In a nationally representative January 2023 CR survey (PDF) of 2,088 U.S. adults, 12 percent said that one of the three most important features for them when buying a mattress is whether it comes with a label stating that its materials are not harmful to humans. But labels about chemicals in mattresses can be confusing, and not all certifications provide the same amount of assurance. For example, a “natural” label on a mattress isn’t connected to any official certifications.
Below, we cover some common labels found on mattresses. Check out our guide to organic mattress labels for a comprehensive list of certifications.
Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS): Mattresses with the GOTS certification consist of a cover or other fabric components that are made of 95 percent organic material. The label also ensures that no chemical flame retardants or polyurethane were used in the manufacturing process.
Global Organic Latex Standard (GOLS): The GOLS certification ensures that the latex in a mattress is at least 95 percent organic. As with the GOTS, the GOLS label also certifies that no chemical flame retardants or polyurethane were used.
CertiPur: A CertiPur certification means that chemicals such as formaldehyde and phthalates were not used to make the polyurethane that’s in a mattress, but it doesn’t cover any other materials.
GreenGuard: A GreenGuard certification does not guarantee that no VOCs were used to make a mattress, only that a mattress has low chemical emissions.
Natural: “Natural” on a mattress label has nothing to do with certifications and offers no guarantee about the materials or chemicals used in manufacturing.
