Are Natural Mattresses Sustainable?

In this guide, I take a closer look at the sustainability of natural mattresses, helping you understand what makes a mattress eco-friendly so you can make a choice that aligns with your values. 

While many consider natural mattresses to be more eco-friendly, the sustainability of mattress production depends on several factors, such as the type of materials used and how they are sourced and dealt with at the end of their life.

I’m Hannah Shore, Head of Sleep Science, and I’m here to share what I’ve learned through my research and experience in the field.

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Sustainability of plant-based natural mattresses

Growing plants for mattress fillings can be a more regenerative process compared to synthetic materials, but it comes with its own set of challenges. For instance, some plant fibres require significant water resources, like cotton, and are harvested seasonally, like flax. Additionally, certain plants may not be grown locally in the UK, such as kapok, raising concerns about transportation and the carbon footprint associated with shipping.

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Sustainability of animal-based natural mattresses

When it comes to animal-based fillings like wool or alpaca fleece, the ethical sourcing of these materials can also be a point of concern. While much of the shearing of animals, such as sheep and goats, is a by-product of the meat farming industry, there are still concerns about the impact of livestock on local ecosystems. However, it’s important to note that many ethical farms ensure the well-being of animals and prioritise sustainable practices. 

Where possible, try to look for mattresses made with wool from sheep raised in the UK. Some wool may be sourced from farms in countries like New Zealand, which can result in a larger carbon footprint.

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Sustainability of natural filling mattresses vs synthetic mattresses

When considering mattress sustainability, it’s important to recognise that each material has its own pros and cons. 

Synthetic mattresses, often made from foams or non-natural materials, typically involve resource-intensive manufacturing and global shipping, which can increase their carbon footprint. For example, foam relies on oils and, although some recycling options exist, the process is not fully circular or widely available.

On the other hand, natural mattresses use renewable, biodegradable materials and often benefit from local sourcing, which can reduce environmental impact. However, natural materials like wool have their own complexities. Sheep farming produces methane, and intensive grazing can affect local biodiversity. Additionally, sourcing natural fibres from overseas adds transportation emissions.

Ultimately, the sustainability of any mattress depends on the full supply chain, including how raw materials are produced, processed, and transported. Choosing mattresses with locally sourced, responsibly managed natural fibres can help minimise environmental impact.

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While no mattress manufacturing process is entirely sustainable, many brands are actively working to improve their practices. At Mattress Online, we are proud to support some of the best natural mattress manufacturers who are dedicated to enhancing sustainability and sourcing materials locally in the UK.

For more details, visit our sustainability page.

Or, why not shop our natural mattresses and treat yourself to a better night’s sleep?