Bedrooms Are Getting a Sustainable Makeover, from Mattresses to Decor

While our kitchens and closets tend to be first in line for sustainable makeovers, it's time for the bedroom to have its moment. Considering we spend about one-third of our life sleeping, there's no better time than now to make some swaps that better your and the planet's health.

From new-and-improved green mattresses to bedding and decor made with eco-friendly materials, bedrooms are going green. And according to Mark Abrials, co-founder and chief marketing officer of Avocado Green Brands, consumers are ready to make a change.

"Companies know that 'being green' is good for business," Abrials says. "In fact, about two-thirds of Americans are willing to pay more for sustainable products."

And you're in luck: A new wave of sustainable materials is on the horizon, meaning we're moving away from toxic, unsustainable chemicals in our homes. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has already taken action to ban per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), or long-lasting chemicals that harm the environment.

"This has pushed brands to publicize the non-toxic (or non-PFA) products in their lineups," Abrials says. "Experts predict that this trend will stick. In the coming years, 'non-toxic' will become more than just a buzzword. As the EPA begins to ban products that are toxic, brands will be forced to put their efforts behind products that are more sustainable and better for the environment."

If you're looking for a sign to invest in your sustainable bedroom, ultimately treating yourself (and the planet)—this is it. Staring with your mattress. Because with all that time spent sleeping, what we're sleeping on matters.

Unfortunately, while many mattresses are comfortable, they may not be sustainable. That means when it's time to switch to a new one, you could be sending something that's harmful to the planet straight to the landfill.

"More than 50,000 mattresses end up in landfills each day," Abrials says. "Many of these are made with petrochemicals that pose an environmental hazard when they are ultimately incinerated or introduced into the waste stream. We know we have to account for the lifecycle of our products."

That's where Avocado Green Mattress' Eco Organic Mattress comes in. According to Avocado, the mattress is the "most affordable certified organic mattress made in America." And the best part? Avocado Green Mattress believes in a circular economy, according to Abrials.

"That’s one reason why we design our mattresses with materials like latex, wool, and cotton," he says. "These organic, natural materials make the mattress biodegradable, too."

But your bedroom has more than just a bed, of course. Dressers, nightstands, bed frames, desks—the list can go on. Fortunately, we're moving away from fast furniture. Now, you can opt for handmade, eco-friendly furniture that uses materials like reclaimed wood, bamboo, organic cotton, and more.

Abrials says most furniture is "mass-made," but Avocado's furniture is better for both the planet and the people. "We individually handcraft all our furniture with real wood in our FSC certified woodshop in Los Angeles," he says. "We use reclaimed wood whenever possible. Reclaimed wood doesn’t require cutting down trees."

There are several other eco-friendly furniture brands on the market, too: Brentwood Homes, Greeington, and The Citizenry all offer sustainably-made pieces for your space. You can also get new-to-you furniture without buying into unsustainable production practices by opting for secondhand furniture from local thrift stores and online marketplaces.

Lastly, what else makes your bedroom feel like your bedroom? Everything in between. That means looking for sustainably-made bamboo sheets (like those from Sheets & Giggles and Ettitude), opting for throw pillows handmade by artisans over those from big-box stores, and choosing ethically-made wall decor and candles.

Investing in a green bedroom means investing in the planet, too. And no matter how you plan on going green in the bedroom, be sure to shop wisely. That means checking for ethical and sustainable labels, including Fair Trade certifications and certified organic labels. The planet will thank you for it.