What Does Sustainable Bedding Really Mean?

Recyclable, biodegradable, organic… You’re committed to products that are safe to humans and friendly to the environment, but what does it actually mean?

A product’s entire environmental impact - from cradle-to-grave - is measured through every phase of its life. When it comes to hospitality bedding, this includes not only how the raw material is grown or the way the product is produced and shipped, but also how long it can be subjected to heavy commercial use that involves daily washing, strong chemicals, drying and ironing energy, and regular replacement rates.

Take 100% organic cotton vs poly-cotton blend sheets as an example.

100% organic cotton is free of synthetic pesticides, chemical fertilizers, or genetically modified seeds, and is potentially less harmful to the environment and humans during cultivation. However, if it fails quicker than poly-cotton during routine operations, this means higher replacement rate that involves environmentally damaging activities like manufacturing and shipping.

In contrast, poly-cotton blend that has a solid tolerance to commercial use will require less replacements, manufacturing, and shipping, but at the same time will shed microplastics during washing and increase landfill waste after disposal.No product is 100% sustainable.

Choosing the ideal product- one that is durable, comfortable, AND has a minimum negative effect on the environment- should involve consideration of its various lifecycle phases.