Choosing Sustainable Bedding: A Guide for Greener Sleep

With eco-friendly bedding, making a positive impact is so easy that you can do it in your sleep, without sacrificing comfort or quality. Choosing sustainable bedding starts with knowing what to look for, understanding some common marketing terms, and following four simple principles. In this sustainable bedding guide, we walk through the essentials you need to know to make greener choices when upgrading your bed linens.

Sustainability Indicators: Key Terms and Certifications

With so many labels and claims out there, it can be hard to know what really matters. The most reliable way to know if bedding is sustainable is to look for trusted third-party certifications like GOTS, OEKO-TEX®, or RDS, review material sourcing, and look for brands that are open about their processes. Here’s what you need to know about sustainability indicators so you can make informed decisions when shopping for bedding.

Sustainability Certifications

Sustainability claims are often used loosely in marketing. That’s why third-party certifications are critical. Without them, terms like “eco-friendly” and “natural” can be used without standardized definitions. Certification provides independent verification that a product meets established environmental and ethical standards, helping consumers avoid greenwashing. Here are three common certificates to look for when choosing eco-friendly bedding.

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GOTS Certification

The Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) certification is the gold standard for textiles produced with cotton and other natural fibers. Having this certification verifies that a product is: 

  • Made without genetically modified materials 
  • Cultivated without synthetic or hazardous pesticides 
  • Ethically produced from cultivation to manufacturing and distribution
Image of OEKO TEX  Logo

OEKO-TEX® STANDARD 100 Certification

OEKO-TEX® Standard 100 certification focuses on what touches your skin. It confirms that the product has been tested and is free from more than 1,000 substances known to be harmful to human health. The organization’s mission is to improve product traceability and transparency, helping customers make more informed decisions that protect natural resources.

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RDS Certification

The Responsible Down Standard (RDS) certification verifies that down used in products is sourced humanely, with an emphasis on animal welfare, supply chain traceability, and customer transparency. It covers the full supply chain, from farm to finished product. 

Our bedding undergoes extensive testing to ensure it meets the highest ethical and environmental standards. You’ll find OEKO-TEX® STANDARD 100, GOTS, RDS, and other eco-friendly certifications on sustainable bedding from The Company Store.