What exactly is Natural Bedding?

From sheets to blankets to mattress pads, we offer may types of organic and natural bedding here at Satara Home.  What do we mean by “natural”?  The short answer:  (fiber) derived from a renewable plant or animal source, i.e. cotton, wool, silk, alpaca, etc.  But our definition of natural doesn’t end there.

We define our natural bedding as a healthier alternative to conventional options.  We’re not saying  that means the fiber is organically grown and processed to meet certified organic standards.  Instead, we identify “natural” as a smart second choice to organic. Especially when the item is produced via methods that reduce negative impact on human health and the environment. Examples include:

  • Mattress pads made from wool fiber that is cleaned with a non-toxic citrus soap instead of harmful scouring chemicals.
  • Natural latex toppers produced with real foam rubber instead of petroleum-based synthetic latex.
  • Cotton and bamboo crib sheets processed without releasing dioxins into the air from chlorine bleaching, which are known carcinogens.
  • Undyed organic baby bedding: cotton bedding instead of cotton/poly bedding dyed with heavy metal dyestuffs and treated with a formaldehyde easy-care finish.

We also describe bedding as “natural” based on the fiber’s inherent properties. This includes thermal warmth, absorption and wicking capabilities to name a few. All of which make sleeping with natural bedding much more comfortable then synthetic sheets and blankets.

In her blog post, Why buy natural fibers instead of synthetics?,Leigh Anne Van Dusen of O Ecotextiles lists the 5 tops reasons, according to the United Nations, that make natural fibers so important. The #1 reason:  “Natural fibers are a healthy choice. Natural fiber textiles absorb perspiration and release it into the air, a process called “wicking” that creates natural ventilation. Because of their more compact molecular structure, synthetic fibers cannot capture air and “breathe” in the same way.” 

Bedding promoted as “natural” is often tricky to decipher what it really means. There is no law label that defines it. That’s why it’s important to ask what goes into making the product and why it’s labeled natural.