So you’re careful about what you feed your baby. You take time to choose great clothing and toys. It’s interesting how many precautions we take when it comes to our children’s safety and comfort but when it come to bedding, we tend to care just a little bit less about what they’re sleeping on. After all, infants are only in a crib for so long. How important can the quality of their mattress be right?

In an article by Clean and Healthy New York the blog revealed the findings of "The Mattress Matters: Protecting Babies While They Sleep" report. The findings of the report indicated a number of health concerns for infants with North American distributed mattresses.

• 52% of mattress models surveyed were made with conventional materials including chemicals of concern.
• 72% of surveyed mattress models use one or more chemicals of concern identified in this report, such as antimony, vinyl, polyurethane, and other volatile organic compounds.
• 22% use proprietary formulas for water proofers, flame retardants or antibacterial agents, keeping potential health impacts secret.
• 20% of surveyed mattresses offer some "green" components but do not take meaningful steps to ensure products are free of toxic chemicals.

This report did a great job of identifying just how many chemicals young infants are exposed to with the standard crib mattress. Most of the chemicals identified create harmful volatile organic compounds (VOCs) which are suspected to be cancer causing and toxic to children. Many of the compounds are known to create eye, nose and throat irritation and trigger asthma in children and adults.

What is even more alarming is the habit of sharing crib mattresses. If you buy your mattress used or borrow one, how can you be sure that the materials used will not negatively impact the quality of air in your home? Are you giving your children the best possible healthy start?

Choosing a natural crib mattress for your child may be one of the most important purchases you make. There are many organic options on the market including using organic latex and natural memory foam. Organic natural products provide the comfort and durability parents need in a crib mattress without the harmful chemicals and emissions that occur when inorganic manufacturing materials break down.

Another benefit of using organic latex is that it is a natural deterrent for dust mites. Mattresses of all sizes have the potential to build up dust and dust mites which can present a problem for adults or children with asthma or allergies.   Using a water proof natural barrier between the crib mattress and the sheet also adds an extra layer of protection creating a comfortable bedding environment for your child while preventing a number of respiratory issues or allergens from creating health issues.

If you are serious about creating a healthy environment for you and your children, consider giving them the best start with a quality organic mattress.

Image source: organicbabynook.com