The Parent’s Guide to Choosing a Healthier Crib Mattress

When you’re preparing for a new baby, there’s no shortage of decisions to make. But one of the most important—and most overlooked—is the crib mattress.

Your baby will spend up to 16 hours a day sleeping in their crib. So how do you know you’re choosing one that’s safe, supportive, and truly non-toxic?

Let’s break it down.

Know What’s Inside

Most conventional crib mattresses are made with synthetic foams, vinyl covers, and chemical flame retardants—materials that can off-gas and expose babies to potentially harmful substances while they sleep.

Instead, look for:

  • GOTS-certified organic cotton and wool
  • GOLS-certified organic latex (if applicable)
  • GOLS-certified organic coconut coir
  • No polyurethane foams
  • No chemical flame retardants or synthetic waterproofing

These natural materials are breathable, supportive, and far safer for your baby’s developing respiratory and immune systems.

Understand Certifications That Actually Matter

Not all “green” claims are created equal. If a mattress says it’s “eco-friendly” or “natural,” that doesn’t guarantee anything.

Here are the gold standards to look for:

  • GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard) and GOLS (Global Organic Latex Standard): Ensures certified organic textiles throughout the entire supply chain
  • GREENGUARD Gold: Tests for low chemical emissions and better indoor air quality
  • MADE SAFE®: Screens for thousands of known toxicants, ensuring the product is free from harmful substances

Choose a Firm Surface (Yes, Really)

Soft may sound cozy, but infants need a firm, flat sleep surface to reduce the risk of suffocation and support healthy development. The mattress should fit snugly inside the crib with no gaps, and shouldn’t indent easily under your hand.

If you’re looking for a mattress that checks all the boxes, the Emily Organic Crib Mattress is a top choice for health-conscious parents.

Handcrafted in our GOTS- and GOLS-certified factory in Illinois, it’s made with:

  • GOTS-certified organic cotton and wool
  • GOLS-certified organic coconut coir
  • A firm innerspring support system for infant safety
  • No flame retardants, adhesives, or synthetic waterproofing
  • GREENGUARD Gold and MADE SAFE® certifications

Shop Our Top-Rated Emily Organic Crib Mattress Today