One of the decisions you will have to make when choosing bedding is whether you would like a flat or a fitted sheet. If you have never used a fitted sheet before, you may wonder what the difference is between a fitted sheet and a flat bed sheet. You may also be wondering why choosing a fitted sheet could be a good idea, and how to use one correctly.
In this article, we'll take a brief took at these topics, so you feel happy about choosing a fitted sheet, and have all the information you need to get started when using a fitted sheet for the first time.
A fitted sheet has sewn-in elasticated edges. This means that it will fit snugly over the mattress on your bed and will not shift or move as easily during the night. These sheets are commonly used as the base layer of bedding – covering the mattress, sometimes with a mattress protector beneath.
A fitted sheet can be a good choice, both for your own comfort and ease, and for sustainability.
Fitted sheets are beneficial for you because, since they will not shift around as much as a non-fitted sheet during the night, they can prevent wrinkles in your bed which can cause discomfort. They can help to ensure that you are sleeping on a smooth and comfortable surface, and that you get a better night's sleep.
Fitted sheets are also easier to put onto your bed, and easier to change/remove when required. There is no need to learn how to do tricky corner folds to ensure a good bedding fit. And when laundry day rolls around, just hold one of the corners and you will find it very easy to loosen and remove it from your bed.
If you choose a fitted sheet which is 100% organic cotton, this can also be a good choice when it comes to the environment. Fitted sheets won't slip and expose your mattress during the night. And this can make your mattress last longer. For sustainability, it is important to make sure that you not only choose the right eco-friendly bedding, but also take steps to keep your bedding and mattress in good repair for as long as possible. A fitted sheet may help you to do so.
Another interesting benefit of fitted sheets to consider is that they can come in handy on a trip to a beach. Placing a fitted sheet upside down on the sand, with heavy items in each corner, creates a beach blanket area with a small wall of fabric around it. This can be handy for picnics, helping to keep the food free from sand...
The one downside, perhaps, to fitted sheets is that they cannot be folded neatly as easily as flat sheets. But for most, this is at worst a very minor disadvantage, which is usually outweighed by the benefits mentioned above.
Using a fitted sheet correctly begins with choosing the right fitted sheet to fit the mattress on your bed. It is important to choose the right size of fitted sheet so that it fits smoothly over the mattress. This will make sure that it does not leave any wrinkles, or create a less comfortable sleeping environment. Remember to consider not only the top dimensions of the mattress but also its depth. If you have a particularly deep mattress (or are using a thick mattress topper) then you may need to ensure that the fitted sheet you buy can cover that depth. At Sleep Organic, our fitted sheets are designed for mattresses up to 38cm in depth (in practice they can even fit a 42 cm depth). Due to its elasicated edges our fitted sheet will also snugly hug thinner mattresses so you don’t need to worry about getting that perfect fit.
The elasticated corners of a fitted sheet should be pulled down over and just underneath each corner of the mattress, to ensure that it remains properly in place. Simply start with one corner, then, making sure you have the fitted sheet the right way round, continue round the bed and tuck in each of the four corners in turn. As mentioned above, fitting a fitted sheet can be much quicker and easier than tucking in a flat sheet on your bed.
A fitted sheet should be washed regularly, just as you would wash any other sheet. It will be easy to care for. You will do doubt find that a high quality, eco-friendly fitted sheet is a good investment for your home.
Nisa Shah, co-founder Sleep Organic
]]>However you choose to celebrate this Mother’s day, do bear in mind (and heart) the 'Mother' of us all – Mother Earth. Let’s show our love and respect for this wonderful planet that gave us life and sustains us all. Make sure you celebrate and gift in an eco-friendly and sustainable way such as with the gift of organic bedding. What better way to take care of both our Mother and Mother Nature at one and the same time?
Mothering Sunday has been celebrated in the British Isles and other parts of the English speaking world since medieval times. Originally, it was a day when Christians visited their mothers, and their mother church, where they were baptised, and honoured both their own mothers, and their mother churches through religious observation.
In 1913, its modern observance was revived, to honour not just mothers of earthly homes, mother churches, and Mary, mother of Jesus, but also Mother Nature. In part, its increase in popularity was a response to the American Mother's Day tradition, with its commercialisation and narrowly biological definition of motherhood.
Though now often confused and blended with American traditions, Mothering Sunday, it is important to remember, does emphasise, amongst other things, the gifts of Mother Earth. Remembering this can be helpful when working out green ways to gift, and to spend the day.
Mother's Day (or Mothering Sunday) does not need to be about giving tangible things bought in a store. One great way to reduce your impact on Mother Earth is to consider how you might be able to gift experiences rather than things.
Give the gift of your time and make memories with your mum this Mother's Day. If you are able, and live close by, invite her round to simply spend some time together. Or head out to enjoy an activity together in a beautiful natural setting. Spending time together, or showing that you have spent time thinking about them can be far more important than buying gifts.
Together or separately, heading outdoors into the spring sunshine can really boost the mood, and spending time in a natural setting can also help you feel more connected to Mother Nature, and more appreciative of, and beguiled by, all her charms. We've all been neglectful children of Mother Earth to some degree – and we need to reconnect to Her and in so doing reconnect to deeper ourselves. Appreciating Nature is also the first step on the road to a greener and more ethical way of life.
If you do give a gift, food related gifts can often go down very well. Food related gifts (especially those made with home-grown produce) can really show her how much you care.
Another great idea this Mother's Day involves gifting plants (perhaps even those you've grown yourself from seed). This is a lot more meaningful than buying some blooms from the store – and of course gifting living plants is a far more eco-friendly and sustainable option too. There are also plenty of other sustainable and eco-friendly DIY gift ideas to consider. But we think that one of the very best gifts you could possibly give this Mothering Sunday is the gift of a good night's sleep. Mothers work hard, and good sleep is essential for stress-relief, boosting the immune system (more important now than ever), and general health and wellbeing. It has been reported by the US National Sleep Foundation that three quarters of us have a deeper and more refreshing sleep on fresh sheets, and anecdotally, we all know what a difference fresh bedding – especially high quality organic bedding - can make.
Better yet, by choosing organic cotton bedding, you can honour and respect Mother Earth too. By giving the mothers in our lives the chance to bed down on soft and sumptuous organic sheets, and rest their heads on organic pillows, you are not just helping them rest easy. You can rest easy too knowing that your choice of gift has not had a negative impact on our precious Mother Earth.
So, why not gift organic cotton bedding this Mother's Day; giving our mothers a well-deserved lie-in, then head out to honour and appreciate Mother Earth in whatever way you see fit. Spend time in a garden, or a natural beauty spot nearby. Spring has sprung, and this Mothering Sunday could be the perfect time to really stop, relax, and smell the flowers together.
Nisa Shah, co-founder Sleep Organic
]]>During sleep your body is actually working hard for you. It’s a time where essential repairs take place and both body and mind can recover from the day’s activities and rejuvenate. Essential proteins including hormones and antibodies are manufactured and potentially harmful metabolic waste products are processed and removed from the blood. All the more important, then, to keep our sleeping environment as conducive as possible to a good and health-restoring night’s sleep. An often neglected, yet critical component of this is the actual bed linen we wrap ourselves in each night. By using ‘conventional’ (non-organic) bedding we are actually adding to the toxic load on the body which over time takes its toll on our health. In the modern world, many of us admit to feeling ‘half healthy’ at best, and the good news is that by simply switching to organic bedding you can take a big step in the direction of better health including immune and respiratory function, healthier skin and an enhanced sense of well-being. We look at the reasons why below.
Amazingly, it is standard practice in conventional textile manufacture and processing to use, among others, carcinogenic Azo dyes, formaldehyde, toxic heavy metal ions, chlorine-based bleaches and nano-particles. When you see claims on bedding such as ‘wrinkle-free, ‘stain-resistant’, ‘colour-fast’, beware, as this normally indicates the presence of extra formaldehyde. Not only is formaldehyde a strong skin irritant, it also acts as a cross-linking agent and helps fix those other nasty chemicals to the textile fibres - a double whammy! Thankfully, none of these toxic chemicals is permitted in certified organic bedding. You may be wondering if these chemicals are present at high enough levels to do any harm. While they are present at relatively modest levels it must be borne in mind that we spend approximately 8 hours every day in contact with our bedding and hence these chemicals! Indeed, a recent 2018 scientific study demonstrated significant adsorption of textile contaminants (benzothiazole was investigated) in skin mimicking membranes in the laboratory*. We at Sleep Organic know from customer feedback that those with young children or adults with sensitive skin or conditions such as eczema immediately notice the huge difference in their skin’s (lack of) reaction to the toxin-free organic bedding.
We all know how important a good night’s sleep is to our health and general sense of wellbeing. Less often do we consider the direct impact of our bedding on this. High quality organic bedding made from natural fibres such as cotton, particularly in a percale weave is highly breathable. This allows us to maintain a steady body temperature throughout the night and is conducive to a deep and restorative sleep. Deep down, our body knows and seeks the natural way, and our customers continuously tell us they instantly feel the difference of our organic bedding with no irritating chemicals or residues and no alien synthetic fibres.
Another source of entry of bedding contaminants and derivatives such as VOCs (volatile organic compounds) is by inhalation. Again the proof is in the pudding - or chemical soup in the case of non-organic bedding. Sleep Organic customer feedback such as Drew’s highlight the advantage of organic bedding - ‘I suffer with asthma and Sleep Organic’s cotton bed linen is a godsend for me, with nothing to irritate my lungs. It’s gorgeous quality too’. It’s worth bearing in mind that for those of us who don’t suffer from obvious respiratory conditions the insidious effects of using non-organic bedding can still be present. All that’s needed is sufficient time, and by the time we’re 50 we’ve spent almost 17 of those years in bed!
Allergies from things like dust mites can be another issue. Rather than synthetic fibres (cue the chemicals), natural fibres such as wool are an excellent way to combat such issues as the fibres are naturally hypoallergenic. Organic wool duvets and pillows can be encased in organic cotton for that extra soft and sumptuous feel.
While diet and exercise are key to a healthy lifestyle, don’t ignore the third of your life spent in bed. Using toxin free organic bedding can significantly contribute to a balanced and healthy life, free from respiratory and dermal complications. And best of all, you can do it in your sleep!
Dr Chris Murphy, co-founder Sleep Organic
*Chemicals from textiles to skin: an in vitro permeation study of benzothiazole. Environ Sci Pollut Res Int. 2018; 25(25): 24629–24638.
]]>If you want to bring Christmas cheer into your home – don't just begin and end with decorations in your living room. It can be uplifting to bring that festive feeling into your bedroom with stylish white organic and Fairtrade bedding.
And the bedroom décor and other finishing touches can be truly eco-friendly and sustainable too. Decorate your bedroom for Christmas the Sleep Organic way, and you will definitely be on Father Christmas' 'nice' list this year.
New bedding can be just what you need to set the right tone over the holiday period. And Sleep Organic's 100% organic cotton, Fairtrade options would put anyone in the right mood.
The classic crisp white duvet sets, sheets and pillowcases are as pure as the driven snow. Giving anyone who sleeps in them pleasant dreams of a white Christmas, these simple, classic options are also as pure as can be in ethical and environmental terms.
Another excellent eco option that will look at home with the traditional reds and greens and golds of Christmas are the options with double cord line embroidery in emerald green or regal gold.
With clean, pure organic bedding, and some other natural touches, your bedroom can become a haven from crazy Christmas chaos. The white bedding will look great with the greens of living plants, or cut foliage brought in from your garden. Perhaps some dried flowers too, could add to the calming Christmas look.
Add some natural greenery from your garden, or some living plants, and you can have a pure, clean relaxing look perfect for a relaxing Yule tide retreat.
Sling up some LED fairy lights above your bed, or thread them between your houseplants, and you can feel like you are nestled in snow in a crisp and cool winter's night – looking up at the stars.
Bring in some gleaning golden accents, and some strings of red berries or something similar to complete the Christmas magic.
One classic symbol of Christmas is of course the robin red-breast. And you will find this charming little Christmas visitor on Sleep Organic's cot bed duvet cover set and cot duvet cover.
This understated and charming flash of red on pure white, sustainable bedding will look great year round, but can be charming as part of a bedroom which has been decorated for the Christmas period.
You can have a lot of fun finding ways to add other little Christmassy touches to a nursery or a child's room. Decorating for Christmas can be just as sustainable as the bedding you choose.
Why not make a Christmas mobile, for example, to hang above the cot bed or cot, using natural or reclaimed materials. Make a Christmas collage, or a nativity scene using items from the garden, and things that might otherwise have been thrown away.
Another cool idea is to make your own Christmas stockings, to be hung at the end of the cot or the bed, for Father Christmas or Santa Claus to fill with eco-friendly gifts on Christmas morning.
If you use your imagination, you will find plenty of ways to add magical touches that give you and your kids that festive feeling, and complete your Christmas bedroom décor without costing the earth.
Choose Sleep Organic's beautiful organic bedding to complement your festive décor. This is a great way to send good will to all this Christmas.
Nisa Shah, co-founder Sleep Organic
]]>Christmas really is a wonderful time of year, with all the fun and festive feeling. But does that mean that it can’t be eco-friendly? Are there ways that we can make Christmas more sustainable? We think so! Here at Sleep Organic we want to take a look at the ways that you can make Christmas much greener without having to compromise some of the best parts of the season.
We believe that Christmas is all about Compassion, Care and Connection with yourself and your surroundings. It could be as simple as not getting over-stressed about festive arrangements, expenditures, invitations, perfectionism and difficult family dynamics etc. Having a sustainable and environmentally friendly Christmas is what we, at Sleep Organic, call a ‘Conscious Christmas’. Every year, as a society, we produce tonnes of waste, and every year the levels increase! Often it is easy to become overwhelmed during the festive season, therefore becoming less mindful of our actions. I am sure that when we appreciate how much waste we actually produce each year, we may think again about the impact of our actions!
So let’s try to exercise these Four Core Principles (NOEL) during Christmas preparations:
1) No Plastic
2) Organic and/or sustainable long-lasting presents
3) Eco-friendly - Re-use & Recycle
4) Low waste or No waste
Let’s see how we can apply these principles by asking ourselves some questions during our preparation for Christmas.
What can we do instead of sending cards? Can we give our loved ones or friends a bell or send e-cards to them instead? Who do I have to send cards to? Can I choose FSC-certified cards? (they are available in all good stores). They might be a little expensive but these should be a last resort if other greeting methods are not possible.
There’s always a question about choosing an artificial or real Christmas tree. There is no match to a real Christmas tree! It brings nature in the room with soul nurturing pine scents! In our experience a real Christmas tree brings calmness to the room and they are 100% recyclable! When we're finished with ours, we send them to our local school for their craft activities. I personally collect a few from my street and donate them to the forest school. Only go artificial if you can’t be real!
Buy your tree from FSC-certified growers; here are a couple for you in the UK:
Glasfryn Fencing & Sawmill (FSC® C018622)
The Crown Estate (FSC® C102073)
Christmas gift list – don’t forget to include your planet in it!
Can we buy sustainable, Organic, Fairtrade products? Can we buy useful products with long lasting use?
Look for certified Organic textiles, fashion clothing, accessories and beauty brands. Our brand Sleep Organic is proudly certified Organic and Fairtrade.
Treating people and buying them nice gifts is a great feeling. However, there is a tendency to go a little crazy at Christmas, and we end up buying far too much, especially if you have children. It is a better idea to think carefully about what you are buying. Do the recipients really need all of this stuff? What will they appreciate most from you? Sometimes one or two meaningful gifts can mean so much more than lots and lots of presents.
And also think about buying experiences as a gift (like a yoga retreat, a meal in an organic restaurant, swimming lessons etc.)
We all look forward to Christmas dinner. Everyone likes to treat themselves and their family to great food and festivity.
Can we buy Fairtrade and Organic Food? Fairtrade and Organic produce is available in a number of supermarkets and there are some great organic recipes on platforms like Organic Feed your Happy
It is very common to over-shop for Christmas dinner. If this was the case for you last year then make a conscious effort to shop less this year and use all left-overs! Christmas parties are a big source of wastage too. Avoid cheap-and-cheerful throw away plastic glasses and plates. These are all things that will help reduce waste.
Wishing you a happy eco-friendly Christmas!
Nisa Shah, Sleep Organic
]]>Here are our top 5 reasons why organic wool bedding should feature in your bedroom.
1. Organic wool bedding is naturally hypoallergenic
2. Organic wool bedding helps regulate your body temperature and improves your sleep
3. Organic wool bedding is best for baby and...
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It is sometimes claimed that wool causes allergies. However, the truth is that organic wool is actually hypoallergenic. Non-organic commercial wool is indeed highly processed with a cocktail of toxic chemicals and the resultant damaged fibres feel brittle and can cause irritation to the skin, particularly those with sensitive skin or conditions such as eczema. This is not the case for truly organic (i.e. GOTS-certified) wool which completely avoids toxic chemical treatment. Organic wool is softer - you can literally feel the difference. A waxy material called lanolin which protects wool fibres in nature can cause skin irritation in some, but it is largely removed in the scouring process of wool preparation. In addition, at Sleep Organic, our organic wool duvets and pillows are encased in sumptuously soft organic cotton, so the wool fibres don’t come into direct contact with your skin.
In fact, the major sources of allergens in your bedding are actually dust mites, bacteria and fungal spores. It’s typically not even the microorganisms themselves, but certain proteins they produce that are present in their waste products that actually cause an allergic response. Not a pleasant thought, but the good news is that these nasties hate organic wool! More accurately, the microorganisms need a moist environment to multiply thrive and natural wool, unlike synthetic fibres or feather and down just doesn’t provide them with one. Amazingly, wool can hold up to a third of it weigh as moisture and yet quickly evaporate said moisture due to the inherent properties of its fibres. The resultant dry and fresh environment is indeed a result for you, and a bummer for those pesky moisture-loving, allergy-inducing parasites!
Every night while lying in bed our bodies lose water at a rate of approximately 40 grams an hour, on average. This is natural and is predominantly in the form of water vapour loss through perspiration (sweating) and expiration (breathing out), and does not include any toilet trips. That’s one third of a kilo very night! Wool bedding helps greatly by efficiently absorbing this moisture from your skin and then allowing it to evaporate rapidly due to the unique wicking properties of its fibres. Importantly this helps to regulate your body temperature throughout the night. If moisture builds up, as it does with less breathable synthetic bedding and with feather and down bedding, then we perspire still further. When this happens we feel clammy and overheated (even in winter). We push away the bedding but this leads to rapid evaporation which then leaves us feeling cold. We pull the bedding back on and overheat again…We can go through many cycles of this during the night and it’s our body’s attempt to maintain a stable core temperature. We’re all familiar with this and how it disturbs our sleep. Wool works with your body not just by removing moisture and keeping you dry but by its unique thermal insulation properties. Wool fibres are naturally crimped and because of this they form a myriad of minuscule air pockets that efficiently trap air, helping to provide an excellent thermal barrier. Thus wool keeps you cozy and dry all night long and all year long.
In addition to the aforementioned benefits of being hypoallergenic and helping to regulate body temperature and promote better sleep, GOTS-certified organic wool bedding contains none of the toxic chemicals (including formaldehyde, pesticide residues, harmful heavy metal ions and dioxins) standard in ‘conventional’ bedding. While this is important for all of us, the rapidly developing systems of babies are particularly sensitive to such toxic compounds.
A further advantage when considering safety is that wool is naturally fire retardant. Indeed, a temperature of over 560°C is required for it to burn. In fact, it is practically the only fibre that naturally resists flaming, and in tests, upon removal of a flame, wool self-extinguishes. Just as importantly, organic wool releases no deadly toxic chemical fumes unlike its non-organic counterpart, or worse still synthetic alternatives.
GOTS-certified wool (audited in the UK by the Soil Association) ensures that the sheep are treated with care for their wellbeing throughout their life and that sheep shearing is conducted in a painless manner (in stark contrast to feather and down collection). Organic sheep are only fed organic feed and graze on organic land, where they are free to roam with ample outdoor space, leading a completely free-range life.
Using organic wool bedding benefits the environment too. GOTS certification ensures strict environmental criteria are met both in the farming (e.g. no chemical pesticide use) and processing stages (no toxic chemicals in water run-off). Finally, at the end of its life an organic wool duvet or pillow can be recycled or it can be composted where it will decompose and return to Nature causing no environmental contamination.
Dr Chris Murphy, co-founder Sleep Organic
]]>Here are a few simple tips to help you get to sleep, and enjoy undisturbed slumber during a heatwave.
If you want to get a good night's sleep, it is important to make sure that your bedroom offers optimal conditions.
To keep your bedroom cooler:
If your bedroom is still hot and stuffy, consider investing in a fan. A solar fan could be an excellent eco-friendly choice. To improve its ability to cool the space, you could also make a DIY evaporative cooler by placing a tray of ice and water just in front of the fan. Though experts suggest that it is best to turn fans off before you actually go to sleep.
One of the most important things for a good night's sleep is good quality bedding. And the right bedding is especially important in hot weather.
A high quality organic cotton bedding has a range of properties which make it ideal for a good sleeping environment. It is a breathable fabric which aids evaporation of moisture away from the skin and helps to regulate body temperature. It won't make you feel as hot and sticky as synthetic fabrics. Breathable, natural fabrics delay external temperature changes. So they give your body time to adjust to conditions as they alter through the night.
At Sleep Organic our luxury organic bedding is made from long staple 300 thread count organic cotton, which feels great against the skin. Our percale weave fitted and flat sheets and percale duvet covers are particularly beneficial during a heatwave, because this ultra-breathable weave is great for keeping you cool. Percale is a one-under, one-over weave pattern which creates a smooth fabric which feels crisp and cool against the skin – just perfect for the hot summer nights.
Of course, the right environmental conditions when it comes to the bedroom and the bedding are particularly important. But there are some other things that you can do to increase comfort levels and get a good night's sleep. Here are a few more tips, so that you will sleep well once you slip between percale sheets:
Dr Chris Murphy, co-Founder, Sleep Organic
]]>Warm weather can be wonderful if you love the sun, and can get time off to enjoy it. But after dark, hot days can lead to sticky and uncomfortable nights. Fortunately, if you choose the right bedding, you will find it easier to stay cool and comfortable and beat the heat.
Choosing the right duvet is one thing you might do to make sure you have a comfortable night's sleep in summer. The coolest duvet for the summer months is a wool duvet. It is a natural, breathable material, which helps you regulate your temperature and sleep comfortably. When compared to synthetic duvets, and even feather and down, nothing beats wool for breathability and temperature regulation.
Wool duvets can be a good environmentally friendly choice – especially when the wool comes from humane, sustainable, organic farms. But as well as being a good ethical choice, organic wool duvets can also be good for you personally in a range of ways.
Here are some of the reasons why wool duvets are a sensible summer choice:
Wool is a natural material which naturally allows skin to breathe. Air passes easily through between the material which means that you won't feel all hot and sticky with the hot air trapped beneath it as you would with a duvet of synthetic materials.
Wool is a remarkable material. In bedding, as in clothing, it can transfer heat in such a way that it keeps you warm in winter – but also cool in summer. Wool can soak up moisture, and wick it away from your skin, helping you to feel much cooler and more comfortable in the heat.
A lightweight wool duvet can be a great choice if you prefer to have some kind of substantial cover over you during the night, but don't want anything too heavy to weigh down on you and make you feel too constricted in the heat.
Feather or down filled duvets are also a natural choice. But some people will find that they have allergies to a duvet of this kind. Rather than opting for a synthetic duvet instead, you would be better to consider a duvet filled with wool for a comfortable and allergy free night.
Remember, as well as thinking about what your duvet is filled with, you should think about your pillows too. With organic wool pillows, your head can rest as comfortably as the rest of your body on a hot night. And you are far less likely to be bothered by the heat.
So if you are facing a summer heat wave, choosing a wool duvet and wool pillow really can make a big difference. After a night's sleep with organic wool bedding, you will surely feel much more rested and refreshed.
Now let's consider the best sheets for those hot nights:
As well as thinking about the best filling for a duvet in hot weather, you should also think about other summer bedding options.
If you do choose to use a duvet, choosing an organic cotton duvet cover is the best policy. Of course, you should also think about what you are lying on. So choose organic cotton sheets too.
Remember, on a hot night, you might choose to forgo a duvet altogether and sleep under a single sheet instead.
And don't forget to make sure that your pillow cases are also made from breathable, natural material to avoid getting all hot and sticky in the heat.
It is not just the material from which bedding is made but also the weave that can make a difference. Cotton sheets have either sateen or percale weaves.
Sateen sheets have a silky smooth finish, and are wonderful for winter. But if you feel too warm, percale sheets will be great for you. It is particularly useful to keep you cool in summer.
Don't suffer in the heat! Choose the right bedding and you will discover just how much difference a breathable wool duvet and organic percale cotton sheets can make. No matter how high the temperatures soar, the right bedding choices can help you feel comfortable and grounded, whatever the weather may bring.
Dr. Chris Murphy, co-founder Sleep Organic
]]>Organic cotton bedding is one of those things that really can make a massive difference in your home. 2023 - a new year and a time to think carefully about the impacts of our actions, and make sure that our living spaces are as healthy, happy and as sustainable as can be.
Investing in organic bedding is an excellent choice, which really will pay off in a range of ways. Here are Sleep Organic's top 5 reasons why you should invest in organic bedding in 2023:
In a time when we are facing crises on multiple fronts, and often leading lives that are busier than ever before, a good night's sleep can be hard to come by.
Choosing high quality and comfortable organic cotton duvet sets and wool bedding from Sleep Organic can certainly help you create a bedroom environment conducive to a good night's sleep. With a soft-skin feel, a high thread count, breathability, and no harmful chemicals, organic bedding offers the ultimate in comfort and calm.
Free from toxins and unhealthy chemicals, pure organic cotton will help you breathe easier – improving the air quality in your home. If you have breathing issues like asthma or allergies, then organic bedding is an excellent choice.
The pure and unadulterated natural material will ensure no irritation to your skin, and help you sleep well for better health overall. Our physical and mental health has definitely come under strain in the last couple of years, so there is no better time to ensure that you are safeguarding your health, and the health of your family, and have a healthy home environment.
The unprecedented health crisis we have recently faced has naturally dominated the news in recent years. But it's so important to bear in mind that the health crisis is just one of the crises we face. Climate change and biodiversity losses pose a huge threat to our health, livelihoods and way of life.
It's critical to remember that each and every thing we buy, and thing we do, has an impact on the wider world around us. Synthetic bedding and non-organic cotton bedding both take an immense toll on people and the environment. So by making the right choice and investing in organic bedding, we can make sure we are part of the solution, and not part of the problem.
When harmful pesticides, herbicides and synthetic fertilisers are used in cotton production, this takes a toll on the workers in the field. And the resources used in growing cotton in non-organic ways can have a hugely negative impact on the people and communities living around the places where the cotton is grown.
When you buy Sleep Organic's certified organic cotton and Fairtrade bedding, you can rest assured that the farmers and surrounding communities are treated fairly, and stay safe.
Buying organic products saves lives – not just human lives but also the lives of the many other living creatures which share our planet. By avoiding the use of harmful chemicals, organic cotton farmers safeguard wildlife in their areas, and keep precious, vital ecosystems intact.
When you buy our organic cotton bed sheets, you are helping to tackle the climate crisis and halt biodiversity losses. You are becoming part of the sustainable future for all living things that we all wish to see.
These are just some of the main, key reasons why you should take the plunge and invest in organic bedding in 2023.
Dr. Chris Murphy, co-founder Sleep Organic
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Globally, the cotton trade is responsible for high carbon emissions. Whereas CO2 emissions per hectare of organic agriculture systems are 48 to 66 percent lower than in conventional systems. So choosing organic cotton bedding is one way to lower your carbon footprint. What is more, organic farms can use sustainable methods and practices to not just reduce emissions, but also increase how much carbon is sequestered. So they can play a key role in combating our climate crisis. By choosing organic cotton sheets, you can support those sustainable farmers in this crucial drawdown work.
Synthetic or non-organic cotton bedding comes at a great cost to the environment. Looking beyond carbon emissions, choosing sustainable bedding can also help us combat other problems which lead to unsustainable systems.
For example, one way choosing organic cotton makes the world better is by reducing unequal and non-sustainable freshwater use. Sustainable cotton production uses less water than conventional production and avoids pollution. The water pollution impact of organic cotton has been shown to be 98% less than standard cotton production.
Water is not the only issue. Degradation of soils is also a crucial issue. If soil loss continues at present rates, in some parts of the world, soils may no longer provide us with harvests within our lifetimes. Measures such as crop rotation (with wheat, corn and soybeans), and conservation tillage (reduced tillage or no tillage) on organic cotton farms help to protect the soil, and are, in part, responsible for the reduction in environmental impacts such as soil loss.
One of the major problems in the non-organic cotton industry is the use of pesticides and herbicides which have a dramatic impact on ecosystems and wildlife. Regular cotton uses more of these than any other farmed plant. Cotton accounts for 16% of global insecticide releases – more than any other single crop. By supporting fully organic cotton production, which uses zero chemical pesticides or herbicides, we can help counter ecosystem degradation and biodiversity losses in a meaningful manner.
Tackling biodiversity loss is just as important as reducing greenhouse gases – and like global warming, biodiversity losses pose an existential threat. Choosing sustainable organic bedding is just one small step we can take to aid in tackling this problem for the future of humanity and all life on this planet.
Of course, what is good for the environment is good – in fact essential - for people. But beyond looking at how choosing sustainable bedding impacts the environment, we can also see that choosing sustainable bedding is the right thing for those who work in the industry, and for those who use the bedding in question.
Choosing Fairtrade cotton bedding made with organic fibres means that you can rest easy knowing that individuals were not harmed on farms or in factories. You will know that workers were treated well and paid a fair wage. And of course this helps make our world a better, fairer place, and combats social injustices.
It is not just individuals who benefit when we choose sustainable bedding. Thriving cotton farms and sustainable factories can be at the heart of sustainable communities – providing employment and generally raising the quality of living for all those involved, and for the broader communities which surround them.
Sustainable bedding is better for the world in so many ways. Make a commitment to purchase organic bedding and in so doing become part of the solution rather than part of the problem by enabling the transition to a greener, fairer, better world.
Nisa Shah, co-Founder Sleep Organic
]]>Choosing organic cotton bedding from Sleep Organic is the right choice for you, for humanity and for our planet. It is also the most sustainable choice.
When we look at organic cotton vs synthetic fabrics, and organic cotton vs non-organic cotton, organic cotton wins out every time.
To help you understand exactly why it is such a good idea to choose organic cotton bedding, Sleep Organic highlights the top reasons why organic cotton is so important.
These reasons show why when we buy organic cotton, it is a win for us, a win for the environment, and a win for people throughout the process and humanity as a whole.
When you buy organic cotton, you may pay a little more. But the slightly higher price reflects a far higher quality of product. Organic cotton bedding from Sleep Organic is not only 100% organic. It also offers you a worry-free, toxin free sleep environment, comfortable sleeping conditions and great skin feel appeal.
High quality is not just about how the product is when you first make your purchase. Items of good quality last. When you buy organic cotton bedding, you are not just investing in now. You will be able to enjoy your new eco-friendly bedding for many, many years to come.
Organic cotton is durable and long lasting. When you care for it correctly, it will last a long time. This not only saves you money in the long run. When you invest in organic cotton sheets, it also helps you reduce consumption, since it will be a long time before you have to purchase new bedding for your home. And reducing consumption is one of the best things you can do to reduce your negative impact on our planet.
Many of us understand the vital importance of cutting our carbon footprints and keeping fossil fuels in the ground. Synthetic bedding of polyester and other plastic materials is derived from fossil fuels. And regular cotton farming can also generate high emissions.
CO2 emissions per hectare of organic agriculture systems are 48 to 66 percent lower than they are in conventional systems.
So by choosing organic cotton, you can cut emissions and help fight global warming.
Being water wise is important. Regular cotton production uses vast quantities of water each year. Organic cotton production can use far less, and means that water will not be polluted as it is in non-organic production.
The global average water footprint for just 1kg of cotton is 10,000 litres – as much as you might drink in almost 14 years! Sustainable organic cotton farms typically utilise less water, and make sure water is not polluted by harmful chemicals. The water pollution impact of organic cotton has been shown to be 98% less than 'standard' cotton production.
In conventional cotton production, cotton is grown in large fields in conditions which require the use of a number of pesticides and herbicides – chemicals used to control pests and weeds. The way in which cotton is usually grown makes it necessary to use these harmful chemicals in order to achieve a good harvest.
'Regular' cotton uses more of these than any other farmed plants. Cotton accounts for 16% of global insecticide usage – more than any other single crop. Certified Organic cotton prohibits the use of all such chemicals, which is better for your health, and the environment.
We all rely on our soils. Sadly, around the world, between one billion and six billion hectares of agricultural land on our planet is already classed as degraded or seriously degraded. Conventional agriculture bares a large proportion of the blame.
Conventional cotton farms harm soils, polluting them with harmful chemicals and degrading them through poor practice over time.
However, organic cotton farms which implement no till and soil cover practices significantly reduce soil erosion and topsoil loss, and protect our soils, making sure that they can continue to support plant life, and feed and provide for us in the years to come.
Sustainable organic farming practices also prevent harm to wildlife – so when you buy organic cotton bedding, you have helping to halt biodiversity losses and protecting all the creatures with whom we share our planet.
Organic cotton's eco credentials don't end on the farm. When cotton is certified organic, this also means that the material is free from other toxins, and chemical-based dyes. This is also far better for your heath, and the health of others worldwide and for the environment.
Many non-organic farmers die or experience poor health each year due to the impacts of the pesticides, herbicides and synthetic fertilizers. Organic production keeps farmers safe.
Looking for the right certifications on organic cotton bedding means that you can also rest easy, knowing that workers are being treated fairly. When you buy organic bedding, do workers had to suffer to give you a good night's sleep.
Dr Chris Murphy, co-Founder, Sleep Organic
]]>Choosing luxury bed sheets really will make a massive difference to your quality of life. Discover the benefits of investing in your bedding with Sleep Organic's Guide to luxury bed sheets. To learn more about selecting organic cotton sheets that really will give you that sense of luxury and comfort, read on.
]]>To learn more about selecting organic cotton sheets that really will give you that sense of luxury and comfort, read on.
Organic cotton bed sheets from Sleep Organic are a great investment for a range of reasons. Not only are they the most sustainable choice, they also benefit you in a range of ways.
One key benefit of investing in cotton bed sheets is that cotton is a natural fibre, which is breathable. It allows you to avoid feeling stifled and uncomfortable, keeping you cool and ensuring that your skin remains happy and healthy. Breathable natural fabrics really are essential for luxury bed sheets.
But as some of you may already know, cotton can come at a high cost to people and our planet. Certified organic cotton sheets are a cut above – offering a sustainable solution and a healthier one. Organic cotton is untouched by harsh chemicals. So you can breath easy knowing that your investment is not only doing the right thing for nature, but also keeping your family safe. Going one step further, if your luxury bed sheets are also made from Fairtrade cotton you can have peace of mind that the farmers were treated with the dignity and respect that they deserve and were paid a fair price for their cotton harvest.
Sleep Organic's 300 thread count sheets are perfect for your best night's sleep. We specifically choose 300 thread count to provide that luxury feel combined with optimal breathability. Higher thread counts result in a loss of breathability leaving you feeling overheated and clammy.
With soft sateen or crisp and smooth percale weaves, our luxury flat sheets and fitted sheets, you can find the perfect option for any bed, for summer and winter, keeping your temperature just right and conditions conducive to a perfect night's sleep.
One of the things to consider when choosing luxury bed sheets is the weave. This can have an impact on the appearance, the skin feel, and the properties of the bed sheets.
Percale bed sheets are made with a percale weave. This is a one-over, one-under weave where the vertical fibres are held under tension resulting in a smooth and slightly crisp texture. This creates a wonderfully refreshing feel, cooling against the skin, particularly on hotter nights.
Flat sheets are simple rectangles of material which do not have shaping on the corners and which can therefore be used on beds of non-standard sizes, or used above you in bed rather than as a base.
Fitted sheets have elasticated sections sewn into the seams at each of the four corners. This means that it will fit snugly over the mattress on your bed and will not shift or move as easily during the night. These sheets are commonly used as the base layer of bedding – covering the mattress, sometimes with a mattress protector beneath.
Luxury bed sheets should be washed regularly. But you should always adopt a sustainable and eco-friendly laundry routine.
If you take good care of your luxury bed sheets, they will serve you well for years and years to come. Happy sleeping!
Nisa Shah, Sleep Organic co-Founder
]]>As most of us know all too well, a poor night’s sleep can leave us feeling exhausted and distracted for the day ahead. And if this starts to become a regular occurrence, it can have a real impact on our physical and mental health. Sadly, as many as 16 million adults in the UK are suffering from sleepless nights, with over two thirds (68%) reporting having disturbed sleep on a weekly basis (Source: Aviva). To help combat this, here are five ways we can all naturally boost our quality of sleep.
Establishing a solid sleep routine is incredibly important. As well as setting yourself a regular bedtime, try to unwind from the day by properly disconnecting from work and other responsibilities at a set time. Focus on calming activities, such as having a warm bath or shower with your favourite skincare products or making your bedroom a calming environment with low lighting and scents from soothing essential oils like lavender. Keeping a sleep diary can also help you to identify what habits work for you or are impeding your night's sleep.
Within your night-time routine, one key element should always be keeping screens away from the bedroom. The blue light emitted from electronic devices can interfere with our melatonin production and make it harder to fall asleep, so it's far better to read a book in the evenings before drifting off. As we are always so reachable by phone or email nowadays, this can help to ease feelings of stress from constant connectivity.
Committing to shaping your natural body clock is a great place we can all start to improve our quality of sleep. If you've got into a pattern of staying up too late and struggle to begin your day, try setting your alarm fifteen minutes earlier each week until you reach your desired waking time. This can help you to improve your sleep pattern as your body gradually regulates its release of serotonin and melatonin (the key hormones in the sleep-wake cycle).
However, we must also recognise there isn't a one-size-fits-all approach to sleep. It is highly individual and everyone's natural rhythms differ. So, if you have more energy in the afternoons and evenings, then this isn't necessarily a bad thing: instead, try adopting a more organic approach to sleep that works with the body rather than against it.
If your schedule allows for it, this may mean incorporating a short nap into the day or moving more of your work tasks to the afternoon, so that your mornings are a little slower. However, it’s best not to nap after 3pm as this will tend to spoil your ‘sleep appetite’. The most important thing is listening to your body and recognising how it responds to your current routine.
Making your bedroom a welcoming and comfortable environment is key to a peaceful night's rest. One crucial way of doing so is investing in high quality bedding made with natural and organic materials. Temperature plays a large part in how well we sleep, and the ideal night-time conditions are a dark and relatively cool room (around 16-18 ̊C).
Unlike those using synthetic fabrics, bedding made from natural fibres like organic cotton or wool bedding is far more breathable and helps to regulate the temperature conditions as they change throughout the night. Natural sheets and pillowcases therefore not only feel lighter and softer on the skin, but they also help to reduce any sleep disruptions due to overheating or feeling a chill. What’s more if you opt for natural organic bedding, you can be sure there’s no toxic chemicals and fixatives that tend to lead to poorer quality sleep, irritate the skin and can cause low grade chronic inflammation.
According to a recent sleep survey, more than one in ten UK adults (13%) use sleeping tablets or drink alcohol to help them unwind at night (Source: Aviva). And while we may feel like a nightcap helps us to drift off, it can actually have the opposite effect and disrupt your sleep quality. While alcohol is perfectly fine in moderation, using it to help you sleep will not benefit you in the long term.
Instead, curl up with a book or puzzle and a comforting cup of a caffeine-free herbal tea to help you drift off into a deeper, easier rest. Look for organic, soothing ingredients like chamomile, lavender and valerian as these offer a natural way to unwind and relax the mind. Herbal supplements containing ashwagandha and gotu kola can also aid a calmer mind and deeper sleep, so that you wake up feeling refreshed and ready to take on the day.
Similarly, reducing reliance on caffeine in the morning can help you form healthier approaches to energy and sleep. Instead of coffee, try starting your day with naturally energising herbal teas containing matcha, turmeric or ginger.
Although most types of exercise are beneficial for improving our overall quality of sleep, doing exercise outdoors where possible is ideal. Time spent outdoors can have an incredibly positive impact on our wellbeing: in fact, studies routinely find that exposure to green spaces results in a decrease in blood pressure, cortisol levels, and general heart rate (Source: Science Direct). Not only this, but experiencing more natural daylight can also regulate our circadian rhythms, helping to support sleep.
Moderate aerobic exercise has proven to be the most effective at increasing the amount of slow wave sleep we get (Source: Hopkins Medicine). This crucial kind of sleep gives the brain and body a chance to replenish their energy stores, regenerate tissue and recalibrate the immune system. Walking, jogging and yoga are all moderate aerobic exercise that can help you achieve this slow wave sleep more easily: again, work with your body's individual rhythms and exercise when you feel the most energised in the day.
Lack of sleep can also make the body crave sugar and caffeine, substances that form a negative cycle by disrupting your sleep further. Instead, try caffeine free herbal teas with licorice or cinnamon, which are naturally sweet ingredients that can help to satisfy our sugar cravings and aid in balancing blood sugar levels.
In your everyday diet, look for foods that are high in tryptophan like oats, almonds, and protein sources like tofu, as this aids the production of sleep hormones. Similarly, the gut plays a larger role in sleep than you may realise so be sure to include enough pre- and probiotics in your diet. Fruit, vegetables, pulses, herbs and spices all have prebiotic effects, so aim to eat a consistently varied and colourful diet. Good sources of probiotics include fermented food like sauerkraut and kimchi and drinks such as kombucha and kefir, all of which help to balance the healthy bacteria in your gut.
Sleep is one of the main pillars of health and wellbeing, but it can sometimes be a neglected part of our lives. By incorporating things like a strong sleep routine, herbal remedies and organic natural bedding you can start to improve your sleep pattern in a natural, intuitive way.
Jo Webber, Herbal Education Lead at Pukka Herbs
]]>Choosing eco-friendly gifts is kinder to the planet, and they often tend to be more unique than more traditional Mother’s Day gifts. If you’re looking for inspiration about what to buy, we’ve put together our top 5 sustainable gifts perfect for celebrating your mum (and helping the planet) in an environmentally friendly way!
Flowers are always a lovely gift, especially in springtime. Buying your mum house plants or herbs is a good way of supporting the planet and giving her a gift, which will last a lot longer than cut flowers. If your mum is particularly green-fingered, buying a variety of bulbs for her garden is a great way to show your love and appreciation. Plus, when they grow, they’ll attract pollinators like bees and butterflies into her garden.
Cut flowers have a huge environmental impact, because of how they are grown and imported. Most cut flowers are usually imported from other countries which produces a large carbon footprint. Equally, the flowers available in supermarkets are grown in humid greenhouses and stored in cold warehouses. Controlling these temperature extremes requires a great deal of energy and can generate serious carbon emissions.
More and more of us are considering buying sustainable gifts for friends and family, so choosing a sustainable, Fairtrade or organic Mother’s Day gift this year means you’ll be right on trend
If you’re looking to upgrade another classic Mother’s Day present, there are plenty of Fairtrade chocolate options available. Similarly, coffee never goes amiss, and choosing Fairtrade beans guarantees her a great tasting cup and ensures the farmers who grow the beans are paid a living wage.
We all know that there’s nothing like a night away in a hotel to help you feel refreshed. If scheduling or budgets don’t allow you to buy your mum a night away, giving her bedding a hotel quality refresh is a brilliant option and something that she can enjoy night after night.
Organic cotton bedding is a great way to help make this happen. Because certified organic cotton isn’t treated with chemicals to make it ‘wrinkle-free’ or ‘stain resistant’, it’s better for the skin compared to conventional materials used in bedding. Organic cotton is also more breathable than synthetic fabric, so you’re less likely to wake up feeling hot during the night.
For luxurious and 100% certified organic and Fairtrade bedding, discover our range of organic duvet sets, super soft bed sheets, luxury British handmade organic wool duvets and pillows. Or, leave it to mum by opting for a gift card.
Give the gift of time and treat your mum, your family and yourself to a fun experience you can do together. Experience gifts can be tailored to suit a variety of budgets and interests which also helps to make them extra special. Popular eco-friendly gift experiences include:
You could also take your mum for a meal at a café or dining at a restaurant that sources their produce locally or treat her to a home-cooked meal using organic produce.
If your mum is someone who seems to have everything, donating in her name to an environmental organisation is a wonderful way to mark the day. Organisations like the Soil Association, the Wildlife Trusts or Friends of the Earth are all working to protect the environment and take care of the planet so supporting them is the gift that keeps on giving.
Regardless of what gift you choose, there are plenty of ways to celebrate and thank your mother sustainably and uniquely this Mother’s Day.
Nisa Shah, co-founder, Sleep Organic
]]>On average, we spend a third of their lives in bed, so making sure it is as comfortable as possible should be a priority. Part of this comfort comes down to choosing a pillow that’s right for you. As no one wants to wake up with a stiff neck, the perfect pillow needs to provide neck and spinal support while still being comfortable and helping you to relax.
Organic wool filled pillows have all the benefits that natural wool has to offer without the addition of harsh fixatives and chemicals found in 'conventional' bedding. Not only are they a great natural alternative, but wool pillows offer additional benefits to help encourage a good night’s sleep.
Having an uncomfortable pillow means that some nights it can feel like you’re either sleeping on cardboard or rocks. With an uncomfortable pillow, it’s more than likely you will spend a frustrating few hours tossing and turning before falling asleep. Having an uncomfortable pillow can raise your stress levels by increasing muscle tension and decreasing blood flow, meaning your brain becomes overactive – not ideal when you’re trying to get your recommended eight hours!
However, the coiled structure of wool fibres makes the pillows more resilient and allows them to be stretched out without losing their form. Thus wool pillows cradle your head and prevent tossing and turning. What's more, unlike other types of pillows which can clump up over time and become lumpy, wool pillows generally retain their bounce and shape meaning they stay comfortable for longer without clumping.
We’ve all experienced mornings where you wake up with something important to do, but your face is covered with creases from your pillow and your eyes have been reduced to slits thanks to puffiness.
The moisture-wicking properties of wool means that air can flow more easily preventing that clammy feeling around your head while you sleep. Not only can this help you wake up looking refreshed, but it also helps with temperature regulation, giving you a sounder night’s sleep generally.
When we hear the word ‘wool’ typically we think ‘warm’. However, wool has a breathable quality that means it can absorb moisture better than other materials. These breathable qualities also encourage better airflow which helps to maintain your body’s overall temperature and reduce the chance of night sweats.
Because synthetic pillows are treated with chemicals and processed to be flame and mould resistant, they often contain substances that can exacerbate allergies or health conditions. Organic wool on the other hand is an easily accessible, natural, and a non-toxic material that is perfect for people who want something different from hypoallergenic bedding.
We all sleep a little sounder when we’ve done something good for someone else. Not only can wool be naturally obtained, but it’s also biodegradable. Because it doesn’t require processing in the same way that other pillow materials do, a wool filling is a good choice for the planet.
At Sleep Organic, all our wool pillows are filled with organic British wool and encased in unbleached organic cotton, so you’ll be able to enjoy a comfortable and environmentally friendly night’s sleep.
A mouldy or dust mite filled pillow is the stuff of nightmares, especially for allergy sufferers. Sadly, however, these pillow horror stories can be more common than you think. Fortunately, the moisture-wicking properties of wool and the microscopic bristles and lanolin of its fibres create an unfavourable environment for dust mites and other unwelcome microbes.
Naturally, wool pillows will compress slightly during the first few months of use. However, once the wool has settled it remains incredibly resilient and can maintain its shape better than most pillow types.
The benefits of wool pillows aren’t just limited to adults. Helping your toddler get the best night’s sleep possible is crucial for them and you.
Choosing organic and environmentally friendly bedding such as cot bed pillow helps to protect their skin, and the breathability of wool can help toddlers regulate their temperature during the night, aiding a sounder sleep.
If you’re keen to banish nights spent staring at the ceiling until the small hours, wool pillows are well worth looking into. Known for being soft and comfortable, wool has many additional properties which make it an excellent choice for pillows and a great way to ensure a wonderful night’s sleep.
If you’re interested in the benefits and keen to try a wool pillow for yourself, Sleep Organic has a range of sizes available. Start browsing our luxury handmade pillows here.
Chris Murphy, PhD, co-founder Sleep Organic
]]>Why choose sustainable and ethical bedding for your children? As a parent, it is important to have peace of mind. Knowing that the cot or cot bed bedding and kids bedding you choose is sustainable, ethical and organic is a great start.
]]>As a parent, we want to have peace of mind. Knowing that the cot or cot bed bedding and kids bedding you choose is sustainable, ethical and organic is a great start.
It can be challenging to wade through all the options and make eco-friendly, healthy choices with the bedding you buy. But when you choose our organic bedding sets for your nursery, you can rest assured of great quality, that won't literally cost the earth.
Don't compromise on quality or on ethics when choosing bedding sets for your kids. Their health and well being can suffer if low quality bedding is used. A lot of kids bedding comes with concerns over harmful chemicals and a high carbon cost. But with our organic bedding sets, you will have none of those concerns.
Simple, calming and comfortable, our organic kids bedding sets offer everything you need to give your little one a great night's sleep. And of course, we all know that if your baby does not sleep well, then you won't either.
Baby will sleep well because of the soft skin feel and high quality cotton we use. And you will also get a good night's sleep because, like all our bedding, our nursery bedding is Fairtrade Certified, and made from 100% GOTS organic natural fibres certified by the Soil Association.
A delightful cot bed duvet cover and pillowcase set (or cot duvet cover), offering full eco-credentials and top quality, with a splash of primary colour provided by our cheery Robin red-breast design.
The lovely little embroidered robin in this design could also soon become a firm favourite and friend to your little one. Often associated with Christmas, Robins grace our gardens year round, and they could be a big hit in your kids bedroom or nursery too.
A cot bed duvet cover and pillowcase set (or cot duvet cover) with an adorable little bunny graphic could be the perfect design for a calming and chilled out space. Your little ones will surely love their little bouncy little bunny friend – which gives a perfect springtime vibe, with some cheerful get up and go.
And you will love that this is Fairtrade certified, made from 100% organic white sateen cotton with a 300 thread count, and finished with safe metal snap buttons.
Of course, when it comes to what goes inside our beautiful and eco-friendly duvet covers, we also have you covered! With one of the lovely kids bedding set options above, you certainly would not want to compromise when it comes to the other elements of the bedding.
Our all season, 10.5 tog duvets for cots and cot beds are lovingly hand-crafted from unbleached 100% organic cotton, with a filling of 100% certified organic British wool. Chemical-free and cosy, these duvets are just what you have been looking for.
Out organic cot bed pillows are also a balm for troubled minds, and the perfect place for kids to lay their heads. These kids pillows are also lovingly made from 100% organic cotton and top quality organic British wool. The breathable, moisture-wicking and super soft materials make for peaceful slumber each and every night.
We also have both flat sheets and fitted sheets to complete the complement of kids bedding for your nursery. Available in both cot and cot bed sizes, these are also everything that sustainable parents would hope for. Again, these are soft and silky smooth – 100% Organic, Fairtrade cotton, with a sateen weave and 300 thread count.
All of our organic kids bedding will allow you to make the healthy and ecologically friendly choice. Even our packaging is thoughtfully made. All the bedding you purchase comes in 100% plastic free packaging. The kids cotton bedding you buy will be sent in a bag made from off-cuts, so this reduces waste and gives you a useful bag into the bargain.
Doing right for your kids means nurturing them in every way, and providing the best. You should not compromise on the things you provide for them. You should be buying less, but buying better. Good quality, conscientious kids bedding should be close to the top of the list.
Nisa Shah, co-Founder Sleep Organic
]]>Thread count (TC) is often thought of as an indicator of the quality of a fabric, but it's not that simple. Let’s first see the actual technical side of what thread count actually constitutes. Thread count is the number of threads woven together in a horizontal and vertical orientation per square inch of fabric. You count both lengthwise (warp) and width-wise (weft) threads. So, 100 length-wise threads woven with 100 width-wise threads produce a TC of 200. While 150 lengthwise threads woven with 150 width-wise threads make a 300TC. Thread count is a highly used phrase for describing luxury bed linen. The idea is the finer you can weave the threads together, the softer and finer the fabric will be, and the more likely it will wear well, evenly, and will soften and become more comfortable with each wash.
Sleep Organic offers only 100% Fairtrade cotton bedding. All of our cotton bedding is made from 100% organic cotton which is grown, harvested, processed and packed sustainably and ethically. It adheres to strict international Fairtrade standards, and bears the Fairtrade label – a mark you can trust.
Fairtrade is a global movement which aims to overhaul the global trade network and rid it of the injustices which plague farmers, workers and ecosystems around the world. Fair Trade seeks to ensure that farmers and workers are treated fairly, and have safe working conditions. All Fairtrade bedding, like other Fairtrade products, must be socially and economically fair and environmentally responsible.
Cotton is an area of particular concern for those trying to create a fairer system. Growing and processing cotton is a huge industry, which generates vast wealth on a global scale. Unfortunately, those working on the front lines of cotton production rarely see much of that capital. They often, especially in lower-income nations where cotton is grown, experience a range of poverty and social injustice related issues.
Water usage and water waste, pollution and human harm due to pesticides and insecticides commonly used in cotton production, wealth disparities and social injustices such as child and forced labour are just some of the many reasons why things have to change – and why buying Fairtrade bedding is the sustainable solution.
Buying Fairtrade bedding is one thing we can all do to make sure we are part of the solution and not part of the problem. In order to be Fairtrade certified, bedding must meet the Fairtrade standards. This means that you can expect that:
Farmers who are more socially and economically secure are able to make the right choices when it comes to land management and how they farm. They are able not only to improve their own lives but also have the freedom to take on more eco-friendly, sustainable farming practices.
Fairtrade bedding is sustainable, transparent, equitable and ethical. So choosing sustainable Fairtrade cotton bedding for your home really is the only way to make sure that your good night's sleep does not come at too great a cost.
While Fairtrade cotton farmers are held to standards which require minimal use of pesticides, herbicides etc, it is important to note that Fairtrade is not the same thing as organic. Some Fairtrade farmers are fully organic – but not all. So when choosing Fairtrade bedding, it is also a good idea to look for certified organic bedding too.
All Sleep Organic's luxury cotton bedding is not only Fairtrade but also certified organic (GOTS 100% Organic). So you can rest easy knowing that you have made the best possible choice for you and our wider world.
Nisa Shah, co-founder Sleep Organic
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Organic cotton bedding can be washed at any temperature. The occasional hot wash will not do any harm to it at all. But when you have chosen high quality organic bedding, you want to take care of it and keep it in use for as long as possible. Cared for properly, Sleep Organic’s bedding should last you years, even decades. And you also want to make sure you're washing it as sustainably as possible. This means washing at low temperatures whenever you can. Washing at lower temperatures will reduce energy use, and also prolong the life of your cotton bedding. Usually, a low temperature wash will be perfectly sufficient to keep your organic cotton bedding fresh and clean.
Another thing to think about is how frequently you launder. Do not wash your bedding more often than you need to. This can save energy, save water, and will also help to prolong the life of the bedding.
When you have taken the time to seek out eco-friendly, sustainable, healthy bedding, the last thing you want to do is introduce allergens and toxins through the laundry detergent you use. Fortunately, there are plenty of eco-friendly options for your laundry wash.
For example, you can use Castile soap, bicarbonate of soda and salt recipes, or soap nuts, which are great natural alternatives to chemical commercial detergents on the market – better for your own health and of course better for the environment too. Adding essential oils means you can make your bedding smell lovely – just as you wish and in a more natural way. Making your own eco-friendly natural detergents also means that you can avoid buying commercial products in plastic, and reduce waste.
At Sleep Organic our bedding is whitened without the use of chlorine bleach – we use a toxin-free oxygen-based process. Subsequently using bleach on your organic cotton bedding is certainly not recommended. And the good news is there are other, natural solutions to try to get rid of any stubborn stains. First of all, try to soak in cold water before stains set in. But if you do get some staining, baking soda, vinegar, lemon juice, and even simple table salt can often be effective in getting rid of any stains on your organic cotton bedding. Rubbing a paste of bicarbonate of onto the stain and then rinsing it off half an hour later, for example, will often do the trick. As will soaking the bedding in vinegar, lemon juice, or salty water.
The good news for those with busy lives is that it is perfectly safe to tumble dry your organic cotton sheets on low or medium heat. But of course, tumble drying uses a lot of energy and, especially if you do not have a renewable energy supply, it is important to reduce your household energy use as much as possible. Where possible, when trying to live in a more sustainable and eco-friendly way, you should line dry your sheets on a washing line outside. Where this is not possible, hang them on a rack to dry inside your home. Drying outside in the sun is best, if possible, because the UV helps kill off micro-organisms.
You can safely iron your organic cotton sheets if you need to. But it is worth bearing in mind that ironing consumes energy too. If you wash on low temperature and line dry your bedding rather than tumble drying, you should not need to iron your bedding at all. If you do decide that you would like to iron your organic cotton bedding, then iron it while it is still slightly damp, and iron at low temperatures to keep energy use to a minimum.
As you can see from the above, organic cotton bedding is easy to care for, and there are not really any specific care requirements to worry about. But it is worthwhile thinking not only about the sustainability of the cotton bedding you choose, but also how sustainably you wash, dry and care for it over time.
Nisa Shah, co-founder Sleep Organic
]]>Aesthetics might not be the most important thing. But the look of your bedroom does make a difference. Whether or not you expect anyone to actually see them other than you, choosing beautiful bedding can help turn your bedroom into the relaxing haven you deserve. Choosing bedding which blends in harmoniously with other elements of interior design can make the space feel more restful, and importantly for your health and wellbeing it can help you get a good night's sleep.
Soft, smooth and chic, this simple design shows pure, white 100% organic cotton offset by clear, clean double cord lines. Choose this beautiful duvet set and you can show your refinement and taste. The cord line options are beautiful moonlight silver, regal gold and emerald green, to match a refined décor colour palette. The overall look is reminiscent of traditional fine French linens.
The clean, crisp lines of the design look wonderful in a paired-back modern bedroom, and can also add a sense of order and calm in a more extravagant space, where the lines can pick up a colour thread from a wall, other furnishings, or accessories, or even plants, within the room.
Our second delightfully bright and understated option is our duvet set with its piped edge detailing. The light, bright organic cotton of this duvet set also brightens up a space, and sits comfortably in any room, decorated in any style. The edges of this percale weave duvet set are edged with practical and attractive piping in enlivening tones of navy blue, manor grey and earth red.
This sleek and simple design is perfect for a clean, contemporary design. Its practicality and simplicity means that it can work well in bedrooms with a wide range of styles. The simple detail of the piping around the edge can speak to other elements within the room, helping to blend everything together and creating a harmonious, and calming feel.
If you like a little detailing to bring nature into your bedroom, then this beautiful embroidered duvet set design could be the perfect one for you. Available in a soft and silky sateen weave, our lavender duvet set is perfect for those who would like a natural look and feel.
Lavender is of course a herb well known for aiding sleep. And this beautiful duvet design can aid sleep too. Again, the pure, bright white bedding is offset by an attractive embroidered design – just enough detailing to add personality and bring nature to mind – not more than is required. This elegant floral design will look wonderful in many different bedrooms, in many different homes.
Choose one of our three beautiful duvet set designs and your bedroom will shine. Light, bright and beautiful in their simplicity, these are three designs which allow their natural organic nature and high quality to shine through.
These luxurious, high quality duvet sets are made to last. They are manufactured to the very highest quality, with sustainable and eco-friendly materials. And the simple visual appearance of the designs means that their appeal will not fade.
Whatever other elements in your bedroom you change, they will still look great and be in keeping with your bedroom décor. They are fad free and untied to passing trends, so will not need to be replaced as soon as other designs may be. Their subtlety and charm means that they will fit in well through any changes you might choose to make.
So if you want your bedroom to be beautiful, bright, and truly the best it can be, choose one of our stunning organic duvet sets today.
Nisa Shah, co-founder, Sleep Organic
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One reason for a poor night's sleep can be rough materials, and fabrics that do not feel pleasant against the skin. High quality organic cotton with a high thread count, woven to perfection, really can make all the difference. Our luxury organic cotton bedding is made from long staple 300 thread count cotton – with percale and sateen weaves. The quality obvious to the touch. Organic bedding is soft, and hypoallergenic – perfect for everyone – even those with the most sensitive of skin.
You might not realise what affect the skin-feel of a bedding fabric has on you through the night. But any discordant stimuli can be disruptive to a good night's sleep. Along with making sure that the room is dark, and quiet, avoiding any other sources of discomfort or minor disruption is key to getting the perfect night's sleep.
Another very important factor in sleeping well is temperature. The thermal environment is a key determinant of sleep. Making sure that the temperate is right can help make sure we have high-quality rest. And high quality organic bedding is an important part of that picture.
Unlike synthetic bedding, organic cotton bedding is breathable, and helps to regulate the thermal environment. The right organic bedding can keep you cool in summer, and warm enough in winter. When you select breathable, natural fabrics, these delay external temperature changes and therefore give your body time to adjust to conditions as they alter through the night. This can prevent any checks to the sleep cycle and help make sure you feel rested by the time that morning comes.
Getting more, better quality sleep takes a holistic approach. And it is important to get into a routine. When you get into a routine when it comes to when you get up and when you go to bed, it can be easier to sleep well, and can improve the quality of your sleep over time.
It will be easier to get into a routine and get to bed on time if your bedroom is actually a place you want to be – not somewhere with negative associations. Buying organic bedding can be one important step in turning your bedroom into a more appealing, beautiful and relaxing space.
It is important throughout your home, but especially, perhaps, in the room where you sleep, to keep things natural. Natural, organic materials – organic bedding, and also natural rugs, curtains and other furnishings, a natural cleaning routine, houseplants to clean the air – all these things can turn your bedroom into a natural retreat – a healthy and toxin-free space where you can really get away from it all, and get the perfect night's sleep.
Many of the toxins present in our environments are threats to our health. A natural, fresh, clean and green bedroom can help you relax, without worries about what you might be exposed to as you sleep.
Environmental factors are not the only factors involved in poor sleep or insomnia. Stress and worry can also be major factors to contend with. It is easy to feel stressed and overwhelmed in our modern world. But all those stresses and worries should be left behind at the bedroom door. Your bedroom should be a relaxing, calming, soothing space, with nothing to remind you of external stresses in the wider world.
Feeling stressed and guilty about the environment, our climate crisis and social injustices can give many people sleepless nights. But when you choose organic bedding, you can rest easier, and feel good about the fact that at least in this one, small way you have done the right thing for people and planet.
Dr. Chris Murphy, co-founder Sleep Organic
]]>Spring cleaning can put a spring in your step. Just like new organic bedding, we know that it can give you a great sense of peace and well-being. There is something wonderful about having a fresh and clean home, including, crucially, a spick and span bedroom, complete with eco-friendly bedding to make sure you get the rest you need. But when spring cleaning, and when choosing new bedding to refresh your sleeping area, it is important to keep your own good health and the environment in mind by making sure you don't introduce toxins and pollutants into your home, or into the wider world. So to help you, here is our simple list of spring cleaning do’s and don'ts.
Spring cleaning can sometimes feel overwhelming. It can be difficult to determine where to start. But to help you get your home clean and fresh, here are some simple tips:
Take things methodically, and spring cleaning can feel cathartic and not so much of a chore. But don't make the mistakes below:
These are just a few simple tips to help you spring clean your home, and make it a natural, healthy, eco-friendly and relaxing space to spend time in and sleep over the months to come.
Nisa Shah, co-founder Sleep Organic
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Cotton is widely used in textiles, including bedding, due to the fact that it is the purest form of cellulose available in nature. The highest quality cotton varieties are those that have the longest fibres, which are thin, with good resistance and elasticity. These features make it easy to spin and allow high-quality textiles to be produced. Our luxury organic cotton bedding is made from the highest quality long staple 300 thread count cotton. It's top quality is obvious to the touch.
Looking at the properties of cotton fibres and fabrics and it becomes easy to see why it is a great choice for bedding. It is soft against the skin, hypoallergenic and won't cause issues for sensitive skin. Our bedding is made with percale and sateen weaves for exemplary comfort. It feels great against your skin, and many satisfied customers will testify to the fact that the comfortable skin feel of our organic cotton bedding helped them sleep better.
Another crucial property of cotton when it comes to getting a good night's sleep is its breathability. Polyester and other sheets made from synthetic materials don't let the air through, which can lead to a hot and sticky night.
Choosing breathable natural fabrics like cotton can therefore help you sleep better if you often find that you wake up in the night feeling all hot and sweaty. But cotton can also keep you comfortable if you tend to get too cold.
If you feel too warm, percale weave will be great for you. It is particularly useful as a fabric to keep you cool. Sateen sheets are great for winter, and have a silky smooth finish. These names refer to the ways in which the cotton is woven into a fabric.
The thermal environment is a key determinant of sleep.[1] When we sleep, our bodies naturally cool. And thermal regulation can play an important role in sleep stages, and on the quality of our rest. Synthetic bedding can disrupt our body's thermal regulation, making it far more difficult to sleep successfully.
As a good heat conductor, cotton bedding helps combat overheating issues. However, it also lets less heat through than many other fabrics, so can also retain body heat on chilly nights. By helping to regulate the thermal environment, cotton sheets can help improve sleep and help prevent insomnia.
Cotton also has good moisture absorption properties in that it draws in moisture from the environment. This property means it wicks moisture away from the skin, helping you sleep well all night long.
In absorbing moisture, the thermal properties of the fabric change and cotton bedding, like other breathable, natural fabrics, delays external temperature changes and gives your body time to adjust to changing conditions during the night. [2]
Unfortunately, while all cottons share the properties mentioned above, regular cotton is typically contaminated with pesticides and herbicides used when growing the crop. The toxicity of synthetic dyes often used on cotton are another source of concern. Many textiles are manufactured with harmful chemicals like banned Azo colourants, formaldehyde, pentachlorophenol, cadium, nickle, and lead.[3]
The transmission of contaminants to the human body through the skin is a major worry.[4] Several studies have explored the issue of transmission of contaminants from fabrics to skin. With bedding, it is worth noting the long time period you will spend in contact with the fabrics when making your choices. While the actual quantities of harmful substances are typically very low, they can become concerning when you consider the length of time of the exposure.
Choose certified, GOTS organic cotton bedding, however, and you can rest easier, without concerns about getting sick while you sleep.
You'll breathe easier too – without having to breath in the VOCs associated with other bedding options. Using toxin free organic bedding really can improve your health – and help you sleep better.
What is more, when you bed down on ethical cotton sheets, you will sleep easier knowing that you are not just doing what is right for you – you're also doing the right thing for people and planet. You can truly sleep the sleep of the just.
Nisa Shah, co-founder Sleep Organic
[1] https://jphysiolanthropol.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/1880-6805-31-14
[2] ‘Physical Properties of Textile Fibres’ The Textile Institute, Woodhead Publishing
[3] ‘The Impact of Dyes’, https://www.trustedclothes.com/blog/2016/06/23/impact-of-dyes/
[4] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29911295/
]]>Sleep Organic is committed to the Fairtrade cotton cause. Our entire organic cotton bedding range is 100% Fairtrade. All our organic cotton bedding is grown, harvested, processed and packed under strict international Fairtrade standards. Sleep Organic is a registered Fairtrade brand, which means we pay 1.7% of product cost to Fairtrade on all our sales. We are committed to zero exploitation of people and planet, and are dedicated to the concept of fair trade. And we want to convince you to commit to it too!
Fairtrade is a global movement that seeks to improve conditions and local sustainability for farmers and workers – especially those in the developing world. Fairtrade seeks to ensure that farmers and workers are all safe, have good working conditions and are treated fairly.
The global trade network is fraught with injustice. It traditionally discriminates against those with less financial or political clout. So those who have wealth continue to accumulate it, and those who have the least suffer the most.
Fairtrade helps to combat such injustices by requiring businesses to pay sustainable prices (never below market value) for the products produced by those in their supply chains. Since farmers and producers in developing nations get fairer prices, they are able to take back some power. They can make their own choices, control their own futures, and live the dignified, safe, secure lives that everyone deserves.
By committing to Fairtrade farming, ethics and procurement, businesses can help to improve social and economic well-being of workers across the entire production chain. Consumers know, when they see this label that working conditions and workers’ rights have been taken into account.
There are a series of Fairtrade standards that have been developed. There are core standards that need to be met in order to be certified Fairtrade.
These standards:
By choosing Fairtrade products, you are making a statement as a consumer with positive consequences. You are saying that you are looking out for those who are often disadvantaged by the system. You are showing that you care about people, no matter where they live, and value all human life. And you are helping our world to become a more just and equal place.
Cotton is one of the most important textile fibre crops, and a hugely important agricultural product. Its production takes up over 2% of all arable land on the planet (1), and millions of people rely on it for their livelihoods. But the way things stand, many injustices and inequalities mean that workers, and the environment, often suffer to make the clothing, bedding and other textiles we need.
The cotton industry is dominated by China, India and the United States. Large scale cotton cultivation in these countries nets them huge amounts of money each year. And the global cotton trade is heavily distorted by subsidies given to cotton farmers particularly in rich countries like the US and EU.
But cotton also forms a large part of the annual export income for a number of other low-income nations in Central and West Asia and in Africa. In developing nations – leading producers like China and India as well as these other low-income regions – cotton farmers often have it tough.
Cotton generates vast wealth on a global scale, in spite of volatile cotton prices (2). But those involved in working on the front lines in cotton production often do not see that return. They have low income, low investment, and high dependency. And they can also experience other issues due to the agricultural practices with which they are involved.
One major issue is the large amount of water required to grow conventional (i.e. non-sustainably grown) cotton (3). This increases water stresses on farmers and their communities. In some regions, polluted waste water is also a major concern – damaging and degrading environments upon which people in vulnerable nations depend.
Non-organic cotton production also involves high use of pesticides and insecticides. 6% of global pesticide use and 16% of global insecticide use take place in cotton production (4). The World Health Organisation (WHO) estimates that over 350,000 people die every year from acute pesticide poisoning. This figure does not include deaths from cancer or other chronic diseases caused by pesticide exposure. In addition, the WHO estimates that long-term exposure may result in upwards of 750,000 people suffering from specific chronic defects and cancers each year – in developing countries alone.
In addition to wealth and environmental related concerns, the cotton industry is also implicated in social injustices – such as child and forced labour. These are well documented in nine cotton producing regions. Clamp downs on child labour in particular have improved the picture somewhat in recent years. But concerns still remain, especially in regions like Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan (5).
The cotton industry is also implicated in gender inequalities, which have a range of knock on consequences in broader societal systems.
Fairtrade helps cotton producers, who would otherwise languish at the end of long and complex supply chains, through introducing such mechanisms as the Fairtrade Minimum Price and an additional Fairtrade Premium that make sure they are treated fairly, and can achieve higher, more stable and sustainable incomes. In addition, when a Fairtrade product is also certified organic by GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard), then a higher Fairtrade minimum price is secured for the farmer. Fairtrade Standards have also helped strengthen cotton farmer co-operatives – a much needed development to protect farmers and women’s rights by giving them stronger, more collective bargaining power.
Fairtrade Standards stipulate strict environmental and sustainability criteria, not only more just social and trade conditions. For example, Genetically Modified Organisms (GMO) are prohibited as well as a host of toxic chemicals, while the use of non-chemical pesticides and biological pest controls and natural organic fertilizers are encouraged and best practices shared (6).
Fairtrade Standards specifically addresses issues of gender equality in developing countries, from voting rights to pay equity. A study reported how a requirement in the Fairtrade Standards for women farmers to be paid directly for seed cotton (rather than through their husbands or other male family members) had encouraged more women in certain developing countries to cultivate cotton (7). Crucially, the women reported that they had more control over their household budget and spending.
Fairtrade also helps businesses to source Fairtrade Cotton and educates consumers on the problems in cotton production and how things can be improved. Fairtrade works with 19 producer organisations growing Fairtrade cotton in seven countries (8). This represents tangible improvements for almost 45,576 cotton farmers in some of the poorest regions in the world.
By choosing Fairtrade cotton such as sustainable and ethical Fairtrade and organic cotton bedding, grown and manufactured through Fairtrade Standards, businesses and consumers can make a real and tangible difference to some of the most vulnerable (often women) workers and communities around the world.
Dr Chris Murphy, co-founder Sleep Organic
1. Textile Exchange, 2025 Sustainable Cotton Challenge: First Annual Report (2018), p.13.
2. World Bank, World Bank Commodities Price Forecast: April 2019, http://pubdocs.worldbank. org/en/598821555973008624/CMO-April-2019-Forecasts.pdf
3. Cotton Up Guide to Sourcing Sustainable Cotton, Challenges for Cotton, http://cottonupguide. org/why-source-sustainable-cotton/challenges-for-cotton/#1518784631421-5825380e-f0f8
4. PAN UK, Pesticide Concerns in Cotton, https://www.pan-uk.org/cotton/
5. Responsible Sourcing Network, Cotton, https://www.sourcingnetwork.org/cotton
6. https://www.fairtrade.net/library/fairtrade-and-cotton-2015
7.https://files.fairtrade.net/publications/2011_FairtradeCotton_ImpactMaliSenegaCameroonIndia.pdf
8. Fairtrade International, Key Data: Fairtrade Cotton, https://www.fairtrade.net/impact/key- data-fairtrade-cotton
]]>But first, let’s take an historical stroll. Valentine's Day on February 14th, originally began as a Christian festival, honouring Saint Valentine, who was persecuted by the Romans and died in 269 AD. In the 14th and 15th Century, the day came to be associated with courtly love – perhaps due to the associations of 'lovebirds' in early spring. By the 18th Century, it became common for couples to express their love for each other by sending flowers, greetings cards or gifts on this day. This led to the modern, consumerist holiday that we know today.
Many still embrace the doves and love, hearts and hot-house flowers, mass-produced greetings cards and gifts of the holiday. But others are beginning to reject the more cynical, consumerist side to Valentine's Day, and seek to celebrate love in greener, more ethical, eco-friendly and sustainable ways such as organic bedding.
Increasingly, people are turning their backs on a throwaway consumerist culture. They are embracing real value – recognising the things the really matter and the things that really last. Sustainable products are great for those who want to do their bit for people and planet. But those who embrace sustainability know that buying less, as well as buying better, should be the order of the day. One major trend in sustainable gift giving is giving experiences rather than just giving things.
Buying the perfect organic bedding helps you gift experiences your loved one will remember. It does not matter whether you are in the first passionate flush of new love, or a comfortable couple who have been together for years. With delightfully soft, luxurious and comfortable organic bedding, you'll love to be in bed!
Quality time is crucial in any relationship, and organic bedding is a Valentine's Day gift that keeps on giving. Rather than giving a one off gift that will be opened and then forgotten, why not give a gift that will help your relationship for years to come? A sustainable Valentine's Day should be all about thinking long term – not just upping the romance for a single day.
Luxury organic duvet sets don't just help you enjoy the time you spend in bed together, they can also improve your connection in a range of other long-lasting ways. For quality time, you both need to be happy, healthy and well rested – and choosing eco friendly organic cotton bedding can make sure you are. It can help ensure that you and your loved one are well rested, and well in body and mind. So you'll be able to be less stressed, and enjoy more quality time together.
Sustainable wooers are increasingly recognising that Valentine's Day should not be about spending a fortune on forgettable gifts. It should be about creating an ambiance – a romantic mood – so the relationship can flourish. It's about the little, real ways that you can show your loved one how much you care.
After a stroll out in nature, perhaps, and a lovely home-cooked meal using fresh, local and seasonal ingredients, what could be better than retiring to the bedroom and snuggling up under the covers together? So why not get some new organic bedding for the perfect, luxurious feel, light some natural beeswax candles, and set the right mood for romance to bloom.
This Valentine's Day, whether you are in a relationship or not, why not express your love for Mother Nature, and this amazing planet we call home? Choosing organic cotton bedding is an eco-friendly choice. It shows how much you care for the natural world, and the steps you are willing to take to protect it.
There are plenty of ways this Valentine's Day to reject harmful systems and practices, and to embrace a more eco-friendly and sustainable way of life. But no matter who you are and how you spend the day, organic bedding is just one excellent Valentine's Day present to consider.
Nisa Shah, co-founder Sleep Organic
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Let's take a look at some of the reasons why you should choose to make the switch to organic cotton bedding this year:
CO2 emissions per hectare of organic agriculture systems are 48 to 66 percent lower than in conventional systems. What is more, carbon farming practices on organic cotton farms can significantly increase the capacity of farm land to catch and sequester carbon.
That means that by choosing organic bedding you are helping to tackle our climate crisis. And makes this a far better choice than synthetic fabrics, made from fossil fuels and created with high carbon costs. And also a superior choice to non-organic cotton, which is also associated with much higher carbon emissions.
You might think you are doing the right thing by choosing natural rather than synthetic fabrics. But even fibres that are grown can come at a cost. Non-organic, intensive production of cotton and other natural fibres damages the precious soil ecosystem upon which we all depend.
Between one billion and six billion hectares of agricultural land on our planet is already classed as degraded or seriously degraded. Organic cotton farms which implement no till and soil cover practices significantly reduce soil erosion and topsoil loss, and protect our soils.
Another key factor to think about in making sustainable decisions is water. Non-organic farming uses vast quantities of water each year. Agriculture accounts for, on average, 70 percent of all water withdrawals globally, and an even higher share of “consumptive water use” due to the evapotranspiration requirements of crops.
The global average water footprint for just 1kg of cotton is 10,000 litres – as much as you might drink in almost 14 years! In the United States, where sustainable improvements in cotton growing have made a difference, irrigated farms use less than in places like India, where inefficient water use and high rates of water pollution mean a high water footprint. However, standard cotton production still wastes vast amounts of water each year.
The water pollution impact of organic cotton has been shown to be 98% less than standard cotton production.[1]
In conventional cotton production, cotton is grown in large fields in conditions which require the use of a number of pesticides and herbicides – chemicals used to control pests and weeds. The way in which cotton is usually grown makes it necessary to use these harmful chemicals in order to achieve a good harvest.
Regular cotton uses more of these than any other farmed plants. Cotton accounts for 16% of global insecticide releases – more than any other single crop.[2] Unfortunately, the pesticides commonly used in cotton production are very dangerous for wildlife. Non-organic production threatens wildlife and is implicated in worrying biodiversity losses.
The chemicals used in non-organic cotton production are bad news for people too. The World Health Organisation (WHO) estimates that over 350,000 people die every year from acute pesticide poisoning. This figure does not include deaths from cancer or other chronic diseases caused by pesticide exposure. In addition, the WHO estimates that long-term exposure may result in upwards of 750,000 people suffering from specific chronic defects and cancers each year. This number refers to developing countries alone.
Even around the developed world, there is a growing concern over pesticide residues – not just in food and drink but on clothes and bedding too. Choosing organic bedding means that you will not need to worry about these residues, and can keep you and your family safe.
Our organic cotton bedding is GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard) certified and carries the Soil Association Organic label. Since it is also Fairtrade, you can also rest assured that workers throughout the supply chain have been treated fairly.
In 2021, we all need to do the right thing for people and planet, and choosing organic bedding is just one more step you can take in the right direction.
Nisa Shah, co-founder Sleep Organic
[1] https://www.soilassociation.org/take-action/organic-living/fashion-textiles/organic-cotton/
[2] EJF, 'The Deadly Chemicals in Cotton', Environmental Justice Foundation, London, UK
]]>In the United States the term ‘organic’ on textiles is protected by the government through their Department of Agriculture’s National Organic Program (USDA’s NOP). However, since USDA’s NOP standards are more relevant for crops and livestock for raw materials, rather than the various steps involved in textile processing, GOTS labelling is recognised for organic textiles in the US. This underlines GOTS truly global status as the gold standard for sustainable and ethical textile processing of organic fibres.
For a textile product to be certified organic to the GOTS standard it is first obligatory that the initial organic fibre producers (i.e. farmers) be certified to a nationally or internationally recognised organic farming standard that is accepted in the country where the final product will be sold. Organic farming practices mean that no toxic chemical pesticides or synthetic fertilisers are used, no genetically modified (GM) seed is allowed, and far less water is needed - a staggeringly 91% less - for organic cotton farming compared to non-organic (source: Textile Exchange). GOTS certification ensures that the organic fibres and subsequent textiles be kept completely separate from non-organic ones and must be clearly identified throughout the manufacturing process. Furthermore, adherence to the GOTS standard involves strict ecological and social criteria, backed by independent certification of the entire textile supply chain - in the UK the GOTS standard is certified by the Soil Association (figure 1). This involves on-site inspection (and residue testing) for processors, manufacturers and retailers. All operators must acquire a valid GOTS certificate with regard to the production or trade of the textiles to be certified. The Organic Content Standard can also be used to verify the organic content of textiles, however, unlike GOTS, it does not address textile processing (including chemical inputs) or the social or environmental criteria that are at the heart of the GOTS standard.
GOTS on-product labelling consists of GOTS and certifier logos and importantly the GOTS license number. This can be used to check and trace the company on the GOTS public database (figure 2). This gives complete peace of mind to the consumer that the products are organically sourced and have been processed and manufactured to the highest social and environmental standards.
Amazingly, it is standard practice in conventional textile processing to use chemicals that are proven to be harmful to human health, some of which are known carcinogens! Such chemical inputs are strictly prohibited by the GOTS standard. The following lists some of the key compulsory GOTS environmental criteria (figure 3) with regard to processing of organic fibres. Further details can be found on the GOTS website.
Sadly, child labour, forced labour and unsafe and often inhumane working conditions are all too common in the supply chain operations that lead to the finished textile products we use in our homes every day – our clothes and bedding, for example. This is why GOTS insists on specific social criteria (figure 4) that must be met by all processors and manufacturers and are defined in accordance with the norms of the International Labour Organisation. A social compliance management system is required to be in place to ensure that all criteria are met. Some of the key criteria include:
At the beginning of the global textile supply chain are typically farmers in developing countries working under conditions of great hardship and often exploitation. Fairtrade certification of textiles ensures payment of the ‘Fairtrade minimum price’ to such farmers. This guarantees that farmers receive, at the very least, a price which covers what it costs them to grow their crop. If a product is also GOTS certified then a higher Fairtrade minimum price is secured for the farmer. In addition to the Fairtrade minimum price, the Fairtrade Premium is a separate payment which is collected into a communal fund for farmers and workers to decide how to best use to improve their local social, economic and environmental conditions. The Fairtrade textile standard also requires the implementation of living wages for farmers and factory workers. A living wage is defined by the Global Living Wage Coalition as ‘remuneration received for a standard work week by a worker in a particular place sufficient to afford a decent standard of living for the worker and her or his family. Elements of a decent standard of living include food, water, housing, education, health care, transport, clothing, and other essential needs, including provision for unexpected events’. Hence the ideal for sustainable and ethically sourced, manufactured and traded textiles is both GOTS and Fairtrade certification.
As consumers our actions directly shape the world we live in. We can further contribute to the already rampant inequality and social and environmental degradation by opting for ‘conventionally’ sourced products, or we can choose genuinely sustainable and ethically sourced products (through GOTS and Fairtrade certification) and in so doing help make the world a better place for ourselves and for the generations to come.
Dr Chris Murphy, Sleep Organic
]]>Organic cotton is high quality cotton. The cotton crop has not been treated with harsh chemicals during farming and subsequent processing and this is a major difference between organic and non-organic cotton. Organic cotton is every bit as durable, if not more so, compared to non-organic cotton.
Organic farming practices create soils which soak up and retain more water so they can better cope with both floods and drought. 80% of the land producing organic cotton is located in areas which are predominantly rain-fed, and therefore require less blue water. A wide range of techniques are used by organic farmers to conserve water such as:
These water conservation methods mean that 91% less water is used in the production of organic cotton (from farm to bale) compared to conventional (i.e. non-organic) cotton.
Buying organic bed linen will save you money in the long run because it’s high quality and durable and there are multiple benefits to your health and your environment making organic cotton the more cost effective, wiser choice for both people and planet.
Organic farmers work in harmony with nature and use a range of natural techniques to support the growth of healthy crops. For instance, organic farmers do not use toxic pesticides and artificial fertilisers, which keeps waterways safe and the cotton crop is free of synthetic pesticides.
Organic cotton is certified by The Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) that ensures factories have met strict social and environmental criteria. This means only low impact chemicals are used in dyes. Remember long-term or prolonged exposure to some of the chemicals and dyes used in the manufacturing of non-organic textiles have been found to be carcinogenic and to disrupt hormones in both humans and animals.
GOTS certified organic cotton is the only certification standard that not only guarantees the environmental credentials of organic cotton, but also ensures workers’ rights are protected too. To be certified to GOTS, working conditions must be safe and hygienic; no forced or child labour can be used; a fair living wage must be paid; workers can’t be made to work excessively long hours; regular employment must be provided; workers must be allowed to form unions, and there can be no workplace discrimination.
Certified organic cotton (GOTS) means strict environmental criteria must be met throughout the farming and textile processing stages. Only low impact chemicals are allowed, water use is monitored and wastewater must be treated properly before being released. Inputs such as toxic heavy metals and anything that has been genetically modified are forbidden – this practice saves our waterways from toxic pollution. Organic cotton farming uses less energy and healthy organic soils store more CO2.
Organic cotton is free from heavy metals, and other toxic and harmful chemicals for human health that are standard in non-organic cotton, so it is safe to be in contact with organic cotton sheets during the third of your life spent in bed!
Up to 77 million non-organic cotton workers suffer from pesticide poisoning each year. These pesticides are banned in organic cotton farming which protects farmers, and their families’ health and their precious land and local community.
Many studies have cited indebtedness as the major contributing factor to the appallingly high rate of suicides in conventional (i.e. non-organic) farmers in developing countries. Organic farming practices help to greatly offset such risks. For example, organic cotton farming does not require purchase of external inputs (commercially bought seed, fertilizers and pesticides). Such expenses often require the cotton farmers in developing countries to obtain high interest loans. In addition, organic farming usually involves crop rotation with a food crop, thus decreasing risk for the farmers (if one crop fails) and providing a food source for both farmers and the local community. Furthermore, the food crop ‘waste’ serves a natural (and free!) fertilizer for the soil.
Nisa Shah, co-founder Sleep Organic
]]>As global warming increased, people and ecosystems experienced the climate change; and the change is very visible - from the hurricane-ravaged coasts, catastrophic bush fires in the Amazon, California and Australia to the fast-warming Arctic. People are alarmed, and rightly so.
"The moment of crisis has come" in efforts to tackle climate change, Sir David Attenborough has warned.
Scientists named 2019 Earth’s second-warmest year on record, making the last decade our warmest. Indeed, eight of the ten warmest years since measurements began occurred this decade, and the other two warmest were only a few years earlier.
Is that not enough to accelerate our action for improving and making a commitment, and not just comments?
What is sustainability 2020 vision for you as an individual?
“I want to become a conscious consumer in 2020. I will only make positive purchases, I will buy less, only buy environment friendly products, I will upcycle and recycle more, I will consume plant based food more, I will cut down on meat, I will decrease my personal carbon foot print etc.”
That’s wonderful, but is it enough?
Or some will say…
“I can’t afford sustainable and organic products or electric cars? I am not sure what I can do for the climate.”
And now our climate is at a crisis point and needs urgent collective big action.
Do you think just buying sustainable products and being vegan will be enough to save our climate and ultimately our planet?
Collective action needed Now!
Use your voice:
We have to level up our actions! So you can add your voice to the issues and decisions that are shaping our climate. Support and join the platforms that are actively working for the climate in your area, or country.
Use your purchasing power:
Support companies driven by sustainability and committed to transparency throughout the supply chain. Your power as a consumer can be enormously impactful, so if you’re in the dark or unhappy with a company’s impact on the planet, make your voice known!
Do climate advocacy:
Changing group behaviour will have a bigger knock-on effect. Convince your school, company, health club, social club, sport club, leisure centre, and restaurant to adopt environmentally friendly options in their services.
Use your vote:
Make climate issues a priority on local, national and global levels – check the climate and environmental philosophy and track record of your candidates, vote for candidates with honest, ambitious, and convincing plans to protect our planet.
Nisa Shah, Sleep Organic co-founder
]]>Keeping it regular
While the holidays are a welcome chance to break with routine, it can leave us feeling quite disorientated. A good way to offset this is by getting daily exposure to natural sunlight - taking a walk, or, if you prefer, jogging. While it’s tempting to stay indoors all day at this time of year, our bodies need natural daylight to help keep in sync. Our so-called circadian rhythms, or body clocks are strongly sensitive to this cue.
Have you ever noticed that it’s hard to sleep the night after a long sleep-in? That’s because sleeping in too long also puts us out to sync - effectively like a mini jet lag. So even after a late night it’s best not to sleep in too long, nor go to bed too late the following night. Studies have shown that keeping regular bedtimes and wake up times leaves us feeling more energised than an irregular schedule. Try it - your body will let you know!
Avoiding afternoon naps is another great way to get a better night’s sleep, and feeling more refreshed the following day. During the day we build up a natural sleep drive or ‘appetite’, and late afternoon napping is like badly timed snacking - it’s disturbs our appetite for the main course - a good restful night’s sleep.
We wish you a joyful, and restful festive holidays!
Dr Chris Murphy, Sleep Organic