Our team of editors has spent the last ten years testing the best organic, nontoxic, and eco-friendly mattresses across price points. These are our top selections in 2025.

We spend nearly a third of our lives sleeping — and there’s no better place to invest in our well-being! 😴

Over the last decade, our editorial team has reviewed dozens of organic mattresses in our own homes and with our own families. In addition to hands-on testing, we regularly tour mattress factories in person, investigate proper certification and material use, interview the brands’ leadership teams, scour online reviews, and annually survey our audience for up-to-date consumer preferences. 

Why choose an organic mattress?

Organic mattresses use certified organic materials, including natural wool, latex, and cotton. They avoid the risks of harmful substances that may harm immunity, hormone health, and the nervous system. “Repeated exposure to harmful chemicals in some traditional mattresses can impact your health, starting with how well you sleep. Some of these chemicals can contribute to symptoms including skin and respiratory irritation, hormone disruption, effects on your nervous system, and even impaired immune function,” emphasizes Dr. Jaclyn Tolentino.

Organic materials and production practices also ensure a more eco-friendly environmental impact. The Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) is the primary global body that governs a rigorous certification process for organic fibers, but we’ve outlined all the relevant organic certifications. While many greenwashing companies use words like “natural” and ”organic” as unfounded marketing terms, less than 2% of mattresses on the market actually receive organic certifications.

What is our review process?

Each mattress on this list has been individually reviewed by one of our editors. Unlike other review sites, we don’t order mattresses to a showroom; we actually bring these beds into our homes and sleep on them for months (or years!) to test long-term comfort and durability. Our top considerations are health and safety, comfort, environmental impact, durability, and long-term value. In addition to hands-on testing, we regularly tour mattress factories, investigate certifications, interview brands, scour online reviews, and survey our own readers for your preferences.

Rest assured, every mattress on this list has received rigorous certifications for safety and eco-friendly production and has been tested firsthand by one or more of our editors. This guide has also been medically reviewed by Dr. Jaclyn Tolentino, a board-certified family physician.

Our criteria:

• ORGANIC CERTIFICATIONS | Every mattress on this list has received rigorous certifications for safe materials and eco-friendly production; each brand’s specific certifications are listed in the icon section above their feature. None of the mattresses on this list contain harsh flame retardants, and all are free from toxic chemicals, PFAS, VOCs, and fiberglass.
• COMFORT | Comfort is key, so we try each mattress ourselves, spend hours scouring online reviews, and represent all the feedback from our readers that we collect through surveys, comments, and emails. The brands on this list are here because they are organic and people love to sleep on them.
• AFFORDABLE | Every brand on this list sells directly to the consumer online and ships the mattress to your home, removing retail costs and reducing the final price. We’ve provided a range of options, from budget to luxury, without compromising safety. 
• ECO-FRIENDLY & GIVE BACK | All of the brands on this list employ eco-friendly production practices that help reduce water pollution, sequester carbon in the soil, and support biodiversity. Many of these companies also give back to their communities by donating high-quality organic mattresses to housing shelters and families in need.

Behind the scenes of our testing process:

1. Avocado Green Mattress

1% for the planet

American made

B corp

Climate neutral

FSC

GOTS certified

Greenguard certified

Made safe

Natural materials

OEKO-TEX® certified

Vegan

Warranty offered

Best For | Best organic mattress overall
Organic & Eco-Friendly Certifications | 100% GOTS Certified organic mattress (not just materials) made with GOLS and FSC Certified organic latex; full mattress is certified by OEKO-TEX Standard 100, GREENGUARD Gold, MADE SAFE, and EWG Verified; Climate Neutral, B Corp and a 1% for the Planet Pinnacle Award Winner; PETA-approved vegan option available
Features | Handmade in California using traditional needle-tufting, up to 1-year mattress trial, up to 25-year warranty
Mattress Types | Organic hybrid innerspring mattresses and organic latex mattresses
Firmness Options | Multiple firmness options available, including options made with plush Pure Talalay latex.
Sizes Available | Crib, Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, Split King, California King
Queen Price | $1259

Discounts Available | We’re officially in holiday season! During Avocado’s holiday sale, you can save 10% off sitewide

Avocado stands out as one of the best organic mattresses thanks to its certified materials, comfort, and transparency — and it’s our editors’ top pick. It’s the kind of grown-up purchase that’s truly transformed our sleep, with noticeably better rest (and improved sleep scores) across our team.

Co­-founders Alex and Jeff D’Andrea couldn’t find an affordable, safe, and truly non­toxic mattress for their family — one free from petroleum-based polyurethane foams, toxic flame retardants, chemical adhesives, and off-gassing VOCs. In a marketplace filled with greenwashing and white-labeled beds, Avocado stands apart with ownership in its entire supply chain while meeting the most rigorous standards for health and sustainability.

Each organic mattress is handmade in California using GOTS-certified organic cotton and wool from India, and GOLS-certified organic latex from India and Guatemala. Some premium models even include plush FSC-certified Pure Talalay latex. Every Avocado mattress is GREENGUARD Gold Certified for low emissions and built for a wide range of sleepers — from side to stomach to back.

The brand also offers a vegan-certified mattress, an organic cotton mattress protector, a waterproof mattress protector, and a wide range of sustainably made solid wood furniture. As members of 1% for the Planet, Avocado gives back to environmental and social nonprofits, is a Certified B Corporation, and is even a Climate Neutral Certified brand. Our editors have personally reviewed the flagship mattress, the luxurious plush mattress, the budget-friendly Eco Organic mattress, and the popular Eco Organic Kids Mattress.

This year our team of editors visited the Avocado mattress facility in Fullerton, CA, where we joined co-CEO of Avocado Green Brands Vy Nguyen for a tour to see how these mattresses get made. We even got to see a demo of hand needle-tufting, where long steel needles thread cotton straps through the mattress to secure the layers in place without using glue. It’s a highly skilled, time-intensive process that keeps natural materials from shifting and improves durability.

Our Editor’s Review of Avocado

“Somewhere between entering my 30s and settling into the city I plan to call home for the foreseeable future, I realized I needed to stop buying Ikea mattresses off Craigslist. I ultimately decided on Avocado’s Pillow-Top mattress (featuring a Euro-style button-tufted pillow top) since my husband and I are both side sleepers. It’s an added expense but ultimately worth it, in my opinion, since you don’t need to add your own topper. I felt supported and snuggled in. […] Since receiving the Green Mattress, I’ve been getting better rest, and my sleep scores have reflected that. My chiropractor has noticed my spine health is looking great, too. My husband loves the mattress as well, and he’s a hard sell when it comes to mattresses and pillows!”

Kayti Christian, Senior Content Strategist [Read her full review]

Shop Avocado

2. Birch

American made

Greenguard certified

Natural materials

OEKO-TEX® certified

Warranty offered

Best For | Fastest shipping
Organic & Eco-Friendly Certifications |GOLS Certified organic latex, GREENGUARD Gold Certified & OEKO-TEX Certified Talalay latex
Features | Made in the USA, 100-night trial, 0% financing options, 25-year warranty
Mattress Type | Organic hybrid mattresses
Firmness Options | 6–7/10 (medium firm)
Sizes Available | Kids Twin, Kids Full, Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, California King
Queen Price | $1499

Discounts Available | During Birch’s extended Cyber Monday Sale, you can save 20% sitewide and receive two free pillows with select mattress purchases — just use code CYBERSALE20 at checkout

Birch’s natural and organic mattress may just be the coziest mattress ever. The NYC-based brand boasts OEKO-TEX and Rainforest Alliance certifications and, for every mattress sold, Birch plants one tree through the National Forest Foundation. This green mattress is made with organic, natural, hypoallergenic, and anti-microbial materials, including a natural cotton cover, hygroscopic wool (from New Zealand), and sustainably-tapped latex to keep even the warmest sleeper cool. For support, the individually wrapped steel coils (steel made in the USA) offer extra comfort and optimized pressure relief. We’ve personally tested this mattress and found it soft and springy, while still feeling supportive (see that it’s a medium firmness) and offering excellent edge support. We especially love the support of the Birch Luxe! With all its awards and natural mattress components, Birch makes it easy to sleep soundly and safely.

Our Editorial Director, Emily, visited the 3Z manufacturing facility in early 2024 and got to see firsthand how Birch mattresses are made from start to finish. John Merwin, the CEO of 3Z and founder of Brooklyn Bedding led the tour for a select group of editors, answering our questions and even letting us get hands-on experience sewing edge seams on tufted mattress covers. (Did you know they pour their foam and make all their springs in-house? It’s quite the production!)

Our Editor’s Review of Birch

“After months of sleeping on our Birch Luxe mattress, my husband and I are well-rested and clear on what we’ve missed out on all these years. We are delighted with this mattress; our 8 and 10-year-old daughters agree. […] My only issue was the edge of the mattress, in other words the full perimeter reinforcement, was flipped up, almost like a lip around the edge of the bed; I believe it was still from the way it was shipped because it has since relaxed a bit, or at least I’ve gotten used to it now. This mattress helps me sleep better, so much so that I’ve gone from avoiding bedtime to looking forward to it. Now, I just have a more challenging time getting up. In addition to deeper, better-quality sleep, I’ve also noticed my body feels refreshed and ache-free. I also went from a restless side sleeper to a comfy combo sleeper — spending a good part of the night on my back and sans any pillow between my knees.”

Randi Donahue, Contributing Editor [Read her full review]

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3. PlushBeds

American made

GOTS certified

Greenguard certified

Natural materials

OEKO-TEX® certified

Vegan

Warranty offered

Best For | Side sleepers and customizable mattresses
Organic & Eco-Friendly Certifications | GOTS Certified cotton & wool, GOLS Certified organic latex, USDA Certified Organic, eco-INSTITUT Certified, GREENGUARD Gold Certified
Features | Handmade in the USA, 100-night trial, lifetime warranty, Vegan Certified mattresses available
Mattress Type | Organic hybrid mattresses and organic latex mattresses
Firmness Options | Multiple firmness options available
Sizes Available | Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, Split Queen, King, Split King, California King, Split California King and kids mattresses
Queen Price | $1249

Discounts Available | Now through December 15th, save up to 50% off bedroom mattresses and save 25% on toppers and bedding at PlushBeds! Plus, use code GOODTRADE100 for an additional $100 off your purchase

PlushBeds is a leading online luxury mattress manufacturer and retailer, specializing in organic mattresses and bedding. All products are handcrafted in their GOLS and GOTS Certified organic production facility in California, with free shipping within the contiguous USA. Our Editorial Director, Emily, visited the PlushBeds facility in Camarillo, California, where she learned about how much the brand’s quality ethos is inspired by the most legacy mattress makers in Europe — and how, at the end of the day, quality is the name of the game. The company offers a thorough selection of certified organic and eco-friendly mattresses at accessible prices, especially through key holidays, so keep an eye out for their promotions (although the brand also has luxury mattresses at top-tier price points — trust us, we’ve experienced them firsthand and the quality is unmatched). Each of the brand’s mattresses is GREENGUARD Gold Certified, ensuring your bed has met some of the world’s most rigorous and comprehensive standards for low chemical emissions (plus, the brand never uses PFAS in its production). The company also provides environmental scholarships for college students, gives back to environmental and social nonprofits, and offsets 100% of its carbon emissions via TerraPass. For us side sleepers, we especially love PlushBeds memory foam options, which is one of the best types of mattresses for side sleepers. It doesn’t give us too much — or too little — firmness. Medium is just right!

Our Editor’s Review of PlushBeds

“After our first night of sleep on our Signature Bliss mattress, I noticed it was the first morning in weeks that I’d woken up without any aches and pains. Sometimes I’m not aware I’m not sleeping well until I get one really good night of sleep — anyone else? That’s how this particular morning was. Noticing how deeply I’d slept made me realize how poorly I’d been sleeping leading up until that point. […] Another noteworthy anecdote: Since sleeping on our new mattress, I’ve noticed a significant reduction in motion transfer. With a husband who tosses and turns and two little children who occasionally end up in between us, more nights than not I can feel at least one family member or another shifting around in our bed […] since upgrading to our PlushBeds mattress, the motion transfer is at an all-time low.”

Kate Arceo, Community Manager [Read her full review]

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4. Bear

American made

Budget friendly

Greenguard certified

Warranty offered

Best For | Most affordable, and good for muscle recovery
Organic & Eco-Friendly Certifications | GREENGUARD Gold, CertiPUR-US Certified foam, eco-INSTITUT Certified
Features | Made in the USA, 100-night trial
Mattress Type | Memory foam mattresses and natural latex hybrid mattresses
Firmness Options | 7/10; multiple firmness options available
Sizes Available | Kids Twin, Kids Full, Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, Split King, California King
Queen Price | $699

Discounts Available | Save 30% sitewide at Bear right now when you use code DEAL30 at checkout, during the brand’s holiday sale

The Bear Hybrid is a GREENGUARD Gold Certified mattress designed for athletes and the most active people. A luxury mattress with coils and cooling foams, it boasts a Celliant Sleep Technology to promote better sleep and faster muscle recovery. Bear’s mattresses are GREENGUARD Gold and CertiPUR-US certified, ensuring low VOCs and beds that are free from toxic chemicals and harsh flame retardants. In our testing, we’ve found the Bear Original to be an excellent budget-friendly option for back sleepers who prefer a firmer feel. The Bear Natural offers a cozy pillowtop feel on top of a firm base — which would also make it a good option for folks who toss and turn, since there’s low motion transfer. While most Bear models doesn’t offer the same organic certifications as the top three selections on this list, we still recommend it thanks to its safe certifications and accessible price point.

Our Editor’s Review of Bear

“I’ve always been an unfussy sleeper, but something has changed this year as I barrel toward my 35th birthday: I am now a hot sleeper. So while there was a bit of an adjustment period with the deep tufts on the Bear Elite, they provide airflow underneath me and help alleviate my night sweats — a worthwhile tradeoff if you ask me. The cushy top offers softness without sacrificing stability, and I’ve noticed that I stay asleep more consistently throughout the night, without the anxious wakeups. If you’re looking for a range of fully organic certifications, you might want to check elsewhere; however, Bear mattresses are GREENGUARD Gold Certified, and made with CertiPUR-US® certified foams. As someone who is currently prioritizing performance, this aligns with my values!”

Emily McGowan, Editorial Director (Read her full review)

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5. Awara

FSC

GOTS certified

Greenguard certified

Natural materials

OEKO-TEX® certified

Recycled materials

Warranty offered

Best For | Hot sleepers
Organic & Eco-Friendly Certifications | GOLS Certified organic latex, GOTS Certified wool, OEKO-TEX and GREENGUARD Gold Certified materials, Repreve Certified materials
Features | 365-night trial, lifetime warranty, free shipping
Mattress Type | Organic hybrid
Firmness Options | 6–7/10 (medium firm)
Sizes Available | Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, California King
Queen Price | $699

Discounts Available | Save up to 50% on mattresses during Awara’s Black Friday sale

Purchasing a quality mattress is an investment, and it can feel like a daunting decision. But Awara makes it easy to take the leap with a 365-night trial, premium customer service, and a forever warranty. Our editor took the plunge with an Awara (and in her dream size, the Cal King!) and she and her husband have slept like babies and never looked back.

We love Awara’s natural luxury hybrid mattress for its breathability and organic components, as well as the nine-inch contouring support core for pressure relief. It’s firm yet plush, and we feel confident the mattress is supporting our bodies and aiding in a healthy night’s sleep. Its ability to keep hot sleepers cool at night is outstanding (hello, fellow sweaty sleepers! 👋), the latex is breathable and the coils boost airflow. The mattress comes straight to your door in a cardboard box, and it’s as easy as rolling it out and using the fabric handles to place it on your bed frame for a supremely cool and comfortable night’s sleep.

Our Editor’s Review of Awara

“I like a firm mattress, so the Awara mattress was perfect for me. It had just enough give (admittedly, I did do a bounce test and it passed with flying colors) while retaining its shape. I’ve been a tosser and turner my whole life, but I slept like a stone on my Awara. From someone who has been called a restless sleeper by everyone I have shared a bed with, this was a monumental achievement. If you prefer an ultra-plush feel, you might find the Awara too firm, even after you’ve slept on it for weeks or months. But for hot sleepers, I can’t recommend the Awara mattress enough. Is this how everyone else has been living during hot summers? I can’t believe cool sleepers have been gatekeeping this from me my whole life.”

Langa Chinyoka, Contributing Editor [Read her full review]

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6. Brentwood Home

American made

Climate neutral

FSC

GOTS certified

Greenguard certified

Natural materials

OEKO-TEX® certified

Warranty offered

Best For | Memory foam-like mattresses
Organic & Eco-Friendly Certifications | GOTS Certified organic cotton & wool, GOLS Certified organic latex, Fair Trade Certifications, OEKO-TEX Certified materials
Features | Responsibly made in USA, 1-year sleep trial, 25-year warranty, in-home delivery, free shipping
Mattress Type | Organic hybrid mattresses and organic latex mattresses
Firmness Options | Multiple firmness options available
Sizes Available | Crib, Kids Twin, Kids Twin XL, Kids Full, Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, Split King, California King, 11″ and 13″ height options available on select mattresses
Queen Price | $1169

Discounts Available | During Brentwood Home’s holiday sale, you can save 10% on their most-loved mattresses, no code needed

A California brand through and through, Brentwood Home has been handcrafting natural luxury mattresses here in Los Angeles since 1987. The company sources its natural, organic, and nontoxic materials directly — following rigorous standards for environmental responsibility and the health of the consumer. You’ll get your dreamiest (and greenest) sleep on Brentwood’s Hybrid Latex Mattress, it represents the pinnacle of eco-conscious mattress design and is GREENGUARD Gold Certified. Brentwood Home also gives back to several social and environmental initiatives and partners with Carbonfund to offset its carbon footprint. They are your best if you’re looking for an affordable option that doesn’t compromise on the organic certifications, their twin mattress is the most affordable on our list and makes going organic more reasonable for the whole family.

Our Editor’s Review of Brentwood Home

“Brentwood Home’s Oceano mattress is medium soft, rated a 4.5/10, but with reinforcement from springs and edge protection. […] I have fewer aches and pains, and I feel so much more comfortable throughout the night. It’s brought me back to a sense of comfort that I thought I left behind in childhood. One thing to note is that this mattress measures in at 14 inches tall, adding 3+ inches to our existing setup. We might have to rethink our current platform bed frame, but it’s more than worth it!”

Ashley D’Arcy, Senior Editor [Read her full review]

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7. Saatva

American made

Greenguard certified

Natural materials

Recycled materials

Best For | Luxury shoppers, or heavy people who prefer additional support
Organic & Eco-Friendly Certifications | GOLS Certified organic latex, 100% natural New Zealand wool, GREENGUARD Gold Certified
Features | Made in the USA, made with recycled steel coils, Guardin botanical antimicrobial treatment, 180-day trial, eco-friendly production, gives back to charity
Mattress Type | Organic innerspring mattresses and hybrid mattresses
Firmness Options | Multiple firmness options available
Sizes Available | Crib, Kids Twin, Kids Twin XL, Kids Full, Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, Split King, California King
Queen Price | $1839

Discounts Available | Take $300 off your order of $1,000 or more at Saatva, when you purchase a mattress

Saatva is a leading disruptor in the mattress industry. From latex to memory foam, the company has an impressive collection to fit every person’s sleep needs and, by cutting out retail commissions, the company can sell to consumers at a fraction of the cost. Saatva’s disruptive model goes even further than distribution as the mattresses are made with plant-based, eco-friendly materials and crafted in the USA. The company also gives back, donating hundreds of natural mattresses to high-need organizations around the country.

Several of our editors rave about the luxury innerspring mattress — it’s their forever pick. For a memory foam mattress comparable to iComfort and Tempur-Pedic (but at a fraction of the cost), we love Loom & Leaf, Saatva’s memory foam line. While memory foam is not an all-natural material, these mattresses are CertiPUR-US certified, meaning the foam is low in VOCs. For a latex option, Saatva’s Zenhaven Mattress is 100% all-natural Talalay latex, which is naturally hypoallergenic and resistant to mold, microbes, and dust mites. The Talalay manufacturing process is entirely water-based, minimizing the amount of environmentally harmful byproducts. 

Our Editor’s Review of Saatva

“Saatva’s Classic Mattress in Luxury Firm features a patented Lumbar Zone® Technology and responsive dual-coil design made of recycled carbon steel meaning it’s super supportive and will never sag. Nowadays, when I wake up in the morning, I am neither creaky nor cranky and my lower back pain is gone. I recommend this mattress if you suffer from back pain, are a side sleeper who prefers a firmer option, or you want to win at life! If you want a super squishy mattress, or something super firm, you’ll want to opt for a different firmness and perhaps a different mattress altogether.“

Trinity Wilbourn, Contributing Editor [Read her full review]

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8. Leesa

American made

FSC

Gives back

Greenguard certified

Made to order

Natural materials

OEKO-TEX® certified

Recycled materials

Warranty offered

Best For | Medium-firm mattresses that are just right, with breathable & moisture-wicking options
Organic & Eco-Friendly Certifications | OEKO-TEX Certified Talalay latex, low-VOC & CertiPUR-US certified foam
Features | Designed & assembled in the USA, made with sustainable Joma Wool® and recycled steel supports, no PFAS added, risk-free 100-night trial, 10-year limited warranty, free no-contact delivery, payment plans available
Mattress Types | Hybrid mattresses and memory foam mattresses
Firmness Options | 6/10 (medium firm)
Sizes Available | Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, California King; options available for plus size sleepers
Queen Price | $1574

Discounts Available | Now through December 16th, save 25% on Leesa’s award-winning mattresses, no code needed

For a cooling and supportive rest for our medium-firm mattress lovers, you can’t get better than Leesa’s Natural Hybrid Mattress! Made in conjunction with home decor icons West Elm, this premium mattress is consciously crafted using sustainable materials for a healthy and nourishing sleep. Each layer of this hybrid mattress serves a unique function; this includes a thick responsive support layer made from nearly 1,032 active response springs alongside a buoyant and breathable Talalay latex layer that’s naturally antibacterial, antimicrobial, and temperature-neutral. All this and more is topped with pure New Zealand wool made from sustainably sourced Joma Wool® to wick away moisture and odor — and help promote a restorative and comfortable snooze! When we tested the Leesa Natural, we found it to be temperature-stable (while still feeling cozy), and have low motion transfer (no bouncy interruptions if you sleep with someone who tosses and turns.) With every purchase, Leesa gives back to both social and environmental initiatives, including donating mattresses to families in need and recovering ocean-bound plastic. Give this mattress a whirl risk-free for 100 nights and see why this eco-friendly and expertly made latex mattress is a hot sleeper’s dream!

Our Editor’s Review of Leesa

“After sleeping on it for a couple of weeks, our Leesa x West Elm Natural Hybrid Mattress feels even more comfortable and slightly contoured to our bodies. My husband and I have both been sleeping more soundly, and any of those minor neck or shoulder pains we’ve had have gone away (!). We credit this to the uniquely designed, individually encased springs. They adjust to the body during the night, so you’re supported in any position you find yourself in. I’ve found it makes a huge difference in how good I’m feeling in my body during the day. This mattress is considered medium-firm due to the supportive spring interior, but it feels more plush overall. If you’re looking for an extra firm mattress, this could be too soft.“

Courtney Jay Higgins, Contributing Editor [Read her full review]

Shop Leesa

9. My Green Mattress

American made

GOTS certified

Greenguard certified

Made safe

Natural materials

OEKO-TEX® certified

Warranty offered

Best For | Child & crib mattresses
Organic & Eco-Friendly Certifications | GOTS organic certified cotton & wool, GOLS Certified organic latex & coconut coir, MADE SAFE Certified, GREENGUARD Gold Certified, OEKO-TEX Certified
Features | Made in the USA, 365-night sleep trial, 20-year warranty, free shipping, hand button tufting, financing available
Mattress Type | Organic hybrid mattresses and organic latex mattresses
Firmness Options | 7/10 (medium firm)
Sizes Available | Crib, Twin, Twin XL, Full, Full XL, Queen, King, California King
Queen Price | $974

Discounts Available | During My Green Mattress’s holiday sale, save up to $200 on organic mattresses and 10% on accessories, cribs, and more — no code needed

As a brand with an impressive number of certifications including GOLS, GOTS, OEKO-TEX, GREENGUARD, and MADE SAFE, My Green Mattress offers two hybrid mattresses, a children’s mattress and a crib option crafted from organic coconut coir. Fully hypoallergenic and toxin-free, this Illinois-based company fits its high-quality mattresses with a custom-design Madison spring system. This includes a 7-zone innerspring and nearly 1,140 pocketed coils alongside a thick layer of 2-inch Dunlop latex for a supportive yet comfy rest. My Green Mattress is backed by a 20-year warranty and a year-long sleep trial, so you can rest easy committing to your purchase (trust us, it’s worth it!). Go for these mattresses if you have bunk beds or trundle beds in your home, as My Green Mattress specially designs options that work with these setups, at an affordable price!

Our Editor’s Review of My Green Mattress

“The Pure Eco mattress has just enough plushness on top to give that delicious, sinking-into-a-cloud feeling without being a bean bag that destroys your back. The feeling of this mattress is on par with memory foam, only it’s not made of the synthetic, chemical stuff. Instead, this mattress features a pocketed coil spring system that provides added lumbar and edge support designed for overall comfort for kids and adults up to 400 lbs. The 1 1/4″ layer of GOTS-certified organic and OEKO-TEX certified dunlop latex gives that sink-your-toes-in feeling while being eco-friendly and PFAS-free. After about an hour of too-excited-to-sleep zoomies, our daughter crashed into one of her deepest sleeps on her first night. She’s reported nothing but love for her bed every night since!”

Stephanie Fallon, Contributing Editor [Read her full review]

Shop My Green Mattress

10. Naturepedic

1% for the planet

American made

FSC

Family owned

GOTS certified

Made safe

Natural materials

OEKO-TEX® certified

USDA organic

Vegan

Best For | Hypoallergenic organic latex mattresses
Organic & Eco-Friendly Certifications | GOTS organic certified cotton & wool, GOLS Certified organic latex, MADE SAFE Certified, EWG Verified, GREENGUARD Gold Certified, UL verified formaldehyde-free, PETA-approved vegan options available
Features | Adjustable firmness, 100-night trial, free shipping, 25-year warranty program, free returns, made in USA, gives back
Mattress Type | Organic hybrid mattresses and organic latex mattresses
Firmness Options | Multiple firmness options available (including customized)
Sizes Available | Crib, Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, Split King
Queen Price | $1599

Discounts Available | Naturepedic’s holiday sale of the year is live! Save 20% off your purchase, no code needed

Founded specifically with family-safe nontoxic materials in mind, Naturepedic has been one of the leaders in the organic mattress space for over 20 years. With a range of options, including mattresses for kids, vegan mattresses, as well as luxury customizable and split mattress options, we can see why the brand is so well-loved. Naturepedic mattresses are particularly favorites for hot sleepers and folks who are sensitive to smells or have allergies, thanks to being hypoallergenic. Plus, all of their mattresses are formaldehyde-free, and made without PFAS or chemical flame retardants while still maintaining flammability standards. (Psst — the brand’s crib mattresses are waterproof without the use of harmful chemicals, too!)

While Naturepedic mattresses do run on the more expensive side, you can count on the fact you’re getting a great nontoxic mattress, made responsibly and sustainably in the USA, that will last you decades.

Our Editor’s Review of Naturepedic

“In my research, I found the hypoallergenic properties of latex mattresses are good for people who are sensitive to smells and have allergies (aka me). Since switching to Naturepedic, my sleep has been great (and my fiancé reported his sleep has improved too!). We both noticed the lack of motion transfer — feeling each other move in the middle of the night — and loved the luxury feel of it. And when I had a two-day migraine, it was fantastic to have a mattress that kept me cool and supported my head, neck, and back while I rested — especially because I feel extra sensitive to pressure, heat, and other stimuli during those times. Drawbacks include the high price tag and and the fact that this mattress is quite heavy, so find some help for bringing it in, unboxing it, and setting it up!”

Brianna Schubert, Contributing Editor [Read her full review]

Shop Naturepedic

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Our editors’ top considerations when shopping for an organic mattress:

There are now over 175 bed-in-a-box mattress brands to choose from 🤯. Selecting a new mattress is totally daunting! Especially since, as Dr. Matthew Walker, Professor of Neuroscience and Psychology at the University of California, Berkeley writes, “[S]leep is the single most effective thing we can do to reset our brain and body health each day.” Mattress shopping is an incredibly personal decision — and a steep investment — so it’s important to find the perfect fit. (Of course, our favorite brands listed above offer sleep trials to make sure you’re completely satisfied, but it’s never fun having to coordinate the return of a mattress that didn’t work out for you.) Here’s a look at what factors you might consider depending on the type of sleep preferences you have!

As Dr. Michael Breus, clinical psychologist and sleep medicine expert, notes: “When putting together the ideal sleep environment, it’s not just about optimizing temperature, humidity, noise, and light. Having the right mattress, pillows, and bedding can also help you feel relaxed and ready for a good night’s rest.”

Start your search with a budget and mattress size in mind, which may help you narrow down the type of mattress within your price range before considering other factors. We’ve listed the types of mattresses below in order from least expensive to most expensive.

Which type of mattress should you choose?

• Innerspring mattresses are ideal for people who prefer a more traditional mattress feel (think: a little bouncy), and for folks who tend to sleep hot thanks to the good airflow around the springs.
  • Pros: Often more affordable, supportive, and breathable
  • Cons: You might notice squeaking or creaking, there’s not much motion isolation (so you’ll feel it if your partner tosses and turns), and innerspring mattresses may wear out faster than other types 

• Memory Foam mattresses are excellent for side sleepers and people who deal with joint pain. The foam offers greater motion isolation than innersprings do, which means you won’t wake up if your bedmate moves or gets up a lot.
  • Pros: Contours to your body, offering motion isolation and pressure relief
  • Cons: Can retain heat (watch out, hot sleepers), and depending on the materials you might experience off-gassing odors

• Hybrid mattresses offer a balance of innerspring and foam mattresses. We think of them as the “Goldilocks beds” because they’re just right for a wide range of people. You’ll get support and comfort no matter how you sleep (especially if you sleep in multiple positions!).
  • Pros: A balance of support and comfort (not too firm or soft)
  • Cons: Can be heavy depending on the materials used, and more expensive because of the multiple components

• Latex mattresses offer similar contouring and support to memory foam, which makes them a good choice for smell-sensitive people or folks with allergies. Latex is also naturally well-ventilated, making it a great choice for hot sleepers. And, of course, latex is a natural material so you can feel better about the eco-impact of your mattress. You can find a complete list of all-latex mattresses here. Both Dunlop and Talalay latex are good options — because of their different production methods, Dunlop will be more dense and Talalay will tend to be lighter and bouncier. Dunlop latex can be made with all natural materials, unlike Talalay which needs synthetic additives, which means Dunlop latex is the only option that can receive an organic certification.
  • Pros: Hypoallergenic, responsive without being too bouncy (or making you feel like you’ve sunk into quicksand, like some memory foam), and has impressive durability for many years of use
  • Cons: All-natural latex mattresses can get very heavy if they’re not mixed with other materials and often carry the highest price tags
    

Which firmness should you look for?

• Back Sleepers typically enjoy medium-firm to firm mattresses. For support and spinal alignment, look for memory foam, latex, and firmer hybrid mattresses.
• Side Sleepers will typically sleep well on soft to medium mattresses. Look for softer memory foam and hybrid mattresses to get relief when you’re lying on your shoulders and hips.
• Stomach Sleepers will likely snooze best on firm mattresses. Look for firm innerspring and foam mattresses that reduce sinking so you can keep your spinal alignment.

Other important considerations when choosing a mattress:

• Are you a sweaty sleeper? Hot sleepers will like the breathability of latex, hybrid, and innerspring mattresses. If you do opt for foam, look for gel-infused or open-cell foam for extra airflow. If looking into hybrid mattresses, we recommend looking for ones with natural fabrics in the top layers — like organic cotton, wool, and natural latex.
• For cold sleepers, beds that you sink into will cover a larger surface area of your body (so think soft!), and you’ll benefit from the heat retention qualities of memory foam and other foam mattresses.
• If you snore, you might want to look for mattresses compatible with adjustable bed frames to elevate your head and breathe more easily. Research has shown that even a 12-degree incline can be an unobtrusive way to reduce snoring and help you sleep through the night.
• If you have allergies, consider hypoallergenic mattresses made from organic latex and bamboo viscose or rayon. These materials also help protect against dust mites!
• Consider your preferences between hand-tufted and other methods of combining layers, like glue. Some brands may use glues that won’t last as long as a quality tuft, or may contain toxic ingredients that you don’t want in your mattress.
• Warranties are typically good for factory defects, but may not always cover standard wear and tear. Check with your mattress maker before deciding to see if you’ll be covered down the line if the mattress wears in ways you don’t like!
• If you tend to roll around a bit at night, or want to maximize the usable surface of your mattress, look for models that offer a high level of edge support, which can help keep you on the bed. This is also handy if you have mobility issues and need extra firmness when getting out of bed in the morning.

What certifications ensure a mattress is organic or nontoxic?

While there are a range of natural materials that offer nontoxic sleep, we look for brands that carry additional certifications to ensure their mattresses are as safe as they claim to be. Here are the certifications we look for when it comes to organic (and sustainable) mattresses.

• GOTS Certified: The Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) is the gold standard for organic cotton, wool, and other textile components. Only textile products made from 95% certified organic raw materials can become GOTS Certified. There are also stringent worker protections that ban exposure to toxic chemicals and child or forced labor. Because GOTS rigorous certification requires both environmental and social criteria throughout the entire textile supply chain, it is the gold standard for ensuring health and safety.

• GOLS Certified: The Global Organic Latex Standard (GOLS) ensures that the latex in your mattress (and pillows) contains more than 95% of certified organic raw material. Similar to GOTS, GOLS also requires both environmental and social criteria throughout the entire textile supply chain.

• MADE SAFE: MADE SAFE is a nontoxic certification for everyday products, like mattresses, bedding, and skincare. This certification is extremely stringent, and every product is screened to validate that over 6,500 substances on the banned and restricted list have been avoided or constrained, eliminating the worst hazards commonly found in products used in our homes and daily routines.

• GREENGUARD Certified: A GREENGUARD Certification means that your mattress meets some of the world’s most rigorous and comprehensive standards for low emissions of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) into indoor air. GREENGUARD Gold certification ensures the lowest emissions and off-gassing (making it especially good for folks who might be extra sensitive).

• OEKO-TEX Certified: OEKO-TEX is a consistent, independent testing and certification system that ensures every component in a mattress is free from harmful substances (from raw materials to the final product). 

• CertiPUR-US: While CertiPUR-US doesn’t consider organic or natural materials, it does set a nontoxic standard for the flexible polyurethane foam used in many hybrid and memory foam mattresses. This certification ensures that foams meet safety standards and are made without ozone depleters, flame retardants, mercury, lead, formaldehyde, and phthalates, and have low VOC emissions.

• B Corporation: B Corporations meet the highest standards of social and environmental performance, transparency, and legal accountability to balance profit and purpose. Organizations must be verified through B Lab, a nonprofit dedicated to ensuring a fair and sustainable global economy to become a B Corp. 

• Climate Neutral Certified: Climate Neutral Certified brands measure and offset their entire carbon footprint and implement plans to reduce future emissions — we look for these when searching for more sustainable options. Some companies even claim to be carbon-negative by removing more carbon than they emit, although that is not an official certification.

• Fair Trade Certification: One of the most rigorous social standards, the Fair Trade certification means that materials are sourced ethically and workers are paid fair wages.

• USDA Certified Organic: The USDA Organic seal assures consumers that raw materials like cotton or wool are 95% or more organic. This seal does not cover any chemicals used in the production process — or the entire mattress like GOTS does.

• eco-INSTITUT Certification: The eco-INSTITUT label is awarded to mattresses that have been tested for harmful substances, odors, and emissions in order to ensure healthier indoor air quality. 

• FSC Certified: The Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) examines wood components like bed frames, as well as paper packaging materials. This certification ensures that these products come from responsibly managed forests.

• PETA-Approved Vegan: The PETA-Approved Vegan certification assures shoppers that no animal products were used in the manufacturing process (such as wool, down, or leather). Many organizations offer other vegan certifications, too, like the Vegan Action certification. Just make sure that the entire mattress is vegan — not just a handful of the components.

• 1% for the Planet: Members of 1% for the Planet donate 1% of annual sales to environmental causes, which is a bonus when we’re looking for sustainable bedding options.
  

What are common harmful substances found in traditional mattresses? 

While you can find more affordable mattresses than the options on this list, it’s important to recognize that not all mattresses are created equal. Most conventional mattresses available online and in-store contain harmful substances that impact your home’s air quality as well as your health with chronic, long-term exposure. Here are a few to look out for:

• Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) are gasses emitted from certain solids or liquids, including many synthetic materials used in mattresses. (They’re also common in paints!) VOCs have health impacts ranging from mild irritation and nausea to liver, kidney, and central nervous system damage. Some VOCs are even known carcinogens.
• Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) are a group of man-made chemicals used in some mattresses and furniture for their water and stain-resistant properties. Research on these “forever chemicals” by the CDC and the EPA has linked PFAS to liver damage, thyroid disease, decreased fertility, high cholesterol, obesity, hormone suppression, and cancer.
• Chemical flame retardants, like brominated or halogenated flame retardants, are added to mattresses to ensure they meet fire safety standards. These flame retardants have been linked to health issues such as endocrine disruption, neurodevelopmental issues, and cancer, especially in vulnerable populations like infants or the elderly.
• Fiberglass is used in some mattresses as an inexpensive flame retardant, but fiberglass fibers can be released into the air and environment if the mattress cover is removed or torn. Aside from short-term irritation, chronic inhalation of fiberglass can worsen respiratory conditions like asthma or bronchitis.
• Polyurethane is a commonly used foam in mattresses, but it can release VOCs through off-gassing. (That new mattress smell? It might be the polyurethane!) This can cause respiratory irritation and headaches, and some research suggests potential endocrine disruption.
  

What is greenwashing?

Greenwashing is the term for when a company pretends to be more environmentally friendly — or nontoxic — than they really are, usually through misleading marketing language. This is particularly prevalent in the mattress world, so our reviews focus only on brands that have trusted third party certifications like the ones listed above. Not every mattress will be perfect, but when it comes to such big investments in our daily routines and wellbeing, we want to know that the brands are accountable to outside sources for their claims about nontoxic materials and sustainable production.

How to care for an organic mattress (and why they last longer!) 

A mattress can be a steep investment — especially when you opt for an organic or natural one. But the perks of a well-crafted mattress include longevity, with many of our favorite mattresses lasting for 25+ years while still maintaining quality and comfort. (And, compared to more “mainstream” brands that release more VOCs and can crumble as they age, you won’t get that funky smell or degradation with natural mattresses). That doesn’t mean you don’t have any upkeep; in order to keep your mattress cozy for the long haul, here’s how to best take care of it:

• Always use a mattress protector to prevent spills from absorbing into the mattress (the number of times we’ve spilled coffee in bed has taught us this lesson firsthand).
• Rotate and flip the mattress according to the manufacturer’s suggested timeline. Each timeline may differ, but the standard is to rotate once every three to six months.
• Snuggle up with natural and organic bedding to get the most breathability out of your new mattress — it’s a game-changer!
• Clean spills immediately (and use a mattress protector, as noted above) to keep your mattress dry and mold-free. If you live in a humid environment, consider getting a dehumidifier to reduce moisture retention.
  

How long will an organic mattress last?

Standard mattresses have a 7-10 year lifespan, but many organic options on our list feature lifespans of 25 years and longer! Some even offer lifetime warranties; that’s how deeply the brand stands behind their product. Review each brand’s recommendations for how frequently to replace your mattress, but know that generally, the higher the investment, the longer the mattress should last.

How does The Good Trade’s editorial team review mattresses?

The Good Trade’s editors are a diverse team of writers and sustainable product enthusiasts who offer trusted brand recommendations based on our own hands-on testing and extensive research of third-party verifications, certifications, and accreditations. We rigorously test the products featured in our guides so we can provide you with sincere recommendations that meet our standards for sustainability and health.

We’ve slept on mattresses from these brands for over ten years, and have recommended them to friends and family based on our own experience. Additionally, we’ve met with the teams of each and every brand — often the founders and makers of the mattresses — and even toured massive mattress manufacturing facilities to see just how each mattress is made. We’re especially proud to be able to offer direct feedback to each brand to push their sustainability and nontoxic certifications further to ensure our readers can *actually* get a healthier night’s sleep. 

We’ve also personally tested and reviewed the best organic bedding brands, including mattress toppers, protectors, and pillows, so you can make the most informed decision. If you have any questions or are in search of a recommendation, drop a note in the comments and we’ll point you in the right direction!

Editor’s note: This piece was originally published in March of 2016 and is updated monthly to feature new products, prices, certifications, and new brands based on our reviews. The current content reflects our most recent evaluations of the best organic mattresses on the market.

Best organic mattress toppers

Best mattress protectors

Best nontoxic pillows

Best sustainable sheets

Best organic comforters

Best wood bed frames

Best twin mattresses

Best crib mattresses

Header image from Amber Interior Design

Emily McGowan is the Editorial Director at The Good Trade. She studied Creative Writing and Business at Indiana University, and has over ten years of experience as a writer and editor in sustainability and lifestyle spaces. Since 2017, she’s been discovering and reviewing the top sustainable home, fashion, beauty, and wellness products so readers can make their most informed decisions. Her editorial work has been recognized by major publications like The New York Times and BBC Worklife. You can usually find her in her colorful Los Angeles apartment journaling, caring for her rabbits and cat, or gaming. Say hi on Instagram!

Psst! Google launched a new feature that lets you choose “Preferred Sources” — so your searches highlight trusted, values-driven outlets instead of clickbait. To add The Good Trade, tick the box beside our name. That’s it — our stories will be waiting whenever you search. Read more about it here.

The post 10 Best Organic Mattresses For Non-Toxic Sleep – 2025 appeared first on The Good Trade.

“Reading is an exercise in empathy; an exercise in walking in someone else’s shoes for a while,” says Malorie Blackman, a Black British writer. The transportative quality of a good book is more than just entertainment — it’s a powerful experience that allows us to drop into another person’s consciousness. It is one thing to hear someone tell you about their life, but it is quite another to spend time in their mind and experience their story almost firsthand. Studies show that reading fiction increases empathy, and helps us to behave with more care and consideration for others.

“The transportative quality of a good book is more than just entertainment — it’s a powerful experience that allows us to drop into another person’s consciousness.”

Reading is also a powerful way to help us feel less alone when we experience grief, trauma, or heartache. James Baldwin said, “It was books that taught me that the things that tormented me most were the very things that connected me with all the people who were alive or who had ever been alive.” Learning that the greatest hardships in our lives can connect us across time and space with other humans is not only healing but nearly magical. When resources and energy are scarce, it is incredible that we can still travel, find community, and connect with others just by opening a book.

If you’re seeking stories that spotlight Black voices, you’ll find many below — including writing below that reckons with difficult histories and generational traumas while, at the same time, showcasing incredible resilience and enduring joy. You’ll also find romance novels, comedies, poetry, and other collected writings that capture a diversity of experiences. Read on for my personal recommendations of books by Black writers, both fiction and non-fiction, that offer us the gift of experiencing someone else’s story.

What are some books by Black voices that you have read and loved? Let us know in the comments so we can add to our stacks!

1. Between The World And Me by Ta-Nehisi Coates

This powerful work examines the American legacy of racism in a letter from the book’s author to his young Black son. Part memoir, part critical history, Coates asks us to consider the cost of the social construction of race on Black and Brown bodies by putting us into his shoes as he recounts revelatory personal experiences of his life as a Black man in America. I highly recommend listening to the audiobook to hear the writer read the work himself for an even more immersive and intimate experience.

Read Between The World And Me

2. Native Guard by Natasha Trethewey

This book of poetry is my most well-loved and often revisited collection for its precise and vivid imagery, powerful subject matter, and lines that I can’t stop thinking about. Titled for one of the first Black regiments called into service during the Civil War, Trethewey reclaims the lost legacy of these soldiers and blends their voices with the memory of her mother, a Black woman whose marriage to a white man was illegal in their native Mississippi during the writer’s childhood in the 1960s. Trethewey’s artful weaving of national and personal narratives of the difficult history of the Deep South won this profound collection the 2007 Pulitzer Prize. Another book I highly recommend listening to as the writer’s voice will give you chills.

Read Native Guard

3. The Vanishing Half by Brit Bennett

If you want a rich, multi-generational family novel that digs deep into the shifting sands of social identities, this is the book for you. Spanning forty years and two generations of women, the story begins with the Vignes twins whose identical upbringing takes a sharp turn that results in one sister living and passing as a white woman while her twin remains Black, living in their home southern community she’d once tried to escape. When they have daughters of their own whose lives intersect, the story takes a compassionate look at the ways that our expectations, desires, and loyalties must reckon with the influence of the past. It’s a gripping read, and there is a point in the book where no reader (including this one) can put it down.

Read The Vanishing Half

4. Get A Life, Chloe Brown by Talia Hibbert

It’s no secret that I love romance novels, so this list would be incomplete without one of my favorite contemporary Black voices in the genre: Talia Hibbert. This book is the first in a series that follows the three Brown sisters and their romantic adventures, all of which are compassionate, deeply charming, and extremely sexy.

Chloe Brown has a near-death experience and decides to make some changes in her life. She makes a list of ways she can “get a life,” beyond the confines of her quiet experience bound by computer work and a chronic illness. Goals like “ride a motorcycle,” lead us to the perfect rebellion mentor: Red, the sexy bad boy with a gruff exterior and secret habit of painting shirtless that Chloe may or may not spy on just a little bit (and, yes, he definitely has a motorcycle). It’s sort of enemies-to-lovers but entirely funny, sensitive, and very hot.

Read Get A Life, Chloe Brown

5. An American Marriage by Tayari Jones

Newlyweds Celestial and Roy are at the beginning of a promising life together, deeply in love and poised to launch into success in their respective careers. But then Roy is arrested for a crime Celestial knows he didn’t commit. While he is serving a twelve-year prison sentence, Celestial’s art career takes off, and she finds unexpected solace in the arms of the best man from their wedding. Roy’s conviction is overturned after five years, and while he is ready to return to their American Dream and resume their marriage, Celestial’s life and heart have moved on.

This work is a deft and masterfully told story about the realities of wrongful conviction on a Black family. It’s a heartbreaker, but the writer’s tenderness toward her characters amidst a hard look at the realities around race and the criminal justice system in America manages to keep humanity at the core.

Read An American Marriage

6. Homegoing by Yaa Gyasi

This book absolutely floored me for its sheer scope and absolutely unforgettable writing. Spanning eight generations of a Black family, the book begins in eighteenth-century Ghana with two sisters –– one marries an Englishman and lives a life of luxury in the Cape Coast Castle, and the other is captured in a raid and sold into slavery. Each chapter follows their descendents as the story moves through 300 years of the legacy of slavery and colonialism on both the lineage that remained in Ghana and the one that crossed the Atlantic in the slave trade. This book is a truly singular work of art, bringing our global history into an intimate, unforgettable reading experience.

Read Homegoing

7. New People by Danzy Senna

A perfectly crafted novel, this smart, darkly funny book inspired a passionate argument in my writing group that only made me love it more. The story takes place at the end of the twentieth century following couple Maria and Khalil as they plan their wedding while living in a Black bohemian enclave in Brooklyn. With their matching beige skin tone, they are co-starring in a documentary about “new people” like them, a designation that begs the question of the nebulous nature of social and cultural identities. But Maria, deep in her dissertation work about the Jonestown massacre, has a growing fixation on a Black poet she barely knows, leading her to blur the lines between fantasy and reality, as the bounds with which she has defined her very self begin to unravel.

Read New People

8. The Fire This Time edited by Jesmyn Ward

An essay collection in conversation with James Baldwin’s seminal 1963 collection “The Fire Next Time,” this book brings together some of the most powerful contemporary writers on race and racism today (including many names on this list!). Jesmyn Ward’s selections are alive with purpose, centering Black experiences across a breadth of topics from music to mass shootings. Each masterful poem and essay is grounded in a willingness to confront the brutalities of our country’s harshest truths, all while showcasing a level of piercing intellect that made me pause, take notes, and then go back to read each sentence again and again.

Read The Fire This Time

9. Born A Crime by Trevor Noah

As the title suggests, Noah’s mixed-race parentage was considered an imprisonable offense in apartheid South Africa, and the author was kept hidden for the early years of his life. Once liberated, he and his mother begin a new life together exploring a world suddenly free of centuries-long oppression and struggle in which Noah was never meant to exist. Despite navigating the bleak realities of poverty and violence, these stories are often laugh-out-loud funny, weaving together the ordinary drama of puberty and dating with the ups and downs of a nation recovering from apartheid. The relationship between mother and son is at the core of each story, with a nuanced, complicated, and deeply moving portrait of the ways they grow and change together. This is another I recommend listening to: Noah’s voices for the various characters, and his expert delivery, add a layer of comedy that only he can achieve!

Read Born A Crime

Bonus — On my TBR: Everything Inside: Stories by Edwidge Danticat

A collection of short stories is, in my opinion, the perfect bedside book if you are a compulsive “Just one more chapter!” type like me. Reading a complete story gives me a sense of satisfaction and something whole to think about as I drift off, carrying over with me into the next day. This collection from the great Edwidge Danticat is at the top of my stack, and I can’t wait to dig in.

Read Everything Inside

Stephanie H. Fallon is a writer originally from Houston, Texas. She has an MFA from the Jackson Center of Creative Writing at Hollins University. She lives with her family in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia, where she writes about motherhood, artmaking, and work culture. You can find her on Instagram or learn more on her website.

The post 9 Books By Black Authors Our Editor Loves appeared first on The Good Trade.

One concussion, followed too quickly by another, wreaked havoc on my mental and physical health, causing a cascade of negative effects that would lead to a prolonged recovery and PTSD diagnosis.

I became terrified of what my brain would endure in the world outside my door. Anything that would threaten my head in any way, however small, became something to avoid — low-hanging tree branches, other people, a missed step and subsequent “jostling” sensation. 

“All of it was rooted in anxiety. None of it was real. But I couldn’t tell the difference.”

All of it was rooted in anxiety. None of it was real. But I couldn’t tell the difference.

The PTSD showed up as nightmares and panic attacks. I would hardly leave my house. I thought I was protecting myself, but in fact I was shrinking my world down, making things worse. What I was experiencing is called hypervigilance. PTSD and anxiety mimic the symptoms we’re worried about, convincing us we’ve relapsed when we’re just flooded with cortisol. This vicious cycle makes us feel stuck, even when we’re making progress.

As a writer and a singer-songwriter, my life was built around language. After the injuries, I couldn’t access any of it — not reading, not writing, not singing. When your brain is injured, it can’t process information the way it used to. Anything too complicated — complex sentences, layered melodies, even conversations — quickly overtaxes your system and worsens symptoms. Headaches. Nausea. Dizziness. Light sensitivity. I couldn’t read. I couldn’t think clearly. I couldn’t listen to music. 

“I couldn’t read. I couldn’t think clearly. I couldn’t listen to music.”

As Tove Danovich wrote in The Atlantic, describing her own concussion recovery: 

“For months, a five-minute phone call made me exhausted, as though I’d been swimming laps for an hour. I couldn’t drive, and even as a passenger, looking out the window made me nauseous. Observing anything felt like work; my eyes skipped, as though the world was a slowed-down film reel. My real work…was impossible. Fun, too, was out of the question. Trying to retrieve thoughts felt like rummaging through one empty file cabinet after another. My self, that person who exists in the wiring in my brain, had gone missing. I worried that she might be gone for good.”

For weeks, I lay in darkness, unable to move, unsure of who I was without the things that had always defined me. My guitar and piano would sit untouched for years, and my way back to music would be anything but linear. I was hopeless, convinced I would never get those things back again. 

As I started to heal, I realized I wasn’t alone in feeling overwhelmed and anxious. The numbers tell a stark story: Anxiety rates have surged 25% globally since the pandemic, and things haven’t leveled off. In the U.S., 43% of adults report feeling more anxious than they did the previous year — up from 32% just two years ago. That’s a sustained upward climb, not a temporary spike. And despite all this, only 24% have talked with a mental health professional. That leaves a lot of people looking for other tools.

What changed when I stopped using words

Talk therapy and EMDR helped with the worst of the PTSD, alongside medication. Intensive physical and occupational therapy helped my brain recover. Eventually, I started listening to music again, but for years, I stayed away from writing my own music entirely. It wasn’t really a choice — my brain simply couldn’t handle it.

Helping my brain mend meant protecting it from overstimulation: avoiding overly complicated music or writing, keeping phone calls and visits short, and minimizing time on screens. As my brain healed, I was drawn more and more to quieter music — classical, ambient, neoclassical — genres defined by their unobtrusiveness. 

“I was drawn more and more to quieter music — classical, ambient, neoclassical — genres defined by their unobtrusiveness.”

In 1975, Brian Eno famously invented what we now think of as ambient music while sitting in a hospital bed, recovering from a car accident. His friend had brought him a record player and a record of 18th-century harp music, but Eno couldn’t reach the volume control. 

The music was playing too quietly for him to hear it, but as he lay there, he listened to the rain outside, the din of the hospital, the crinkle of his sheets rustling, all while the distant harp music continued at a barely discernible volume. It was then he realized music could simply be a part of our surroundings, not necessarily the focal point. This kind of listening became important in my recovery.

Eventually, something shifted and I found myself drawn once again to picking up an instrument. But when I did, I didn’t want to write the way I used to — complex song structures, lyrical turns of phrase, any singing at all — because none of it was accessible.

Instead, I played simple chord progressions. Repetitive patterns. Nothing complicated. And something unexpected happened: 20 minutes at the piano would leave me calmer than anything else I’d tried. My hands would be steady. The constant tension in my chest would ease. My hypervigilant brain would go quiet.

I started playing daily, and it became part of my healing toolkit alongside therapy and medication — each addressing different aspects of recovery. Only later did I learn that what I’d stumbled into has significant scientific backing.

Why instrumental music works differently

Researchers have found that instrumental music activates specific neural pathways that help regulate stress responses. In fact, a 2021 meta-analysis of 32 randomized controlled trials found that simply listening to music (what researchers call “receptive music therapy”) significantly reduces anxiety symptoms, with instrumental music proving more effective than vocal music.

The key difference with instrumental music? No lyrics means no language processing. Your brain doesn’t have to work to decode meaning. It can simply respond to sound, rhythm, and pattern. For those of us with overstimulated nervous systems, that makes all the difference.

“No lyrics means no language processing. Your brain doesn’t have to work to decode meaning.”

A 2013 study published in PLOS ONE showed that music listening significantly reduces cortisol, the stress hormone, and improves autonomic nervous system recovery — the body’s automatic regulation of heart rate, breathing, and digestion — after stress exposure. That’s because music engages multiple brain regions simultaneously, activating auditory, motor, memory, attention, and emotion processing systems, as reported in a 2025 review published in Frontiers in Human Neuroscience. 

What I didn’t know during my recovery — but research is now confirming — is that music is uniquely suited to brain healing and neuroplasticity, the brain’s ability to reorganize and heal itself. A 2021 study from the University of Helsinki found that neurological music therapy improved behavioral regulation and executive function in people with traumatic brain injuries. It’s why I could play simple melodies when reading a paragraph was impossible.

Why this matters right now

What started as my personal pathway out of trauma has become something larger. Through my newsletter Fog Chaser, more than 8,000 subscribers tell me this music helps them through anxiety, work stress, panic attacks, and grief. They describe it as “a dose of calm when everything feels too loud.”

This resonates because instrumental music addresses the specific way our nervous systems are failing us right now. We’re not just stressed — we’re overstimulated. 

“Instrumental music addresses the specific way our nervous systems are failing us right now. We’re not just stressed — we’re overstimulated.”

Many of us are searching for accessible tools to help manage this overwhelm. Listening to instrumental music offers something uniquely suited to this moment: It’s immediately available, requires no special equipment, and calms your nervous system without requiring cognitive effort.

The science suggests most of us can benefit from intentional instrumental listening — we just need to know what to listen for and how to use it.

How to use instrumental music for nervous system care

Based on both research and experience, the music that works best tends to share certain qualities: A moderate tempo (you’ll feel this even if you can’t name it); no lyrics competing for your brain’s language centers; familiar harmonic structures your brain can predict without working too hard; and minimal sudden changes in volume or intensity. Consistency matters more than complexity.

“Consistency matters more than complexity.”

You don’t need to overhaul your routine to benefit. Just 10–15 minutes is enough for your nervous system to respond. And remember what Brian Eno discovered in that hospital bed: The music doesn’t need to be your focal point. Let it sit in the background at a low volume, creating an environment for your body to settle rather than something demanding your attention. 

Pay attention to what actually works for you. Some people respond to solo piano, others to strings or layered ambient textures. Your nervous system will tell you what helps — trust it.

As for when to use it: I’ve found certain moments especially receptive. Morning transitions, before you check email or start work. During focused tasks, when your attention networks need support. Between meetings, as a way to reset. Evening wind-down, when you’re signaling to your body that it’s time to shift gears. These small pockets of intentional listening add up.

Where to find music that actually works

The biggest challenge is knowing where to find music that has the right characteristics to help. Most streaming platforms don’t let you search by tempo or harmonic structure, so you need different strategies.

“The biggest challenge is knowing where to find music that has the right characteristics to help.”

When searching Spotify, Apple Music, or YouTube, try terms like “neoclassical piano,” “ambient instrumental,” “slow classical,” or “focus music no lyrics” — these typically surface music with the simple, predictable structures that help rather than distract. Many traditional classical pieces also have the characteristics we’re looking for. 

If you’re new to instrumental music, I’d start with some of these artists, many of whom create layered, textural soundscapes that feel like being wrapped in sound:

Piano-focused:
Hania Rani, Poppy Ackroyd, Eydis Evensen, Agnes Obel, Gia Margaret, Nils Frahm

Ambient/Electronic: 

Kaitlyn Aurelia Smith, Elori Saxl, Hollie Kenniff, Julianna Barwick, Vines (Cassie Wieland), marine eyes, Ólafur Arnalds, Philip Glass 

Strings & Harp:
Lara Somogyi, Mary Lattimore, Anna Phoebe, Arvo Pärt

I’ve created a playlist specifically for The Good Trade featuring pieces that helped me heal — all embodying the tempo, simplicity, and structure research shows works best for nervous system care. You can find my stress relief and recovery playlist, Healing Sounds, here.

What I’ve learned about healing

My guitar and piano sat untouched for years. I thought they’d stay that way forever. But here’s what I didn’t know then: Sometimes the things we think we’ve lost are just waiting for us to come back differently.

“Sometimes the things we think we’ve lost are just waiting for us to come back differently.”

Years later, I play piano most days — not the way I used to, but in a way that matters more. Simple patterns. Quiet melodies. Nothing complicated. My hands are steady. The chest tightness is gone. The hypervigilance has loosened its grip.

Healing isn’t linear, and it doesn’t look the same for everyone. But our nervous systems need help in this overstimulated world, and instrumental music offers something immediately accessible, scientifically backed, and genuinely effective.

If you’re struggling right now — if your world feels too loud or too threatening or too much — instrumental music might give you what it offered me: a way back to yourself. ✨

What helps your nervous system settle? I’d love to hear what’s working for you in the comments.

Matt Evans is a composer and songwriter who turned his recovery from traumatic brain injuries into Fog Chaser, a newsletter delivering original instrumental music for focus and calm. New compositions monthly at fogchaser.substack.com 

The post How Instrumental Music Saved Me—And Why It Might Help You Too appeared first on The Good Trade.

But life experience is a lot like birthday cake — best when it’s shared. 🎂 So this year, we decided to reach out to you, our readers, for even more advice across every decade of life.

And let us tell you — you delivered. We spent hours poring through advice from people in their teens all the way up to their seventies, grateful for all you had to share. Some of you even gave advice for years you have not yet reached, and they read like beautiful manifestations and affirmations of what you want for your life and for others. 

We selected some of our favorites below, but know that every tidbit of wisdom was received with warm hearts (and some teary eyes). Thank you, friends, for making the internet a kinder place, and for making aging seem a lot less scary.

Have your own piece of advice? We’d love to hear about it in the comments! ✨

Table of contents

• Advice for your teenage years
• Advice for your 20s
• Advice for your 30s
• Advice for your 40s
• Advice for your 50s
• Advice for your 60s
• Advice for your 70s (and up!)

Advice for your teenage years

“Trust in yourself and what you know. Don’t feel like you need to fit into a mold or what everyone else says you should be into, look like, dress like, etc. Let your inner voice guide you, and when in doubt, read some books!” —Ifrah A, 20s

“Meditate.” —Colette G, 20s

“Build self-confidence through keeping promises to yourself while you still have a ton of energy! Trust yourself to follow through on doing the things you deserve, like moving your body, eating whole foods, spending time with friends, and everything that makes life fun.” —Anonymous, 20s

“People aren’t thinking about you nearly as much as you think they are.” —Rachel T, 30s

“I don’t know who started the rumor that women need to be hairless to be attractive, but men don’t care. Anytime I’ve mentioned not being waxed or shaved the answer is always ‘so?’ Do what you want, it’s your beautiful body.” —Jacqui D, 30s

“Keep tweezers and wax far away from your eyebrows.” —Hanna S, 30s

“Slow down. You’ll grow up faster than you think and there are so many experiences to be had right now. Savor the time. Learn from the good and the bad. The intensity of your emotions are a gift, don’t ignore them. Sit with them. Consider them. And never be afraid to ask for help. You are loved.” —Laurie N, 40s

“Give yourself some grace and learn about how hormones impact your experience and perception. Be kind to yourself. Enjoy the freedom of your teens while respecting it and take into account how future you may be impacted by present choices.” —Elizabeth C, 40s

“Your parents are on your side. Your family is always going to be there. Value your time with them.” —Manjusha G, 40s

“As much as you want to moan and groan when your parents start acting ‘all young and silly,’ LET THEM. Life flies by REALLY fast and reliving teenage moments to them feels like yesterday.” —Nic K, 40s

“Find a mentor that you can share feelings with and ask important questions Don’t worry about not being in the cool gang, you will find your groove and tribe many times over throughout your life” —Sandi C, 50s

“Find your hidden gem. What makes you tick? Claim it. Find a good therapist. Go at least 4 times then you’ll have the rapport in place for when you need it. Avoid alcohol. Don’t ask why…just wait.” —Lisa PS, 50s

“Be open and learn from your elders. They have life experience which turns into wisdom as it ages.” —Amy S, 60s

“Oh darlings, just hold on tight. It’s all so confusing and wonderful all at the same time. Choose your friends carefully and don’t be afraid to be yourself and love that person.” —Dianne S, 70s

“Oh darlings, just hold on tight. It’s all so confusing and wonderful all at the same time. Choose your friends carefully and don’t be afraid to be yourself and love that person.”

Dianne S, 70s

Advice for your 20s

“Find something you enjoy that you can go to when in tough times.” —Anonymous, 20s

“You should not compete with others, drink way less, and ask a lot of questions. Also, suffering in relationships is not love. Leave.” —Mariana CR, 20s

“Know your worth and that it’s okay to make changes. You don’t have to be locked into a path and follow that to its end. You can shift and change course. Your skills and time are valuable, never let anyone else undermine that.” —Ifrah A, 20s

“You definitely don’t have to know your next step (your 20s are for figuring yourself out), but you should have a strong set of values by your mid-20s that guide the decisions you make. That way, you’ll end up in the right place, even if you don’t know what that place is right now.” —Anonymous, 20s

“Be intentional about your relationships, learn to invest in those people that also invest in you. Continue to love others. Go at the pace you’re called to go, you don’t need to get married right away, or have kids right away, or get a house right away. Everyone has their own pace.” —Shine R, 20s

“Celebrate your friends’ accomplishments, big or small. A new apartment, an engagement, leaving a crappy job…Be happy for the people around you!” —Celia W, 20s

“Everything will be constantly changing during your 20s, so try your best to build a relationship with yourself that can ground you when things become confusing or overwhelming. Get to know yourself (and your inner child, very important!), meditate, move your body, do more of what you like, say no to the things you don’t and try not to take life too seriously.” —Iris G, 20s

“You can change. And change again. And change again.” —Farrin M, 30s

“Have fun! Make mistakes and learn from them!” —Jen K, 30s

“Approach this decade with ferocious curiosity” —Kimberly H, 30s

“Sexual health is important, get your pap smear every year, get tested for STDs, and make sure your partner does as well.” —Jacqui D, 30s

“Everyone is struggling. It’s not just you.” —Hanna S, 30s

“Don’t turn down road-trips or special moments with one or both of your parents. You’ll regret it if you turn down some sweet bonding time.” —Anonymous, 30s

“Life is long: don’t rush to work and have a stable life. Don’t obsess over money, clout and status. Dance, cook, have sex, do drugs, stay at home, sleep in the streets, do whatever except obsess over work and money.” —Elena S, 30s

“Even though everyone says you should find a career in something you love, not everyone should. Depending on that about which you are passionate for your livelihood can take the joy out of it. Find a job you enjoy, one that is fulfilling, but it’s okay to keep your passions for yourself.” —Laurie N, 40s

“Be kind to yourself. Learn how to enjoy spending time on your own.” —Elizabeth C, 40s

“You will not be the same person 20 years, don’t take it too seriously.” —Michelle L, 40s

“Eat healthy, drink water, take care of your skin and get exercise, and build healthy routines, rituals, and habits—your 40+ age self will massively thank you.” —Nic K, 40s

“Work on yourself in little ways (with that therapist from your teens :). Start saving money. Start thinking about needs vs wants. Kiss a lot of different people. Say nice things to yourself in the form of affirmations. If you have a shitty mom or dad, find new role models. Journal. Travel to as many countries as you can. Begin in this decade.” —Lisa P, 50s

“My 20s were the toughest decade for me, trying to find my niche. Explore. Try different jobs. Live in different parts of the world. Be open to learning more about yourself. I was drawn to Tarot cards and astrology to understand myself. Therapy never hurts.” —Amy S, 60s

“Get out of your head and into the world, experience is much better when you feel it with your heart.” —Susan M, 60s

“Fall in love with everyone.” —Dianne S, 70s

“Get out of your head and into the world, experience is much better when you feel it with your heart.”

Susan M, 60s

Advice for your 30s

“Develop an awareness of how you feel and follow it. Drink your water, wash and moisturize your face. Quit that job. Find a new one thing and follow it like a rabbit down a hole.” —Farrin M, 30s

“Don’t panic if you seem to be doing things later than everyone else. We all grow and discover at different rates. At the same time, don’t let fear hold you back. You are so much stronger than you think.” —Jessie C, 30s

“This is where transformation happens. This is when you learn about yourself more than ever. Allow it, embrace it and be proud of how far you’ve come” —Allison R, 30s

“Glass of water before bed. Glass of water before morning coffee. Now that does a body good.” —Hanna S, 30s

“If you’re not happy, make a change until you are. Life is too short to spend living someone else’s narrative. Nothing matters as much as being true to yourself. So do the things that make you happy and distance yourself from those that don’t.” —Cris A, 30s

“Trust your gut but don’t always do as your experience tells you: take chances, risk things, cry a lot.” —Elena S, 30s

“I felt like this was the time when I started to settle into my being, my life, and my future but that wasn’t quite right. We should constantly learn, change, evolve, and expand. From our souls to our bodies to our surroundings, seek growth. Surround yourself with love and people who nourish you. Find your community (if you haven’t already) and build upon your foundation.” —Laurie N, 40s

“This is the stage for some belly button gazing and doing some self work.” —Michelle L, 40s

“Be patient with your partner — you are together for a marathon, not a sprint.” —Manjusha G, 40s

“Perfect the art of being attentive and buying quality gifts people will love to receive. Invest in a quality mattress and quality bedding — sleep is important and you best love being in the place you do it every night” —Nic K, 40s

“Take care of yourself, this includes your: feet, mental health, and physical strength. Also, if you’re interested in starting a family and haven’t yet, it can still be done — admittedly, having my one and only baby at 40, I can tell you that you can do it, just know your body can struggle more if you’re not actively working towards improving yourself (exercise, etc.).” —Rebecca W, 40s

“Be kind with your changing self. Life is happening now. You don’t have to be perfect to be accepted or loved.” —Marie C, 40s

“There is no perfect time to start a family.” —Michelle Q, 40s

“Stop trying to be happy all the time. Strive for contentment and appreciate happy when it happens.” —Regina M, 50s

“Stay true to yourself. This is the decade when you might erode/lose who you are at your core due to life changes, partnerships, children, and peer pressure.” —Cathy V, 50s

“Travel. Travel. Travel. Develop grounding daily practices. Trust. Begin investing. Learn new things. Read all the time. Be a good friend. Find your inner wisdom. Talk to her regularly. Keep checking in with your therapist. If they suck, definitely find a better one.” —Lisa PS, 50s

“Eat well, watch alcohol consumption.” —JA, 60s

“Don’t feel that you have to take on everything. Job, marriage, parenthood. You’ve still got some time, you’re still growing. No unnecessary pressure.” —Dianne S, 70s

“Trust. Begin investing. Learn new things. Read all the time. Be a good friend. Find your inner wisdom. Talk to her regularly.”

Lisa PS, 50s

Advice for your 40s

“If you’re lucky, you still have as many years ahead as behind. What an amazing time to exist. The knowledge you have earned over the last few decades can make this the most beautiful time in your life so far. This can be the decade of comfort and exploration. You’ve likely established yourself in one way or another. Maybe it’s time to lean into that or maybe it’s time to renew yourself. It’s also time to make sure you’re taking care of your body and mind. Feed and exercise both in a way that rejuvenates. You will be rewarded for that love.” —Laurie N, 40s

“Take care of your skin (full body), do more of what you love, and go to bed by 10 — or find a way to get all your sleep.” —Anonymous, 40s

“Be kind to yourself. You are still so young and don’t forget it. Appreciate your body.” —Elizabeth C, 40s

“If you haven’t started already, spend as much time and collect as much wisdom you can from the elders in your life you’re close to. […] Your 30s will have flown by and your 40s go even faster. Stop filling your life with clothes, make-up and other material things. Spend the money on trips and memories and experiences, and savings.” —Nic K, 40s

“You still have plenty of time ahead of you. Make this time yours and not others’!” —Marie C, 40s

“Remember that even those people in your life that you trust fully will eventually cause hurt to you through betrayal, dishonesty, or just plain bullying (yes, bullying is still a thing). Having the grace and strength to get through these challenges are built throughout your earlier decades. Don’t lose who you are because those of peer pressure.” —Cathy V, 50s

“Trust your inner wisdom. Claim your voice. Keep traveling. Nurture friendships. Hire help. Limit alcohol. Keep your practices strong. Give time to your community. Take your neighbor’s garbage cans in and out. Travel. Volunteer in another country. Keep learning. Get a dog. Write. Teach others what you know best. Be kind. Tip a lot. Save and spend. Do both equally.” —Lisa PS, 50s

“I felt my strongest, internally in my 40s. Sex is great. Go for it.” —Amy S, 60s

“Buckle up. Contribute to 401k, patience, enjoy life while kids are still home.” —JA, 60s

“Ok now you are a big person….an adult. You may think you were before but most people shouldn’t have made life altering decisions before now.” —Dianne S, 70s

Advice for your 50s

“I have just turned 50 and although I’ve just moved countries, changed my career, learning a new language, I’m still searching out things to do, places to go….. live life to the full. I’m focused on my health because I want to be fit and independent for as long as I can. I make sure people I love and my well-being are at the forefront of my life. Looking back I probably have only one wish which is that I probably should have invested more but it’s only a minor practical thing that I can say from hindsight.” —Sandi C, 50s

“Continue to learn every day, especially through younger and older people. Be open to evolution and keep in mind that the world is so incredibly different than when you were growing up. Practice patience with those who feel like their old ways are the best ways but also free yourself from their company when you realize that their values and philosophy about living are completely contrary to yours.” —Cathy V, 50s

This is a good time. If you’ve taken care of yourself, your body is probably perfect. So is your mind. You have gained knowledge and experience enough to give good sold information and advise. It’s a decade to reevaluate and look at some of the things you wanted to do but didn’t. If you are a parent you can start to have a meaningful adult relationship with your children.” —Dianne S, 70s

Advice for your 60s

“WOWOWOW…how did I get here and what is next? I spent too many years surviving, sometimes thriving, sometimes crying, but 60 wasn’t on my radar. Dream of your next life early on.” —Susan M, 60s

“60s are a time to reflect and think about the person you are. If you’re retired and worked all of your life you most probably didn’t take the time to tweak any emotional flaws that may have been their all your life. It’s time to sit back any really look at the way you are, or not loving yourself. It’s time to stop giving any of your energy to criticism, negativity or judgment to yourself and to people and things around you. It’s time to realize that what you think is who you are. Be soft, be accepting. We’re all, including you, doing the best we can.” —Dianne S, 70s

Advice for your 70s (and up!)

“It’s really a lovely decade. BTW, I forgot to say all this time you should have been moving and breathing! If you have, and you’re healthy, enjoy every minute. It’s one of the best times in your life. Spend time being kind, generous. Laugh a lot. Stay mindful, love every moment this life continues to give you. Being is a privilege and an honour. Don’t ever take it for granted. Love yourself. See beauty in the world. And look in the mirror every day and tell that reflection looking back how wonderful they are. The world is Divine and so are you.” —Dianne S, 70s

“Love yourself. See beauty in the world. And look in the mirror every day and tell that reflection looking back how wonderful they are. The world is Divine and so are you.”

Dianne S, 70s

Emily McGowan is the Editorial Director at The Good Trade. She studied Creative Writing and Business at Indiana University, and has over ten years of experience as a writer and editor in sustainability and lifestyle spaces. Since 2017, she’s been discovering and reviewing the top sustainable home, fashion, beauty, and wellness products so readers can make their most informed decisions. Her editorial work has been recognized by major publications like The New York Times and BBC Worklife. You can usually find her in her colorful Los Angeles apartment journaling, playing with her cat, or crafting. Say hi on Instagram or follow along with her Substack, Pinky Promise.

The post We Asked Our Readers For Advice On Aging By Decade — Here’s What You Had To Say appeared first on The Good Trade.

“There are so many takes on food in the world that it can feel impossible to know what’s noise and what’s actually helpful.”

In my functional medicine practice, we zoom out from the trends and look at something much simpler and much more powerful: Food as information.

Every bite you eat sends a message to your body. It tells your hormones how to communicate, your nervous system how safe you are, your mitochondria how much energy to produce, and your gut microbiome which bacteria should thrive. Food shapes inflammation, blood sugar, sleep, mood, and how well your body repairs itself.

That’s what functional medicine is really about. It reminds us that the body isn’t guessing. It’s responding to the inputs we give it. And while food is, of course, fuel, it’s also one of the most consistent streams of data your body receives all day long.

When we understand that, eating stops being about perfection or pressure. We don’t have to moralize food to appreciate its impact. We simply need to understand the science of how it speaks to the body — and that’s where functional medicine shines.

It becomes a conversation, one where your body is always listening.

Your body reads food like code

When we talk about food as information, we’re talking about biochemistry. Every bite you take triggers a cascade of signals throughout the body.

Here’s what the science tells us:

• Protein signals your body to build and repair tissue, stabilize blood sugar, and produce satiety hormones like GLP-1 and peptide YY.
• Fiber feeds your gut microbiome, which produces short-chain fatty acids that lower inflammation, support immunity, and regulate mood.
• Healthy fats help create hormones, stabilize energy, and support brain function, because your brain is nearly 60% fat.
• Colorful plants deliver antioxidants that protect cells, support detoxification pathways, and calm oxidative stress.
• Sugar-rich or ultra-processed foods spike cortisol, destabilize the gut, and create blood sugar volatility that affects mood and sleep.

Nothing you eat is neutral. That doesn’t make food moral or immoral — it simply means everything you eat contains information that your body has to interpret.

How food talks to your hormones

Your hormones respond directly to the information they receive from your meals. When you eat protein, healthy fats, and fiber-rich carbohydrates, your body gets a steady, predictable signal: Your blood sugar stays stable, inflammation stays low, and your metabolism feels supported.

When meals are irregular, imbalanced, or built mostly from ultra-processed foods, your body gets a very different message. Your blood sugar swings. Cortisol ramps up. Insulin spikes. And over time, these signals disrupt hormone balance — especially estrogen, progesterone, thyroid hormones, and even testosterone.

Functional medicine views food as a powerful hormonal regulator, not because of restriction, but because of rhythm, quality, and information.

“Functional medicine views food as a powerful hormonal regulator, not because of restriction, but because of rhythm, quality, and information.”

That’s why it pays close attention to:

• Protein intake for hormone synthesis
• Healthy fats for estrogen and progesterone production
• Fiber for detoxification pathways that metabolize hormones
• Micronutrients like magnesium, zinc, B vitamins, and omega-3s that regulate hormonal rhythm

Your body’s takeaway is simple:

Balanced meals = balanced hormones.

When you feed your body well, your hormones respond with steadiness, resilience, and clarity. When you don’t, your hormones compensate — often with symptoms like fatigue, mood swings, cravings, acne, irregular cycles, or sleep disruption.

Your hormonal landscape is dynamic, and food is one of the biggest levers you have.

Your gut microbiome is listening too

The gut microbiome is one of the biggest information hubs in the body. Functional medicine also teaches us that eating is relational. You’re not just feeding yourself; you’re feeding trillions of microbes that live inside you. The bacteria in your gut help regulate inflammation, immunity, digestion, and neurotransmitters like serotonin.

“You’re not just feeding yourself; you’re feeding trillions of microbes that live inside you.”

The food you eat is the primary factor shaping which microbes thrive.

• Fiber and plants feed beneficial bacteria.
• Ultra-processed foods feed inflammatory bacteria.
• Polyphenols (in berries, greens, herbs, cacao) act like instructions for the gut lining to repair itself.

This is why functional medicine often starts with the gut. When the gut receives the right information, everything downstream — hormones, mood, skin, metabolism — improves.

Food and your nervous system: Safety vs. stress

Most people don’t think of eating as a nervous-system experience, but it is. That’s because your body is constantly asking, Am I safe right now?

When you eat slowly, chew thoroughly, and engage your senses, you activate the parasympathetic nervous system — the “rest and digest” state where digestion and absorption actually happen.

When you eat distracted, rushed, anxious, or standing over the sink, your body gets the opposite signal. In fight-or-flight, digestion slows. Acidity changes. Enzymes decrease. Nutrients aren’t absorbed efficiently. Cortisol takes over, and your body prioritizes survival over digestion.

“When you eat distracted, rushed, anxious, or standing over the sink, your body gets the opposite signal. In fight-or-flight, digestion slows.”

You could eat the healthiest bowl on earth, but if you’re eating in fight-or-flight mode, your digestion won’t fully activate because your body is focused on “urgent” matters.

You cannot metabolize what you don’t feel safe enough to digest.

This is why, in my practice at Love Life, I teach my patients to “activate” their meals: a few intentional breaths before eating, putting your phone away, relaxing your shoulders, letting your body know the stressor is gone.

That small shift reactivates the parasympathetic system. Digestion improves. Blood sugar stabilizes. Your gut-brain axis gets the message: You’re safe to eat.

Food is emotional too — and that matters

Functional medicine is not rigid. It doesn’t ask you to eliminate the joy of food. Food is connection. Food is memory. Food is culture. Food is comfort and celebration and it’s even identity and love.

From a physiological standpoint, positive emotion around food increases oxytocin, the hormone that fosters safety, bonding, and relaxation. This improves digestion and lowers stress hormones, which means your body absorbs nutrients more effectively when you feel at ease.

“Positive emotion around food increases oxytocin, the hormone that fosters safety, bonding, and relaxation.”

You don’t have to choose between nourishing your body and enjoying your food. Functional medicine believes in both.

Eating for energy, not exhaustion

Your mitochondria — the energy powerhouses in your cells — respond directly to your meals. This is a big part of your metabolic health.

Nutrients like B vitamins, magnesium, omega-3s, antioxidants, and amino acids give them the raw materials they need to function. Ultra-processed foods, chronic blood-sugar spikes, and nutrient-poor meals leave them depleted, which is why they’re so often tied to fatigue and burnout.

“Your mitochondria — the energy powerhouses in your cells — respond directly to your meals.”

Food gives your mitochondria instructions: Make energy, or slow down to protect me.

Another cornerstone of metabolic health is steady blood sugar, one of the most foundational pieces of functional medicine. Because when blood sugar is chaotic, everything else is chaotic. Unstable blood sugar can impact:

• Hormone balance
• Sleep
• Mood
• Energy
• Thyroid function
• Cravings
• Inflammation
• Stress response

Even if your labs are “normal,” daily blood sugar swings can disrupt your adrenal system and push your body into a pattern that feels like burnout.

One of the simplest principles is the “protein-and-fiber-first” approach. When you build meals that include protein, fiber, and healthy fat, you slow down glucose absorption, improve insulin sensitivity, and create a steadier internal terrain for your hormones and nervous system.

Your biology thrives on steadiness, not spikes.

The functional medicine approach to eating

Functional medicine isn’t about rigid food rules. It’s about understanding the impact of food and using that information to nourish the whole system.

Here’s what that looks like in practice:

1. Food Without Morality

No “good” or “bad” foods — just understanding how different foods communicate different things to your body.

2. Stable Blood Sugar

Balanced meals with protein, healthy fats, and fiber send a calming message to hormones and metabolism.

3. Eating With Awareness

A few breaths before eating and slowing down helps your body drop into the parasympathetic state where digestion actually happens.

4. Feeding the Microbiome

More whole foods, more colors, more fiber. This is information that heals.

5. Choosing Pattern Over Perfection

What you do consistently matters more than any single meal.

Functional medicine meets you where you are and helps you understand why your body feels the way it feels — and how food can support you, not overwhelm you.

Food is a conversation, not a test

When we look at food as information, we stop chasing trends and start understanding our own bodies. We stop eating from fear and start eating from clarity. We stop labeling foods as “good” or “bad” and start asking better questions: What message is this sending to my body? How does this help me feel? What is my body telling me in return?

Functional medicine doesn’t expect perfection. It asks for awareness. It invites you to slow down enough to ask your body what it needs. It reminds you that your body isn’t trying to make your life difficult — it’s always communicating, always adapting, always doing its best with the information it’s given. What you eat becomes part of that information.

“Your body isn’t trying to make your life difficult — it’s always communicating, always adapting, always doing its best with the information it’s given.”

When you choose foods that support steadiness, safety, and nourishment, your body responds in kind. And the good news: Uou don’t have to overhaul your life to start. Small shifts create real change.

Food can be medicine.

Food can be grounding.

Food can be comfort, culture, and connection.

Food can be information that helps your body do what it was designed to do: heal, repair, restore, and thrive.

Dr. Jaclyn Tolentino is a Board-Certified Family Physician and the Lead Functional Medicine Physician at Love.Life. Specializing in women’s health and hormone optimization, she has been featured in Vogue, The Wall Street Journal, and Women’s Health. As a functional practitioner and a breast cancer survivor, Dr. Tolentino is dedicated to uncovering the root causes of health challenges, employing a holistic, whole-person approach to empower lasting wellbeing. Follow her on Instagram here for more insights.

The post Food Is Information: What Functional Medicine Gets Right About Eating appeared first on The Good Trade.

“We rehearsed every Monday, and when I first joined, I really needed that structure.”

What’s my obsession with Mondays, you ask? A couple of years ago, I decided to join a community choir in Chelsea. We rehearsed every Monday, and when I first joined, I really needed that structure. I was clouded by depression (which I later found out was due to an acne medication I was taking), and my remote job only made me feel more isolated. 

Music has always been intertwined with my DNA, as tangled up in it as corded headphones at the bottom of your bag (a lost art, right?). My dad plays Chopin on the piano like it’s as easy as Hot Cross Buns; my mom’s voice rivals an angel’s. So as soon as I could sit on the piano bench without sliding off, I was taking lessons. Then I married the keyboard to the vocal chord, taking voice lessons, singing in select choirs, and even sometimes playing out with my dad. 

So when I needed something to lift me out of my melancholy, community choir seemed like just the thing. And it was. For a while. 

But then I started to get burnt out by the whole “every Monday” thing. I couldn’t say yes to other plans, or even have the option of doing nothing on what is famously the most draining day of the week. The commute to choir was lengthy, almost an hour each way, made more hectic by rush hour, near-certain train delays, and the anarchic bedlam that is the Times Square subway transfer. I spent most of the rehearsal not focusing on the music, but impatiently checking my phone to see how close we were to the end. 

“I started to get burnt out by the whole ‘every Monday’ thing. I couldn’t say yes to other plans, or even have the option of doing nothing.”

So, I thought about quitting. And then not quitting. Over, and over, and over again. I imagined how calm I’d feel having a Monday evening with no obligations. But that fantasy would be swiftly shattered, or at least fractured, when I would think about Betty, the older woman in the tenor section who always smiled when I walked in. Or the two women I sat next to in the soprano section, and how we’d snicker between measures, the adult version of passing notes in class. And Dusty the golden doodle, who was adamant that belly rubs were far more important than the SATB arrangement of “Smooth Operator.” 

Because, of course, choir was about singing. But I can sing in the shower. The people (and dogs) made the choir worth it, and I felt as if quitting meant I didn’t appreciate them the way I should have. Despite that guilt, I couldn’t hide that I just wasn’t looking forward to choir anymore. And once I was able to admit that, it seemed like it should’ve been easy to leave the choir behind. So why was I having such a hard time making this decision? 

“I felt as if quitting meant I didn’t appreciate them the way I should have.”

Rebecca Hendrix, LMFT, helped me unpack that. As I described my dilemma, Hendrix noticed that this was more than a mild case of indecisiveness. I was judging myself, terming myself a “quitter” and allowing that declaration to color how I thought about myself. 

She suggested a reframing of my decision from one that condemns change to one that celebrates my ability to listen to my needs, both now and in the past. When I started choir, I was listening to my needs at the time: More social interaction, a new routine to soften my depression, a return to more musical roots. Now, I have different needs: More downtime during the week, and space for more spontaneity, should I want it. 

While quitting felt so negative to me at the time, I now realize that the ability to let go of a hobby is just as vital as taking the leap to start one. But acknowledging that is one thing. How do you actually do it? 

Accept that you won’t be 100% certain 

We’d all like to be unflinchingly sure of the decisions we make, but that’s not the reality. That tug in the other direction, that gray area that never seems to settle into black or white, can cause us not to act on very real feelings. But as it turns out, being uncertain about something and doing it anyway, that is where progress is made. 

“We’d all like to be unflinchingly sure of the decisions we make, but that’s not the reality.”

Being a marriage and family therapist, Hendrix remarked on her experience with couples, saying, “I can’t tell you how many couples walk down the aisle, feeling like they should be 100% like, ‘This is the best day of my life, I’m absolutely certain this is the best person for me.’ They’re not. But they walk down the aisle anyway, and they have a very healthy, long-term, successful relationship.” 

Certainty can be comforting, but it can also make us more rigid than we need to be. Uncertainty just means that thing you’re quitting is nuanced — not all good, not all bad. 

Listen to your gut, but don’t judge it

If you’re feeling like you might want to quit something, there’s probably a reason. Whether it’s dread, boredom, burnout, or some cocktail of the three, those are flags worth paying attention to. Your job is to give those signs a nod, without slipping into judgment. 

“If you’re feeling like you might want to quit something, there’s probably a reason.”

Hendrix gives the example of choosing to end a friendship. “Someone might ask, what does it mean about me that I don’t want to be friends with this person anymore? Well, I make it mean that I’m not kind. Can I forgive myself and say that just because I’m not going to be friends with that person doesn’t mean I’m not kind?”

She calls this a self-honoring choice, one where you resolve not to draw conclusions about your character based on a single decision. We can apply this to everything, including the hobbies we choose to step away from. 

“She calls this a self-honoring choice, one where you resolve not to draw conclusions about your character based on a single decision.”

Okay, so what if it’s something more important than a hobby? What if you’re volunteering for a cause where people depend on you? Isn’t it selfish to quit in that case? 

Hendrix says no. “It’s not selfish, it’s self-honoring to take care of myself first. Because if I do, I’m going to have more to give.” 

It all comes back to the ever-evolving nature of our needs. Just because you commit to volunteering in one period of your life doesn’t mean you have to do that forever. And it also doesn’t mean that the time you did show up is worth less because you didn’t stick with it. 

Your hesitancy to quit might be exactly why you should

If you’re reading this, you’re probably someone who makes decisions methodically. That doesn’t mean you break out a pros and cons list to buy a new pair of jeans (though if you do, I would not judge it). But you’re less impulsive when it comes to the way you distribute money, time, and energy. 

“We’re hard-wired to persevere, to follow through, even when it’s inconvenient.”

That’s a good thing! We’re hard-wired to persevere, to follow through, even when it’s inconvenient.

Your hesitancy to quit means that you’re a thoughtful person who makes grounded decisions. And sometimes the best decision is to grant yourself the fluidity to let go of a hobby, rather than digging your heels in as if to say, “I planned to like this, so I have to like it.” 

Just because you quit something doesn’t mean you can’t come back to it

Viewing my decision as permanent is what made it stressful for me. I felt like I was operating within some kind of “The Little Mermaid” logic: You can trade your tail for legs, but you have to give up your voice forever. 

Again, it comes back to self-judgment, or even the judgment you imagine others are casting on you. Those people stuck with choir, those people aren’t quitters, those people are better at balancing life than I am… the list goes on. 

“It comes back to self-judgment, or even the judgment you imagine others are casting on you.”

Chances are: No one is analyzing your decision that deeply. If you take some time off from a hobby and decide to go back to it, no one is going to think that you’re lesser for it. 

You shouldn’t either.

Olivia Macdonald is a NYC-based writer. Her advertising work for clients like the Harris-Walz campaign and the state of Connecticut have been featured in AdWeek and AdAge, but more importantly, have been a big hit in the family group chat. You can read more of her writing in her newsletter, om nom, and on her website.

The post How I Learned That “Quitting” Isn’t Always A Bad Thing appeared first on The Good Trade.

The movement once captivated early adopters chasing superhuman performance, but many of us are now seeking something far more grounded: Steady energy, increased resilience, and a life that feels expansive.

“Many of us are now seeking something far more grounded: Steady energy, increased resilience, and a life that feels expansive.”

Health optimization is available to all of us, not just those willing to “hack the system” by restricting their diets or pushing the limits of their human potential.  

In the early days, biohacking resembled a Silicon Valley science experiment built on performance enhancement and metric manipulation. Its unofficial mascot, Dave Asprey, proudly crowned himself the “Father of Biohacking,” and inspired an entire generation of tech bros who willingly put butter in their coffee and strapped sensors on every limb.

Their goal was to upgrade their biology in the pursuit of longevity, often at the expense of quality of life. Strict bedtimes, restrictive protocols, meals manufactured for precise macros rather than enjoyment. It may have been longevity stripped of joy, but it did spark a broader conversation about health in a country struggling with chronic disease and a healthcare system that doesn’t prevent illness.

Now that health optimization has gone mainstream, it’s clear that biohacking takes many forms. And, if you ask most women about how they define their quest to optimize body, mind, or life, you’ll receive a more nuanced and sustainable approach.

Why women are the original biohackers

When it comes to female physiology, biohacking serves a different purpose — one that brings the body back to homeostasis. We want to extend our healthspan, the number of years that we live without disease or disability, not just make it to 100.

“When it comes to female physiology, biohacking serves a different purpose — one that brings the body back to homeostasis.”

Women already live longer than men (on average until 80), but we spend more of those years in poorer health, with higher rates of heart disease, dementia, and osteoporosis. 

That said, women have always been biohackers. Our complex biology has always required us to adjust our diets, routines, and rituals based on our symptoms long before wearables existed. 

We have a long lineage of healers, herbalists, and midwives who had their own form of biohacking without the Silicon Valley branding.

What I’ve learned from biohacking

I experimented with biohacking four years ago, and it transformed my health in a remarkably short time. Within 90 days, I reversed the early signs of prediabetes and cleared stubborn symptoms that had followed me since my twenties, including recurring acne and digestive issues.

At the advice of Dr. Molly Maloof, a physician specializing in female biohacking and functional medicine, I tried a continuous glucose monitor. That single device changed my entire approach to wellness. Seeing my blood sugar in real time showed me how every choice I made impacted my metabolism, which drives everything, including energy, digestion, brain function, and even long-term disease risk.

Over those three months, I gathered insights that allowed me to overhaul my daily habits. Everything improved, and it didn’t require an extreme routine. Simply by understanding my body’s responses and adjusting my meals and movement, I was able to keep my blood sugar steady.

“Over those three months, I gathered insights that allowed me to overhaul my daily habits. Everything improved, and it didn’t require an extreme routine.”

After that experience, I explored other evidence-based tools like peptides and red light therapy, which helped me recover from injuries in record time. It became obvious to me that thriving in this modern world doesn’t mean choosing between nature and technology. We can benefit from utilizing both — starting by supporting the foundations of health (whole foods, deep sleep, muscle maintenance) and layering in tools that give us more visibility into how our bodies work. 

What the biohacking boom means for everyday health

According to Grand View Research, the global biohacking market is projected to reach $69 billion by 2030 based on the rapid growth of apps, at-home genetic test kits, wearable trackers, and consumer products that allow people to create personalized wellness protocols.

But, with this explosion of innovation, it’s harder than ever for the average person to figure out what to buy or where to start.

“With this explosion of innovation, it’s harder than ever for the average person to figure out what to buy or where to start.”

These days, almost nothing is off-limits in terms of optimization:

• Throne, a smart toilet-seat sensor, analyzes your bowel movements to monitor your gut health and urinary wellness.
• Feno, a newly launched “full-mouth smartbrush,” uses 18,000 precision bristles and an oral scanner to evaluate dental health in twenty seconds and predict risk for chronic disease.

The tools are impressive but mostly unnecessary to improve wellbeing. The real value of biohacking is understanding your body well enough to make more empowered decisions about your specific needs.

My protocol for biohacking in the real world:

So how should a wellness or fitness enthusiast navigate this wave of emerging technology and set realistic expectations for what it can do to improve quality of life and extend healthspan? Start with the tools that help you understand your biology and support the foundational pillars of health — diet, movement, sleep, and recovery.

“Start with the tools that help you understand your biology and support the foundational pillars of health — diet, movement, sleep, and recovery.”

In my coaching practice, I suggest that clients begin their biohacking journey by choosing one primary area of focus — then layer in supportive tools or practices as they work towards that goal.

Below are the biohacking tools I most often recommend, organized by category and usefulness. Scroll down to read through them all, or click the links below to follow topics you’re most interested in.

1. Biosensors
2. Biowearables
3. Bio-tracking apps
4. Environmental biohacking devices
5. Recovery and regeneration tech
6. Metabolic and musculoskeletal tools
7. Skin regeneration

1. Biosensors

Internal sensors understanding what’s happening inside the body, typically in real time.

Continuous Glucose Monitor (CGM) + Levels App

• Now available without a prescription for anyone looking to manage blood sugar levels, a CGM (such as Stelo) is a small, painless sensor that you wear in your arm that tracks your glucose in real time.
• When paired with a lifestyle app like Levels, it can help you interpret the raw data to make changes to what you eat, how you sleep ,and when you move — all levers that can affect your glucose, energy, and long-term metabolic health.
• If you’re curious about this, you can read my deep dive: “How To Steady Your Glucose Levels With Or Without A CGM”.

Comprehensive Labs (from Function Health or Joi+Blokes)

• At-home lab testing lets you order comprehensive bloodwork panels without a doctor’s visit.
• These tests give you personalized insights into your hormones, inflammation and metabolic markers, as well as nutrient levels so you can address issues early and optimize proactively.

2. Biowearables

Physiology and recovery trackers for monitoring stress, sleep, readiness, and how well your body adapts to the stressors of your life. 

Oura Ring 

• This biowearable tracks sleep, heart rate variability (HRV), body temperature, and recovery, especially good for perimenopause when all of these levels fluctuate wildly
• They have partnered with complementary tracking apps like Apple Health, Clue, Natural Cycles, MyFitness Pal, Cronometer, and even Stelo, the over-the-counter CGM, for an integrated look.

WHOOP Strap

• The WHOOP is a wrist-based recovery tracker that measures strain, sleep, HRV, and stress load continuously.
• Best for fitness enthusiasts who want to understand how their workouts and lifestyle choices impact their cardiometabolic fitness, recovery, and healthspan.
• They are now offering Advanced Labs with 65 biomarkers that include a clinician-reviewed plan to tie together all of your data to reach your goals.

3. Bio-tracking apps

These apps monitor lifestyle and behavior, capturing and tracking habits, symptoms, or inputs to change behavior or analyze patterns. The menstrual cycle apps are excellent for collecting historical data, and the nutrition apps are helpful before (and during) any new protocol.

Menstrual tracking (from Clue or Natural Cycles)

• Both apps track menstrual cycles, hormonal patterns, and fertility windows.
• They help women understand their monthly periods, predict symptoms, and navigate perimenopause more intentionally.

Nutrition tracking (from MyFitnessPal or Cronometer)

• Both apps record what you eat (macronutrient breakdown and calories) to help you understand your patterns and change behavior.
• By logging detailed macro and micronutrient data, it helps with accountability while you optimize body composition and metabolism.

4. Environmental biohacking devices

For deliberately changing your environment through heat, humidity, or light to create controlled stressors and induce beneficial physiological responses.

Sauna (infrared or traditional)

• A sauna uses heat to raise your core temperature, improve circulation, and trigger detoxification and recovery.
• Regular use can reduce stress, improve sleep, support cardiovascular health, and boost metabolic rate. According to biomedical researcher and Founder of FoundMyFitness, Dr. Rhonda Patrick, PhD, one of the leading public educators on sauna science, frequent sauna use (4–7 times per week) is associated with a 40% lower risk of all-cause mortality. Her work helped popularize the landmark Finnish studies showing powerful cardiovascular, metabolic, and longevity benefits from regular heat therapy.

Red Light Therapy (Low-level laser therapy or photobiomodulation)

• Red and near-infrared light panels deliver wavelengths that help cells produce more energy (ATP).
• These panels, masks, handheld wands, or full body mats or beds all use LED or near-infrared hardware that can support skin health, collagen production, inflammation, muscle recovery, and overall cellular function.

5. Recovery and regeneration tech

For healing, reducing inflammation, and calming the nervous system.

Higher Dose PEMF Mat

• A PEMF mat uses pulsed electromagnetic fields to support cellular repair, calm the nervous system, and reduce inflammation.
• They’re simple to use at home for relaxation, recovery, and grounding the nervous system.

Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT)

• Originally developed and used for divers experiencing decompression sickness, HBOT  delivers concentrated oxygen under pressure to accelerate healing, recovery, and tissue regeneration.
• It’s an excellent tool to enhance wound healing after surgery, reduce inflammation caused by autoimmune flares or long-haul viral symptoms, and for general cognitive enhancement.

6. Metabolic and musculoskeletal tools 

For improving how your body builds muscle, burns fat, and measures true body composition, which is much more valuable than just “weight.”

Electrical muscle stimulation (EMS)

• EMS devices stimulate muscles with controlled electrical pulses to make your muscles contract more deeply and frequently than you’d be able to do on your own.
• The suit straps onto your biggest muscles (glutes, quads, core, biceps) to enhance strength, tone, and metabolic output without strain on your joints.

Hume Smart Scale 

• Not your average scale, this device uses a safe, low-level electrical current to estimate body fat, muscle mass, and total body water so you can optimize body composition.
• These metrics, combined with your age, sex, height, and activity level, gives you a much more accurate picture of your metabolic health, especially for women looking to build muscle during perimenopause.

7. Skin regeneration

For stimulating collagen, repairing tissue, and improving firmness and radiance of the skin.

Microneedling treatments

• Microneedling is a minimally invasive procedure that creates controlled micro-injuries on the surface of the skin. 
• It stimulates your body’s natural wound-healing response to produce fresh collagen and elastin — two proteins responsible for firmness, texture, and resilience.

Symbiome Stell Cell Serum

• Topical stem cell serums can boost natural collagen production and be used in conjunction with microneedling for faster cellular turnover.
• It’s a simple biohack found in the beauty aisle that is suitable for all skin types, but especially on mature skin.

How to avoid overwhelm

I’m a big fan of harnessing the power of biohacking to support overall health. However, it can be excessive. Can your devices offer too much data? Absolutely! I believe that the pendulum has swung from being in the dark about our biological metrics to becoming overwhelmed by them. 

We’re becoming data-rich but often insight-poor. And, in an era where many people feed their personal data and health questions into ChatGPT (which are not HIPAA-compliant), what we truly need are meaningful insights that translate into sustainable, actionable steps. Ideally, that happens with the guidance of a clinician or a trained expert who can help interpret the information with empathy, context, and clear direction.

“Biohacking doesn’t need to be extreme, expensive, or overwhelming. The most effective practices are often the simplest ones.”

Biohacking doesn’t need to be extreme, expensive, or overwhelming. The most effective practices are often the simplest ones that stabilize blood sugar, prioritize sleep, build muscle, manage stress, and give us more freedom to do the things we love. 

Start with one focus area, add tools that genuinely support your goals — and ignore the ones that strip joy, connection, or balance from your life. 

The real upgrade isn’t about becoming superhuman but instead, evolving into the best version of yourself.

Celia Chen is a certified health optimization coach, brand consultant and founder of Chenessa, an advisory that offers private coaching, and corporate workshops on menopause, metabolism, and longevity. Follow her on Substack and Instagram for more wellness insights.

The post How Women Can Biohack For Better Quality Of Life appeared first on The Good Trade.

Our team has researched and tested dozens of sustainable humidifiers for safe, high-quality, and affordable options — these are our top seven picks.

Deal with sinus congestion, dry skin, or colds every winter? Happens to the best of us! That’s why we like to prep for the season with a reliable humidifier. Humidifiers add just enough moisture to the air to keep us feeling warm and hydrated.

What are the benefits of using a humidifier?

Numerous benefits come from using a humidifier in your home. The added moisture in the air from humidifiers can help relieve dryness of the skin, nose, and throat caused by the weather or heaters. If you’re prone to allergies or have asthma, using a humidifier can also help you find relief by keeping your airways moist, especially during the night when you sleep or if you’re feeling ill. Humidifiers even benefit our furniture and instruments, helping prevent them from drying out over time. Be sure not to overuse your humidifier as too much moisture can have adverse impacts on your home. Optimal moisture levels for your space will typically range from 30-50%. 

While many big-box humidifiers are popular, they’re not always the most sustainable, often requiring plastic filters or large amounts of electricity. Instead, here are the best humidifiers for an eco-friendly home using energy-efficient technology, paper filters (or none!), and automatic controls. Many are even a combination air purifier and humidifier or humidifier and diffuser — a win for the winter!

Our criteria:

• DURABILITY | These humidifiers are made with high-quality materials and backed by warranties, so you can use them for years. Some even have nontoxic materials for an even cleaner home!
• DESIGN AND QUALITY | With beautiful, sleek, natural, and modern designs made with high-quality materials, you’ll find a humidifier on our list that suits your style. 
• COVERAGE AREA | We’ve included humidifiers that cover both small and large spaces for optimal effectiveness.

If you’d prefer two separate devices, check out our guide to the best air purifiers. Better yet, consider these indoor plants, which naturally clean and add moisture to the air in your home!

Best Overall | Best For Small Spaces | Most Affordable

1. Canopy

Cruelty free

Doctor approved

Subscriptions available

Vegan

Warranty offered

Best For | Purifying & humidifying
Features | Paper filters, embedded UV lights, smart sensors, replacement filter subscription available, USB-C charger
Size | Up to 500 sq. feet
Price | $90+

For a humidifier that’s good for the air and your health, look no further than Canopy. It hydrates rooms up to 500 square feet for up to 36 hours of runtime, while also using antimicrobial and UV sensor technology to keep the air as clean as possible. This air purifier and humidifier combo will help relieve dryness and dullness, alleviate nasal congestion and cough, and diffuse aromas as needed. Most sustainably, it only uses paper filters for a lower-impact clean. Find out how Canopy can transform your skin and sleep in our review!

Our Editor’s Review | “After two weeks of testing the Canopy humidifier, I’m excited to recommend this device for people who are looking to up the ante on their well-being routine, as well as folks who need a little bit more hydration in their nighttime skincare routine. The price point for the humidifier is in the middle range (including replacement filters), but with regular use, this purchase can last several years. This humidifier is a great addition for folks who have skin health goals that include more moisture. ” – Stephanie Valente, Contributing Editor [Read the full review.]

Black Friday / Cyber Monday Sale: Take up to 50% off sitewide through 12/4

2. Blueair

Integrates with other apps and devices

Subscriptions available

Warranty offered

Best For | App & wifi connectivity
Features | InvisibleMist™ technology, simple touchscreen interface, dishwasher-safe tank, smart filter monitoring, instant humidity readings
Size | Up to 500 sq. feet
Price | $150+

Blueair offers smart, mist-free humidifiers that offer clean, balanced air without white dust or water damage. Its top-fill design makes refilling effortless, while the anti-microbial filter captures impurities for fresher air. With automatic humidity adjustments, WiFi connectivity, and app control, you can customize settings, track filter life, and create schedules with ease. The intuitive touchscreen provides instant humidity readings, and its dishwasher-safe tank makes maintenance easy. Designed to run for up to 48 hours, it’s a hassle-free way to improve air quality and promote restful sleep.

Customer Review | “I love this humidifier compared to others I have used because it is easy to clean and works great without a huge stream of water hitting your pillow or bed. My only complaint was couldn’t get app to sync with it but not a deal breaker, do not really need another app. So far very impressed. I use it on my nightstand.” – Jojo71 (Read more reviews.)

Take up to 50% off 11/20 – 12/2 (no code needed)

3. Homvana

Budget friendly

Integrates with other apps and devices

Warranty offered

Best For | Sensitive populations (infants, children, pregnant people, elderly)
Features | App control, SilentSpray™ tech, safety child lock, remote control, easy to clean
Size | Up to 861 sq. feet
Price | $55 — $300

Homvana humidifiers bring advanced humidification with smart remote control, aromatherapy, and ultra-quiet operation. Each one of their wallet-friendly models offers a variety of different features, including TurboMist™ Tech, which delivers warm and cool mist 4X faster than most humidifiers, aromatherapy and mood lighting, and a peaceful 23dB SilentSpray™ sleep mode for undisturbed rest. We love that these humidifiers have a built-in aroma pad, so you can enjoy soothing scents without an extra diffuser. It’s the full package!

Customer Review | “Quiet, efficient humidifier. Works continuously for hours. Great night light.” – Trystan I. (Read more reviews.)

4. Dyson

Gives back

Integrates with other apps and devices

Warranty offered

Best For | Humidifier & purifier combo
Features | HEPA H13 standard filter, detects & destroys formaldehyde, app control, LCD screen, voice control, deep clean cycle
Size | Up to 872 sq. feet
Price | $950+

The Dyson purifying humidifiers do it all — purify, humidify, and cool — while keeping your air fresh and your skin hydrated. The PH04 model goes the extra mile by detecting and destroying formaldehyde from household items, while both the PH04 and PH03 feature fully sealed HEPA filtration to trap allergens, gases, and smoke. They circulate purified, humidified air throughout the entire room, have a hassle-free deep clean cycle, and let you monitor air quality in real time on the LCD screen or MyDyson app. If you want top-tier air quality with minimal maintenance, these Dyson humidifier purifiers are a sleek and powerful choice.

Customer Review | “This is the best. I can finally sleep through the night without waking up with a dry mouth and stuffy nasal passages.” – Joyze (Read more reviews.)

5. Carepod

BIPOC Owned

Doctor approved

Warranty offered

Best For | Easiest to sterilize
Features | Ultrasonic cool mist, three distinct mist settings, stainless steel design
Size | Up to 500 sq. feet
Price | $275

Designed by a doctor, Carepod is a simple, award-winning device that comes in three sizes for your office or home. Fed up with the complicated cleaning requirements and pricey filtration subscriptions of so many humidifier models, Carepod is the first humidifier that can be sterilized, leaving it safe and 99.99% germ-free. Simply boil the three parts in boiling water, and you’re done! Filter-free and without any additional hidden costs, we love how the minimalist design lets it fit easily into any space.

Customer Review | “Amazing quality! I love the aesthetic and the fact that it’s easy to use. It’s definitely a staple household item and dos wonders for the skin” – Shani C. (Read more reviews.)

Featured image from Canopy

The post 5 Best Non-Toxic Air Humidifiers (2025 Review) appeared first on The Good Trade.

Our team of parents has reviewed dozens of bath towels for babies and young kids — these are our favorites for soft, safe, and sustainable bath time.

Bath time is one of our favorite rituals in our children’s evening routines, and having the right towel can make all the difference. Babies’ skin is incredibly delicate, so the towels we choose matter, as those with synthetic dyes or harsh finishes can irritate sensitive skin, especially in the first few months. Because of this, we prefer organic options.

Why choose organic towels for your baby?

Choosing the right towel for our babies is about more than softness; it’s about safety and peace of mind. Newborn skin is delicate, so opting for organic cotton, bamboo, or linen can help us avoid those unnecessary exposures. Certifications like GOTS or OEKO-TEX® give us extra confidence that the towels meet strict safety and environmental standards, while naturally dyed or lightly colored options often indicate a cleaner, gentler production process.

And it’s not just about comfort. Choosing organic towels is a small but meaningful step toward a healthier planet. Supporting brands that prioritize organic farming and responsible textile practices helps reduce pesticide use, conserve water, and ensure safer working conditions for the people who make these products. It’s a little change with a significant impact — good for our babies and good for the world they’re growing up in.

Our criteria:

We update this list regularly with our emerging favorites, and all of our picks are vetted to meet the following standards:

• ORGANIC & CLEAN | Each towel is made from natural or recycled fibers, such as organic cotton, bamboo, or linen, and is certified by third parties, including GOTS, OEKO-TEX, and PFAS-free, to ensure safety.
• COMFORT | Our editors have personally tested each towel for softness, absorbency, and durability. We’ve also read hundreds of parent reviews to ensure these towels are gentle on sensitive skin while staying cozy and functional.
• ENVIRONMENT | Each brand cares for the earth, its employees, and its customers. These companies are committed to sustainable practices, ethical labor, and reducing environmental impact.

Building out a whole baby bath routine or need to upgrade your adult towel collection? Check out our guides to safe, nontoxic baby bath essentials and the best towels!

1. MagicLinen

Eco friendly packaging

Family owned

Gives back

Handcrafted

Natural materials

OEKO-TEX® certified

Best For | Lightweight and quick-drying baby towel
Organic / Natural Materials | OEKO-TEX® certified linen–cotton blend
Price  | $50

MagicLinen’s waffle baby towel is one of those beautifully simple essentials that quickly becomes part of your little one’s everyday routine. The linen–cotton blend feels soft and breathable, and the waffle weave offers just the right amount of texture to absorb water without weighing your baby down. It has a hood (!!) and dries quickly, too — a small detail that makes busy evenings and constant laundry feel a bit easier.

The generous 36″ x 36″ size means there’s plenty of room to wrap your baby up after a bath, and the stone-washed finish gives the towel a lived-in softness from the very first use. It’s also OEKO-TEX® certified, so you can trust that it’s free from harmful chemicals. And we have to say: the earthy tones are especially dreamy.

Editor review | “We rotate between two baby towels during the week, and our daughter clearly prefers this one. We’ve been using it since she was just a few weeks old, and I love how soft yet absorbent the fabric is. We have it in Cinnamon, and the color is absolutely gorgeous. The size is just right, too. It’s big enough for her now, but perfect for growing into over the coming months.” – Kayti Christian, Senior Content Strategist [Read more reviews]

2. Parachute

Climate neutral

Fair trade

GOTS certified

Gives back

Natural materials

OEKO-TEX® certified

Woman owned

Best For | 100% organic Turkish cotton baby towels
Organic / Natural Materials | 100% GOTS-certified Turkish cotton
Price | $49

Bath time feels a little calmer with Parachute’s organic hooded baby towel. The cotton is soft but substantial, giving your baby a cozy wrap without feeling heavy or bulky. The oversized 46″ x 46″ square lets you tuck in tiny hands and feet, while the hood keeps their head warm and snuggly. We love that it’s GOTS- and OEKO-TEX®-certified, too. Knowing it’s free of harsh chemicals takes some of the worry out of daily routines. It washes beautifully, maintains its softness, and becomes even more comfortable over time. For evenings spent winding down after a bath, it’s simple, thoughtful, and quietly luxurious.

Customer review | “I really love these towels. We received one for our daughter when she was born. It is so soft and has held up so well that I can’t wait to get a toddler-size one when they are back in stock.” – Anonymous [Read more reviews]

3. Kyte Baby

BIPOC Owned

Natural materials

OEKO-TEX® certified

Woman owned

Best For | Bamboo bath towels with matching bath mits
Organic / Natural Materials | 85% Rayon made from Bamboo, 15% Cotton
Price | $40

Bath time just got a little softer with Kyte Baby. Their hooded towels are made from buttery bamboo blends that feel gentle against delicate skin. They come in calm, modern colors and a size that wraps babies up like a cozy little cloud. The matching terry bath mitt is perfect for tiny hands and splashy moments, slipping on easily for quick, happy clean-ups. Thoughtful, safe, and impossibly soft, these towels make everyday routines feel a little more special.

Customer review | “We got our first kyte towel in the Mother’s Day sale and won’t go back now! It is so superior with how soft the material is, yet still able to soak up quite a bit! I will be ordering more in the near future!” – Laney  [Read more reviews]

4. Quince

Climate neutral

Fair trade

GOTS certified

Gives back

Natural materials

OEKO-TEX® certified

Woman owned

Best For | Plush Turkish cotton bath towel bundles
Organic / Natural Materials | 100% organic long-staple Turkish cotton
Price | $49

Quince’s baby bath towels are made from 100% organic, long-staple Turkish cotton, giving them a super-soft, plush feel that’s gentle on newborn skin. We especially love that the bundle includes four hooded towels and four washcloths — truly everything you need for baby’s first year. Each piece is thoughtfully crafted in a BSCI-certified factory in Denizli, Turkey, ensuring responsible and ethical production through the amfori Business Social Compliance Initiative, which monitors and supports fair workplace standards across global supply chains.

Customer review | “These were a baby shower gift for my niece. They are incredibly soft and lovely.” – Robin  [Read more reviews]

5. Many Moons

B corp

Family owned

GOTS certified

Gives back

Natural materials

Small business

Best For | Organic cotton hooded bath towel bundles
Organic / Natural Materials | organic cotton muslin outer + 100% organic cotton terry cloth inside
Price | $25+

We adore Many Moons’ hooded baby towels for turning bath time into a little moment of joy. Made with 100% organic cotton muslin on the outside and plush organic cotton terry on the inside, they’re soft, absorbent, and gentle on baby’s skin. The oversized square shape with rounded corners and a diagonal hood makes wrapping up effortless, while the hood can be personalized with embroidery for a sweet, special touch. Thoughtfully designed and GOTS-certified, these towels make both playtime and cleanup feel easy and calm.

6. Lalo

Eco friendly packaging

Natural materials

OEKO-TEX® certified

Small business

Best For | Organic ribbed cotton baby towels
Organic / Natural Materials | 100% Organic Turkish Cotton
Price | $25+

Lalo is a favorite amongst the parents on our team for the collection of highchairs, playtime mats, and baby bath tubs. But did you know the brand also has an organic towel collection? Made from 100% organic Turkish cotton, these hooded towels are soft, absorbent, and gentle on delicate skin. The ribbed towel adds a touch of luxe texture, while the classic terry feels plush and cozy after every bath. They are generously sized and thoughtfully designed, and match all our other Lalo essentials with the signature sage green and neutral color options. 

Customer review | “I knew Lalo was high quality, but these (I got wash cloths, too) are AMAZING. They wash so well and I can tell they are going to last years and years (like everything else I have from Lalo!). Going on 4+ years with most of my Lalo gear!” – Stella  [Read more reviews]

7. Coyuchi

1% for the planet

Eco friendly packaging

GOTS certified

Natural materials

Woman owned

Best For | Organic cotton baby hooded towel and bath mitt
Organic / Natural Materials | 100% Organic Turkish Cotton
Price | $78

Coyuchi is one of our go-tos for adult towels, so it’s no surprise we trust and love them for baby bath time too. Their Cloud Loom hooded towel and bath mitt set is made from 100% GOTS-certified organic Turkish cotton, giving it a plush, cloud-like softness that stays gentle wash after wash. The 31″ × 31″ towel wraps babies snugly while the matching mitt makes bath time easy and playful. Undyed in a warm “Ginger” tone, the set feels naturally calm and cozy, and with Coyuchi’s commitment to quality and safety, every bath becomes a small, mindful ritual.

Featured image is from Lalo

Kayti Christian is a Senior Content Strategist at The Good Trade. With an MFA in Nonfiction Creative Writing, her work has appeared in TODAY, Shondaland, and The New York Times. Since 2017, Kayti has been uncovering and reviewing the best sustainable home brands and wellness products. Her personal journey through four years of fertility treatments has inspired her to write extensively about women’s healthcare and reproductive access. Beyond her work at The Good Trade, Kayti is the creator of phone notes, a Substack newsletter with 7,000 subscribers, and the cohost of the FriedEggs Podcast, which delves into IVF and infertility.

The post 7 Best Organic Baby Bath Towels (2025) appeared first on The Good Trade.

My husband turned to ask me if we should invite everyone over for an early dinner. I wanted to spend as much time as possible with everyone, especially those who lived far away, so the answer was obvious even though this would mean throwing an impromptu dinner party for thirty people. 

“The answer was obvious even though this would mean throwing an impromptu dinner party for thirty people.”

We let those we could know in person to come by around four, and asked them to text the ones we hadn’t been able to touch base with to spread the word. On the way home we swung by the store, grabbed a couple of bags of pasta, one gluten free alternative, and a whole bunch of vegan sausages. We went home to do what we could to prepare.

We pulled out any spare chair or stool we had, put two huge pots of water on to boil, dumped two or three jars of sauce into their respective pots once the noodles had cooked and set out several large baguettes next to the butter dish. Thoughtful guests who had a chance to run by the store brought bottles of wine. When they arrived, we instructed everyone to grab a plate and let people know where they could find the glassware so they could help themselves.

Anyone who was able-bodied and under the age of fifty sat on the floor, leaving the seats for the likes of my grandma’s generation, which included my 88-year-old grandfather, two of my great uncles, and two great aunts. My grandmother was the first of their generation to go, and this was the first time my generation would grieve someone we’d grown up making memories with. I was very aware that this was the beginning and the end of an era.

“I was very aware that this was the beginning and the end of an era.”

One of the things I remember most about that night was my mother and one of her first cousins sitting on the rug, legs folded to their chests and plates atop their knees, giggling and clinking their glasses. I couldn’t help but think this was the best possible way to close out the day of my grandma’s funeral — a woman who had gathered all of us so many times before and had hosted countless dinner parties over the decades.

Another especially meaningful gathering that comes to mind is my husband’s 34th birthday. To mitigate our guests’ wide array of dietary needs, we invited each group or pair to bring a dish of their choosing. That night we ate vegan tacos, enjoyed an artfully curated charcuterie plate, and a traditional Middle Eastern dish called makloubeh that is cooked in a huge pot and served only after a climactic move that requires the server to flip the enormous dish upside down and hope that the rice doesn’t spill everywhere (the flip was a success — we have a video!).

After we ate, we headed out back to sit around the fire pit, as usual. Everyone had seconds and thirds, smoked hookah, and laughed into the night. The meal was a rich mish-mash, the evening a hodgepodge — just like us.

“The meal was a rich mish-mash, the evening a hodgepodge — just like us.”

Perhaps my favorite, though, was the time we hosted forty people at our house for Thanksgiving. We still lived in that same two-bed, one-bath house that was built in 1920 — arguably too small to host a large group of people. Modern amenities were few and far between. But she had character for days, and we had a really long driveway that inspired us to set up the longest table we possibly could and invite everyone who could come.

And they did. We filled the table to the brim. We rented linens and chairs and dishes, and everyone brought an entree or a side. One of our dearest friends filled vases with foraged blooms from the neighborhood and made personalized name cards. Another brought his turntable and made it his job to keep the music going. 

The people who came spanned four generations, several different family trees, and folks drove in from the desert and up from San Diego. I remember both ends of the long table were reserved for our two guests in wheelchairs. I remember missing my grandpa, who had died just a few months before, and really wishing he was there. I remember my daughter, not even a year old, wearing a red corduroy jumper, the youngest at the table. 

The candles burned all the way down, surrounded by half-empty glasses, wine stains, and the general mess of a well-used tablescape after everyone has finished their meal. Most people stayed well into the night, and I remember at one point capturing a video through the back window of a handful of men gathered around the fire, laughing. I knew this was it — the thing we’re all always chasing. Connection and community.

“I knew this was it — the thing we’re all always chasing. Connection and community.”

We woke up the next morning to the leftover mess in the backyard. Our friends who had spent the night helped us clean up. Our daughter played while we did so. It occurred to me that this was her very first Thanksgiving, and what a Thanksgiving it was.

To be honest, our great big Thanksgiving dinner wasn’t exactly within our budget. And often hosting more people than we planned isn’t. I’m certainly not advocating for financial irresponsibility, but my point is we’ve never once regretted the splurge.

Now it’s old hat, second nature for us to invite our friends and their kids for a post-nap run around the backyard and casual dinner parties. If capacity allows (emotional, physical, or otherwise), we pivot to add one more to the table, one more to the calendar, one more evening to our rolodex of priceless memories with the ones we love.

Kate Arceo is the Community Manager at The Good Trade. She has a Bachelor of Science from Evangel University and has over 5 years of experience reviewing sustainable home and lifestyle brands, as well as organic kids’ apparel and nontoxic cosmetics. When she’s not hosting dinner parties with her husband at their home in Southern California, you can find her sipping a latte at their local coffee house or shopping for strawberries with her kids at the farmers market. Say hi on Instagram!

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