Organic Crib Mattress Suggestions

[Shauna]

Hi can anyone tell me if there is a safe organic crib mattress that is affordable or am I just dreaming? We bought a crib mattress, Serta I believe, before the baby was born and I've had it "breathe" for about 10 months now and have kept the baby in with me in this time, but would like to move her finally into her crib, but don't feel comfortable because I keep imagining all these chemicals. Is there something like a pillowcase, but for a mattress that would protect her? Or a thick crib cover/pad that were organic, would that be enough? Or should I just by an entirely new organic mattress? As it is my mother thinks I'm nuts because I've gotten rid of all the plastic toys and other toys that were found to have low levels of chemicals and she is wondering if the baby will ever have any replacement toys. I'm wondering that myself :) I've actually started looking into woodworking & sewing, and I'm not really that crafty! But hate the idea of spending the money on high-end alternatives and then be duped yet again. Seems no matter what you spend there is always something lurking. I appreciate any help I can get! Thank, Shauna

[Shauna]

So I've been doing a little research on my own and was wondering if anyone has heard of the babesafe mattress cover? The website states regardless of organic or convential mattress, this should be used, to prevent off-gases. It looks like plastic, could this be the answer I am looking for? Or is it dangerous because its plastic, it also recommends using a towel underneath instead of a pad. Just wondering if anyone knows anything about these, I've never heard of them. But it says you can keep your existing mattress which would be nice, but just want to make sure I'm not taking a shortcut here!

[Samantha Fox]

Just to get back to you quickly on this, we are in the process of reviewing 2 fabulous mattresses!
What we are learning is that although a mattress may be tagged as "organic" that does not mean it is chemical free!

I have not heard of BAbesafe, but will look into it.

[Shauna]

Thanks! I'm really leaning toward the Babesafe Mattress Cover, but would love to know what you can find out! They even make them for the pack 'n plays.

[Samantha Fox]

Hey there Shauna,
We are starting to post our extensive work and research with fire retardants and I believe this recent post answers some of your concerns with older products, etc. Please read up with us for the next couple weeks for more.
thanks

[Liz Slaybaugh]

Shauna, I would like to commend you for being concerned about your baby's mattress. I am a grandma and have been trying to get straight answers to the same questions. I think there really are no definitive answers because no one can really be sure of the effects of absorbing flame retardants and other chemicals used on mattresses, pajamas, and other products. I think becoming well informed and making the best choices is the best you can do. I think we all want to limit as much as possible our children's exposure to anything harmful and we pick what we are able to do to accomplish this. Please tell your mother that there is a grandma (me) who has urged her daughter to throw out the plastic toys and utentsils and to use organic personal care products as much as possible. My daughter has done this and will buy a new mattress if we decide that it is best. I wonder if after a mattress has been around for a few years if the danger still exists.I think buying organic cotton pajamas is a good idea too. Books are a great replacement for the toys. My granddaughter who is 4 does not miss all the plastic junk at all and at the store she will say," I do not want plastic. It is not good for me." Good luck.

[Sandra]

Check out our post on this topic with 2 reviews of the safest, non-toxic mattresses available in the US!
http://www.safbaby.com/non-toxic-crib-mattress-organic-doesnt-mean-...
http://www.safbaby.com/naturepedics-organic-cotton-mattress-wool-fr...
http://www.safbaby.com/natural-mats-organic-cotton-and-natural-late...

[http://www.ownadaycare.com/]

In any child care situation it is important to take note of the shelf life of child provisions and items that you put your kids in or clothe them. A 10 month usage period for your mattress is more than enough and you should consider replacing the matt at the earliest convenience. In daycares, a mattress has a shelf life of 2 to 3 months depending on the number and age of the children who use it. This prevents any potential spread of harmful bacteria and ensures health and safety of all kids at all times. I think a similar window should be observed when it comes to looking out for your childs comfort, especially if he is to sleep on the mattress regularly.