SEE MORE DETAILS
Best Mattress for Back Pain
Avocado Green Mattress
Up to 20% off organic mattresses
SHOP NOWThis classic latex hybrid bed provides the support necessary to keep your spine aligned and prevent back pain from sleeping.
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Best Mattress for Side Sleepers
Brentwood Home Oceano
Up to 15% off organic mattresses
SHOP NOWWith a more plush medium-soft feel that’s less firm than most latex, this bed has an ideal surface for side sleepers and lighter sleepers.
SEE MORE DETAILS
Best Mattress for Back Sleepers
Eco Terra Hybrid Latex Mattress
$300 off at Eco Terra
SHOP NOWThe medium and medium firm optionality hits the sweet spot for most back sleepers looking for a latex option.
SEE MORE DETAILS
When shopping for an organic mattress, it can be easy to focus on the materials used to construct each mattress, but it’s important to also consider how those materials will perform for you and your unique sleep needs.
What Makes a Mattress Organic?
A mattress is considered organic when it is made of plant-based materials that have been produced without synthetic pesticides, fertilizers, or genetically modified organisms. It may also contain animal-derived materials, such as wool. Generally, the final product must also meet strict criteria for nontoxic dyes and other chemicals.
Most commonly, organic mattresses use cotton, wool, and organic latex. A primarily organic mattress may also incorporate some non-organic materials, such as steel coils, that are sustainable and do not emit chemical off-gassing odors. Manufacturers may choose to hand-tuft the layers together instead of using chemical adhesives.
The majority of organic mattresses carry third-party certifications to back up their claims, though these certifications may only apply to some of the materials in the mattress. If finding a fully organic mattress is important to you, you’ll need to verify the materials used in each layer. Bear in mind certain components such as zippers may need to be made from non-organic materials.
Organic Mattress Materials
Materials often found in organic mattresses include Dunlop or Talalay latex, cotton, wool, and, less commonly, hemp. All of these materials originate from a plant or an animal.
| Material | Description |
|---|---|
| Dunlop Latex | Dunlop latex is produced using a saplike liquid from the rubber plant, which is frothed up, poured into a mold, and baked into solid form. Dunlop latex is generally considered organic if it is produced from organic rubber trees and contains less than 5% non-rubber curing agents in the end product. With its dense yet responsive feel, Dunlop latex can be used in the comfort system or the support layers of a mattress. |
| Talalay Latex | The Talalay process for manufacturing latex is similar to the Dunlop process, except that after being frothed, the liquid is expanded in a vacuum and flash frozen before baking. This gives Talalay latex a springier, more uniform feel. While Talalay latex can be made with almost all natural materials, there are some extra ingredients required during the manufacturing process. Because it’s not currently possible to process Talalay latex without these materials, it technically cannot qualify as organic, though it’s still quite environmentally friendly. |
| Cotton | Cotton is produced from the white tufts of the cotton plant, which are spun out and woven into fabric. This breathable material is often found in mattress covers, and cotton batting may be used in the comfort layers to add pressure relief. Not all cotton is organic, as many farmers use pesticides to keep the plants free of diseases. Cotton is considered organic when it is grown without GMOs or synthetic pesticides and processed without chemicals. |
| Wool | Due to the crimped shape of its fibers, organic wool provides excellent resilience and temperature regulation. Because wool is naturally flame-resistant, organic mattresses often include a thin wool layer in place of a chemical fire retardant. Though sheep wool is most common, you may also see mattresses made with wool from goats, alpacas, or other animals. |
| Hemp | Recently legalized in the U.S., hemp is made from the fiber and stems of the cannabis plant. The plant grows quickly and is resistant to pests, making it a carbon-friendly option that doesn’t require pesticides. Like cotton, hemp can be woven into a mattress cover or kept in batting form to add cushioning and breathability. |
Other Materials Found in Organic Mattresses
A substance can only be considered organic if the raw material comes from a plant or an animal. Materials such as metals or synthetic foams are therefore not organic, although some of these materials may still be environmentally friendly.
| Material | Description |
|---|---|
| Synthetic Latex | Instead of using natural tree polymers, synthetic latex is made from petrochemicals. This makes it impossible for synthetic latex to be organic. Some manufacturers blend natural and synthetic latex to benefit from the more affordable cost of synthetic latex while reaping some of the advantages of natural latex. |
| Foam | Polyfoam and memory foam are typically made from petrochemicals, although some manufacturers add a percentage of plant-based substances to lower their carbon footprint. |
| Metal Coils | Hybrid mattresses include steel coils in the support core. Although steel is not an organic material, this metal is considered fairly sustainable as it can be upcycled from other steel products and recycled into new steel products in the future. |
Should You Buy an Organic Mattress?
An organic mattress might be the right choice for you if you’re environmentally conscious or if you’re sensitive to the chemicals in beds containing polyfoam. Most organic mattresses include latex as well as other premium materials such as wool and steel coils. These components boast outstanding durability, responsiveness, and temperature control.
On the other hand, organic mattresses tend to cost more than synthetic foam mattresses. Latex also conforms less closely than memory foam, so it doesn’t offer the same level of pressure relief for side sleepers and people under 130 pounds. You may also want to steer clear of latex mattresses if you have a latex allergy.
Mattress Certifications to Look For
Several third-party organizations provide certifications to back up a manufacturer’s claims about being organic, sustainable, or free of harmful emissions. These organizations usually establish a set of criteria that must be followed in order to earn the certification.
| Certification | Description |
|---|---|
| Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) | A textile product may qualify for the GOTS label if it contains at least 95% organic fibers, such as organic cotton or wool. Textiles that contain at least 70% organic fibers can apply to use a similar label, “made with organic materials.” In addition to banning the use of certain colorants and other chemicals, both labels require that companies meet a set of stringent criteria covering everything from workers’ rights to wastewater treatment. |
| Global Organic Latex Standard (GOLS) | The GOLS label indicates that the latex contains at least 95% organic polymer from rubber trees. A small amount of curing agents are permitted as part of the manufacturing process. |
| CertiPUR-US | The CertiPUR-US label does not certify that a product is organic. Instead, this label is generally used for mattresses with synthetic polyurethane foams, where it certifies that the foam is free of certain harmful chemicals such as formaldehyde and ozone depleters. |
| OEKO-TEX Standard 100 | Textiles or foams with the OEKO-TEX Standard 100 label are not necessarily organic, but they have been tested and found to be free of certain harmful substances. The OEKO-TEX Made in Green label lays out additional criteria for sustainable manufacturing and fair working conditions, while the OEKO-TEX Organic Cotton label applies to organic cotton specifically. |
| GREENGUARD Gold | GREENGUARD and the stricter GREENGUARD Gold certification certify that a mattress meets established limits for volatile organic compound (VOC) emissions, commonly known as off-gassing. This certification does not imply anything about whether a mattress is organic. |
| eco-INSTITUT | Similar to GREENGUARD, the eco-INSTITUT label doesn’t certify a mattress is organic, but rather that its emissions fall within certain permissible limits. The eco-INSTITUT also tests for the presence of certain harmful compounds, such as heavy metals and pesticides. |
Discover More Mattress Solutions
Similar to this guide to the best organic mattresses, our team has tested and selected the best-performing beds across a wide range of specialty categories.
How We Test
The Sleep Doctor team has many years of experience testing sleep products, and we only recommend mattresses that have performed well during our in-house tests.
To find the best organic mattresses, we also considered organic certifications and brand transparency regarding materials and sourcing. Because many organic mattresses are built from similar materials, we strove to gather opinions from testers with different body types and preferred sleeping positions to include models that work for a wide range of people.
Frequently Asked Questions
You can expect a queen size organic mattress to set you back at least $1,000, with the average model costing $1,500 to $3,000. Because of the extra cost of organic materials and certifications, organic mattresses tend to start at a higher price-point than other mattresses. However, they also tend to feature durable materials that should ensure a longer lifespan.
If you have allergies, there are several considerations to take into account when buying an organic mattress. Models with solid latex cores resist dust and mold buildup, and they don’t produce off-gassing odors in the traditional sense. By contrast, organic mattresses with a coil support core may offer more room for dust to accumulate, which can trigger symptoms in people with dust mite allergies.
People with latex allergies should consult their doctor before buying a latex mattress. Although latex is washed during the manufacturing process and there is less chance of touching or inhaling the particles when the latex is encased in a mattress cover, there is still a chance that a latex mattress might provoke an allergic reaction or worsen allergy symptoms over time.
Organic mattresses contain minimal chemicals, meaning they are safer for the planet and for your health. These mattresses also tend to be made with durable natural materials that may outlast other mattress types. For these reasons, many shoppers find that organic mattresses offer excellent value for the money. Of course, the best mattress for you ultimately depends on your personal needs and preferences.
Organic and natural mattresses are both made with natural materials such as cotton and latex, but not all natural mattresses are organic. A mattress is only organic if there were no synthetic pesticides, fertilizers, GMOs, or other harmful substances involved in its production.
There’s no single best material for an organic mattress, but there are several materials that are commonly used due to their attractive properties. For example, cotton offers breathability and can also be used for cushioning. Wool is a strong fiber that helps with responsiveness and temperature regulation, as well as providing a natural fire barrier. Latex is a bouncy, durable material that works well in both the mattress comfort layers and the support core. These materials are often used in combination with one another.
About The Author
Certified Sleep Science Coach, Director of Product Testing
David is a Certified Sleep Science Coach with a lifelong passion for well-being and health optimization. His interest in sleep developed with the arrival of his son, when sleep suddenly became a precious commodity.
- POSITION: Side Sleeper
- TEMPERATURE: Hot Sleeper
- CHRONOTYPE: Lion
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