Öko-Test evaluates natural latex mattresses

Consumer magazine Öko-Test has released its evaluation of eleven natural latex mattress models. While the results were generally positive, with eight models receiving a ‘good’ rating and only three scoring ‘satisfactory’ or ‘sufficient’, no mattress achieved a ‘very good’ rating.

The testing highlighted concerns regarding pollutant residues in certain models. Specifically, researchers identified increased levels of nitrosamines, which are considered carcinogenic and can evaporate from the mattress, as well as optical brighteners. These brighteners are used to make cover materials appear whiter but are difficult to degrade and serve no functional purpose for the mattress.