Bedroom Comforter Sets
ORGANIC COTTON OR WOOLCOMFORTERS MADE OF COTTON OR WOOL such as the one shown above (organic cotton cover over wool) have several advantages over synthetic comforters: 1) If certified organic, the cotton or wool will have no pesticide residues which remain in non-organic cotton fibers. 2) There will be no harmful chemicals especially if you have checked to make sure the finishing process was done without harsh chemicals or dyes. Some dyes are naturally derived or plant-based so these can be done safely to organic fabrics without adding harmful chemicals. 3) Cotton or wool “breathes” allowing for a more comfortable nights sleep as your body temperature fluctuates throughout the night. This can be especially helpful for women with hormonal problems, if prone to night sweats. 4) If the comforter is filled with wool, it will not harbor dust mites as they are repelled by the lanolin in the wool. It will also not become moldy or grow mildew even if damp. It also can absorb a certain amount of chemicals so may be an added benefit if you still have things in the bedroom that might be outgassing, such as the
mattress.
I have tried some of these types of bedroom comforters and they are not nearly as comfortable as wool or cotton. Organic comforters made of natural materials also do a much better job at keeping one from getting too hot or too cold.
or furniture. It is also very durable and long-lasting.
1) Cotton-filled bedroom comforter sets can harbor molds or mildews if not completely dried after washing. They also can harbor dust-mites. The fibers tend to wear out faster than wool especially with repeated or hot-water washings. Try to get a comforter set that at least a 250 thread count for more durability, or place in a washable duvet covering. Then the comforter itself will be protected and not need such frequent cleaning. 2) Organic cotton or wool bedroom comforter sets are a bit more expensive than standard comforter sets or bed-in-a-bag sets ( which usually include sheets and pillowcases and/or bed skirts). While these may seem like a good deal because they are usually cheaper, they really are not a good value in terms of putting your health at risk in the long-run. 3) Color or pattern choices may be a bit more limited if choosing truly organic comforters. However there are more and more great colors becoming available, and beautiful brocade-like sheets and comforters, along with some patterns or prints. So you’re not necessarily stuck with just “white” or “natural” for your color choices, if you want to go completely organic.
Dry-cleaning is usually recommended, but if done, be sure to use a water-extraction method of dry cleaning so you’re not being exposed to the harmful dry-cleaning chemicals such as perchlorethylene, or related chemicals. These chemicals are carcinogenic, toxic to the immune system, can cause liver, kidney, brain and memory damage. Most standard dry-cleaning chemicals outgas for about 3 months even if you air them out a few days before placing on the bed. These dry-cleaning fluids have a half-life of 40 days. This means it takes 40 days before only half of the chemical is gone! This does NOT make for a healthy bedroom. Some of the newer generation of chemicals include DF-2000 and is often marketed as organic or green-but it really isn't. It is however slightly better in terms of dissipating more quickly with fewer effects on the environment, but only marginally. It is classified as a neurotoxin by the EPA. It does not leave any noticeable odors behind in the way typical dry-cleaning usually does.
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