Why "Clean" Bedding is Totally Worth It

What exactly is "clean" bedding? Is my current bedding dirty? Unfortunately, conventional bedding has some less than desirable qualities. Considering we spend about 1/3 of our life in our beds (definitely more in these times of Covid-19), we should understand exactly what is in our bedding that could be impacting our health.

What's Wrong with Conventional Bedding?

As with any consumer product, we need to have a discerning eye when we shop for bedding. Unless a company is transparent about their materials and processes, chances are there may be something hazardous lurking beneath the sheets.

Let's start by looking at the various material options.

Synthetic

Right off the bat, we know any synthetic bedding, ie polyester, is a no go. Synthetic materials are created through a completely unnatural process using a cocktail of chemicals which are then embedded in their fibers. When they are heated (ie when you put them in a dryer or when you're sweating beneath them) they can off gas these harmful chemicals. This releases the toxic chemicals into the air so they can be inhaled and allows them to seep into your skin (your largest and most absorbent organ). Beware of synthetics blended with cotton. These may feel more natural to the touch but they still contain toxic chemicals that can effect your health.

Cotton

At least it's natural, right? Well, cotton is one of the most heavily sprayed crops in the US. Studies show that some of these chemicals are still present in the cotton after harvest and can't be removed with washing. So, much like with foods, our best bet is to buy organic. However, even organic cotton sheets are dyed in order to achieve their desired color. Many companies use cheaper dyes which contain harmful chemicals, some of which are classified as known carcinogens. And if your sheets are stain resistant, permanent press, wrinkle resistant or non-iron, that means they have been treated with formaldehyde. That's right, the chemical used to embalm dead bodies, which is also a known carcinogen.

Silk

Silk as fiber is natural and toxin free. However, you'll still need to be sure the products aren't blended or dyed with harmful chemicals. Luxurious and safe silk products are likely to break the bank. And unfortunately, they're not the easiest to care for. They stain easily and are susceptible to damage from heat and light. Not exactly ideal characteristics for bedding.

Why I'm Obsessed with Bamboo Bedding

My exhaustive search for affordable, clean and sustainable bedding led me to Ettitude and their 100% Organic CleanBamboo Lyocell bedding. Their products are made from 100% organic bamboo and their process is free of toxins and saves 98% of the water from the bamboo plant in the process. They also verify that their dyes are non-toxic and eco friendly. Their products are Oeko-Tex Standard 100 certified which verifies that the finished product is free from harmful levels of more than 100 substances known to be detrimental to our health.

This CleanBamboo Bedding is not only non-toxic, but also hypo-allergenic, antimicrobial and thermo-regulating. These super soft fibers leave your hair and skin feeling smooth, rather than agitated by the friction created by cotton or synthetic fibers. Not to mention, thermo-regulating bedding is life changing. I've always suffered with night sweats and struggled to manage my temperature throughout the night. With these sheets I am sleeping like a baby.

Let me just say from personal experience, I never thought I could be so in love with bedding. It is truly, one of the best purchases I've made.

What to Look For When Buying "Clean" Bedding

If for some reason I didn't sell you on Ettitude's CleanBamboo bedding, read on for a brief summary of what to look for when shopping for "clean" bedding.

• Choose organic natural fibers - this way you know the crop wasn't treated with pesticides or other harmful chemicals
• Avoid non-iron, permanent press, wrinkle resistant and stain resistant - toxic chemicals are required for these features
• Look for Oeko-Tex Standard 100 certification - this way you know the finished product is certified free from harmful levels of more than 100 substances known to be detrimental to our health
• Transparency is key - read up on their mission and FAQs, they should address the quality of their fibers and dyes and their manufacturing process

"Clean" bedding is going to be an investment, but it is money well spent. Sleep is extremely important to our overall health. The hours we spend in our beds are when our internal organs rest and recover. It's so important that we sleep in a "clean" space to give our body the break it needs from fighting off the harmful chemicals that it comes in contact with all day long.