What’s the Deal with Organic Bedding, and Which Brands Are Actually Worth Buying?
Maybe you’re obsessed with wellness. Maybe you already eat organic and local when it comes to your food. After all, the benefits of going organic means fewer pesticides and chemicals—never a bad thing. But have you considered going organic…with your bedding? Turns out, it’s not such a crazy notion after all.
“We all try to eat organic, use clean beauty products, and take clean supplements to nurture our insides, but we tend to forget our skin is our biggest organ,” says Lauren Meichtry, founder of Elsie Home. “If we jump into bed each night and lie on synthetic fabrics or rest our heads on synthetic pillows, aren't we being a bit hypocritical?”
Is Organic Bedding Really Better—Or Is It Just the Latest Trend?
At the basic level, organic bedding is created without any harmful chemicals, such as pesticides or harsh chemical cleaners and fabric treatments, which some companies use on more traditional bedding. (For instance, ‘wrinkle resistant’ sheets are commonly treated with chemicals that release formaldehyde.) The long-term risks of exposure to things like formaldehyde are nuanced, but some studies have suggested it could be problematic.
Organic bedding can be a bit more expensive, but according to Meichtry, those few dollars saved will actually cost you more down the line. “Synthetic materials actually break down over time, so while you might save a buck or two when purchasing them, you'll likely be back at the store replacing your synthetic pillows before you know it,” she says.
So, how do you make sure you’re finding the best organic bedding for you? While certain buzzwords like ‘natural’ and ‘pesticide-free’ might make you think you’re buying organic, it’s important to make sure your sheets and duvets are GTOS-certified, aka, The Global Organic Textile Standard, which ensures no harmful or toxic chemicals are used throughout the entire process of turning the fiber into fabric, and means the cotton fiber was grown certified organic. If you’re looking to go organic, definitely avoid ‘wrinkle-free’ products, as those have been treated with formaldehyde, and stay clear of synthetic fiber sheets such as polyester microfiber.
Looking for some suggestions? Check out the expert-verified items below.
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Our Top Picks for Organic Bedding
1. Organic Cotton Textural Linework Duvet Cover & Shams
Fair-trade certified and made with uber soft organic cotton, this pretty duvet cover and sham set adds some trendy linework for a pop.
2. Pinzon 300 Thread Count Organic Cotton Bed Sheet Set - Queen, Natural
If you’re looking for an organic option that won’t break the bank, this Amazon option is key. GOTS-certified and available in a variety of stunning colors, it’s easy to mix and match.
3. Nestwell Organic Cotton 300-Thread-Count Sheet Set
Made with 100 percent sateen-weave organic cotton, this screams luxury. The solid tones allow for coordination with any blanket or weave, and the open closure lets you switch up your pillows easily.
4. Layla Palm Organic Cotton Duvet Cover & Shams
For a bohemian vibe that’ll transport you to a tropical location sans flight, these palm duvet covers are a must-buy.
5. Lanta Toile Reversible Organic Shams
Made using 100 percent organic cotton percale, the toile pattern depicts subtle flora and fauna inspired designs.
6. Act+Acre Organic Bamboo Pillowcase
Why bamboo? Well, the small gaps in bamboo fibers make them more breathable and able to fight frizz. So, you’ll (maybe) never wake up with a bad hair day again.
7. Boll & Branch Classic Hemmed 300 Thread Count Organic Cotton Sheet Set
Beyond being 100 percent fair-trade certified, GTOS-approved, and pure cotton, this 300-count set comes complete with pillowcases, a fitted sheet and a flat one.
8. 300 Thread Count Organic Cotton Printed Sheet Set
Vivid printed embroidery lets you add some brightness to your bedding, as these two floral options from Target demonstrate.
9. Alterra Pure Organic Percale Sheet Set
Made with eco consciousness in mind, these soft, cool cotton sheets are a minimalist’s dream.
10. Organic 300 Thread Count Sheet Set
Sateen can be more tightly-wound than percale, so it’s better for cooler climates. This navy hue also adds to that calm vibe, and turns your bedroom into a sanctuary.
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