Natural cotton is grown conventionally but is not processed with harsh chemicals (such as chlorine bleach and various dyes). Organic cotton is not only unbleached and undyed, but is also grown without the use of synthetic pesticides, herbicides, or chemical fertilizers. It provides a completely natural and chemical-free filling material.

Polyurethane foam is essentially “foamified” petroleum and is extremely flammable. As such, it is heavily treated with fire retardant chemicals such as PBDEs (the most common of which was just banned by the state of California and across Europe). Many other questionable chemicals are also added in the fabrication process. Polyurethane foam disintegrates over time, breaking down into small particles that easily become airborne while releasing substantial VOCs throughout its lifecycle.

Polyethylene is an environmentally friendly plastic that is used throughout the food packaging industry for its purity and non-toxic properties. The polyethylene surface of the Naturepedic No-Compromise Organic Baby Crib Mattress is specially formulated using only pure food grade materials, creating the ultimate non-toxic and waterproof mattress cover. It is also easy to clean and will not stain.

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Vinyl/PVC is largely regarded as one of the most toxic plastics in use today. It also poses numerous environmental concerns. Mattress covers made from vinyl/PVC contain many chemical additives such as phthalates, antimony, and various biocides which are released over time.

Many companies have begun replacing vinyl/PVC with a woven nylon fabric. While nylon is definitely an improvement over vinyl/PVC, it is still not as pure and non-toxic as polyethylene. It is also not truly waterproof and will stain (it must be treated with a chemical coating in order to make it water resistant). Nylon mattress covers also typically contain the same questionable fire retardants and biocides as vinyl/PVC. TRY TO AVOID NYLON MATTRESS.

Mattress pads are always a good idea. Firstly, no one wants to clean a mattress in the middle of the night. Secondly, they add a nice layer of breathability under the baby. Using DrySleep™ technology, the No-Compromise™ Waterproof Pad provides full waterproof protection while maintaining a degree of breathability. The Organic Cotton Flannel Pad, provides a highly absorbtive breathable layer (although not waterproof), and works great with the No-Compromise Organic Baby Crib Mattress, since the mattress itself is waterproof. For older children, we recommend the Organic Cotton Quilted Pad which provides a bit more “cush.”

Stay away from conventional crib mattress pads made with vinyl/PVC or latex rubber. Wool pads are also not recommended for babies due to allergy concerns.

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