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The 7 Sins of Greenwashing

Fri, 17 Apr 2009 12:38:00 -0500

By Dan Shapley from The Daily Green

According to one set of high standards, only 2% of products claiming in some way to be "green" actually measure up. The rest -- a whopping 98% -- are making false claims that mislead consumers into thinking a product is sustainable.

Things are so bad out there that the report's author, TerraChoice Environmental Marketing, had to add a seventh sin of greenwashing to the original six it developed for its first report, in 2007.

Since then, the market for green products has exploded; the rate of green advertising has tripled from 2006 to 2009, according to one TerraChoice survey. Of 2,219 products surveyed in North America in 2009, 98% committed at least one "sin" that could mislead consumers. The most sinful categories of products: kids toys and baby products, cosmetics and cleaning products.

Terrachoice defines greenwashing as "the act of misleading consumers regarding the environmental practices of a company or the environmental benefits of a product or service." For consumers trying to make responsible decisions in the marketplace, it's a huge problem.

For more thoughts, from a different and venerable institution, consult Consumer's Union, which publishes the great Greener Choices Eco-Label Center. Beware terms like "eco-safe", "eco-secure", "eco-preferred" and "natural" which are meaningless.

The 7 Sins of Greenwashing

1. Sin of the Hidden Trade-Off: If a product claims to be green in one sense, but ignores other significant impacts, the marketers sin. According to TerraChoice: "Paper, for example, is not necessarily environmentally-preferable just because it comes from a sustainably-harvested forest. Other important environmental issues in the paper-making process, including energy, greenhouse gas emissions, and water and air pollution, may be equally or more significant."

2. Sin of No Proof: If you can't prove it with reputable third-party verification, you can't claim it, according to TerraChoice: "Common examples are facial or toilet tissue products that claim various percentages of post-consumer recycled content without providing any evidence."

3. Sin of Vagueness: Terms such as "all-natural," "environmentally friendly" and other vague or unregulated descriptors can mislead consumers. TerraChoice points out: "Arsenic, uranium, mercury, and formaldehyde are all naturally occurring, and poisonous. 'All natural' isn't necessarily 'green'."

4. The (new) Sin of Worshiping False Labels: Often, a product has an official-looking seal, but the seal is meaningless because it is dreamed up by the product marketers themselves, without any application of third-party standards.

5. Sin of Irrelevance: If a claim is true, but doesn't distinguish the product in any meaningful way, marketers have sinned. According to TerraChoice: "'CFC-free' is a common example, since it is a frequent claim despite the fact that CFCs (that's chlorofluorocarbons - the chemical that depletes the ozone layer) are banned by law."

6. Sin of the Lesser of Two Evils: Even if a green marketing claim is true -- the cigarette is organic, or the SUV has a hybrid engine -- it fails this TerraChoice test if the claim fails to recognize the overall harm caused by the product. The SUV may get better mileage than others in its class, but still achieve dismal fuel economy when compared to other vehicles; the cigarette, however organic, still causes lung cancer.

7. Sin of Fibbing: Simple. It's a lie. Some companies will go as far as claiming to be certified organic or Energy Star-certified, but cannot back up the certification.

Get Green Dreams

Mon, 16 Mar 2009 14:54:00 -0500

By Gloria Dawson

Instead of your conventional cotton set, whose plants are sprayed with pesticides and chemicals, why not try 100% organic cotton?

You might be getting the recommended eight hours of sleep, but can you really rest easy on your old cotton sheets? Traditional cotton is one of the most highly sprayed products. By switching to organic cotton you'll be keeping the environment and your family safer. Try sets that go a step further, using only low-impact dyes, which create less water waste and use no heavy metals.

You know you've been dreaming about a greener tomorrow. Make it a reality by protecting your largest organ (your skin) all night long.

In Europe, a Call for Labeling Personal Care Products to Protect the Unborn

Tue, 02 Dec 2008 13:35:00 -0600

By Dan Shapely

Some advocates and scientists in the U.K. are calling for new Europe-wide labeling system to warn pregnant women against using certain personal care products, like hairspray and some cosmetics, because of a perceived risk to their unborn children, according to the London Independent.

According to the Independent:

"The move follows the publication of a study which found that women exposed to high levels of hairspray during pregnancy were twice as likely to have babies born with hypospadias, a condition in which the urinary tract grows on the underside of the penis. The Imperial College London study suggested that the birth defects were linked to chemicals in hairspray shown to disrupt the hormonal systems in the body and affect reproductive development.

"Fears over the effects of chemicals such as parabens, commonly used in cosmetics as a preservative, and phthalates, used in hairspray, have led to calls for closer monitoring of cosmetics. High levels of phthalates, also used to soften plastics such as PVC, have been found to affect hormone levels, while parabens have been the subject of concern since 2004, when a study claimed to have detected parabens from deodorants in cancerous breast tissue.

"The French health minister Roselyne Bachelot sparked debate last week by announcing that the French health authorities were considering a labelling system for cosmetics that would indicate whether or not products were safe for pregnant women. But the UK government said that the EU should address the issue as a whole, adding it to a range of changes currently being made to the European Cosmetics Directive."

A spokesperson for the Department for Business, Enterprise & Regulatory Reform (BERR) said: "BERR does not think this is something which is suitable for individual countries to take forward unilaterally and hope that the French raise this during the current negotiations on the revision of the cosmetics directive, where a discussion can take place among experts on cosmetic products".

A separate study recently found that adolescent girls in the United States have 16 different chemicals from four chemical classes in their blood and urine that might disrupt the normal functioning of their hormonal systems.

These endocrine disruptors -- phthalates, triclosan, parabens and musks -- are associated with cosmetics and body care products, which teen girls use in higher doses than other segments of the population, according to the Environmental Working Group, which conducted study. Further, because young women are going through rapid development, their longterm health, particularly their reproductive health, could be at risk.

The health risks of the chemicals is not definitively understood, but each has been the target of efforts by consumer, health and environmental advocates who view independent scientific findings as justification for limiting or eliminating exposure.

Because these chemicals mimic hormones, they may cause effects at very low levels, just as hormones act naturally as chemical messengers to cause changes in the body at low concentrations.

The 20 teens tested -- a small sample that can only raise more questions, rather than definitively describe exposure rates -- used an average of more than 16 personal care products daily.

Finding cosmetics and personal care products free of suspect ingredients is notoriously difficult. Labels are often misleading, ingredients are listed with confusing alternative descriptions or not at all, and many terms -- like natural or even organic -- commonly found on labels are unregulated.

Finally, Answers to Nagging Chemical Toxicity Questions

Mon, 06 Oct 2008 12:36:00 -0500

By Dan Shapley

Next year will mark a milestone in the health of the nation's children, and the effort to protect them from the dangers of toxic chemicals in the environment. The National Children's Health Study is on track to begin in 2009. The massive $3.2 billion study will track 100,000 U.S. children from birth to age 21.

In the process, it will develop the best set of data ever assembled about what causes disease, answering controversial questions about the origins of autism, diabetes, cancer and other significant health problems that keep parents up worrying at night about everything from nutrition to the toxicity of household cleaners.

The study is a milestone effort in the nation's ability to understand the effects of chemicals on children. For years, it was assumed — where the regulation of chemicals was concerned — that children were no more than small adults. But scientific studies — not to mention common sense — have shown that children are uniquely susceptible to damage from toxic substances and endocrine-disrupting chemicals. They are not only exposed to more because they breathe and drink more of a chemical per body weight, but they are in closer proximity to many potential environmental hazards at ground level. Additionally, their growing organs are susceptible to damage at critical times in their development.

Researchers have fought off political challenges that have sought to undermine funding and support for the study before, and those challenges remain. Concerned citizens should be aware of this study, and make sure their representatives — who have to approve funding for the program every year — fight to maintain support throughout the long years of the study.

The value of the study's results will be measured in the health and longevity of our children.

A Latex Mattress Naturally Resists Dust Mites

Tue, 09 Sep 2008 12:47:00 -0500

Research shows that the household dust mite, in particular its feces, is the most common cause of bronchial asthma and other chronic sinus or respiratory conditions. The periodic replacement of a mattress is one of the primary methods to control allergy causing dust mites, according to Duncan Bain, a leading researcher. Bain has been involved in the development of British, European and international standards for the evaluation of mattresses and cushions and states that "the number of people effected is rising throughout Europe (and indeed world wide), now impairing the health and quality of life of a substantial proportions of children, as well as many adults."

Mattresses, particularly inner-spring mattresses, provide the ideal environment for dust mites as a result of the moisture our bodies give off and the dead skin that we slough off, while we are sleeping. In general, the older the mattress the larger is the dust mite concentration, which will continue to grows for years, until the mattress reaches maximum colonization. Even when the maximum density of dust mites is reached, the dead bodies and feces continue to build up over a longer period, and it's primarily the dust mite's feces that contribute to allergic reactions.

While it's unlikely that dust mites can be completely eliminated from your household, there are control measures that can be effective. Moisture is a primary environment for dust mites, and can be controlled with a dehumidifier and ventilation system. However, our bodies give off moisture while we sleep and, as a result, the highest concentrations of dust mites eventually end up in our mattresses. Dust mite barriers that are constructed of fabric, rather than plastic, can be an effective method of control, particularly when combined with mattress replacement at reasonable intervals.

A natural latex mattress is the most effective solution for allergic reactions to dust mites and their feces. Latex naturally resists dust mites and is hypo-allergenic, anti-microbial and resistant to mold, mildew and fungus. When a latex mattress is combined with a natural wool cover, also naturally resistant to dust mites, the environment for dust mite colonization is almost null. A natural wool cover, or an organic wool mattress pad, that can be removed and aired out for six hours or more on a sunny day will completely eliminate the possibility of dust mite colonization. Of course, the fact that natural latex is the most comfortable and durable of all sleeping surfaces, gives you a feeling for the finest choice available in a quality mattress.

Natural Latex Creates Revitalizing Sleep

Mon, 25 Aug 2008 14:04:00 -0500

No single component of our lives is more important than creating a safe refuge for healthy, revitalizing sleep. We spend a third of our lives in bed and the quality of our sleep is directly related to the comfort of our sleeping products. Today the emphasis is clearly on creating a chemical-free bedroom. It's a simple truth that our indoor air is 3-5 times more polluted than the air outside. The use of harsh chemical cleaners has contributed to indoor pollution, and many are not aware of toxic off-gassing from the wide variety of chemicals used in furniture, bedding and, particularly, mattresses.

A soothing environment in the bedroom creates a relaxing space away from the hustle and bustle of our day to day lives. Bring a little as possible of your busy life into the bedroom and, if you feel the need for a TV in the bedroom, make sure you can hide it from view and don't use it to help fall asleep. Some simple routines for relaxation before bed, while you are stretched out on the bed can be very helpful. Couples can try a variety of massage techniques, which are great for relieving stress and bring a new sense of intimacy into the bedroom. Lighting that can be dimmed and soothing music enhance the feeling of a safe refuge for both singles and partners. Creating the right environment gives you the opportunity to reward yourself, and everyone in your family, for the efforts of a busy day.

Once you have set a soothing mood in your bedroom, the next step is the comfort of your mattress. There are two primary considerations in the comfort and safety of your mattress choices. First, there are very real concerns about toxic fire-retardant chemicals in most conventional mattresses, which can affect your health when they are absorbed by your body......and they will be absorbed. Educate yourself about these changes in the composition of your mattresses to protect yourself and, particularly, your growing children. The concerns are real, and natural, chemical-free mattresses have seen a tremendous increase in popularity as a result. The second consideration is the significant improvements in comfort and durability that are offered by foam mattresses in comparison to conventional inner-spring mattresses.

Foam mattresses are available using two different types of foam, polyurethane and latex. These two types of foam have some similarities and yet are very different in their qualities and benefits. Both mattresses are superior to inner-springs in their ability to comfortably distribute body weight, relieve pressure points and their durability, often out lasting 2 or 3 conventional inner-spring mattresses. However, the similarities end there. Natural latex, a sustainable resource, has become the most popular material for all natural mattresses and is unsurpassed in comfort and durability. A latex mattress, covered in organic cotton and wool, will free you from concerns over toxic off-gassing from your mattress and is the ultimate is creating soothing and restful sleep.

Get the rest and relaxation your and your family deserve, no other area of your life can contribute so much to your health and sense of well-being. When you start a new day rested and full of energy, so much more can be accomplished in your work, play and relationships. Foster your intimate relationship by surrounding yourself in comfort, using the finest material nature has provided, natural latex. A latex mattress can last for 20 years or more, all the time supporting you on the most comfortable possible sleeping surface. Make certain that the many years you will spend sleeping contribute in every possible way to relaxing and revitalizing your life by spending your nights on a natural latex mattress.

The Lasting Value of Natural Foam

Fri, 22 Aug 2008 15:40:00 -0500

A petroleum based product, synthetic foam directly reflects the rise in oil prices and has increased rapidly in cost over the last year. Polyurethane foam and memory foam have been popular components of high end mattresses, including Tempur-Pedic, for many years now. The current rise in prices of synthetic foam has made it possible for consumers to consider the alternative of natural and sustainable latex foam. A quality latex mattress will currently have a similar price to high-end inner-spring mattresses and should be less than a Tempur-Pedic or similar memory foam mattress.

This can be a very advantageous shift in perspective, as a quality latex mattress will out last 2 or 3 quality inner-spring mattresses and is more durable than the best memory foam. Latex exhibits additional qualities that many prefer when compared to memory foam. Natural latex is a sustainable resource, harvested from the rubber tree, and many consider it to have the finest feel of any sleeping surface. In addition latex creates a mattress that is hypo-allergenic, anti-microbial and resistant to mold mildew and dust mites. Latex is available in a variety of firmness levels, allowing mattress manufacturers to fine tune the firmness for individual sleeping preferences.

Foam mattresses, particularly those using natural or blended latex, have recently created a significant buzz in the mattress industry, with major manufacturers beginning to offer models featuring some latex components. However, latex avails itself to a very simple mattress solution, and experienced latex mattress manufacturers offer models that use only layers of latex and simple covers, often organic cotton and wool. The sleeping comfort of latex does not need to be modified or incorporated into a more complex mattress configuration. Just a couple of layers of latex, usually about 8”, are all that is necessary to provide nature’s finest sleeping surface, with a simple cover, so that the feel of latex is experienced directly.

The natural qualities of latex are perfect for what many have begun to call an “organic mattress”. In this sense “organic” expresses the desire that many consumers have for mattresses using only natural materials to avoid any possible chemical contamination in their sleeping products. These concerns are particularly prevalent as a result of the widespread use of toxic chemical fire-retardants in mattresses and bedding products. While the concept of an “organic mattress” is a misnomer, certainly a natural mattress, using only natural latex, organic cotton and wool, has many benefits to offer the savvy consumer. It’s no surprise that there has been an incredible increase in the sales of natural latex mattresses.

When considering the purchase of a foam mattress, either polyurethane or latex, one quality offered by both materials is enhanced comfort and durability. A conventional inner-spring mattress begins to break down and sag, and should be replaced every 5-7 years. However, quality foam mattresses maintain their shape and breakdown much more slowly than inner-spring mattresses, and also distribute weight much more evenly and comfortably, relieving pressure points. A latex mattress presents the optimum in value, durability and comfort. It’s time to begin sleeping on nature’s finest sleeping surface, an all natural latex mattress.

It's Not All Fluff: Sleep On a Sound Decision

Thu, 19 Jun 2008 15:35:00 -0500

Emily Main/National Geographic Green Guide

Who knows what dreams may come during a night's sleep on off-gassing conventional pillows? If not filled with petroleum-based polyester or polyurethane foams, which deplete non-renewable resources, "natural" pillows can be made with conventional cotton, which is responsible for billions of pounds of pesticides and synthetic nitrate fertilizers. Synthetic fillings also absorb moisture, providing an optimal breeding ground for dust mites: Ten percent of the weight of a two-year-old pillow can be composed of dead mites and their droppings. As for moisture- and stain-resistant finishes, they employ everything from perfluorooctanoic acid or PFOA (also used in Teflon) to formaldehyde, both likely human carcinogens according to the EPA.

Buckwheat

Asian cultures have used buckwheat-hull pillows for centuries, and many doctors recommend the body-conforming filling to patients with neck pain and insomnia. Buckwheat is a pesticide-free crop and requires very little fertilizer. "It's a really sensitive plant—any type of pesticide will kill it," says Tom Bilek of the Buckwheat Growers Association of Minnesota. It's also naturally pest-resistant, good news for sufferers of dust-mite allergies, but be sure to ask merchants whether the hulls have been thoroughly cleaned, as lingering dust can trigger asthma attacks.

Kapok

Kapok pillows provide a similar loft to down, and, because the fibers are very water-resistant--they've been used as fill for life preservers--they are inhospitable to mites and mildew. Kapok also avoids the cruelty issues posed by down, which, according to United Poultry Concern, is frequently gathered from maltreated, factory-farmed birds. Instead, this fiber comes from the seedpods of the tropical kapok tree.

Traditionally, the seedpods naturally break open and fall to the ground, then the fibers are gathered. "The harvest of kapok is only potentially damaging if the tree is cut down to get the fruits or if all the fruits are taken, seeds and all," says Catherine Woodward, president of the Ceiba Foundation for Tropical Conservation.

Wool

Also water-resistant, wool wicks moisture off your skin and dries quickly. Look for the "Pure Grow Wool" label, representing 200 farm families in California who conduct humane sheep ranching without pesticides.

Natural Latex

Help support tropical rainforests—and your neck—by choosing this product of tapped (not logged) rubber trees.

Emily Main is The Green Guide's Senior Editor.

Keeping Your Bedroom Green

Tue, 17 Jun 2008 14:27:00 -0500

Going green is an important concept in all areas of our lives. We are unable to determine the exact cause of increases in autism, asthma, hyperactivity and other developmental disorders. However, more and more evidence seems to support concerns about the toxic chemical environment in which we live. The proliferation of chemicals used to aid in controlling pests, fighting germs, fertilizing food and in growth hormones has left us surrounded by residual toxins that we ingest through our food sources, inhale in the air we breathe, or absorb through our bodies.

A powerful first choice for going green is the bedroom, where most people will spend a third of their lives. Consider the proximity of your mattress and bedding when you are sleeping, and it makes good sense to error on the side of caution when chemical off-gassing is concerned. We breathe more deeply as we relax and sleep, making us even more vulnerable to toxins in our mattresses and bedding. This is particularly true for infants, whose lungs and bodies are still developing. Of course, we are in direct contact with our bedding, and in almost direct contact with the mattress surface, for hours at a time, absorbing measurable amounts of chemicals while we sleep.

A latex mattress has become the most popular solution for a green bedroom and safe sleeping. Natural latex is a sustainable resource harvested from rubber trees and for those who struggle with allergies, a latex mattress present a safe haven that is naturally hypoallergenic and anti-microbial. This means that molds, mildew, and dust mites that may help trigger allergies will not be waiting for you in your mattress, where they can be the most frustrating. A latex mattress provides support where it is needed most by contouring to the body's natural nuances. Latex relieves pressure points, particularly at the shoulders and hips allowing for better circulation, and in consequence, less tossing and turning for a deeper more restful sleep.

The covering of your mattress is particularly important as it can contain fire-retardant chemicals in the mattress ticking or in “fire socks” that are used to pass the federal open-flame standards. Fortunately, all natural latex mattresses can be found with organic cotton and wool sleep surfaces. Properly configured, a mattress cover of wool and cotton provides sufficient protection to pass the new open flame standards. A latex mattress covered in wool and cotton is free from toxic off-gassing and offers the superior qualities of wool for moisture transport and regulating body temperature. A latex mattress gently distributes your body weight and relieves pressure points. Natural latex and wool will also naturally resist mold, bacteria and dust mites.

The next step in creating a green bedroom is chemical-free bedding. Most textile manufacturing is now done outside of the country, making it even more difficult to determine chemical residues that might be present in the mattresses or bedding. Wrinkle and stain free sheets are generally treated with chemicals that include formaldehyde, and many fabric dyes contain heavy metals. California is currently considering legislation to apply new fire resistant standards to mattress pads, blankets and comforters by treating the bedding with topical chemical fire-retardants. Instead, look for bedding produced without bleaching and wool that has not been chemically treated. Sheets from organic cotton, cultivated without polluting pesticides or synthetic fertilizers, not only benefit the environment, but also your health.

There is no reason to have questionable chemicals in direct contact with your skin, or in your bedding and mattress surface, less than an inch away. Our bodies absorb many of these chemicals and the cumulative long term effects can be dangerous to your health. You owe it to yourself to make your bedroom a safe refuge, as free as possible from toxic chemicals, for both your health and peace of mind. Sleep safely, successful solutions for your mattress and bedding can pay significant dividends for your health.

Consider A Natural Latex Crib Mattress

Tue, 10 Jun 2008 14:52:00 -0500

With the steady rise in children’s health problems such as autism, asthma, allergies, and other respiratory problems, it certainly best to limit exposure to any possible sources of contact with toxic chemicals or their off-gassing. There is no better place to start than your infants crib mattresses which, unfortunately, are often passed down in our families. Infants are developing so rapidly and spend so much time on their crib mattresses, that it is imperative that we keep their crib as safe as possible. The safest of all materials for crib mattresses is all natural latex.

Research into toxic crib mattresses will turn up several very significant concerns. Many current fire-retardants, saturating mattresses to pass the open-flame standards, contain boric acid and antimony. Antimony is a heavy metal which even the CPSC acknowledges will be absorbed over time and will bioaccumulate in our body. Antimony has been banned in Europe due to concerns that it contributes to SIDS. Many crib mattresses are made from polyurethane foam, which tends to off-gas formaldehyde as it breaks down. The dangers of this chemical are well documented, and they have significant negative impact on developing respiratory systems.

Older crib mattresses often contain PBDEs, an inexpensive fire-proofing chemical banned in Europe because of high concentrations in the milk of nursing mothers. All of these chemicals are know to leach through the vinyl covering of the standard crib mattress. Because of the warm moist environment on a crib mattress, it is a natural breeding ground for mold, mildew and fungus. When mold and fungus break down polyurethane foam it can form highly toxic off-gases, which may also be a significant source of SIDS.

Consider an all natural latex crib mattress and its benefits. Latex is the most comfortable of all mattress surfaces, gently conforming to your babies sleeping position. Latex resists mold, mildew and fungus and is naturally hypo-allergenic, anti-microbial and resists dust mites. Latex absorbs very little moisture and when protected with a natural wool moisture barrier helps keep the crib dry, clean and free from bacteria. When the health of your newborn or children is concerned, a latex mattress will assure you that they are in nature’s safest sleeping environment.

It would not be difficult, utilizing current research into the many methods of fire-proofing mattresses, to set off a general cry of alarm about the long-term consequences of exposure to the various chemical which saturate mattresses. However, a far simpler approach is provided by a natural latex mattress, covered with wool. Wool is a natural fire-retardant and is particularly effective in transporting moisture. Mother Nature really does know best! Your children are a precious gift, as is much of what is provided in the nature. By using natural materials, a latex mattress not only provides unsurpassed comfort, but also creates peace of mind, knowing that your children are not spending hours at a time in direct contact with “chemical beds.”

With so much at stake, isn’t it much better to error on the side of caution when your newborn or children are concerned. In no other situation will your children be in such close proximity or direct contact with any surface. Infants are developing their respiratory system so rapidly that you want their little lungs to be breathing only the purest possible air. There is not a question if certain mattresses off-gas, even the CPSC has documented how much of specific chemicals we absorb. As adults, we’ve developed completely and built up our immune systems, but this is not the case for children as they develop and chemical exposure at this time can be very dangerous. Keep your children safe on a latex crib mattress.

Choosing A Quality Latex Mattress

Mon, 07 Apr 2008 12:23:00 -0500

A latex mattress is an investment in the quality of life for you and your family and it is not unusual for a quality latex mattress to outlast even two or three conventional innerspring mattresses. The value of the sleep comfort associated with latex mattresses extends into all your waking hours in the form of revitalized energy for work, play and relationships. The quality of the latex utilized in your mattress, whether it is a latex blend or all natural latex, determines the quality of your investment.

When you begin the process of purchasing a latex mattress, first determine the origins of the latex and its composition. You will probably already have decided if you are looking for an all natural latex mattress, usually with an organic cover, or a mattress using blended latex. Both offer the excellent weight distribution and relief of pressure points that have made latex such a popular sleeping surface. If you are making your purchase online, make certain that you have the opportunity to discuss the details of the latex with a knowledgeable salesperson.

A Natural Solution for Safe Sleep

Sat, 05 Apr 2008 12:18:00 -0500

The proximity of harsh or toxic chemicals while you are sleeping is best to avoid. Pollution, in all its forms, has become a justifiable concern in our modern life. Studies have shown that our indoor air is often 3-5 times more polluted in than the air outside. Often it is the very chemicals we use to clean that contribute to air quality problems inside the home.

The popularity of the latex mattress, using natural materials in the cover instead of chemical fire-retardants, should come as no surprise. Most bedding and mattresses are treated with a variety of chemicals and fire-retardants. Formaldehyde is commonly used to create wrinkle free sheets, and most conventional inner-spring mattresses make heavy use of chemical fire-retardants. When we consider that a full third of our life is spent in the bedroom, it makes sense to choose the most careful approach in creating a safe refuge that is as chemical and toxin free as possible.

The other important components for safe sleeping are chemical free sheets, blankets and pillows. The best materials are free of synthetic dyes, bleaches and wrinkle proofing treatments. Organic cotton and wool are great choices, and can easily found on-line. Natural pillows filled with buckwheat, natural latex and cotton or wool provide safe sleep comfort free of chemical and dust mites.