Can a Mattress be Organic? | Harvest Green Mattress
Can a Mattress Really Be Organic?
The Short Answer: No
A mattress can’t truly be “organic” as a finished product because it isn’t something that grows in nature—it’s a manufactured item made from many separate components.
In the United States, the term organic is regulated primarily for agricultural products under the USDA National Organic Program (NOP).
Because a mattress is assembled from multiple parts—some agricultural and some not—it cannot accurately be described as fully organic under federal standards.
7 CFR Part 205 – National Organic Program Regulations
A simple way to think about it: there’s no such thing as a mattress plant or mattress tree. A mattress is built, not grown. Unfortunately, you won’t find any “Mattress Seeds” in the Home & Garden sections at your local Home Depot, Lowe’s, or Menards.
So What Can Be Organic?
While a complete mattress can’t be organic in its entirety, some of the materials inside a mattress can be certified organic.
- Latex – derived from rubber tree sap and processed into foam
- Cotton – commonly used in mattress covers
- Wool – used as batting and as a natural fire barrier
The Real Question: How Close Can a Mattress Get to “Organic”?
The closest a mattress can get to being “real organic” is one that uses certified organic materials where it matters most—especially the components you sleep on and breathe around every night.
- Certified organic latex, when latex is used
- Certified organic cotton and/or wool in the cover and quilting layers
- Clear, specific documentation that proves what is certified and what is not
Certifications Matter (and Vague Claims Don’t)
Words like “natural,” “eco-friendly,” or “green” are not regulated on their own. According to the FTC Green Guides, environmental marketing claims must be truthful, specific, and substantiated.
If a mattress uses organic materials, the manufacturer should clearly explain:
- Which material is organic
- Which certification applies
- What that certification actually covers
Which Certifications Actually Matter for Mattresses?
Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS)
GOTS applies to organic textiles, including cotton and wool, and covers the entire supply chain—from harvesting through manufacturing.
Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS)
Global Organic Latex Standard (GOLS)
GOLS applies specifically to organic natural rubber latex and latex foam products, including processing standards.
Global Organic Latex Standard (GOLS)
Indoor Air Quality & Off-Gassing
Mattresses that rely heavily on synthetic foams often off-gas more noticeably when first introduced into a bedroom. The strong chemical odor after delivery is one of the most common consumer complaints.
Much like “new car smell,” that familiar scent may not be something you want to breathe nightly.
GREENGUARD GOLD Certification
GREENGUARD GOLD measures volatile organic compound (VOC) emissions from the fully assembled mattress.
To qualify, a product must emit 200 μg/m³ or less in air-pollution concentration.
UL GREENGUARD Certification Program
Some fully synthetic mattresses also meet GREENGUARD GOLD standards, which causes some consumers to question how much this certification alone says about material quality. At this time, there is no factual basis to dismiss its testing methodology.
Should I Buy an Organic Mattress? Bottom Line
There is no such thing as a completely organic mattress. Every mattress is manufactured, and claims like “100% organic mattress” are not realistic.
What is realistic is choosing a mattress made with certified organic and thoughtfully sourced materials—and that’s where Harvest Green stands apart.
We focus on using the highest-quality organic components available, combined with responsible manufacturing, to create a healthier sleep environment without exaggerated claims or scare tactics.
We believe in clarity and choice.
Think of it the way you think about nutrition. An occasional indulgence won’t impact your health overnight, but long-term habits matter. The same is true for sleep.
At Harvest Green, our goal is simple: exceptional comfort, elevated materials, and peace of mind—so you can sleep well and feel good about your decision.