RV Mattress Certifications: What You Need To Know For Healthy Sleep
By Kelly Beasley
Understanding RV mattress certifications is not easy, but should be factored in when getting a new RV mattress.
I mean, imagine having relaxing nights of camping, but you always wake up feeling groggy and unwell.
The RV mattress you’re sleeping on might be the culprit.
Especially if you are using the mattress that came with the unit. They are notoriously of very low quality and sometimes also emit toxic gases.
A non-toxic and healthy sleep environment is crucial for your well-being, and understanding RV mattress safety certifications is one factor in unlocking a restful night’s sleep in your camper.
There is nothing 'special' about an RV mattress - any mattress that fits into your camper's sleeping space works, so no matter whether you get an 'RV sized' mattress or a regular queen, you can get one with good health certifications.
If you're interested in keeping bad chemicals out of your motorhome or trailer's bed, learn these certifications and get one with the ones you prefer.
Key Takeaways
Understanding RV Mattress Certifications: The Key To A Healthy Sleep Environment In Your Camper
Choosing a mattress for your RV requires knowledge of various certifications that ensure a healthy, non-toxic sleep environment.
Some synthetic mattresses contain hazardous toxic chemicals such as flame retardants, phthalates, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that can linger in the air and have detrimental effects on human health and the environment.
Taking into account certifications such as GOLS, GOTS, and OEKO-TEX Standard 100 will help you make an informed decision for a safe and comfortable sleep experience in your RV.
In the following sections, we’ll delve into the main mattress certifications, their significance, and how they make your sleep space healthier.
We’ll also explore eco-friendly and sustainable mattress materials, responsible sourcing and production certifications, and tips for choosing a mattress with certifications.
Global Organic Latex Standard (GOLS)
The Global Organic Latex Standard (GOLS) certification is perfect for those looking for a latex mattress made from natural and eco-friendly materials. A GOLS certified mattress:
Opting for a GOLS certified mattress guarantees a sleep environment free from harmful chemicals and promotes responsible, sustainable farming and manufacturing practices.
This certification helps reduce indoor air pollution and contributes to a healthier sleep experience in your RV, making organic mattresses a wise choice.
Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS)
The Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) is another vital certification to consider when selecting a mattress for your RV.
GOTS certification mandates that a mattress must contain a minimum of 95% organic fibers, making it a socially responsible and eco-friendly production of natural mattresses.
The wool and cotton covering and padding material in latex mattresses are GOTS certified, which means they are free from polyurethane, chemical flame retardants, or any of the most hazardous chemicals commonly used in mattresses.
Choosing a GOTS certified mattress means you’re not only investing in an organic product but also endorsing responsible and ethical practices throughout the entire textile supply chain.
This certification contributes to a safer and healthier sleep in your RV.
OEKO-TEX Standard 100 Mattress Certification
OEKO-TEX Standard 100 certification is another crucial factor to consider when selecting a mattress for your RV.
This certification program tests textiles for harmful substances, ensuring that all components of a mattress, from the threads to the zippers, are safe and non-toxic.
A comprehensive set of tests must be passed before mattresses and bedding can obtain OEKO-TEX certification, ensuring the absence of harmful chemicals such as:
Selecting a mattress with OEKO-TEX Standard 100 certification offers the following benefits:
Greenguard And Greenguard Gold Mattress Certifications
Greenguard and Greenguard Gold certifications play a vital role in ensuring a healthy sleep environment in your RV.
These certifications guarantee low volatile organic compound (VOC) emissions in mattresses, contributing to improved indoor air quality.
Greenguard Gold certification, in particular, confirms that a bed has successfully passed emission tests with even more rigorous standards than those of Greenguard.
Selecting a Greenguard or Greenguard Gold certified mattress ensures a comfortable and healthy sleep experience in your RV, as your mattress adheres to rigorous standards for low chemical emissions.
This certification is especially important for those with allergies, asthma, or other respiratory issues, as it helps maintain a clean and fresh indoor air environment.
Navigating The World Of Eco-Friendly And Sustainable Mattress Materials
Having familiarized yourself with the primary mattress certifications, comprehending the eco-friendly and sustainable materials used in certified mattresses becomes crucial.
Some examples of environmentally conscious and sustainable materials that can be found in these mattresses are:
Responsible sourcing and production certifications, such as GOLS, GOTS, OEKO-TEX Standard 100, Greenguard and Greenguard Gold, Responsible Wool Standard (RWS), USDA Organic, and Forest Stewardship Council (FSC), ensure that these natural materials are not only safe for human use but also have a minimal negative impact on the environment.
In the following sections, we’ll explore different eco-friendly and sustainable mattress materials in more detail, as well as certifications that ensure responsible sourcing and production.
Responsible Wool Standard (RWS)
Wool is an excellent material for mattresses and bedding, known for its natural temperature-regulating properties and ability to wick away moisture.
However, it’s crucial to ensure that the wool used in your mattress is sourced responsibly and ethically.
The Responsible Wool Standard (RWS) certification is a vital criterion that guarantees wool is sourced from humane farms and held to stringent environmental standards.
Selecting a mattress with RWS certification means you’re investing in an eco-friendly product and endorsing responsible, ethical farming practices.
This certification ensures that the wool in your mattress is cruelty-free and provides benefits to both the environment and local communities.
USDA Organic Mattress Certification
When selecting a mattress for your RV, it’s important to consider certifications like the USDA Organic label, which guarantees that a mattress contains at least 95% organic fiber content and follows strict organic regulations.
USDA Organic certification ensures that products have been grown, processed, and handled according to specific requirements that prohibit the use of synthetic fertilizers, pesticides, antibiotics, and genetically modified organisms (GMOs).
All things you want to avoid to have a non toxic mattress.
Choosing a certified organic mattress with USDA Organic certification offers several benefits:
Forest Stewardship Council (FSC)
Another essential certification to consider when selecting a mattress for your recreational vehicle is the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certification.
This certification ensures that wood products used in mattresses, such as bed frames and slats, are sourced from responsibly managed forests and provide benefits to local communities.
Opting for a mattress with FSC certification signifies your investment in an eco-friendly product and your support for responsible forestry and community development.
This certification contributes to a healthier sleep environment and a more sustainable future for our planet.
How To Choose A Certified Mattress: Tips And Recommendations
With a better understanding of mattress certifications and eco-friendly materials, you’re now equipped to make an informed decision when choosing a healthy mattress for your camper.
To ensure you select a certified mattress, consider:
Adhering to these tips and recommendations will allow you to confidently choose a certified mattress, ensuring a healthy, non-toxic sleep environment in your camper.
Your well-being and the health of our planet are worth the investment.
Recognizing Greenwashing And Misleading Claims In The Mattress Industry
In the mattress industry, greenwashing is a deceptive advertising practice used to make consumers believe that a product is more environmentally friendly or non-toxic than it actually is.
Some examples of greenwashing include using “soy foam” or labeling a product as “organic” or “natural” without proper certification or verification.
Recognizing greenwashing and misleading claims is crucial for making informed decisions when purchasing a replacement mattress for your RV.
Be vigilant when researching mattress brands and ensure that you’re relying on reputable certifications and clear information when selecting a mattress.
Steering clear of greenwashing and prioritizing genuine certifications will foster a healthier sleep environment in your trailer or motorhome.
Summary
When it comes to understanding RV mattress safety regulations, certifications and eco-friendly materials are the key to ensuring a healthy and non-toxic sleep environment in your RV.
By considering certifications such as GOLS, GOTS, OEKO-TEX Standard 100, Greenguard and Greenguard Gold, RWS, USDA Organic, and FSC, you can make an informed decision when selecting a mattress.
Remember to verify certifications, be cautious of greenwashing, and choose mattress brands that meet reputable certifications.
By doing so, you’ll not only invest in your health and wellbeing but also contribute to a more sustainable future for our planet.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Certifications Should I Look For In A Mattress?
Look for Greenguard Gold, MadeSafe®, GOLS, GOTS, OEKO-TEX Standard 100, and CertiPUR-US certifications when shopping for a mattress to ensure the highest quality and safety standards.
What Does CertiPUR Mean For Mattresses?
CertiPUR is a certification program for mattresses, which ensures that the foam used has been tested to meet high standards regarding emissions, content, performance and durability. The foam is not made with ozone depleters, PBDEs or Tris flame retardants such as TCEP, TDBPP, TDCPP or TEPA, and also does not contain heavy metals like mercury, lead or cadmium.
What Is The Difference Between GOLS And GOTS Certifications?
GOLS certification verifies that a latex mattress contains at least 95% organic latex, while GOTS requires 95% of the fibers in a mattress to be organic.
How Can I Verify A Mattress's Certifications?
You can verify a mattress's certifications by requesting updated documentation from the brand. Additionally, you can check online for verification programs and certifications provided to manufacturers of mattresses. Lastly, read reviews of the mattress to ensure it meets safety and quality standards.
What Is Greenwashing In The Mattress Industry?
Greenwashing in the mattress industry is an unethical advertising tactic that falsely suggests a product is more environmentally friendly than it really is by using misleading terms such as "organic" or "natural" without proof of certification.
Author: Kelly Beasley
I dedicated myself to living the full-time RV life for over 6.5 years, immersing myself in the unique quirks and joys of the boondocking lifestyle and gaining a wealth of knowledge and experience along the way. In December 2020, my business partner and I made the transition to part-time RVing, but in January 2023, we hit the road once again, this time in our trusty vans. My mission is to help others embrace the RVing lifestyle with confidence and excitement, armed with the knowledge and resources needed to make the most of their adventures. I believe that the more you know, the more you can truly appreciate and enjoy the freedom and flexibility of the open road.