Mattress certifications explained: what do OEKO-TEX, eco-Institut and LGA really mean?

Why are certifications important for mattresses?

A mattress consists of several layers: 

• core (latex or foam)
• comfort layers
• mattress cover
• adhesive bonds 

Each component can influence: 

• emissions in the bedroom
• the presence of harmful substances
• the lifespan of the mattress 

That is why independent testing is essential.

For example, our Tuur® Original mattress is made with a 100% natural latex core that is certified separately.

Want to learn more about latex? Read our explanation page about 100% natural latex.

eco-Institut: focus on indoor air quality and emissions

While OEKO-TEX tests for harmful substances in the material itself, the eco-Institut label mainly focuses on emissions.

The following are measured:

• VOC emissions
• formaldehyde emissions
• odour development
• vapours after 3 and 28 days

This is particularly relevant for people who consciously choose a healthy sleeping environment.

Our latex cores, used for example in the Tuur® Spring mattress, are tested according to these strict emission standards.

Would you like to know more about our overall sustainability approach? Visit our page on responsibly produced sleep 

OEKO-TEX® Standard 100: what does this mean for a mattress?

When a mattress or component carries the OEKO-TEX Standard 100 label, it means: 

• tested for hundreds of harmful substances
• complies with strict international limits
• safe for skin contact 

The strictest category is Product Class I (baby products). This is the highest safety standard.

At Tuur®, the mattress covers of models such as the Tuur® Pure mattress are OEKO-TEX certified.

Important to understand:
OEKO-TEX usually certifies specific components, not automatically the fully assembled product.

LGA Quality Certificate: what does this say about durability?

The LGA certificate (TÜV Rheinland) does not test chemical safety, but mechanical performance.

The following aspects are evaluated: 

• height retention 
• firmness retention 
• durability under long-term load 
• loss of resilience 

A high score means that a mattress maintains its support over time.

This is essential for those who want to sleep not only safely, but also ergonomically responsibly.

Want to learn more about choosing the right support? Read our article: How to choose the right mattress?

What does “sustainable mattress” really mean?

The search query “what is a sustainable mattress” is becoming increasingly popular.

A sustainable mattress does not simply mean “eco-friendly”.

It means:

• safe materials
• low emissions
• long lifespan
• recyclable core materials
• European production 

At Tuur®, we work with: 

• 100% natural latex
• European suppliers 
• water-based adhesives
• removable and cleanable covers 

Read more about our approach on the sustainable sleep page with Tuur®.

Frequently asked questions

Is a fire-retardant mattress safe?

Fire-retardant mattresses can be safe, provided they comply with European regulations and have been tested for harmful substances. Certifications such as OEKO-TEX and eco-Institut offer additional assurance.

Is OEKO-TEX the same as organic?

No. OEKO-TEX refers to harmful substances. For organic raw materials, certifications such as GOTS (textiles) or GOLS (latex) are used.

Does a certificate mean a mattress is completely natural?

Not automatically. A certificate tests specific properties, not the entire composition.

A good mattress feels comfortable. A certified mattress provides measurable assurance.

By correctly understanding certifications, you consciously choose: 

• safety 
• healthy indoor air 
• long-lasting support 
• transparency about materials