Instead of marketing what goes into a mattress, retailers are profiting on what does not go into a mattress. Walt Bader, President of Organic Mattresses, Inc. (OMI), states, "Consumers are more educated today about the chemicals in conventional mattresses and are choosing to buy the alternative, an organic mattress."

Organic mattresses and bedding represent the fastest-growing segment of the specialty bedding market. OMI’s organic mattresses and bedding sales in 2006 showed an average increase of 34% per quarter over the previous year. This increase reflects national food and health trends, showing that consumers are seeking to expand organics into all aspects of their lives.

Mattress stores, eco-specialty shops, and chains offering the OMI line find that the advantage goes beyond selling certified products. Harvey Hartman, CEO of the Hartman Group, describes organics as having a halo effect for the company, "consumers give positive attributions to the company for providing the organic options." This effect remains true even when retailers offer organic and conventional mattresses side by side.

Independent third-party certifications have helped the OMI product line reach a level of distinction unmatched in the market. These include the only certified organic mattress and bedding manufacturing facility in North America as well as the coveted GREENGUARD certification.

OMI’s mattresses meet all state and federal flammability standards (including California’s TB603 and the new 2007 1632 CPSC standards). Using components that are naturally fire retardant, OMI’s organic mattresses have achieved compliance without toxic retardants such as PBDEs or boron.

To learn how an organic mattress is made (and what doesn’t get added), come see Organic Mattresses, at the World Market Center, 100 A. Or call (800) 951-9196.