Sustainable Bedding: Top Brands & Fabrics

We spend about a third of our lives in bed, making sustainable bedding a crucial investment for both personal health and environmental well-being.

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Conventional bedding is made from unsustainable, synthetic materials such as polyester. These fabrics are made from fossil fuels and shed microplastics when we wash them.

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In contrast, sustainable bedding offers comfort, durability, and peace of mind. It uses fabrics made from natural or renewable materials that require less water and promote biodiversity.

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When you’re shopping for sustainable sheets, duvets, quilts, or other bedding, here’s what to look for:

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More Sustainable Materials

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When choosing sustainable bedding you’ll want to avoid synthetic fabrics like polyester, nylon, and rayon that are derived from plastic. Instead, look for these more sustainable materials:

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Organic Cotton: It is soft and breathable and is grown without synthetic pesticides or fertilizers. It uses significantly less water than conventional cotton.
Bamboo: Bamboo is a fast-growing, renewable resource that requires minimal water and no pesticides. It's naturally hypoallergenic and has moisture-wicking properties, making it perfect for bedding. Bamboo plants also improve air quality, help prevent soil erosion, and promote biodiversity.
Tencel Lyocell: Tencel, also known as Lyocell, is a sustainable fabric made from wood pulp. It's soft, breathable, and biodegradable, with excellent moisture-wicking properties and wrinkle resistance thus offering both comfort and sustainability.
Recycled Materials: Sustainable bedding brands use recycled materials to reduce waste and promote a circular economy. For instance, some companies fill duvets with recycled polyester fibers from PET bottles, repurposing waste and reducing demand for new materials.

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Certifications to Look For

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Use these certifications to verify the sustainability of bedding materials and manufacturing processes:

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GOTS: Ensures the cotton is organic and the manufacturing process meets strict environmental and social criteria. It guarantees that the fabric is produced sustainably and ethically.
OEKO-TEX: Verifies that the bedding is free from harmful chemicals throughout the entire production process.
Fair Trade: Ensures workers receive fair wages and work in safe environments.

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Manufacturing Processes to Look For

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When choosing sustainable bedding, pay close attention to the manufacturing process. Check if the brand has sustainable manufacturing practices such as water conservation, waste reduction, and the use of renewable energy sources. Typically, more sustainable brands make this information readily available on their websites for transparency.

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Durability and End-of-Life

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When choosing bedding, look for high-quality, durable bedding that lasts longer. You can check the thread count (400-500 for percale and 300-600 for sateen) for sheets and fill power for duvets. A higher number often indicates better quality.

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Consider products that are easily recyclable or compostable. Materials like organic cotton and bamboo naturally decompose, reducing environmental impact. Some companies even offer take-back or recycling programs.

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