People come to New Living with so many questions about mattresses. We are happy to answer every single question and have put together this mattress buying guide that can hopefully address some of your questions. Please come by the store to feel the difference between the mattresses.You can schedule a time to meet with a mattress specialist, just call the store or email getgreen@newliving.netto set up a time.

What is all of this that I am hearing about flame retardants in my mattress? If I buy a mattress without flame retardants, will my mattress spontaneously combust?
Mattresses have been doused with flame retardants since people smoked in bed (not the healthiest thing you can do in a bed anyway). The government actually mandates that a mattress contain enough fire retardant to withstand a 2 foot wide blowtorch open flame for 70 seconds. Several flame retardants contain brominated flame retardants and the body accumulates in the body and can pass from mother to child through breast milk. In your mattress, these chemicals leech through your mattress and are absorbed through your skin and inhaled. Watch this video for more info. All of our mattresses use a natural layer of wool that meets the criteria for flame retardants! You have a choice. Also, most mattresses use plastics and glues that also offgas, so make sure you research what goes into your mattress before you buy one.

What is the difference between natural rubber latex and the latex used in other mattresses?
Natural latex is made entirely from the sap of a rubber tree. Some companies use blended or synthetic latex which are a mixture of natural rubber and chemicals.

What is can I do if I have a latex allergy?
Most of the proteins that some people are allergic to in latex do not exist in the natural rubber. What we recommend that you do is to come by our store and take home a sample of some latex. Sleep with it in your pillowcase and see how you feel the next day.

How does natural rubber latex compare in feel to memory foam?
Natural rubber feels bouncier and more resilient. Memory foam have more of a sinking in feeling. Natural rubber mattresses do tend to sleep cooler because they are made from natural, breathable materials and are not dependent on your body heat to provide support and comfort. It is truly a personal preference for which one feels better to you so it is always best to test out the mattress in a store before purchasing rather than purchasing online.

How long will it take for my mattress to arrive?
The mattresses sold by New Living arrive anywhere between 7 days and 4 weeks depending on which one you order. Our vendors, however, will work with us if there are special circumstances and mattresses are needed sooner or need to be held.

Do you sell online or only at your store?
We can sell a mattress online but we do not recommend purchasing a mattress you have not seen or touched.

I have heard that Tempur-pedic memory foam mattresses are hot. Do you sell anything that can help with that?
We do offer Eco-wool moisture pads that can be placed on top of the mattress for added air flow. Wool naturally regulates body temperature and wicks away moisture.

Will your mattresses sleep hot as well?
Everyone is different but typically natural mattresses are more breathable and have better airflow than mattresses made from synthetic materials. Additionally, our eco-memory foam mattress line tends to sleep cooler than typical memory foam mattresses because its cell structure and it’s breathable cover. Purchasing a mattress or a pillow-top pad with a sculpted surface is another way to increase air and blood flow.

I am concerned about chemicals in my mattress or that my mattress is making me sick. Is there anything I can do to make my mattress healthier?
Unfortunately, nobody manufacturers any kind of “barrier” that would block out off-gassing of chemicals. If you know you are getting sick from your mattress, it is best to speak with your doctor about it and find another sleeping solution immediately. Look for a doctor who specializes in treating people with Multiple Chemical Sensitivities.

There are a lot online forums that offer advice for people who are chemically sensitive or who know they are reacting to their mattresses. Here’s one of many links you will find:
http://www.ei-resource.org/columns/multiple-chemical-sensitivity/bedding-for-the-chemically-sensitive/

Another option involves wrapping a mattress in Mylar. This is usually helpful, albeit a bit noisy. Mylar is an aluminized blanket which acts as a vapor barrier and crunches a bit like aluminum foil. The loose ends may be sealed with a tolerable aluminum tape.

How can I prevent dustmites, bed bugs and common allergens in my existing mattress? What mattress should I get if you have allergies?
If your main concern is common allergens, such as dustmites, using an unbleached, undyed organic cotton mattress dustmite barrier encasing will definitely help as well as purchasing a new pillow or at least a dust-mite cover for your current pillow. Washing your bedding in hot water every week and vacuuming your mattress with a HEPA vacuum will also help reduce allergens and particles. Bedbugs thrive in standard spring mattresses, and all of our mattresses are resistant to bed-bugs, however bed bugs don’t just live in mattresses, so you need to be extra careful. If you have allergies or are chemically sensitive, a non-toxic, organic mattress will give you relief from your symptoms. You can also use a mattress cover and an organic pillowcase.

Also, make sure your mattress has proper ventilation as well to prevent mold growth.

How do I know if I need a new mattress?
Most conventional mattresses need to be replaced every 8 – 10 years. Natural organic mattress will last between 10 – 20 years at least. If your mattress is sagging, uncomfortable, causing allergies, back pain or any other discomfort it is time to replace it. Sometimes even tossing and turning can be caused by an old or “worn out” mattress. If you buy a two-sided mattress it will also tend to last much longer.

What kind of warranties do your mattresses have?
The mattresses sold at New Living either have a 10 or a 20 year warranty. It depends on which mattress you purchase. Details of warranties can be obtained online. It’s always a good idea to ask your salesperson to go over the details of the warranty with you as well.

Do you offer designer discounts?
Yes. We offer 20% off our OMI and Royal-Pedic mattresses to designers (and doctors, too, by the way.)

Can I get my insurance to cover my mattress for health reasons?
Whether your mattress is covered by your insurance depends on your insurance.
We can, however, waive sales tax for Texas residents if you present a prescription for your mattress from your MD. Prescriptions need to state the diagnosis (i.e. allerigc rhinitis) and the product prescribed (dustmite encasings, hypo-allergenic mattress)

What is the difference between a box spring and a foundation?
A foundation is a wooden frame that looks like a box spring but is made from untreated wood. A box spring has springs in it. Typically, foundations provide a firmer support surface for your mattress. Most people purchase foundations with their natural latex mattress but they can also be placed on a boxspring. This is a personal preference. Consumers who are concerned about electromagnetic fields prefer foundations with no metal in them.

Can I use your mattress with an adjustable bed frame? Do you sell an adjustable bed frame?
Natural rubber latex mattresses can be used with an adjustable frame. We do offer an adjustable bedframe through Royal-Pedic.

What mattresses do you have at your store for me to try?
We have a showroom in Houston in Rice Village with a variety of mattresses for you to touch and feel and even take a nap on if you so choose. Floor models change periodically so it is best to contact us directly to find out what we’ve got on the floor. We currently have over 10-12 models for you to try out along with different toppers and comfort layers.

I have a platform bed. Which mattress should I get?
Natural rubber latex mattresses work great with slatted platform beds. Or an eco-memory foam mattress as well.

How can I save on sales tax?
We can waive sales tax for Texas residents if you present a prescription for your mattress from your MD. Prescriptions need to state the diagnosis (i.e. allerigc rhinitis) and the product prescribed (dustmite encasings, hypo-allergenic mattress)

Do I need a doctor’s prescription to purchase your mattresses?
No. You only need a prescription if you want to purchase a mattress that does not have any wool or fire barrier in it. However, if you do have a prescription, we can waive the sales tax in Texas.

How are the mattresses shipped and delivered?
Royal-Pedic and OMI mattresses come with White Glove delivery and set-up and are scheduled at your convenience. Mattresses are delivered and set up in your home and then all packaging is removed and recycled.

We also offer mattress recycling of your old mattress for a $75 fee.

Do you offer green delivery services for the mattresses?
Yes. We are proud of our local Houston partner, Greener Delivery. They deliver all OMI mattresses with their truck that runs on Biodiesel fuel. They also are fragrance and smoke-free so anyone with allergies or chemical sensitivities can be assured that they will not have a reaction. They offer delivery and recycling services to anyone in the Houston area.

Can you take away my old mattress or recycle my old mattress?
Yes. For a $75 fee we will remove and recycle your old mattress. Our mattress recycling partners guarantee that no less than 90% of the mattress materials will be recycled. Usually these materials go into the automobile industry.

Do your mattresses have a strong odor? Do they off-gas?
Our mattresses may have an odor depending on which one you purchase but it would not necessarily be considered “off-gassing”. Wool, latex and even organic cotton can have an odor but it will typically dissipate quickly. All of our mattresses are made from natural materials and do not have toxic chemicals in them. They have a range of certifications as well that we can also walk you through if you have any concerns. We have worked very hard to find the healthiest mattresses on the market. There is, however, no such thing as a chemical-free or completely odorless mattress.

I am on a very tight budget, can I still get a non-toxic mattress?
Yes. A non-toxic twin size mattress starts at $419. We will work with you to get you the mattress you need and if necessary we offer special payment terms as well.

What kind of mattress is best for my… Baby? Teenager? College student?
We offer several options for your crib mattress. All are healthy. All are durable. All have third-party certifications. The most important point to consider it making sure that the mattress is non-toxic and that the claims of the manufacturer have third-party verification. There are natural rubber mattresses, innerspring mattresses, organic mattress, dual-firmness mattresses, and waterproof mattresses.

Toddler mattress?
A toddler size mattress is the same as a crib size mattress. See advice on crib mattresses.

School-age children? Teenagers? College students?
Once your child has outgrown the crib/toddler mattress, it is best to purchase a mattress that will last them through high school and even college. Any of our healthy, non-toxic adult mattresses work. After health concerns are considered, the size of your child’s room and your budget should take precedence in your decision-making.

Can I get non-toxic changing table pads, bassinet mattresses or a co-sleeper mattress?
Yes.

Do you have organic bumper pads for my baby’s crib? Why shouldn’t I get the traditional pads?
Conventional bumper pads are typically made from polyurethane foam and can be treated with all kinds of chemicals. Additionally, the covers may be treated with anti-wrinkle treatments, flame retardants, synthetic dyes, and pesticide ridden fabrics. It is not a good idea to bring any of these synthetic petroleum-based products into your baby’s bed or bedroom.
If you choose to use bumpers, we offer wool-filled organic cotton bumpers.

What kind of support does my mattress need?
Your mattress needs to be placed on an approved surface. Your old boxspring should never be used with a new mattress as this will invalidate the warranty on the mattress. Proper support is necessary to support your back, to maintain the shape and structure of the mattress, and for having airflow to prevent the growth of mold and mildew. Supports include: a slatted platform bed with slats no more than 3 inches apart, wooden foundation, new box spring, or a specialty frame/foundation. Never use a mattress on a solid surface especially in a humid environment. Even natural materials like wool and cotton can grow mold or mildew without ventilation.

How should I protect my mattress from stains and moisture?
Your mattress is an investment and it should be protected. Using a high quality organic cotton mattress pad is the best way to protect your mattress for the many years you plan to sleep on it. Mattress pads and all top-of-bed products should be washed every week or two in hot water to prevent dust mites, so purchasing products that can withstand frequent hot water washing is a worthy investment. Go the extra mile when it comes to protecting your mattress.

Do I need to flip my mattress?
Yes. If you purchase a two-sided mattress, it is meant to be flipped and rotated. That is how you will “wear” the entire surface evenly and your mattress will last longer if you get into the habit of flipping, rotating and even sleeping in the middle sometimes. Cuddle there. It’s fun.

Do you have waterproof mattresses? Or mattress protector pads?
Yes. We do carry waterproof mattresses and mattress pads made by Naturepedic. These products use a food-grade polyethylene plastic for waterproofing which has no PVC, phthalates, or off-gassing. For an all-natural option,we carry wool moisture pads that wick away moisture.

How do your mattresses meet Federal fire safety standards? Do they have flame retardants in them?
Our mattresses meet Federal fire safety standards through the use of wool in most cases. Naturepedic mattresses use a non-toxic fire retardant and they full-disclose the ingredients used. At New Living, what we look for is non-toxic materials, third-party certifications, and transparency of information.

Can I get a mattress or box spring/foundation in custom sizes or without wool, for example?
Yes. Our manufacturers have the ability to make mattresses to your specifications.

Can I get a mattress without wool?
Yes. We have several options available depending on your needs.

Can I get a mattress without latex?
Yes. We have several options available.

Do I need a topper? Why would I need/want a topper?
A topper will give you that luxurious “hotel mattress” feel of sinking in to your sleep. It does not change the support of your mattress in any way. The main support structure of your mattress is the base of the mattress and not the top layers. So, it’s okay to get a softer feel and not have to compromise durability or support. The toppers and pad really only affect the way you feel when you fall asleep. Toppers can make a firm mattress “feel” softer.

How long will my mattress last?
If you properly care for and support your mattress it can last 10 – 20 years or more depending on which one you purchase.

Do your mattresses have any kind of certifications?
Yes. Lots of them. Materials can be certified and so can the finished product. Not all certifications are equal or third-party. We can help you navigate through the world of certifications but not in this FAQ documents.

Can you help me figure out which mattress to purchase if I have specific medical conditions? What is the best mattress for back pain
We can help guide you to the mattress you need but we are not qualified to offer any specific medical advice. We do see our mattresses are “health” devices that can help with a variety of ailments but please seek professional medical guidance first. We can help you figure out the right questions to ask yourself and your health care provider and we can even recommend some of the great local health care professionals who are in tune with the importance of good sleep and healthy mattresses. Typically the best mattresses for back pain is a medium-firm mattress that gives you the right amount of support.

Are your mattresses hypo-allergenic? Do they need dust mite encasings?
Our mattresses are resistant to mold, mildew and dust-mites. If you have severe allergies, however, dust-mite encasings might be necessary. Proper care and maintenance of your mattress are the best ways to prevent any problems with your mattress in terms of mold, mildew and dust.

What if I don’t like my new mattress that I purchased from you?
Be patient. Take your time purchasing a mattress and know that it can take up to 90 days for your body to adjust to a new sleeping surface. It usually doesn’t take that long though. Purchase the firmest surface YOU ARE COMFORTABLE on because you can always add pads to make a firm mattress softer but you can not do anything if your mattress is too soft. Also, it’s a good idea to schedule a mattress fitting with a New Living team member so all of your questions can be answered and you have the best chance at purchasing the right product.

What is your return policy?
We are a small company and one day we would like to be able to offer a return policy. By law, we are not allowed to resell a used mattress. Right now we simply don’t have the capacity to take back mattresses. This is one area where we ask our community to support us, knowing that we are not a big box chain and can not necessarily offer the same “deals” they do. It is our opinion that those deals and offers can create a high-pressure sales culture. We do our best to work with people who are not satisfied with their mattresses. Stay tuned though as we grow and we hope to have a program in place some day in the future.

I like a soft mattress and my partner likes a firm mattress. What can we do about that?
OMI recently released a mattress called the DUO that has 3 separate layers on each side of the mattress, so if your partner like a firm mattress, they can have three firm layers and if you prefer a softer sleep, you can have all soft layers, or any mix in between. We have this model in our showroom, so stop by and try it out.

What kind of pillow should I get?
One that fits. One that’s natural. One that is comfortable.

Do you ever have sales?
Yes. Sign up for our newsletter to be notified of any upcoming sales.

Do you have financing options?
We do not have an official program in place but we are humans too and want to work with everyone to help them sleep healthily and transform their lives and homes. Let us know what you need and we will try to work with you.

How long have you been selling these mattresses?
We have been selling since April of 2009. However, the manufacturers we chose have been making and selling mattresses for many, many more years than we have. We spent a lot of time selecting reputable manufacturers and we tried out a lot of mattresses before we decided which ones to offer. We have also been to two of the factories ourselves and hope to make it to the other three soon.

What brands do you sell?
OMI, Organic Mattresses, Inc
Royal-Pedic
KEETSA
Naturepedic
White Lotus

I live in Dallas, Austin, San Antonio or some other city in Texas, can you ship to me?
We are the only retailer in Texas who carries OMI. If you can make arrangements to come try out the mattress here in Houston, we will work with you to get your mattress to your home.

Hey, you didn’t answer my question!
No worries, just email getgreen@newliving.net and we will happily answer it and add it to this page.