We’ve researched numerous wooden bed frames — these are our top picks made from reclaimed and responsibly sourced materials.  

Wooden and platform bed frames are in and we’re here for it. Whether you’re sleeping, snuggling or…well, the other thing, wood bed frames can handle almost anything, while still staying true to a comfortable and cozy style. Plus, we love the aesthetic of natural wood surrounded by plants in our own bedrooms!

Why a wooden bed frame?

You might opt for a wooden bed frame for a number of reasons–aesthetic appeal, durability, and sustainability tend to be the most popular ones. The natural beauty of a wooden frame for your bed offers timeless appeal and can easily compliment the vibe of your room. (Amongst being super warm and inviting!) High quality wooden frames are also made to be sturdy and durable, especially when made from hardwoods, which speaks to their ability to stand the test of time. Many wooden bed frames are also sourced from sustainably managed forests or reclaimed wood, which is better for our environment than bed frames made from non-renewable materials.

For your next sustainable wood bed frame, our editors have selected nine options using reclaimed and responsibly sourced materials. We’ve prioritized brands that offer payment instalment options, and feature handiwork from local artisans and woodworkers.

Revamping your entire bedroom? Check out our guides for organic bedding and organic mattresses for an even better night’s rest.

Best Overall | Most Affordable | Most Stylish

1. Avocado

GOTS certified

FSC

Made safe

American made

Climate neutral

Greenguard certified

OEKO-TEX® certified

Natural materials

1% for the planet

Best For | Minimalist bed frames
Sustainable Materials | 100 percent FSC certified timber, nontoxic eco-finish
Available Sizes | Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, cal king, trundle kids beds options
Price For Queen Frame | Starting at $1,499
Discounts Available | Use code GOODTRADE at checkout to save 10% sitewide

You may be familiar with Avocado’s extremely popular mattresses, so it’s no surprise the team’s changing the bed frame game, too. Our pick, the modern City Bed Frame, is such a standout, Avocado even has a patent on it! The city bed frame is easy to assemble without any tools, and every piece glides together seamlessly, including the elegant optional headboard. It is quite heavy, so we recommend getting help putting it all together, although we were able to set up a king size unassisted (phew!). You can see our editor’s full review of the Avocado bed frame and mattress here. The certified B Corp offers a line of GREENGUARD certified wood bed frames which have been handcrafted locally in California, and they’re delivered via climate-neutral shipping and with a 10-year warranty. It’s safe to say this bed frame is well worth the investment—and it’ll last a lifetime.

Avocado Review | “This bed frame is solid, sturdy and beautiful. No shifting or noise, substantial wood thickness and beautiful wood grain variation. I am very happy with this piece of furniture“ – Debra H. (See all reviews)

2. Maiden Home

Woman owned

Natural materials

American made

BIPOC Owned

Best For | Canopy bed
Sustainable Materials | Responsibly sourced hardwood from the US, low-VOC glues
Available Sizes | Queen, king, California king
Price For Queen Frame | Starting at $3,750

For a custom bed to call your own, check out Maiden Home. This luxury brand sources the finest materials, including responsibly sourced wood for its bed frames, and works with artisans in North Carolina to tailor every order. The Thompson Canopy Bed—a dreamy investment piece—comes with hand-finished stains and your choice of fabric or leather from a whopping 68 options. Maiden Home products are ready to ship in as little as six weeks, and you can opt for white glove delivery, payment plans, or even sample swatches.

Maiden Home Review | “This bed [is] beautifully made. I love how the natural wood and leather come together to make a modern silhouette feel organic.  It’s my bedroom’s statement piece.” – Delia (See all reviews)

3. West Elm

Recycled materials

FSC

Fair trade

Greenguard certified

Best For | Midcentury designs
Sustainable Materials | FSC®-certified wood from responsibly managed forests, water-based finishes
Available Sizes | Twin, full, queen, king, California King, daybed
Price For Queen Frame | Starting at $699

West Elm offers some of our favorite sustainable options for wooden bedframes, made in a Fair Trade Certified™ facility and using sustainably sourced wood (look for the GREENGUARD Gold Certified and contract grade logos for the highest quality products!). If you’ve got that midcentury modern itch but just don’t have the heart for hunting down the real deal, you’ll find some great designs here that are high quality and made to last.

West Elm Review | “One of my favorite views when I come home. Mid century, cozy & minimalist vibes ✨” – @tessatumyol (See all reviews)

4. Thuma

Recycled materials

Greenguard certified

Natural materials

Best For | Classic platform with upholstered headboard
Sustainable Materials | Repurposed wood, natural walnut stain, cork padding, eco-felt from recycled plastic, CertiPUR-US® foam
Available Sizes | Twin, full, queen, king, cal king, daybed
Price For Queen Frame | Starting at $1,195

Thuma’s wooden platform bed frame is so thoughtfully made, no detail has been forgotten. The GREENGUARD Gold certified frame itself is made with repurposed wood and cork-padded bottoms on the legs. And the slats are supplemented with eco-felt to improve durability and reduce sound. The headboard includes eco-friendly foam and a washable weave-linen cover, making it both a sustainable and stylish accent. Thuma offers payment installation plans and a 100-night trial on the bed, so you can rest easy and pay this frame off over time.

Thuma Review | “This bed was easy to put together, very well designed, and feels very stable. The materials are very high quality and the packaging of the materials was great. There were zero scratches during shipping. Purchasing this bed was a great decision and it will be the last bed I ever buy.” – Anonymous (See all reviews)

5. Medley

OEKO-TEX® certified

Natural materials

FSC

American made

Best For | Bed with storage
Sustainable Materials | FSC certified hardwood, certified organic natural latex, CertiPUR-US® foam, OEKO-tex certified wool, bamboo
Available Sizes | Twin, full, queen, king, California king
Price For Queen Frame | Starting at $2,699

Medley’s made-to-order beds are both eco- and home-friendly. Customized to your choice of size, padding, and fabric, these frames are handcrafted in Los Angeles and shipped within 10-20 weeks. Medley goes the extra step in sustainability, too: Trees are responsibly sourced only from the US, and for every tree harvested, the brand plants three in its place. Medley works with Affirm so that you can break up the cost into more affordable payments. It’s worth it; this one will last for life (with a lifetime warranty!).

Medley Review  | “Great quality product, love the craftsmanship.” – Himanshu D. (See more reviews)

6. Quagga Designs

Natural materials

FSC

Small business

Best For | Easy DIY assembly
Sustainable Materials | Responsibly sourced birch from Quebec, linseed oil finish
Available Sizes | Single, double, queen & king
Price For Queen Frame | Starting at $429

Quagga Designs, based out of Canada, crafts wooden bed frames that are both minimalist and sustainable. These frames are super easy to assemble and move, can hold up to 1,200 pounds, and avoid squeaking. Each piece is made with locally sourced birchwood and finished with natural linseed oil to enhance its natural beauty (versus toxic stains that off-gas). Quagga ships for free throughout Canada, and to the contiguous US with a flat fee!

Quagga Designs Review | “Quagga’s beds and products are amazing. We have 3 of them in our house. So easy (and fun) to setup and once built they look like something from a Scandinavian design magazine…for cheaper than most beds on the market. It’s a total no-brainer.” – Rich (See all reviews)

7. Birch

Natural materials

Greenguard certified

GOTS certified

Fair trade

Best For | Customizable wooden bed frame
Sustainable Materials | Natural materials, no polyurethane foam
Available Sizes | Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king
Price For Queen Frame | Starting at $639

If you’re a fan of both wooden bed frames and upholstered headboards, you’re in luck–Birch’s Irving Bed Frame brings together the best of both worlds! Made with sturdy wood in both an oak and walnut finish, this bed frame includes durable plywood slats and Swedish pine legs, alongside the option of a wooden or upholstered headboard. This bed frame is designed for maximum support with the ability to hold up to 1,200 pounds. Assembly is also easy and tool free, meaning you’ll have a full bed frame ready to go in just under 10 minutes. 

Birch Review | “We are very happy with the frame. It is sturdy, easy to put together, and attractive.” – Ruth S. (See all reviews)

8. Danner Furniture

Natural materials

American made

Small business

Best For | Handmade reclaimed style wooden bed frames
Sustainable Materials | Organic & sustainably-sourced solid wood from the USA
Available Sizes | Twin, full, queen, king, California king
Price For Queen Frame | Starting at $2,043

For beautiful standout wooden bed frames that are made by a small business, check out Danner Furniture. Each wooden bed frame is made with both organic or natural solid wood that’s sustainably sourced from American forests. Danner Furniture also offers wooden bed frame customization, so you can get creative if you have a design idea in mind! Handcrafted, rustic and beautiful, these bed frames are an essential piece for a homey and natural space. 

Danner Furniture Review | “We love our new King bed! Assembly was a breeze with simple step by step instructions. The store owners are super nice and responded quickly to any question we had. Thank you !!!” – Lian (See all reviews)

9. Silk and Snow

Natural materials

OEKO-TEX® certified

GOTS certified

Best For | Easy installation
Sustainable Materials | Natural acacia & rubberwood from sustainable plantations in Vietnam, eco-conscious manufacturing processes
Available Sizes | Twin, full, queen, king
Price For Queen Frame | Starting at $1,300

Toronto-based brand Silk & Snow makes wooden bed frames that are durable, refined and easy to install. Handmade by artisans in Vietnam using sustainable wood and ethical manufacturing, these handmade wooden bed frames are not just your average bed frame–they are completely, nut, bolt, and screw free. Crafted using traditional Japanese joinery techniques, Silk & Snow’s wooden bed frames can be easily put together and taken apart while remaining sturdy and well put together. (This can be extremely convenient especially if you move around a lot!) With an astounding 5 star rating, you’ll feel confident investing in these beautiful, timeless bed frames.  

Silk & Snow Review | “The delivery was quick, assembly was not hard. The middle pins can be adjusted to fit! It looks so good, I’m absolutely happy with the product, knowing I can easily take apart if need for moving.” – Amanda (See all reviews)

Featured image from Thuma

The post 9 Sustainable Wooden Bed Frames appeared first on The Good Trade.

We’ve researched and tested dozens of organic leggings — these are our favorite options for their natural materials, comfort and ethics across a range of price points. 

Leggings are our all-day comfort clothing staple, whether we’re on Zoom meetings (business up top, cozy down low), watching our favorite Netflix series, or staying grounded and focused with a living room flow. We especially love organic cotton yoga leggings made with minimal spandex or elastane (to help retain stretchiness and durability!) and for their nontoxic properties that are free of harmful chemical treatments like PFAS.

Why consider organic leggings?

We recommend organic leggings for their sustainability, environmental, and ethical features. Organic materials such as organic cotton support sustainable agriculture as they are farmed using methods that have minimal impact on our ecosystems, compared to conventional fabrics. This includes crop rotation practices which help improve soil health and water conservation practices, to help prevent water waste. Organic cotton is also biodegradable, which helps fight pollution! Organic cotton producers also support socially responsible labor practices, meaning each purchase supports the ethical and fair treatment of garment workers.

It’s also important to note that because leggings are in such close contact with our skin, going for an organic fabric with fewer chemicals can prevent skin irritations. Organic textiles are also free of GMO’s and organic cotton in particular is free of the harmful chemical PFAS, which is linked to period irregularities, ovarian disorders, high blood pressure, and fertility concerns. Be sure to look out for the GOTS-certification on your next pair of organic cotton leggings to ensure the product adheres to strict environmental and ethical criteria. 

Our criteria:

We’ve personally tested each of the following leggings, assessing the fabric comfort, quality, texture, opacity, as well as stretch, movement, and thickness. We’ve rounded up the best quality pieces that feel good, look good, and for their versatility for workout sessions and leisure moments alike. We update this list regularly with our emerging favorites that meet the following criteria:

• ORGANIC/NATURAL MATERIALS | The brands below carry leggings that are nontoxic and PFAS-free.
• COMFORT | Each pair of leggings has been Editor tested and approved at least an 8 out of 10 on the comfort scale!
• ETHICS | Each brand is committed to ethical production and various sustainability initiatives.

You’ll be reaching for these organic cotton leggings day in and day out. Snag yourself a pair (or two!) and thank us later.

1. MATE the Label

B corp

Climate neutral

1% for the planet

Natural materials

American made

Size inclusive

Woman owned

Sizes | XS–3X
Price Range | $78

When you pick up a pair of MATE the Label’s organic leggings, you may be surprised how comfortably they move, just as you do! This organic cotton blend, made without microplastics unlike most other activewear, is ideal for low- to mid-impact exercise. 100 percent of MATE the Label’s products are cut, sewn, dyed, packaged, and shipped from the heart of Los Angeles, all within 10 miles. The brand also gives back a percentage of sales every year to sustainable causes.

Mate the Label Review | “Wow, these are amazing. Just what I was looking for. What kind of sorcery is this? I don’t know how they did it but they’ve officially mastered the creation of the perfect organic legging. Incredibly comfortable, easy to put on, stays put. Colors are a dream. I want to buy 100 more pairs because I’m fearful of ever living without them – seriously.” – Beth (See all reviews)

2. Pact

Fair trade

Recycled materials

GOTS certified

Budget friendly

Sizes | XS–XXL
Price Range | $28–$48

Pact has leggings for every kind of activity from lounging to exercising. All ethically made in fair trade factories, they’re either made of organic cotton or recycled nylon so they’re soft and sustainable. We especially love that some come with pockets for when we’re on the move. Plus, Pact offsets its carbon footprint with each order. A win-win no matter which pairs you pick up.

Pact Review | “I love these pants. Been waiting for this type of yoga pants to come out again, and looks like pact got it right again. The length is perfect, the material is comfortable and stretchy, and love that it is organic cotton I can wear all day long. It’s thicker than when I first bought it about 6 years ago so it’s warmer and therefore can use it outdoors on cooler days as well” – Brigitta (See all reviews)

3. tentree

B corp

Recycled materials

Plant trees

Climate neutral

Natural materials

Sizes | XS–XL
Price Range | $30

tentree puts their mission right in the name: for every purchase made, the B corp plants 10 trees. The brand is on track to reach their goal of 1 billion trees planted by 2030! These leggings will be your new sustainable faves, made for everything from exercise to lounging, crafted from eco-friendly organic cotton that are chemical-free and so comfy, you’ll never want to take them off.

tentree Review | “I feel really comfortable wearing these leggings. I bought a size M even though the chart recommended size L because of my measurements. They are so soft that my skin can breathe when I’m wearing them.” – Mayra L. (See all reviews)

4. Organic Basics

B corp

Natural materials

Recycled materials

OEKO-TEX® certified

GOTS certified

1% for the planet

Sizes | XS–XXL
Price Range | $48

Organic Basics makes everyday cotton essentials that are anything but basic. Their seamless organic cotton leggings are made ethically in Portugal, and come in three versatile colorways. The B Corp and 1% for the Planet member is committed to providing the best quality garments from the highest quality organic and recycled materials, so you can do good while looking and feeling great.

Organic Basics Review | “I love these leggings, it’s my second pair! The fabric is luxurious and very elastic, the waist is super high and they don’t move at all when doing sport.” – Sofia G. (See all reviews)

5. thought

Natural materials

Recycled materials

GOTS certified

Family owned

Vegan

Plant trees

Cruelty free

Sizes | 2–16
Price Range | $37–$79

Cozy up with thought’s organic essential leggings! Completely vegan and cruelty-free, these leggings are responsibly made with sustainably sourced materials and zero plastic packaging. The organic cotton used is also GOTS-certified, uses 91% less water than conventional cotton and is completely chemical free, from seed to stitch. We love that there’s classic, thick and knitted organic cotton options, to help keep you cool during warm days and cozy throughout long cold nights! 

thought review | “Lovely leggings – great fit, soft fabric, recommend” – Anonymous (See more reviews)

6. Pansy

Natural materials

Small business

Woman owned

American made

Size inclusive

Sizes | XS–5XL
Price Range | $72

Pansy’s spandex-free leggings are a lounging and light workout staple. 100% USA-grown organic Pansy cotton (hence the name!) is the foundational fabric of all of the brand’s comfy garments. This special cotton is grown in Texas without any conventional chemicals and is then shipped off to North Carolina where it’s spun and knit into Pansy’s signature cotton leggings. These high-waisted gems have us nostalgic for that classic ‘80s fit and feel. Trust us, you won’t want to take these off! 

Pansy review | “I love a company that listens and responds to feedback. Looking forward to the new designs.” – @bonesbugsandbotany (See more reviews)

7. Quince

Natural materials

Budget friendly

OEKO-TEX® certified

Plastic/Pfas free

Sizes | XS–XL
Price Range | $30

When in search of maternity clothing, it’s important to ensure the pieces you select are nontoxic and as natural for optimal health and safety. Thankfully, Quince’s organic cotton maternity and postpartum leggings are a lifesaver when you’re looking for comfy leggings that stay up and are safe to wear. The organic cotton used in these leggings is produced without pesticides and fertilizers and the built-in belly panel allow for easy transition from pregnancy to postpartum. Quince offers free shipping and easy returns so you can try them risk-free. 

Quince Review | “Very comfortable and fit to size. Helpful in [the] first trimester and beyond.” – Ruby S. (See all reviews)

Featured image from Organic Basics

The post 7 Organic Cotton Leggings And Yoga Pants For Everyday Wear appeared first on The Good Trade.

We’ve researched and tested numerous natural latex mattresses — these are our top picks that have organic materials and are nontoxic across a range of price points.  

We spend nearly a third of our lives resting and recharging, so isn’t it essential that we get the good night’s sleep we deserve? Most mattresses include chemicals, flame retardants, and other materials we can’t even begin to pronounce—but these all-natural latex mattresses will give you the refreshing rest you need, without any of the potentially harmful side effects.

Why consider a natural latex mattress?

If you’re new to natural latex, here’s the lowdown: natural latex is made from the sap of a rubber tree (Hevea brasiliensis), which makes it resistant to dust mites, mildew, and mold. Plus, it’s naturally hypoallergenic and doesn’t have any off-gassing, which is key for those who are sensitive to smells. And it’s worth the investment: while innerspring mattresses typically last less than ten years, natural latex mattresses can support our sleep—and our bodies—for up to 30 years. If you’re still not sold on the price point, you can watch Avocado’s process for harvesting latex and manufacturing mattresses (it’s fascinating!).

We’ve reviewed dozens of the best organic mattress brands that offer a latex mattress. Each brand included in this guide is CertiPur-US certified or offers mattresses free of harmful chemicals, VOCs, and heavy metals. We’ve prioritized brands that we’ve personally tested for comfort, and companies that offer payment plans, give back to their communities, and are American-made. So whether you’re looking to do good for your health, the community, or the planet, these natural latex mattress brands have got you covered.

Looking for additional options? Check out our eco-friendly and organic mattress guide, and our favorite organic cotton sheets!

Best Overall | Most Affordable | Best Firm Latex

1. Plushbeds

Natural materials

GOTS certified

American made

Greenguard certified

FSC

Best For | Split mattresses
Organic Materials | Certified natural organic latex, 100% GOTS-certified organic cotton & wool
Mattress Type | 100% Natural Sri Lankan Botanical Latex, 4 comfort options
Features | Made in the USA, 100-night free trial, lifetime warranty
Sizes | Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king, split king, split queen, split California king
Price | Queen starting at $2,949

When it comes to natural and organic mattresses, PlushBeds leads the industry by a mile. The nine-inch Botanical Bliss Mattress is no exception. It’s GREENGUARD Gold Certified, comes with five layers of support comprised of organic latex, cotton, and wool, and it comes with your choice of firmness. And if nine inches isn’t enough, you can choose 10-inch and 12-inch options, too! Plushbeds is so confident you’ll love your new bed, the brand offers a 100-day trial period and a 25-year warranty—plus free shipping and exchanges. The company gives back, too: the mattress company gives scholarships to students pursuing environmentally-related degrees so that we can create a healthier, more eco-friendly future.

PlushBeds Mattress Review | “The biggest reason for buying this bed was the natural materials. I am completely sensitive to smells and synthetic materials. The Botanical Bliss bed arrived quickly and there was absolutely no smell when we unpacked it. I’ve slept on it a couple of nights and love it. Supportive and comfortable, with enough ‘give’ that you don’t have any stiffness or sore spots in your body in the morning. Love this mattress!” — Bill & Catherine S. (See all reviews)

Use code GOODTRADE100 for an additional $100 off all mattresses.

2. Birch    

Natural materials

OEKO-TEX® certified

Greenguard certified

GOTS certified

Fair trade

American made

Best For | Organic, 100% natural mattresses
Organic Materials | Organic cotton, natural wool fibers, natural latex
Mattress Type | GREENGUARD Gold Certified & OEKO-TEX certified Talalay latex
Features | Handmade in the USA, 100-night trial, 0% financing options, 25-year warranty
Sizes | Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king
Price | Queen starting at $2,124

Say bye, bye to chemicals—Birch Mattress sources its materials from nature, including sustainably-sheared wool, zero polyurethane-based foams, and—our favorite—natural latex for optimal support and breathability. Using 100 percent natural Talalay latex tapped from the Hevea Brasiliensis rubber tree (commonly grown in tropical regions, such as Southeast Asia), Birch closely monitors its plantations to ensure sustainable practices and consistent production. Moreover, the NYC-based company holds OEKO-TEX, ECO-Institute, and Rainforest Alliance certifications, and plants a tree for every mattress sold. Birch is also Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) Certified—one of the most challenging certifications to achieve in the organic textile industry. Pair this mattress with a plush Birch pillow (also made from sustainable wool and natural latex) for the coziest and most conscious night of sleep. 

Birch Mattress Review | “We absolutely fell in love the second we unrolled our mattress! My husband and I (and our two daughters) just plopped down and didn’t want to get up! It’s very comfortable, had no “new mattress” smell, and our necks and backs aren’t killing us every morning!” — Gracie D. (See all reviews)

3. Avocado

GOTS certified

Made safe

American made

FSC

Climate neutral

Greenguard certified

OEKO-TEX® certified

Natural materials

1% for the planet

Best For | Natural hybrid latex mattresses
Organic Materials | 100% GOTS organic certified cotton & wool, 100% GOLS certified organic latex
Mattress Type | Natural hybrid
Features | Handmade in the USA, 100-night free trial, 25-year warranty, vegan certified mattresses available
Sizes | Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king
Price | Queen starting at $1299

Avocado is setting a new standard for sleep with affordable yet deluxe natural mattresses. Made with 100 percent natural and organic materials and up to 1,414 support coils, they are created by-demand in California. Avocado’s mattresses are GREENGUARD Gold Certified, a certification that less than one percent of all mattresses earn. This certification ensures a product has met some of the world’s most rigorous and comprehensive standards for low chemical emissions. The company has a line of vegan mattresses as well. As members of 1% for the Planet, the brand actively give back to support urgent environmental and social initiatives.

Avocado Mattress Review | “Recently I was diagnosed with degenerative disc disease and arthritis in my neck. I’m a stomach sleeper, and to not make things worse, I needed to learn to sleep on my side. Well, my old mattress caused me all kinds of aches and pains… I wanted the most non-toxic bed I could get for my money ($1400-$1600). I was skeptical of purchasing a bed over the internet, but all my research kept leading me to the Avocado. And, I have to say from the first night I slept in this bed I’ve had some of the best night’s sleep I’ve had in years! I can’t recommend it enough!” — Heather L. (See all reviews)

4. Plank 

FSC

GOTS certified

Natural materials

American made

Best For | Firm latex mattresses
Organic Materials | GOTS certified organic cotton, FSC certified natural Talalay latex, organic wool, certified organic cotton & natural wool
Mattress Type | Natural latex hybrid mattress
Features | Made in the USA, free shipping to the 48 US contiguous states, 10-year warranty, 120-night comfort trial
Sizes | Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king
Price | Queen starting at $2,132

Looking for a latex mattress that doesn’t offer too much “give”? Plank has the truly firm mattress you’ve been searching for. This mattress, created by the experts at Brooklyn Bedding, features 100% Talalay latex encased in organic wool & cotton toppers for cool and supportive sleep. If you have varying sleep needs or just want to change it up, you can also flip the mattress—one side is firm and the other side is firmer! Perfect for the supportive mattress lover who’s not sure just *how firm* they want to sleep.

Plank Mattress Review | “This mattress is perfectly firm—I am finally getting the quality sleep I need and love that it is organic. I have tried so many mattresses and none of them have been as firm and perfect as this one.” – Jenna B. (See all reviews)

5. Nolah

American made

Greenguard certified

Natural materials

Budget friendly

Best For | Back and shoulder pain, and targeted pressure relief
Organic Materials | OEKO-TEX 100 Class 1 certified Talalay latex, GOTS certified organic cotton and wool, eco-INSTITUT certified latex
Mattress Type | Natural Talalay latex hybrid mattress
Features | Designed and assembled in the USA, designed for maximum airflow and cooling,  targeted support and pressure relief, Rainforest Alliance Certified
Sizes | Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, split king, California king, split California king
Price | Queen starting at $1399

Keeping cool and supported all year round is the name of the game with Nolah’s Natural 11” latex mattress. One of the most affordable brands on our list, we especially love how you don’t have to pay a premium for a certified natural (and responsibly made) mattress. By using Talalay latex instead of Dunlop and incorporating HDMax™ Tri-Zone™ individually wrapped coils for targeted relief, the mattresses are well known for being an optimal choice for folks with back and shoulder pain. Whether you need targeted support or a breathable bed, you can count on Nolah! Reviewers are especially surprised by how efficiently the mattress ships—Nolah packs a lot of quality mattress into a manageable box.

Nolah Mattress Review | “Love this mattress. I had tried other online mattresses and finally found the mattress that was just right. No more shoulder or back pain. It has great lumbar support and [is] soft on the shoulders. No off-gassing smell!” — Linda G. (See all reviews)

6. Earthfoam

Natural materials

GOTS certified

Fair trade

Family owned

OEKO-TEX® certified

American made

Budget friendly

Recycled materials

Best For | Organic latex foam mattresses
Organic Materials | GOTS-certified organic wool & cotton, organic natural foam rubber, OEKO-TEX STANDARD 100 natural latex
Mattress Type | Natural Foam Rubber Mattress
Features | Free shipping & returns, 100-night trial, 10 year warranty, assembled in the USA
Sizes | Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king
Price | Queen starting at $999

Earthfoam’s organic foam rubber mattress will have you sleeping soundly with its comfy, yet firm design. This dreamy mattress is made from natural rubber sourced from independent farms in Sri Lanka, organic cotton, and organic New Zealand wool. The foam making process is one you might not expect, with milky sap being extracted from a rubber tree to then be spun, mixed with compounds and finally baked into soft and durable foam for mattresses. Earthfoam’s mattresses are cooling and temperature regulated, with the addition of the wool layer between the foam and cotton cover that’s collected from certified organic farms in New Zealand. When put together, you’re left with Earthfoam’s springy, supportive and safe mattress.

Earthfoam Mattress Review | “I love this mattress. It’s firm but soft. You are very comfortable without sinking into the mattress. Love how it’s packaged all in paper, no reams of plastic to throw out. All around amazing.” – Kathleen M. (See all reviews)

7. Spindle  

Natural materials

OEKO-TEX® certified

GOTS certified

Best For | Customizable mattresses
Organic Materials | 100% OEKO, GOTS, & GOLS certified organic latex, organic wool batting & organic cotton cover
Mattress Type | Organic latex mattress
Features | Free shipping, 365-night trial, 10 year limited warranty, 25 year comfort program
Sizes | Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king
Price | Queen starting at $1,700

Spindle’s customizable organic latex mattresses are the perfect choice for being in control of your comfort. The three layer design provides tons of flexibility when deciding how firm (or not firm) you prefer your mattress to be. At checkout, simply select which level of firmness you’d like each layer to be (you can choose from soft, medium and firm), and voila! Your custom mattress is ready to go! You’ll be pleased to note that no matter how you customize your mattress, it will be made using GOTS-certified organic latex, wool and cotton throughout, for peace of mind. 

Spindle Mattress Review | “I tried other organic mattresses and this is by far the best. I love the fact that you can change the firmness!! I like a very firm mattress and this one lives up to the claims!” – Kathy W. (See all reviews)

The post 7 Best Natural Latex Mattresses With Organic Materials (2023) appeared first on The Good Trade.

We’ve researched and tested numerous memory foam mattresses — these are our top picks that are responsibly made and nontoxic across a range of price points. 

Over a third of our lives is spent sleeping—that’s a lot of time in bed! Yet we easily forget how important a durable, supportive mattress is for our bodies to fully rest and recover until it’s too late (cue us waking up with sore backs).

Why consider memory foam?

Memory foam mattresses are a popular choice for anyone seeking a good night’s rest. They contour to your body, help distribute your weight evenly on the mattress, and offer great support and pressure relief. This is especially helpful if you experience aches and pains throughout your body. Memory foam mattresses also come in a variety of firmness levels and are hypoallergenic, meaning you can pick the style that best suits your sleeping preferences without having to worry about any allergic reactions. An added bonus: due to memory foam’s motion isolation properties, any movements are less likely to disturb your partner in bed meaning a more restful night for you both!  A good quality memory foam mattress can last you for years without losing its durability or supportive properties.

Why is eco-friendly important? 

While most memory foam mattresses are made with foam, latex, and fibers that emit odors and VOCs, more eco-friendly memory foam mattress options do exist—which is great news! Sustainable mattress manufacturing is important for overall health and the long-term well-being of the planet, as many traditional mattresses are made using non-renewable resources or emit harmful chemicals into the air. Eco-friendly memory foam mattresses use renewable resources like plant-based foams or organic cotton covers rather than petroleum-based chemicals to help reduce the environmental impact associated with production. They also are designed to be more biodegradable, breaking down easier in landfills rather than traditional mattresses which don’t carry these capabilities.

Many of these mattresses are CertiPur-US certified, free of harmful chemicals, VOCs, or heavy metals. Sometimes memory foam is best for pain relief and we’re just glad to know there are sustainable brands helping us with options. Best yet, these mattress brands offer payment plans, give back to their communities, and are American-made.

And for even more sustainable suggestions, check out our guide to organic and natural mattresses and the best organic cotton bedding. Get ready for your best night’s sleep yet! 😴

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1. Bear

American made

Greenguard certified

Budget friendly

Natural materials

Best For | Hybrid foam mattresses
Certifications | CertiPur-US Certified, GREENGUARD Gold Certified
Mattress Type | Premium hybrid memory foam
Features | Made in America, 120-night trial, lifetime warranty, free shipping & returns
Product Range | Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, split king, California king
Price | Queen starting at $998

For those of us with chronic aches and pains when waking up, mattresses from Bear make the list for offering the most comfort and support. Their five layers are made up of breathable Celliant technology, a proprietary graphite-gel memory foam to keep you cool, while three other layers of foam to relax your spine, back, and muscle pain in just a few nights. With more than 4,000 positive reviews praising its healing abilities, and the option to pay with monthly payments, we can see why it’s universally loved. If you’re not sure, test it out for up to 120 nights, and if you’re not a fan, they’ll refund you and arrange a timely pick-up. What’s even better: Bear offers exclusive pillows, bedding, mattress protectors, and foundations all made in the USA between South Carolina and Georgia, so it can be your one-stop shop for restful sleep.

Bear Mattress Review | “I chose the ‘Bear’ because of the Celliant technology, improved certified materials and the competitive price. It came within 2 days, unrolled it easily onto my old box spring and it expanded immediately with no odor. I have had a history of back pain and surgery, so was apprehensive about the just foam bed. I sleep in all positions, so [I] have found that it has just the right amount of give with med-firm support. I sleep better, and find I’m not nearly as restless throughout the night and my back feels better in the mornings. I have been recommending this to everyone who will listen.” – Patricia M. (See all reviews)

Shop Bear Memory Foam Mattresses

2. Plushbeds

Greenguard certified

GOTS certified

Natural materials

FSC

American made

Best For | Non-traditional sizes
Certifications | GOLS and GOTS certified, GREENGUARD Gold certified
Mattress Type | Gel memory foam
Features | Made in America, 100-night trial, 25-year warranty, free shipping, gives back
Product Range | Twin, twin XL, full, queen, split queen, king, split king, California king
Price | Queen starting at $3,153

PlushBeds rank our top pick for both sustainability and luxury, with their nontoxic and eco-friendly Cool Bliss mattress. Combining gel memory foam, 100% natural latex, and several other layers, their 12” mattress will leave you feeling well-rested every morning, without the chemicals or off-gassing other mattresses have. They’re so dedicated to natural and eco-friendly living that their mattresses are GREENGUARD Gold Certified, a certification given to less than 1% of mattresses in the US. Made in the USA, it’ll arrive quickly to your door for no additional cost, too. The number one reason we’re big fans? Their special gel memory foam fights any nighttime sweating and leaves us cool and refreshed in the morning, no matter the season.

PlushBeds Mattress Review | “We recently purchased a queen size [Cool Bliss] mattress, and have moved our queen Sleep Number to the spare bedroom. The PlushBeds mattress is consistently superior and much more comfortable, especially for pressure points that cause pain. Excellent product and we’d purchase it again.” – Gregory C. (See all reviews)

Use code GOODTRADE100 for an additional $100 off all Plushbeds mattresses.

3. Nectar

Budget friendly

American made

Best For | Affordable memory foam mattresses
Certifications | CertiPur-US Certified
Mattress Type | Gel memory foam mattress
Features | 365-night trial, lifetime warranty, free shipping & returns, some options made in America
Product Range | Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, split king, California king
Price | Queen starting at $699

Nectar’s Memory Foam Mattress might be the last mattress you ever buy—especially since it comes with a lifetime warranty. Plus, they know that testing out a bed for 5 minutes in a store won’t help us make a decision that will affect us for decades to come, so that’s why they offer a 365-night trial. Don’t like it? They’ll refund you and remove the mattress free of charge, though we don’t think you’ll feel that way. They’ve developed a 5-layer mattress that comes with temperature-controlled Tencel fabric, gel memory foam for comfort, and specially-designed materials that fight dust mites. And while it’s one of the more cost-effective mattresses on our list, they know hundreds of dollars can be a lot to swing at once, which is why they offer payment plans starting at $117 a month. Nectar’s thought of it all when it comes to a positive experience finding your space to rest for a lifetime.

Nectar Mattress Review | “I was skeptical about ordering a mattress through the mail and not trying it out first, but from our very first night sleeping in it, we have been so happy. I don’t wake up stiff and sore like I used to. I thought that’s just how it is as you get older, but now I wake up refreshed and pain-free!” – Caroline B. (See all reviews)

4. Tuft & Needle

Greenguard certified

American made

Best For | Back and stomach sleepers
Certifications | GREENGUARD Gold Certified, CertiPur-US Certified
Mattress Type | T&N Adaptive® foam
Features | Made in America, 100-night trial, 10-year warranty
Product Range | Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king
Price | Queen starting at $995

Tuft & Needle sells one of the most popular mattresses worldwide—and it’s no surprise why. Its GREENDGUARD Gold and CertiPur-US certifications make it one of the most eco-friendly mainstream mattress around. And it packs a punch, too: in addition to being sustainable, long-lasting, and supportive, they are on the more affordable side, with a queen mattress starting at just $995. Their proprietary T&N Adaptive® Foam was developed from customer feedback and is paired with a support layer, for a good night’s sleep you won’t remember. No matter if you’re using box springs, slats, or an adjustable frame, the Tuft & Needle T&N Mattress will do wonders for your body and soul.

Tuft & Needle Mattress Review | “After a year and a half of waking up with back pain, we switched to Tuft & Needle. One night’s sleep on the T & N, and my back pain is now completely gone. We love the feel of the foam mattress. It is incredibly cozy, but firm and durable. We have already recommended it to several of our friends!” – Colleen (See all reviews)

5. Saatva

American made

Natural materials

Recycled materials

Best For | Back support
Certifications | CertiPUR-US certified memory foam, Congress of Chiropractic State Assoc. Seal of Approval
Mattress Type | Memory foam mattress
Features | Made in America, free in-room delivery & setup, 365-night trial, lifetime warranty, 24/7 customer service
Product Range | Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, split king, California king, split California king
Price | Queen starting at $2,395

A bed-in-a-box that helps your back? It’s possible! Saatva is all about “pure comfort without the markups,” and its mattresses are well-known for alleviating back pain. How? With organic and memory foam mattresses, there are soft to firm options for everyone, including the Loom & Leaf memory foam mattress, which offers targeted support to back pressure points! Plus, it’s made with patented quilting and natural latex lumbar crown to keep your spine aligned overnight. Saatva offers free delivery and setup, including taking your old mattress away. The easiest sustainable solution for back pain, once and for all.

Saatva Mattress Review | “Saatva is the best mattress company in the entire universe! Not only is my new Saatva bed the most comfortable bed I have ever slept on, it was delivered to me a few days earlier than originally scheduled! The Saatva customer service is OUTSTANDING! They are there 24/7 and every single person I spoke with was extremely friendly, professional and caring. I cannot say enough good things about the Saatva Mattress Company.” – Nancy E. (See all reviews)

6. Nest Bedding

Fair trade

FSC

Budget friendly

American made

Best For | Affordable, cooling & breathable mattresses
Certifications | CertiPur-US Certified, Fair Trade certified, FSC
Mattress Type | Latex-free Energex™ memory foam
Features | Made in America, 365-night trial, free shipping, lifetime warranty, made-to-order
Product Range | Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king, split California king
Price | Queen starting at $884

Nest Bedding’s Quail Memory Foam Mattress is changing the game when it comes to affordable and premium mattress options. CertiPur-US certified and highly breathable, these handmade mattresses come with a breathable, cooling cover and are made with a latex-free temperature response foam which helps keep you cool on those extra warm nights. Nest’s one-of-a-kind Energex™ technology also helps evenly distribute your body weight throughout the mattress for the utmost support (and roll off prevention!). Handmade locally in the US, this mattress comes with both medium and firm options, and is an excellent choice for those looking to upgrade their sleep while staying on budget.

Nest Bedding Review | “This mattress is SO comfortable. It is so comforting knowing I am not breathing in toxic materials and can still get a great night sleep. Bonus is that my husband doesn’t sweat at night as much on this mattress as he did on our previous one!” – Amber S. (See all reviews)

7. Earthfoam

Natural materials

GOTS certified

Fair trade

OEKO-TEX® certified

Family owned

American made

Recycled materials

Budget friendly

Best For | Organic mattresses
Certifications | Fair For Life, GOTS certified, GOLS certified, OEKO-TEX certified
Mattress Type | Natural foam rubber mattress
Features | Free shipping & returns, 100-night trial, 10 year warranty, assembled in America
Product Range | Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king
Price | Queen starting at $999

Earthfoam is all about keeping you stable, comfy and ache-free all throughout the night. Made with Fair Trade and organic natural rubber from independent farmers in Sri Lanka, this spring foam mattress is natural, breathable, durable, and sustainable. Organic wool and organic cotton make up the batting, backing and face of these eco-friendly mattresses. And as you rest, Earthfoam ensures you won’t experience any sinking feeling as their mattresses support everyone of all shapes and sizes through their high density foam. Sustainability is built right down to the packaging, with these mattresses arriving in rolled paper packing and recycled cardboard. It can’t get any better!

Earthfoam Review | “If you’re looking for the perfect nontoxic mattress that won’t break the bank, look no further. I can’t begin to tell you how much better I’m sleeping after switching to Earthfoam! It’s a little more firm compared to our other mattress but it’s so supportive and I cannot say enough good things about it!” – Sarah M. (See all reviews)

8. Nolah

Natural materials

American made

Greenguard certified

Best For | Side sleepers
Certifications | CertiPur-US certified, GREENGUARD Gold certified
Mattress Type | Memory foam & foam hybrid mattresses
Features | Made in America, free shipping & easy returns, 120-night sleep trial, lifetime warranty 
Product Range | Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king, split king
Price | Queen starting at $1,249

Nolah’s signature high density AirFoam™ mattress boasts plush cushioning that supports pressure points and pain throughout your body. This durable and resilient mattress frees your body with its deep pressure relief, responsive bounce and contour support for maximum support. It’s made of 5 layers both their plush and firm AirFoams™ for firmness and comfortability and their ultra breathable active response foam that promotes airflow and is considered the most breathable form’s on the market. Wrapped up in an organic cotton cool covering, will leave you with a cool, calm and collected sleep all night long. For side sleepers who crave even more ease of movement, Nolah’s hybrid foam option will give you the cushioning you desire, with 6 layers of premium foam included.  

Nolah Review | “I love my Nolah. I’ve tried several different mattresses to reduce pressure point pain for side-sleepers and the Nolah was the only one to achieve this. Very grateful. I got the softest one and I love it!” – Julian A. (See all reviews)

9. Avocado

Natural materials

American made

Greenguard certified

GOTS certified

Made safe

FSC

Climate neutral

OEKO-TEX® certified

1% for the planet

Best For | Low-profile mattresses
Certifications | GREENGUARD Gold certified, GOTS certified, GOLS certified, UL validated, OEKO-TEX certified, Climate Neutral, FSC
Mattress Type | Organic latex foam mattress
Features | Made in America, free shipping, 25-year warranty, 1-year sleep trial
Product Range | Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king, split California king
Price | Queen starting at $2,999

Avocado makes mattresses that are a bit different than your typical memory foam mattress. Made with organic latex foam, organic cotton and organic wool, this low-profile mattress promotes proper back alignment and effortless snoozing all night long. Each mattress is handcrafted in Los Angeles using needle-tufting techniques that require no chemical adhesives, making Avocado’s mattresses more durable. With high safety and environmental standards, including GREENGUARD Gold certification, MADE SAFE standards, and Climate Neutral status, you can rest assured you’ll experience high quality rest on a mattress that’s safe for you and the planet. 

Avocado Review | “This mattress is the one to end all mattresses. The quality is amazing – so high end without all the junk. It looks like the softest thing you will ever lay on, and the customer service has been rockin as well! Will be telling all my friends.” – Chelsea M. (See all reviews)

The post 9 Best Eco-Friendly Memory Foam Mattresses appeared first on The Good Trade.

One of the biggest shifts is the increased variety of tools available to us for mental health support. Take it from someone who has tried many of them. I have been on and off psychiatric medications since the ripe age of 13, some of which I’ve benefited from, others not so much. And I’ve spent the better part of a decade finding ways to heal and calm my nervous system through lifestyle changes and wellness tools.

One approach recently piqued my interest: Functional psychiatry. I was fascinated by the idea of practitioners taking a whole-body, functional medicine approach to psychiatry and mental health by focusing on the root of the issues, not just the symptoms. So let’s dive into what functional psychiatry is, what treatments it offers, how to find practitioners, and more.

What is functional psychiatry?

Dr. Achina Stein is a board-certified psychiatrist, Clinical Director of the Healing Depression Project, and Amazon international bestselling author of “What If It’s NOT Depression? Your Guide to Finding Answers and Solutions.” She describes functional psychiatry as “an approach to mental health that focuses on finding the root causes of symptoms in the body, that also affect the brain – and ultimately the mind. We (functional psychiatrists) believe that everything is connected and that the body has the tools to heal itself, but it needs support by removing the barriers to healing.”

Dr. Stein recounts a patient who had multiple infections that kept coming back, causing extreme fatigue, joint pain, severe anxiety, insomnia, and brain fog. When the patient was asked what happened just before the symptoms started, she couldn’t remember. These infections required multiple rounds of antibiotics over the course of ten years. During the exam, Dr. Stein saw that the patient had nine mercury fillings and a cap on one tooth. The patient then immediately remembered that she had had a bad toothache before the start of the infections. Stein explained that hidden infections in the mouth can wear down the immune system, opening the body up to further attack. Ultimately the patient was seen by a biological dentist who was able to resolve most of her symptoms and put her on a path to healing. This is not an uncommon scenario, and you can probably see why psychiatric medications would not resolve this situation, especially without addressing the underlying causes first.

Treatment will look different for every patient, but some of the most common tools Dr. Stein uses are: 

• Lab tests using blood, urine, and stool.
• Using anti-inflammatory foods to restore nutrient depletion.
• Finding and removing toxins.
• Teaching people to recognize and respond differently to emotional and physical stressors.
• Balancing hormones.
• Assessing and fixing digestion.
• Health coaching to increase awareness of internal rhythms to help improve sleep, stay active, and recognize how your environment affects your mind, body, and soul.

It’s not that functional psychiatrists don’t prescribe medications to their patients, they just understand that there’s a whole human with a complex story and background behind their symptoms. 

“One of the biggest tools in functional psychiatry is performing labs and looking at them through a patient-centered, functional medicine lens to see the big picture and not just individual symptoms.”

Just ask Megan Langworthy, a psychiatric nurse practitioner based in Portland, OR, specializing in precision medication management. As a functional psychiatry provider, she aims to find out what’s “upstream of symptoms” versus just slapping on a band-aid. One of the biggest tools in functional psychiatry is performing labs and looking at them through a patient-centered, functional medicine lens to see the big picture and not just individual symptoms. Functional psychiatry is “data-driven and evidence-based” and labs give providers insight into their patient’s gut health, hormones, and other key indicators that may point to the underlying cause behind symptoms. 

Langworthy explains that “the body is always trying to keep us in balance. If we can figure out what’s going on upstream we’re decreasing the amount of work the body has to do on a daily basis.” Mental health symptoms may have to do with trauma, the microbiome (gut health), hormonal imbalances, or some other inflammatory process. But when it comes to mental health, “the body will always prioritize healing the vital organs over what’s going on above the neck”.

Essentially, if you’re having gut health issues, then your body is going to focus on healing your microbiome over creating the neurotransmitters needed for cognition. That’s one of the reasons there’s such a strong connection between your gut and mental health.

“If you keep throwing medications to treat a mental health condition, but your hormones are out of balance, nothing is going to stick.” 

– Megan Langworthy, PMHNP

So while Langworthy does prescribe psychiatric medications in her practice, she sees them as just one of the many tools available. “If you keep throwing medications to treat a mental health condition, but your hormones are out of balance, nothing is going to stick.” 

What stood out to me about Langworthy’s approach is the amount of care and intention she gives her patients. She knows that when she uses the right tools in a timeline that makes sense for each patient, their symptoms will improve. Megan also stresses the importance of preparing her patients for the adjustment period when their symptoms start to subside. This panic is meant to decrease panic, fear, and anxiety while envisioning and articulating what they want for their future. 

If you’re looking for the same level of support in a provider, she says to look for one that makes you feel hopeful about your healing and your future. Her goal is not to work with patients for years on end, it’s to help them be independent, restore vitality, and resolve their symptoms in a timely manner.

What are the benefits of functional psychiatry?

There’s a good chance that you’re one of the many people dealing with mental health conditions on this planet. If you are, we feel you! Functional psychiatry may be helpful for those who want to feel more like themselves and better overall. 

“Functional psychiatry gives people who are struggling with mental health disorders the tools to get to the root of their symptoms.”

Functional psychiatry gives people who are struggling with mental health disorders the tools to get to the root of their symptoms. This aims to create a lasting effect versus just putting a bandaid on symptoms – whether or not pharmaceuticals are used. Many psychiatric medications, like SSRIs used for depression and anxiety, can cause dependency and unpleasant symptoms when someone tries to go off of them. Functional psychiatry helps people avoid this by using medications only when necessary. 

Pharmaceuticals absolutely have a role in many people’s mental health journey, but should not necessarily be used as the first or only line of treatment, except for in acute cases. People who are drawn to functional psychiatry may not respond to psychiatric medications, have experienced side effects from them, or have a personal preference not to take them. Whatever their reasons are, these patients want personalized treatment with the ability to choose a plan that feels right for them. A functional psychiatry approach can be used to treat a wide range of issues like chronic depression and anxiety, chronic fatigue syndrome, chronic Lyme, long-hauler COVID-19, and autism spectrum disorders.

Finding a functional psychiatrist

Let’s address the elephant in the room. Functional psychiatry is not covered by insurance in the U.S. So while it’s incredible that providers are able to spend time performing thorough intakes and really getting to know a patient, these services are not accessible for a lot of people. 

Whether or not you’re paying out of pocket, you want to find a practitioner that puts you at ease and is able to address your particular concerns. The Institute for Functional Medicine, Integrative Psychiatry Institute, and Integrative Medicine for Mental Health websites all have databases that let you search for practitioners in your area. While you may be able to work with a provider remotely, you typically need to work with one within your state due to licensing.

If you do decide to seek out a functional psychiatrist, here’s one tip for guiding the conversation with your new provider. Consider this: If you had a magic wand what are the top three symptoms you would want to get rid of? Hearing your provider’s feedback on these three symptoms and their experience in treating them can help you gauge if they’re someone who can support you in reaching your goals.

Your functional psychiatry toolkit

Whether or not you have the resources to see a functional psychiatrist, our experts gave us a few tools and small changes you can make to feel better in your daily life.

Langworthy explained the importance of trying to limit your intake of foods grown with Round-Up, an herbicide containing glyphosate that is illegal in many parts of the world. This neurotoxic substance is found in many domestic whole wheat breads as well as wine, and “organic” doesn’t necessarily mean a product is Round-Up free. She suggests looking closely at labels and when buying wine, opting for one that they don’t spray at all. Limiting the ingestion of Round-Up may help reduce the burden on your liver so that your body has more energy.

Another simple tool she recommends? Pausing two or three times a day to take in a really deep breath. This helps slow down time and connects us to the idea of “breathing in nutrients.” Most people are used to shallow breathing, but when you don’t fully engage your diaphragm, it can make you feel anxious and short of breath. Breathing deep into your abdominals allows you to take in more oxygen while also releasing more carbon dioxide, helping to slow the heartbeat and decrease stress levels. You can even try this right now!

“Remember that it takes time to heal. There’s no such thing as an instant fix.”

One of Dr. Stein’s biggest tips is to stay hydrated: “Wilted plants need water, so do we!”

Finally, remember that it takes time to heal. There’s no such thing as an instant fix. Functional psychiatry aims to get to the root of your issues, and it can take time for change to happen on a deep level. But taking your time helps to create long-lasting solutions versus masking symptoms with quick-fix tools. Try to have grace with yourself and the process.
For more practical tools you can check out Dr. Stein’s book “What If It’s NOT Depression? Your Guide to Finding Answers and Solutions” and YouTube channel, podcast, and Instagram. Megan Langworthy, PMHNP-BC, is open to new virtual patients in Oregon, Washington, and New York.

Natasha Weiss is a Pacific Northwest-based health and wellness copywriter and full-spectrum doula. When she’s not typing away, she loves immersing herself in bodies of water, wandering through ancient forests, and anything and everything to do with food. You can learn more about her work on natashaweiss.com or connect on Instagram.

The post How Functional Psychiatry Can Transform Your Mental Health appeared first on The Good Trade.

In another universe, I would’ve enjoyed a meet-cute during a morning walk with iced coffee and my dog in tow, and I would’ve definitely worn an outfit that made me feel empowered (without mismatched socks). Instead, I smiled and he smiled back. I kept walking. But when I made eye contact with this mysterious stranger, a little voice in my head chirped: “You should start swiping on that dating app again.”

“When I made eye contact with this mysterious stranger, a little voice in my head chirped.”

Later that night, I took out my phone and scrolled through potential dates. A few swipes later, I saw him again. I swiped right and the screen changed: instant match. Two weeks later, we went on our first date, and eighteen months after that, dear reader, I married him. Wild, right?

And that calm voice in my head? It resurfaced again, years later. It was a completely mundane, almost forgettable moment: On my laptop, I browsed writing jobs and a listing popped up for a role on a site I was a fan of, and my mind announced in a completely casual voice, “If I apply to this job, I’ll totally get it.”

“I had a hunch where I had no evidence to suggest something was going to come to fruition except a gut feeling.”

I applied. That very next day, an email from that job’s HR department popped into my inbox; they invited me to schedule a phone screening. Long story short: I sped through the interview process because the hiring manager was about to go on maternity leave and I had a brand new role in less than ten days.

So, what did I experience? In two separate but pivotal moments, I had a hunch where I had no evidence to suggest something was going to come to fruition except a gut feeling and an overall sense of just knowing. What I’m describing here is my personal experience with intuition. 📡

What is intuition?

What is intuition exactly? And, does everyone have it? In a manner of speaking, yes. According to psychic medium, animal communicator, and host of the podcast Dear Witchypoo, Angela Lovell, “Intuition is knowing without reasoning. It is a gut reaction. It’s that moment of clarity that pops in before analyzing an issue or succumbing to anxiety about the outcome.”

We all navigate our daily lives with some form of intuition but we may not realize it (or confuse it with anxious thoughts and feelings). Lovell describes her intuitive downloads as the most clear when she is not emotionally attached to the outcome of a particular situation like travel, money, or friendships. 

Even psychics experience anxiety-presenting as intuition. “Most psychics can read themselves, but it can get tricky reading situations to which I’m personally attached,” she says. “My own fear and anxiety often cloud intuition around seeing things clearly for myself.” A good solution around those dreaded fear feelings? Lovell employs some easy tactics in her well-being routine to strengthen intuition and keep anxiety at bay (more on intuition tips in a minute) and swaps readings with other psychics.

What types of intuition exist? 

Intuition isn’t one-size-fits-all, and it can come at different points in our lives or be received in a few different ways. For each person, how that psychic download or information is perceived will be different.

Below, Lovell breaks down the most prominent types of intuition you can experience: 

• Clairvoyance: Having visions or seeing images that resemble a photograph or a snapshot.
• Clairsentience: A gut reaction that can include experiencing bodily sensations or feelings.
• Claircognizance: Knowledge dumped right into your brain. This feels instant or quick.
• Clairaudience: Hearing short phrases, voices, or sounds; typically feels like a direct but short message.

“Professional psychics usually possess more than one,” she says, “But anybody can detect and refine their own.” 

What is the difference between intuition and anxiety?

As discussed above, intuition often feels calm and stable, and it may even feel neutral or objective. For many folks, anxiety can present as rapid and even circular thought patterns, a racing heartbeat, dread, and typically doesn’t feel like a stable presence at all.

“It’s natural to confuse the two until you get the hang of your own personal intuition.”

“Real intuition comes in cool and clear without emotions,” Lovell says. “Sometimes a person will experience chills or a ringing in the ears as intuition hits.” 

To put it simply, anxiety just hits differently but it can still be subtle. Lovell explains: “Anxiety, however, will often come with a bellyache or jolt of pain. Intuition strikes without warning, like lightning. Anxiety starts like a small fire that quickly spreads.”

On paper, this may seem very easy to discern. In the moment, your mind might be telling you otherwise. This means when we’re trying to make choices or seek answers, it can be hard to tell the difference. But don’t fret, it’s natural to confuse the two until you get the hang of your own personal intuition.

“Intuition works when you aren’t living in the future about the outcome, but are working proactively in the present to achieve your goals.”

Before trying some intuition-boosting methods, Lovell has an overarching piece of advice: Intuition works when you aren’t living in the future about the outcome, but are working proactively in the present to achieve your goals. Which means, you are calm, neither afraid nor excited. Most often, you were focused on something else, and not worrying over an outcome, when the info hits you.

Here are a few simple practices to help you avoid scratching your head, wondering if a passing thought is intuition or fear. Lovell outlines four easy-to-use tactics that can help you tap into the ability to separate intuition from anxiety:

1. Practice detachment from outcomes. “It’s not easy, but if you can avoid fantasy or fretting over something you seek clarity on, your natural intuition will have space to take over,” she says. “Flooding your system with emotions over the desired or feared outcome will cloud your intuition.”
2. Engage in morning clarity. “We have tremendous clarity the moment we wake,” Lovell notes. “As soon as you open your eyes, pull the issue in that you’d like to intuit. It’s the clearest moment of the day and the best time to trust the instructions you receive.”
3. Notice physical sensations. “Pay attention to the physical differences between your body experiencing anxiety and intuition. We all have a person who puts us on edge,” she notes. “What reaction is your body having when they’re around? Are you jittery, sick to your stomach, or breathing differently? Now think about that time you just knew you should change your flight, but didn’t and ended up stuck at the airport for an extra day. What were you doing when that info hit? Where did you feel it? Were you actually focused on something else when it hit? Pay attention to the forms intuition takes.” 
4. Take a cue from Star Trek. “I often think of intuition as Spock and anxiety as Captain Kirk. Spock just knows things — he never gets heated or panicked. He relays information and seeks solutions without attaching to outcomes,” she says. “Meanwhile, Kirk is often sweaty, shouting, red-faced, and volatile.” 

Okay so, now that we have tools to know the difference between anxiety and intuition, how can we go about strengthening our intuitive sense?

How to strengthen your intuition

The good news: Lovell says that everyone is born psychic. So, anyone and everyone can access — and strengthen — their intuition. “Humans relinquish their personal power to religion, technology, or monetary goals, allowing these means to determine their self-worth,” she says. “When I do Psychic Coaching, the main issue I see with people is a block, usually in the form of unworthiness. We get so used to being told what to do that we stop trusting our own instincts.” 

If you’ve been feeling separated from your instincts, Lovell says that there are many practices a person can do to build up their abilities, but it’s usually blocks that cause plateaus in development. “A common example is that someone will see or hear a spirit just once in their lifetime, then close their third eye forever because the experience was too terrifying,” she says.  “Sure, that works if you never want to see spirits again, but it also blocks your intuition.” So, what can you do? Be open, practice non-attachment, and don’t be afraid of emotions.

“Be open, practice non-attachment, and don’t be afraid of emotions.”

And, don’t forget to set intentions. Lovell adds, “Set intention each day in the form of prayer or affirmation, by asking, ‘Please bring me what I need, not necessarily what I want,’” she says. “If you set this intention every day, you will develop a more trusting relationship with your spirituality or belief system.” 

If you feel like it’s taking a while to get into the swing of intention-setting, Lovell reminds us to stick with it. “It can be a challenging practice at first,” she says. “When you lose something or someone you love, you have to let go and trust that space was cleared so something in better alignment will fill it.” 

It might also help to line up your intentions with your spiritual practice. Maybe it’s something you do in the mornings as you journal, perform a ritual, or pray. Lovell shares: “As you step into your personal power, you’ll find your highest callings and most prominent place in this world by maintaining your spiritual practice.” Intuition, unlocked.

Stephanie Valente is a copywriter and editor covering wellness, commerce, lifestyle — and more — for publications like Brooklyn Magazine and The Good Trade. Based in Brooklyn, she’s often writing poetry, getting lost in a book, or hanging out with her dog.

The post Is It Anxiety Or Intuition? Here’s How To Tell (According To A Psychic) appeared first on The Good Trade.

Did you know a large subset of the US population doesn’t get their recommended daily intake of magnesium? This is especially concerning since our bodies need magnesium to function. It’s required to produce energy, metabolize glucose, regulate stress, fortify bone health, support sleep and digestive health, and more. If you’re curious about the many correlations between magnesium and better health outcomes, you might find this research helpful. 🔍

According to the NIH, the average woman between 19–51 years old should have up to 320 mg of magnesium a day, and pregnant adult women can have up to 360 mg daily. Ideally, a well-balanced diet (with lots of leafy greens, nuts, whole grains, and beans) would help meet our magnesium needs, though supplements can help bridge the gap.

What kinds of magnesium supplements are there?

First, there are many forms of magnesium out there with various nuances, so here are the most common ones:

• Magnesium oxide (MO) is the most common form of magnesium supplements, but it’s not as bioavailable as other forms. Because of that, MO sometimes leads to diarrhea and other negative digestive issues. Similarly, magnesium gluconate, which has gluconic acid, can act as a laxative and get rid of constipation.
• Magnesium citrate is more bioavailable than MO with fewer side effects, so it’s beneficial for health issues like high blood sugar, high blood pressure, and anxiety.
• Magnesium glycinate is highly bioavailable, as you’ll see in many of the products listed below. It’s well-absorbed so there aren’t many negative side effects, and it’s particularly useful for reducing stress and supportive, restorative sleep.
• Magnesium malate combines magnesium, with malic acid, a naturally occurring compound, and it’s gentle on stomachs.

You’ll want to find the right form of magnesium based on your needs, and as always, we recommend speaking with your doctor before starting any supplements especially if you have preexisting conditions or take other medications. There is such a thing as too much magnesium, and those side effects can include diarrhea, vomiting, mood problems, muscle weakness and spasms, and low blood sugar. 

Our criteria:

We’ve researched and personally tried the best brands in the wellness space and have found the following supplements to be the most reliable and generally tolerated of the bunch. The selections below include options in both capsule and powder formulas, and address various issues like insomnia, anxiety, and digestive health.

We update this list regularly with our emerging favorites that meet the following criteria:

• HIGH QUALITY INGREDIENTS | The brands below all use high-quality magnesium; most use highly bioavailable forms of magnesium (or multiple forms) from natural sources. Formulas are vegetarian, vegan, non-GMO, and mostly sugar-free.
• TRUSTED BRANDS | The seven brands below are highly reputable, leverage clinical research to inform their practices, and test formulas via third parties for efficacy and safety.
• GI COMFORT | These supplements can help battle constipation, but all of the formulas below use forms of magnesium that are higher-absorbing and should not result in negative laxative effects like diarrhea.

1. Thorne

American made

Cruelty free

Natural materials

Vegan

Best For | Powdered magnesium
Magnesium Content | 200 mg/serving
Ingredients | Magnesium bisglycinate, citric acid, monk fruit concentrate
Prices Starting At | $48 for 60 servings

Primarily interested in better sleep or relaxation? Thorne’s Magnesium Bisglycinate may be just what you need. This lightly sweetened powder combines magnesium with monk fruit concentrate for a gentle, well-absorbing formula; simply add in one scoop for every eight ounces of water. It’s NSF certified, tested for compliance, and gluten-, dairy-, and soy-free — and Thorne leverages clinical research for all its wellness supplements. The team offers a 60-day guarantee if you’re not satisfied, but we have a feeling you’ll rest better than ever before.

2. Seeking Health

Vegan

Natural materials

Small business

Budget friendly

American made

Best For | Affordable capsules
Magnesium Content | 150 mg/capsule
Ingredients | Magnesium (di-magnesium malate and magnesium lysinate glycinate chelate), vegetarian capsule, l-leucine
Prices Starting At | $19.95 for 100 capsules; discounted subscriptions available (10%)

For whole body health and wellness, we love Seeking Health’s Optimal Magnesium. Each capsule combines two bioavailable forms of magnesium for better digestion, relaxation, energy production, and muscle function. And with 100 servings per bottle, you get a ton of bang for your buck — four bottles will last you an entire year! Safe for vegetarians, vegans, kids ages four and older, and even those pregnant and breastfeeding, Seeking Health’s magnesium supplements fit the bill for nearly everyone.

3. Moon Juice

Woman owned

Small business

Natural materials

Recycled materials

Best For | Pleasant powders for sleep
Magnesium Content | 310 mg/serving
Ingredients | Magnesium chelate blend, l-theanine, citric acid, monk fruit extract
Prices Starting At | $42 for 30 servings

Moon Juice has long relied on plants, science, and ancient wisdom for its self-care supplements. Every product is 100 percent traceable, clinically proven to work, and third-party tested — and did we mention they’re all vegan, too? The Magnesi-Om is one of Moon Juice’s best sellers, thanks to its potency and efficacy; the formula contains three bioavailable forms of magnesium and l-theanine to support better sleep and regularity. Choose from either berry or blue lemon flavor and go for either the bottle (1 tsp needed per serving) or pre-packaged compostable sticks. It’s sure to be your new nighttime ritual for better rest and relaxation — check out the thousands of 5-star reviews to see for yourself.

4. Wooden Spoon Herbs

Woman owned

Small business

Budget friendly

1% for the planet

Vegan

Natural materials

Best For | Gut health
Magnesium Content | 200 mg/serving
Ingredients | Magnesium citrate (from seawater), organic gum arabic, organic lemon powder, organic monk fruit extract, organic blue spirulina, organic stevia, citric acid
Prices Starting At | $26 for 30 servings; discounted subscriptions available (20%)

Wooden Spoon Herbs’s mission is to “make herbalism a fun and easy daily practice,” and their natural tinctures and blends help alleviate issues like stress and immunity. And this woman-owned business is seriously impressive: Products are USDA certified organic, non-GMO, vegan, gluten-free, and support environmental initiatives through 1% for the Planet. Their Magic Magnesium uses magnesium citrate derived from seawater to help promote digestion and reduce belly troubles. Gentle enough to take on an empty stomach, just one teaspoon in a glass of water is all you need — it’s the epitome of “a little goes a long way.”

5. Needed

Vegan

American made

Woman owned

B corp

Climate neutral

1% for the planet

Natural materials

Best For | Prenatal, pregnancy, and postpartum
Magnesium Content | 320 mg/stick
Ingredients | Magnesium citrate, magnesium gluconate, magnesium taurate, l-theanine, l-glycine, chamomile extract
Prices Starting At | $49.99 for 1-month supply; discounted subscriptions available (15%+)

Not all magnesium supplements are safe for expecting or postpartum parents. That’s why we recommend Needed’s Sleep and Relaxation Support instead. Formulated by experts and third-party tested, this pregnancy-safe supplement mixes three forms of magnesium, l-theanine, l-glycine, and chamomile for a calming tea-like formula. If you’re struggling to rest and reduce stress, this might be the nourishing support you need — with free US shipping and easy cancellations, it’s at least worth the try. After all, Needed was started by mothers, for mothers (and all parents).

6. Mary Ruth’s

Vegan

Woman owned

Budget friendly

B corp

Natural materials

Best For | Vegan magnesium gummies
Magnesium Content | 50 mg/gummy serving
Ingredients | Magnesium citrate, tapioca fiber, organic erythritol, agar, natural flavors, organic stevia, organic sunflower oil, citric acid
Prices Starting At | $29.95 for 60 servings (2 months); discounted subscriptions available (10%)

Children (ages 4+) and adults alike can up their daily dose of magnesium via Mary Ruth’s Magnesium Calm Gummies. These vegan, sugar-free, and non-GMO gummies contain 50 mg of magnesium citrate to promote better stress levels, digestion, and overall health. And since they’re sugar-free and flavored instead by agar and natural hibiscus, they’re perfect for kiddos, too. As a certified B Corp, every product here is safe, sustainably made (in a GMP facility!), and supports those in need. Get ready for the whole family to experience a little bit more calm — something we could all use nowadays.

7. wellmade

B corp

Budget friendly

Best For | Affordable powder
Magnesium Content | 350 mg/1 tbsp serving
Ingredients | Magnesium carbonate, citric acid, raspberry powder, lemon juice powder, stevia extract
Prices Starting At | $12.99 for 45 servings

For those on a budget or those who prefer a powder over capsules, you’ll like wellmade’s Relaxation Magnesium supplement. This raspberry lemonade powder easily dissolves in eight ounces of water, and you only need 1 tbsp daily — so each serving is less than 30 cents apiece. Derived from magnesium carbonate (which is sometimes also used for heartburn relief and constipation), this magnesium powder provides more than 80 percent of your daily recommended value. As a certified B Corp product, it’s non-GMO, vegetarian, plastic-neutral certified, and supports Thrive Market’s CSR initiatives.

The post 7 Best Magnesium Supplements And Their Benefits appeared first on The Good Trade.

Grown without toxic pesticides, fertilizers, or GMOs—all of which are proven to harm the environment, farmers, and producers—organic cotton is a healthier, more eco-conscious alternative to non-organic textile materials.

Organic cotton is healthier for consumers, too. Exposure to pesticides can cause a range of health issues—from headaches and nausea to long-term chronic illnesses including cancer, reproductive damage, and endocrine disruption. Wearing organic cotton clothing is preferred for our wellness.

We’ve taken a close look at the best sustainable brands curating organic clothing collections and compiled a list of our favorites. From the shores of Santa Cruz to the mountains of Colorado to the hills of the UK, here are the best fashion brands for sustainable and ethically produced organic apparel.

1. MATE

American made

Natural materials

Size inclusive

Recycled materials

Woman owned

Plastic/Pfas free

B corp

Climate neutral

Best For | Adult essentials made in the USA
Based In | Los Angeles, CA
Price Range | $$
Size Range | XS–3X

From tees and tanks to shorts and sweatshirts, MATE the Label only uses natural and nontoxic materials when crafting its apparel, like low-impact dyes, certified organic cotton, and Tencel. The company keeps its carbon footprint small too as its factory is 17 miles from its headquarters, meaning all pieces are sewn, dyed, and shipped from LA. The packaging is entirely made from recycled materials, and there’s a recycling program in place for old pieces. If you want comfy classics in bold yet inviting colors, look no further than MATE.

2. Pact

Budget friendly

Size inclusive

Natural materials

Fair trade

GOTS certified

Best For | Affordable fair trade adult basics
Based In | Boulder, CO
Price Range | $–$$
Size Range | XS–2X

Pact is committed to creating clothes that make the world a better place. The socially conscious company goes to great lengths to ensure its entire supply chain—from the growing and harvesting of organic cotton to the final sewing of garments—is as clean and responsible as possible. And because it ships internationally, you can shop Pact from anywhere for its super-soft tees, dresses, and underwear made with pesticide-free organic cotton. BRB, going to shop.

3. Organic Basics

B corp

Natural materials

Recycled materials

OEKO-TEX® certified

GOTS certified

Best For | Adult underwear & tanks
Based In | Copenhagen, Denmark
Price Range | $$–$$$
Size Range | XS–XL

Certified B Corp Organic Basics is all about eco-friendly essentials that will last, including adult undergarments, basic tees and tanks, and cozy leggings. Born out of Denmark in 2015 (but available to ship worldwide), these sustainable basics are not only ethical but are also low on waste and impact. These are perfect if you’re on the go, especially because the odorless SilverTech™ keeps you fresh wear after wear. Our kind of basics.

4. For Days

Budget friendly

Recycled materials

Size inclusive

Woman owned

Natural materials

Best For | Zero-waste basics
Based In | Los Angeles, CA
Price Range | $–$$$
Size Range | XS–XXL

95 percent of used clothing that’s thrown away can be reused or recycled—so For Days is doing just that. This sustainable brand works with organic cotton (and recycled terry) to create gender-inclusive basics that can be returned for store credit and recycled into new pieces. Not only are they zero waste and affordable, but they’re pretty chic, too—the collection includes ribbed crops, flowing midis, rompers, and even ’90s-inspired vintage tees. The ROI on this organic brand is almost too good to pass up.

5. WVN

B corp

GOTS certified

Woman owned

Natural materials

Best For | Women’s dresses & skirts
Based In | Santa Cruz, CA
Price Range | $$–$$$$
Size Range | XS–XL

WVN, formerly known as Synergy Organic Clothing, is committed to using GOTS certified organic cotton from farmers who are well paid and work under healthy conditions. This commitment goes up the supply chain, too—from the weavers to the people who package the garments in boxes, WVN ensures that everyone has a safe, healthy, and fair trade work environment. This certified B Corp offers international shipping so you can wear these styles no matter where you live.

6. Outerknown

Fair trade

Natural materials

OEKO-TEX® certified

GOTS certified

Best For | Organic outerwear for adults
Based In | Culver City, CA
Price Range | $$–$$$
Size Range | XS–XL

Started by professional surfer Kelly Slater, Outerknown wants you to experience the great outdoors—while also protecting it. OK champions sustainable and organic materials, fair labor, and the circular economy (and aims to make 100 percent of its products circular by 2030!). If you’re not sure where to start, check out OK Ten, the brand’s best-selling pieces including a no-fuss jumpsuit, layering flannel, and a blanket shirt jacket. They’re cozy, conscious, and curated for outside adventures.

7. Yes Friends

Natural materials

GOTS certified

Recycled materials

Size inclusive

Fair trade

Budget friendly

Best For |  Affordable, Fair Trade Basics
Based In | Bristol, England
Price Range | $–$$
Size Range | XXS–4XL

Yes Friends started in the UK with the mission of making organic, sustainable, and Fair Trade clothing affordable without compromising its integrity. Their solution is purchasing in large quantities from sustainable solar-powered factories in India, and selling directly without the middle person in order to keep costs accessible and production ethical. Yes Friends also ensures garment workers receive more than a living wage through their pioneering bonus program. With organic, premium basics like sweatshirts, t-shirts, denim and underwear available in a variety of everyday colors, you can be sure you’re filling your closet with safe, eco-friendly clothing that supports an ethical brand without compromising your wallet! 

8. Thought

Family owned

Natural materials

Recycled materials

GOTS certified

Vegan

Plastic/Pfas free

Best For | Women’s workwear
Based In | London, UK
Price Range | ££–£££
Size Range | UK 6–20 (US 2–16)

Thought is a natural clothing company with a simple philosophy—to design and make beautiful, timeless fashion while caring for our environment. The UK brand sells organic cotton, bamboo, hemp clothing for adults that are all available to ship internationally. Thought ensures ethical working conditions and fair wages for its employees and has developed long-lasting relationships with its factories and suppliers. We love the workwear-ready dresses and tops!

9. Brook There

American made

GOTS certified

Budget friendly

Natural materials

Woman owned

Best For | Women’s undergarments
Based In | Maine & Massachusetts
Price Range | $–$$
Size Range | 32AB–38CD; XS–XXL

Brook There is a thoughtful apparel brand for everyday undergarments and minimalist basics. The durable and super-soft lingerie is designed, cut, and sewn in the USA from GOTS-certified organic cotton, including some sets with gorgeous silk trims. It’s all shipped in eco-friendly packaging which avoids single-use plastic. If you’re looking for sustainable lingerie that is good for you and the planet, shop here.

10. TomboyX

GOTS certified

Natural materials

Woman owned

B corp

Size inclusive

Recycled materials

OEKO-TEX® certified

Best For | Size and gender inclusive intimates
Based In | Seattle, WA
Price Range | $–$$
Size Range | 3XS–6X

TomboyX is dedicated to crafting intimates and undergarments that any body feels comfortable and confident in, no matter size or gender. Their extensive collection includes underwear in all cuts (including period underwear), bras, swimwear, active apparel and loungewear and it’s all sustainable! With fabrics like OEKO-TEX certified organic cotton, TENCEL™ modal and recycled textiles, each piece is guaranteed safe, responsible and high quality. And it doesn’t stop there–TomboyX is committed to working with WRAP and Fair Labor certified facilities to ensure workers receive fair and competitive wages. Ready to get on board? You’ll receive your order in sustainable biodegradable packaging!

11. Cleobella

OEKO-TEX® certified

GOTS certified

Natural materials

Plant trees

Woman owned

Best For | Women’s dresses, skirts, & sets
Based In | Huntington Beach, CA
Price Range | $$$$
Size Range | XS–XL

Cleobella crafts pieces that are globally inspired and ethically handmade, using GOTS certified organic cotton, OEKO-TEX certified labels, natural buttons, and even nontoxic dyes. Working with artisans in India, Bali, and across Southeast Asia, the team upholds longstanding cultural techniques like block-printing and weaving into its work, and the results are stunning. For luxury-inspired fits, bright and rich colors, and patterned sets, you can’t go wrong with Cleobella’s organic outfits.

12. Harvest & Mill

Natural materials

American made

Vegan

Plastic/Pfas free

Cruelty free

Woman owned

Best For | Adult loungewear, socks
Based In | Berkeley, CA
Price Range | $$
Size Range | S–XL

Harvest & Mill has spent the last decade building a truly sustainable brand. Based in Berkeley, the brand uses only organic cotton grown in the US for its apparel, which are each sewn in the Bay Area. That means its production has significantly fewer emissions, less energy and water use, and a shorter supply chain. The pieces themselves are perfect for lazy weekends and WFH days—from organic joggers and sweatshirts for your desk to naturally dyed socks to snuggle up in on the couch. Organic, carbon-neutral, and an investment in American labor.

13. Kowtow

Fair trade

Natural materials

B corp

GOTS certified

Woman owned

Best For | Women’s knitwear & tops
Based In | New Zealand
Price Range | $$$$ (NZ$)
Size Range | XXS–XL

With Fair Trade Certified cotton fabrics and SA8000 certified ethical working conditions for employees, Kowtow is a high-quality fashion brand you can feel proud to wear. Kowtow never uses GMOs, retains water efficiently, and conserves soil through crop rotation, creating an earth-friendly model for production. Plus, the brand ships in eco-friendly packaging and has a take-back program for circularity. With two stores in New Zealand, Kowtow offers multi-regional shopping (and shipping)!

14. Beaumont Organic

GOTS certified

Natural materials

Recycled materials

Made in the UK

Woman owned

Best For | Contemporary women’s wear
Based In | UK
Price Range | ££££
Size Range | XS–L

Beaumont Organic specializes in luxury casual pieces, most of which are made from 100 percent GOTS certified organic cotton. The brand works exclusively with factories that are within the EU (Portugal and the UK), pays fair wages, and provides excellent working conditions for staff. Beaumont Organic introduces two collections a year (as well as a pre-loved collection with discounted prices). It also delivers worldwide in recyclable packaging, with free local shipping on orders over £75.

15. Bibico

Natural materials

Fair trade

Woman owned

Best For | Women’s knitwear
Based In | UK
Price Range | ££
Size Range | S–L; UK 8–16

Bibico, a UK apparel brand, creates fuss-free, well-made garments with 100 percent natural materials. With a back-to-basics and slow fashion approach, this brand focuses on creating timeless, organic pieces. We especially love the oversized shirt dresses and cozy knitwear. Bibico partners with women’s coops that are certified by the World Fair Trade Organization. Order from anywhere in the world!

Featured image from Harvest & Mill

The post 15 Organic Clothing Brands For Organic Cotton Basics appeared first on The Good Trade.

What is it about French-inspired fashion that we find so appealing? It always looks so put together, yet it’s comfortable. It’s high-quality, yet simple. It’s timeless, yet effortlessly chic and always of-the-moment. And French girl fashion and sustainability go hand in hand — both encouraging investment pieces made from quality materials and inspiring a minimalist wardrobe around essentials rather than focusing on the latest trends.

Here are nine sustainable brands to invest in and build your French-inspired wardrobe. If you need inspiration on putting together the seemingly effortless and undone looks, follow these steps. You’ll be in the French girl fashion mindset in no time.

1. Sézane

B corp

Woman owned

OEKO-TEX® certified

FSC

GOTS certified

Best For | Dreamy investment pieces
Sustainability | Organic materials; boutiques powered by renewable energy; working to reduce carbon footprint
Size Range | 2–14, Denim 23–36
Price Range | $40–$485

Sézane’s colorful and timeless pieces are unique, yet versatile enough to wear everywhere from work to a night out with friends. Inspired by Paris, the brand’s collections are “a conver­sa­tion with the city itself and an ode to liberty.” They have knitwear, blouses, dresses, skirts, accessories like purses and tights, and more. We love this staple button down shirt and the effortless feel of this knit dress. And their incredible selection of coats made from high-quality materials to last a long time, like this mid-length wool coat and this organic cotton trench. Sézane is actively working to reduce its carbon footprint, and the brand creates its products with organic materials and uses renewable energy in all its boutiques. Read our review of Sézane for more firsthand experience with this iconic brand. 

2. Veja

B corp

Fair trade

Recycled materials

Best For | Go-to sneakers
Sustainability | Made from recycled plastic water bottles and recycled polyester; upcycled materials; investing in the Amazon Rainforest
Size Range | 4–12.5
Price Range | $150–$255

The minimalist yet stylish sneakers from Veja are the epitome of French style — they’re effortless and match everything, yet they look elevated and cool. Made from sustainably sourced materials and recycled plastic water bottles, Vejas sneakers also use Amazonian rubber purchased at five times the market price for the soles. Why? To protect and enhance the economic value of the Amazon Rainforest. The company’s commitment to social responsibility doesn’t stop there, either. They also ensure Fair Trade practices, extensively breakdown exactly what their CO2 emissions look like, and more. We’re gravitating to the classic design of the Esplar Leather White sneakers, which would match almost anything in French girl style, but we also love these V-12 Leather White Parme Magenta for a simple pop of color.

3. Marcia

Recycled materials

Woman owned

Best For | Little black dresses
Sustainability | Avoids overproduction; eco-friendly packaging; uses deadstock fabric
Size Range | 32–44
Price Range | $155–$1400

The little black dress is a must-have in French girl style, and Marcia has plenty for you to choose from, whether it’s the elegant and classic midi Taro Dress or the bold yet dainty La Nuit Mini Dress. Both are made from Italian fabric and made in France, like most of the brand’s dresses. Marcia is a Parisian brand focused on creating sustainable pieces that are both comfortable and sexy, inspired by the French artistic scene. Marcia recycles fabrics “endlessly to avoid creating any excess material” and creates regenerated nylon from waste rescued from landfills and the ocean, plus the company avoids overproduction by letting items sell out and listening to customers requests for restocking.

4. Amour Vert

Recycled materials

Plant trees

Budget friendly

Best For | Tees
Sustainability | Regenerated wool; artisan made; plants a tree for every tee purchase; circular fashion; offers “pre-loved” items
Size Range | XS–XL
Price Range | $38–$530

Finding a high-quality and comfortable tee that can be worn in a lot of ways is essential to French-inspired — and sustainable — style. The tees at Amour Vert are not only made from organic materials and soft, washable fabrics, the company also plants a tree in North America for every tee purchased as part of a partnership with American Forests. Since 2011, they’ve planted over 370,000 trees. We think the Cecelia Long Sleeve Reverie Slub Tee looks absolutely Parisian, and the Eleanor Baby Rib Tee looks like it could be styled as a comfy weekday fit with jeans or dressed up with a jacket for a night out. Beyond tees, Amour Vert has dresses, sweaters, blouses, and more to choose from, with lots of simple patterns and silhouettes.

5. Ancosti

Budget friendly

Recycled materials

Best For | Knits and sweaters
Sustainability | Organic cotton; recycled materials; eco-friendly packaging; in-house manufacturing
Size Range | S–L
Price Range | $50–$420

Inspired by the natural elements and the Ancosti Island in the Northern part of Côte-Nord region of Canada, Ancosti features sweaters, dresses, outerwear, and more. Most of their pieces come in contemporary neutrals, and while some have abstract patterns and unique silhouettes, they are all super wearable for many occasions. The Crochet Pullover could be worn in spring as a light sweater or layered with other pieces in the colder months, making it perfect for French girl style. We also love the Turtleneck Boxy Sweater, a simple yet chic sweater that is both practical for keeping warm and versatile for styling in many different outfits. Ancosti uses eco-friendly materials and in-house manufacturing for its products, exercising control over the process from sketches to the final products. The brand also uses eco-friendly materials like organic cotton, recycled polyester, and wool in a lot of their products and are working to find even more sustainable materials for their clothes.

6. Dressarte

Made in the UK

Recycled materials

Woman owned

Best For | Custom-made clothes
Sustainability | Zero waste; custom made; low carbon footprint; recycled, upcycled, and eco-friendly materials
Size Range | Custom made
Price Range | Varies

Dressarte is perfect for one-of-a-kind pieces that feel in alignment with your style and fit like a glove. One of the key elements of French girl fashion is having pieces that are well-fitting, which often means taking them to the tailor. Dressarte works with stylists and designers from Europe and the U.K. to create custom-made clothing based on exactly what you want right from the beginning. You share your vision, whether by talking with a stylist or designer, taking a style quiz, or buying a design package. Then the company chooses from their zero waste natural surplus fabrics and designs unique outfits for you. From there, it’s delivered right to your door. Dressarte designers can create dresses, blouses, tops, suits, bridal wear, and even capsule wardrobes, and the focus is to help you find your personal style and clothes that fit well, work with your lifestyle, and make you feel confident. If you need help crafting your personal style, consider these tips.

7. Loom

Budget friendly

Size inclusive

OEKO-TEX® certified

Best For | Basics
Sustainability | Clothes design to last a long time; locally manufactured; only uses organic cotton
Size Range | XS–3XL
Price Range | 25€–125€

Loom creates clothes made to last. The French company focuses on producing less clothing by testing their pieces and ensuring that they’re built to be staples in your wardrobe for years to come. Loom offers t-shirts, sweaters, sweatshirts, jeans, and more, but they only have one to three options for each. For example, check out their three sweater options, The Classic Sweater, The Warm Sweater, and The Sweatshirt, each in only a few color options. They’re all made from high-quality and sustainable materials like merino wool and 100% cotton, and every product has information about how it will age and how to take care of it to make it last longer. We love that their white button down — a must in a French girl style wardrobe — is made of organic cotton and is naturally durable. And the single pair of jeans Loom offers are made from denim from Candiani, an Italian house known for its great environmental practices. Note: Loom doesn’t deliver to the U.S. yet, but they do deliver to France and some countries in the E.U.

8. Amara Studios

Woman owned

Small business

Best For | Vintage gems
Sustainability | Vintage store; handpicked garments; premium textiles 
Size Range | Varies based on items
Price Range | $42–$325

An important part of French girl style is to keep statement pieces minimal, one per outfit. If you’re going to have a few statement pieces in your wardrobe, consider shopping vintage or secondhand. Amara Studios, a small business in Milwaukee, Wisconsin features hand-selected and curated vintage pieces. Nearly everything they stock is made of premium textiles, including cotton, silk, cashmere, linen, and leather, and the business model focuses on timelessness over trends. Shopping from a small business boosts the local economy and buying vintage is a great way to choose a more circular and sustainable model for your wardrobe than buying new. We love their selection of trench coats, wide leg pants, and ethereal 1960s little black dresses.

9. Thousand Fell

Woman owned

Recycled materials

Budget friendly

Best For | Long-lasting shoes
Sustainability | Crafted in a family-owned factory; focus on circular economy; recycling program; offsets carbon and water 
Size Range | 5–10
Price Range | $145–$155

Thousand Fell’s mission is to never send another pair of sneakers to the landfill. The minimal design of the sneakers makes these shoes a great pick for French-inspired fashion. They’re versatile and made to last through a lot of wear and tear. The company ensures their designs have low energy, water, and carbon footprints by sourcing materials nearby their factories and designing their products to eventually be recycled, not thrown out. TF supports this with their own recycling program: If you send back your pair of sneakers, you get $20 to put toward the next pair you buy. For the classic French girl look, we’d go with the Lace Up white sneakers. See our review of Thousand Fell to hear more about why we love them.

The post 9 Sustainable Brands For French Girl Fashion appeared first on The Good Trade.

We’ve researched numerous clothing rental services — these subscriptions offer a wide range of clothing options and prioritize sustainability. 

When it comes to special occasion events like weddings, holiday galas, school dances, or maternity shoots, renting a dress or gown beats buying pieces that only get worn once. Clothes that sit in the back of our closets do not add value to our lives, and neither do cheap fast fashion pieces that quickly go out of style and pollute the planet. Renting is an affordable way to wear designer dresses and it’s a more sustainable option. A win-win. 🏆

Why consider a clothing rental service? 

Clothing rental services are an easy way to access high-end designer clothing at an affordable price. You’ll be able to experience high quality luxurious items you may not typically wear, without the hefty price tag. You can also experiment with new styles and trends without committing to a long-term purchase and without any added stress to your wallet or the environment.

The environmental impact caused by fast fashion is huge. Thankfully, renting clothes is a more sustainable option as it extends the lifespan of clothing items, promotes a circular fashion economy, and reduces fashion waste through the reuse of garments. Trying to reduce wardrobe clutter or simply don’t have enough space in your closet (or in your luggage when you travel)? Clothing rental services help provide a temporary wardrobe without having to worry about storage or traveling with lots of clothes.  Oftentimes for special occasions, you’ll find yourself wearing an outfit once and never again, but clothing rental services make high-end special occasion wear more practical.

Below are our favorite sites to rent a dress or designer clothing online. In curating this list, we’ve prioritized clothing rental services that offer subscriptions for a wide range of clothing options, and that offset their transportation emissions. Many offer subscriptions (we love Rent the Runway’s monthly subscription for everything from occasion wear to seasonal pieces!) if you are looking to invest in staple pieces and round out your wardrobe by renting occasion wear.

Prefer to buy? Here are our guides on sustainable jewelry and handbags for ethically-made and fair trade accessories, or secondhand shops if you prefer thrifting. And for designer options, check out these sustainable luxury designers for pieces you’ll love for years to come.

Most Size Inclusive | Best For Formal Gowns | Best Monthly Subscription Box

1. Rent the Runway

Budget friendly

Recycled materials

Woman owned

Product Range | Designer dresses, gowns, outerwear, blazers, jeans, jewelry, handbags, sunglasses
Best For | Special occasion dresses
Price Range | One-time rentals starting at $30/piece

Rent the Runway is our editor’s favorite go-to for occasion-specific renting, and also for monthly membership models. The site includes a wide selection of designer clothing and black tie dresses from hundreds of brands, starting as low as $30 per garment for a four-day rental. We love that you can browse the uploaded photos from previous renters to see how the dress fits other people within a specific size/height/body type range—soooo helpful! Rent the Runway will also send you a backup size (just in case) and the chance to purchase the piece if you fall in love. Their sustainability efforts are also impressive, with the brand offsetting 100% of their carbon emissions to and from shipments, and diverting over 90% of waste from their warehouse operations from landfills. Choose from RTR’s three standard plans or rent à la carte for your next big event.

Rent The Runway Review | “Renting aligned my shopping habits with my sustainability values. It helps fulfill the need for a fun new piece for a weekend trip without buying into fast fashion trends.” – @allekjackson (See all reviews)

2. Armoire

BIPOC Owned

Woman owned

Size inclusive

Recycled materials

Product Range | Curated tops, skirts, shorts, pants, dresses, hair accessories, jewelry,  upcycled clothing
Best For | Maternity clothing rentals
Price Range | Memberships starting at $79/month

Armoire is a one-stop shop for curated, stylish clothing. Each month, you’ll receive items that are personalized to your taste—feel free to purchase, rent and return, exchange for a different size, or send for a complimentary cleaning for as long as you’re a member. Using the results from your personal style quiz, as well as input from customers and current fashion trends from Boden, French Connection, and more, Armoire curates each box specific to you—valued at over $300. What we love most is the collection of workwear and maternity wear that includes fashion-forward blazers, skirts, trousers, and dresses.

Armoire Review | “Armoire was a part of my weight loss journey. Be it when I was a size 8 or fluctuating between a size 4 or 2, I can freely choose my clothing be it for the summer or winter wear.” – Cheryl (See all reviews)

3. Nuuly

Size inclusive

Recycled materials

Product Range | Dresses, tops, pants, athleisure, rompers, vintage & upcycled clothing
Best For | Thrifting & re-selling clothing
Price Range | Subscriptions starting at $98/month

Nuuly is all about hosting a platform where buying, selling and renting work together in helping us save a little cash, while being gentler on the planet. With Nuuly Rent, you can rent any six items from their extensive collections each month with fast and free shipping, repairs, and laundry included. You can also purchase any items you fall in love with. And if thrifting is more your jam, Nuuly Thrift lets you buy and resell anything from vintage items and baby clothes, to reclaimed dresses and more. Nuuly is owned by URBN (the makers behind Anthropologie and Free People) so you’ll find plenty of their brands and styles, however you choose to shop!

Nuuly Review | “NUULY fits all of life’s occasions – one of the things I love most about it! 🥰✨🎉🌈” – @the_rbrooks (See more reviews)

4. Gwynnie Bee

Size inclusive

Budget friendly

Woman owned

Product Range | Blouses, cardigans, denim, jackets, casual & work dresses
Best For | Inclusive sizing
Price Range | Memberships starting at $49/month

Gwynnie Bee‘s online clothing subscription service gets members looking stylish and savvy every day! The brand provides free shipping and free exchanges for clothing rentals, and we love the selection of work, casual, and formal wear garments, ranging in sizes 0–32. Many packages start with the first month 50 percent off, and you can rent up to 10 items at once.

Gwynnie Bee Review | “GwynnieBee helped me get my fashionista style back after having a baby. I was in a rut with my self-esteem and comfort came before anything else. My GwynnieBee subscription reminded me that fashion can be comfortable AND help you shine! I recommend this service to every woman I come onto contact with. It’s a lifesaver.” – Leah Gunther (See all reviews)

5. Haverdash

Size inclusive

Budget friendly

Product Range | Dresses, jumpsuits, maternity, sweaters, bottoms
Best For | Flexibility, unlimited rotation & rental period
Price Range | Memberships starting at $59/month

With zero commitments and unlimited rotations, Haverdash is the future of fashion. This online style subscription service offers its members access to fashion rentals for a flat monthly fee. Choose up to three styles per shipment, and keep them for as long as you’d like. If you want to add the style permanently to your closet, you can purchase pieces at discounted prices. Or alternatively, feel free to send them back and get another box (wash, rinse, repeat)! Shipping (and returns) are always free, as is dry cleaning.

Haverdash Review | “Love @haverdash! I’ve been doing it for years. A great sustainable way to wear new clothes all the time. And I get so many compliments!” – @danielleullo (See more reviews)

6. FashionPass

Woman owned

Budget friendly

Product Range | Activewear, loungewear, bodysuits, dresses, jackets, denim, jumpsuits, accessories
Best For | Unlimited clothing & accessories rentals
Price Range | Memberships starting at $49 for the first month

FashionPass’ large collection of clothing rental options will have your wardrobe looking on trend without any commitments! With three rental options to choose from, you’ll receive a variety of clothing items and accessories of your choice each month. If you fall in love with a piece, you can keep it a bit longer for an additional fee or even purchase the item outright for a 30-60% discount. Brands such as Steve Madden, For Love and Lemons and Good American are just some of the popular brands that are available to pick from. And when you’re ready to ship your items back, FashionPass offers prepaid shipping labels, free dry cleaning and member concierge services if you need support. Sign us up!

FashionPass Review | “Returning is so simple, I get a new order every week! ” – Corrine R. (See all reviews)

7. Tulerie

Recycled materials

Woman owned

Small business

Product Range | Coats, dresses, jumpsuits, pants, skirts, shoes, bags
Best For | Peer-to-peer closet sharing
Price Range | Varies based on member-set rental fee

Tulerie stands out from other clothing rental services through their community closet approach. You can join the platform as a lender or borrower (or both!) to share or rent high-end items in your own closet. The brand is proud to provide a space where ‘sustainability, luxury and community can coexist’ through peer-to-peer closet sharing. To ensure trust and respect throughout the clothing exchange process, interviews are held with every single lender and borrower before they can use the platform. You can even donate any unwanted clothing through their partner Rewearable (free shipping included)! We love the creative approach Tulerie takes in supporting circular fashion initiatives. 

Tulerie Review | “This app has expanded my closet so much! Not only am I extending the life cycle of my own garments, but I get to borrow so many beautiful pieces too”. – Anonymous (See all reviews)

The post 7 Best Sites To Rent A Dress In 2023  appeared first on The Good Trade.