Healthy Home Articles
The perfect bed
by David Madden on 03/30/11
One third of our lives are spent asleep in our beds as we use this time to rejuvenate our bodies from the days physical and mental stresses. Therefore, the choice of our bed and bedding is very important. Following are lists of materials you need to avoid and then materials which promotes health and could be included in the perfect bed.
The standard mattress that is available at many retail outlets is made of plastics, polyurethane foam and synthetic fabrics and is often treated with petrochemical fire retardants. It goes without saying why these materials would not be desirable in a healthy bed. Metal frames and springs found in some beds can distort earth magnetic fields and serve as an antenna for EMF radiation. Permanent press bedding can contain formaldehyde. Wool blankets may be mothproofed with toxic chemicals and cotton may have been sprayed with pesticides.
Among the characteristics that should be included in the perfect bed are; no toxic chemicals included, mold and mildew resistant, easy to clean, free of EMF radiation and, of course, comfortable. A futon mattress made with layers of untreated, organic cotton and wool would be a great start. The futon should rest on an untreated wood frame, consisting of slats that allow the futon to breathe and prevent mold and mildew growth. Organic and untreated flannel cotton sheets are a healthy choice for bedding. A wool comforter that has not been mothproofed would be a great way to top it off.
With a perfect bed as described above, it would made sense that this bed be put in a sanctuary that further promotes health. Eliminating toxic materials such as carpeting or other flooring and wall finishes containing toxins in the sanctuary, or bedroom, would be a great improvement. One might also consider installing a demand switch that cuts off all electricity to the room at night, therefore eliminating any EMF radiation.
This article has been reprinted from an essay written by David Madden for the IBE 101: Natural Healthy Buildings course.
