How to Choose a Non Toxic Mattress Protector

Do you need a mattress protector?

Yes! It protects your mattress— usually quite an investment— from breaking down quickly, as well as from sweat and germs. Mattresses off-gas chemicals more excessively when in contact with body heat, so a protector can also potentially reduce this a small amount.

Do you need a waterproof mattress cover?

If you have young kids, are a heavy sweater, or there are any other possibilities of liquids seeping through your sheets and into your mattress, I recommend a waterproof option to prevent mold, bacteria, and dust mites, all of which thrive in damp, humid places.

What is TPU?

TPU stands for thermoplastic polyurethane, and it is a plastic-based film that is used as a waterproofing fabric in mattress protectors.

How is TPU made?

Like PU (polyurethane, the foam found in mattresses), TPU is also created from two basic building blocks — polyols and diisocyanates (you can watch my 60 second video about what these are and how foam is made here). But, there are a few important differences. First, the two building blocks bond together permanently in a much more predictable and controlled way. Once they’re bonded together (“cured”) , they don’t un-bond. This is less true for polyurethane foam, which has additives to poof it up and soften it, and having uncured ratios of these chemicals can cause some health problems.

Also, new forms of TPU can be biodegradable, made with B. subtilis, a soil-based probiotic bacteria— or can even use cornstarch to replace the petroleum-derived polyols.

Is TPU toxic?

It is very unlikely to harm you, and depends on how it’s made. The “old” way of making TPU involved solvents and off-gassing VOCs. Now, biodegradable and bio-based TPUs are being made, which don’t rely on these, and are much safer for workers.

It’s always better in the long run for human health to shift away from petroleum-based products, which is where polyols and diisocyanates come from— it’s not always feasible to go with the most natural waterproofing solution, wool. But, even an “old” TPU is healthier than vinyl and PFAS, protects you from mold, sweat and bacterial build up in your mattress, and is relatively affordable.

Are there natural waterproof mattress protectors?

Yes. The world of non toxic waterproof fabric can be tricky— traditional options, often made with PVC, are notoriously toxic, and many non-PVC options are made with fabric processing chemicals that can off-gas. Here’s what I recommend:

• Choose an organic, washable wool one if you are prioritizing material health above all else. Not only is it completely natural, wool is also very thermoregulating for hot sleepers. See how wool works here.

• Choose GOTS certified organic fabric with a super-thin layer of polyurethane film (TPU) in between the layers if you’re sensitive to wool. 

• Choose an OEKO TEX certified polymer fabric option (like polyester or microfiber) if you’re prioritizing affordability.