What is a smart home system?
A smart home system is built around home automation. Smart devices have the capability of connecting to a smart home hub like Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant through your Wi-Fi network, Bluetooth, or Z-wave technology. You can then control and monitor these devices through a smartphone app, usually on iOS or Android devices, or through voice commands with a smart speaker.
One of the biggest uses of smart home functionality is in the smart home security system. Smart locks, video doorbells, wireless security cameras, and even garage doors can be managed through voice control or a mobile app.
Energy efficiency is another important factor in the choice of smart home devices. Through the use of a smart sprinkler, smart plug, smart lighting, or smart thermostat like the Google Nest or ecobee SmartThermostat, homeowners can see major improvements in their energy and water consumption.
And that is just the tip of the iceberg. More and more devices are being integrated into smart home setups. Even appliances like stoves, dishwashers, and refrigerators are now connected to the internet.
What are the best smart home devices for saving energy?
As mentioned, one of the biggest advantages of smart home devices is in saving energy. One thing to consider before adding new devices or appliances is getting a home energy audit for an accurate picture of where your home is less energy-efficient. Once you know that, here are some of the best smart home devices to help you become more energy efficient.
Each product featured here has been independently selected by the writer. If you make a purchase using the links included, we may earn commission.
Smart thermostats
Smart thermostats help regulate and automate your heating and cooling, cutting down on the total energy consumption and reducing those costs. Smart thermostats work by connecting to your current HVAC system. The vast majority of them feature a smart device app, meaning users can control all of the settings and features remotely.
On average, they can save you around 8% on heating and cooling costs, or $50 annually. The age of your current HVAC system, however, can affect this. If you have an old and outdated system, there are limits on the effectiveness of a smart thermostat.
Emerson Sensi Touch Smart Thermostat
Emerson
Why buy: The Emerson Sensi smart thermostat was our pick for best overall smart thermostat. It can save you up to 23% on your energy usage, and you can find it at a very affordable price of $140 on Amazon. The Emerson thermostat is also compatible with Alexa, Google Home, Apple HomeKit, and Samsung SmartThings.
ecobee SmartThermostat
ecobee
Why buy: Despite its relatively high price tag of $249, the ecobee SmartThermostat offers a ton of energy-saving features. The best part is that with it's new eco+ software, the SmartThermostat can help you save up to 23% on your annual energy costs. Plus it has built-in Amazon Alexa functionality so there's no need to purchase an Amazon Echo.
Nest Learning Thermostat
Nest
Why buy: The Nest Learning Thermostat is both Google Assistant- and Alexa-enabled. It can potentially save you as much as 10% to 12% on your heating bill and up to 15% on your cooling bill. This thermostat also has voice command for even greater convenience, and it automatically learns your heating and cooling preferences to optimize your energy usage.
Smart lighting
Smart lightbulbs and smart lighting systems can connect to your home's smart system, so you can set schedules for when they are on and off. Combined with the greater efficiency of LED bulbs, it isn't out of the question to save between 25% and 80% on the energy used by your lights when you make the switch to smart lights.
Philips Hue Starter Kit
Philips Hue
Why buy: The Philips Hue lighting system offers everything from starter kits and light strips to table lamps and bulbs. Though they can be a bit pricey, there's a lot that comes with it. They can be paired easily through a rather intuitive app, offer integrations with third-party devices, and even display a wide array of colors.
Wyze Bulb
Wyze
Why buy: If you're looking for a far more cost effective option, look no further than the Wyze Bulb. These smart Wi-Fi light bulbs will last up to 25,000 hours, and you can get 4 for under $40. Though it doesn't have the color option that the Hue does, it can pair with voice assistants like Google Assistant and Alexa to make for a convenient smart bulb setup.
Sengled Smart LED Light Bulbs
Sengled
Why buy: These Sengled Smart LED bulbs are also an affordable smart light option to help automate your home's lighting. Compatible with SmartThings, IFTTT, Google Assistant, and Alexa, it integrates smoothly with just about any smart home setup. The outdoor bulbs are weatherproof and come with the motion sensor for optimal usage.
Smart plugs
Like smart bulbs, smart plugs and smart power strips can help mitigate wasted energy use. They work with compatible devices to control when they are running – think lamps, fans, appliances, air purifiers, etc. Even better, they come with the capability of handling 4 to 8 devices at once, making it a comprehensive hub for your electronics.
Though the savings here are not quite as dramatic, it adds up when paired with other smart energy-efficient devices. Some of the best will come with mobile apps, providing remote functionality.
Kasa Smart Plug Mini
Kasa
Why buy: Though this Kasa Smart Plug Mini is meant to handle one or two devices at a time, it is perhaps the best on the market. It's highly affordable and can work with voice assistants like Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant by connecting to your Wi-Fi network. It also features schedule customization, timers, and even away modes to maximize your energy savings.
WeMo Wi-Fi Smart Plug
Belkin
Why buy: This WeMo Wi-Fi smart plug remains affordable while still offering Alexa, Google Assistant, and even Apple HomeKit compatibility. The WeMo app allows you to control and schedule the plug from anywhere, and the plug itself comes in a compact, space-saving design that also allows for voice control.
iDevices Wall Outlet
iDevice
Why buy: In addition to a single plug, you can also install a smart outlet to connect multiple devices. The iDevices Wall Outlet is great for automating lights, lamps, switches, fans, and any other electronics. It is compatible with most smart home systems, and can give you independent voice control of both the top and bottom outlets.
Smart sprinklers
With smart sprinkler systems, water waste is kept to a minimum thanks to scheduling functions and improved fixtures that use water more efficiently.
Generally speaking, most EPA WaterSense-certified smart-controlled sprinklers can save up to 15% of the water applied versus a standard sprinkler system. In some areas, this can be huge, as 70% of outdoor water use can come from outdoor sprinklers.
Rachio 3
Rachio
Why buy: One of the best smart sprinklers available on the market, the Rachio 3 Smart Sprinkler Controller gives you wireless connectivity and 8-zone functionality, which makes it easier than ever to properly manage outdoor water usage. It is on the expensive side, but includes a feature that predicts weather changes to adjust your water use accordingly.
Orbit B-Hyve XR
Orbit
Why buy: A slightly more cost-effective option, the Orbit B-Hyve XR comes with great features, like an LED screen that shows live, real-time status updates. It uses WeatherSense technology to automatically adjust to the weather so you don't waste water. It also meets EPA WaterSense standards, and the B-Hyve app is available for free on iOS and Android devices.
Smart home energy monitors
There are now smart home energy monitors that attach directly to your home's electrical box. They work by monitoring your energy consumption in real-time and can show patterns of electrical usage over a day, week, or month.
Continuous monitoring, right down to the appliance level, can help you save on energy costs and acts as the baseline for energy conservation. These monitors can also show which appliances are falling behind in energy efficiency.
Sense Home Energy Monitor
Sense
Why buy: This is a top-of-the-line energy monitor, and comes in both standard and solar variations. They plug into just about any existing electrical panel and then connect to a smart phone application that provides real-time data whenever you want it. Sense is a bit pricey, but comes with far more features and functionality than any of the others.
Efergy Elite 4.0 Wireless Energy Monitor
Efergy
Why buy: This Efergy system provides a cost-effective means of monitoring your home's electrical usage. The device connects easily to any home electrical box for fast and easy installation that does not require an electrician. The downside to this particular system is that there is no smart phone application for live tracking, instead using a compact, portable display.
Gen 2 Emporia Vue Smart Home Energy Monitor
Emporia
Why buy: Emporia's Vue monitoring system offers device detection that can show you the performance of individual appliances in your home. You can even set schedules for select appliances where applicable, providing a greater level of detail about your electric bill. With this system you can lower your energy costs and your emissions at the same time.
Other smart home products to consider
As comprehensive as this list is, it doesn't cover all of the smart devices out there. Home security systems, garage doors, and other appliances are now able to connect to your smart home system.
Smart fridges
Refrigerators are becoming smarter, too. Not only can they cut down on energy usage, they can even create shopping lists based on the contents inside. Smart fridges have evolved to feature LED touch-screens and even web browsing.
Home security
Smart locks, doorbells, and security systems have made it easy to find peace-of-mind. Users can view cameras in real-time remotely and even use video doorbells to see who is at the door.
Smart TVs
Smart TVs allow users to access their favorite apps, surf the web, and so much more, all through their remote. They also use much less energy than older models, and most are ENERGY STAR certified for efficiency.
Upgrade to a smart home to save energy
Upgrading your home to a smart setup has never been more beneficial. Whether you are looking to gain improved convenience and connectivity, cut down on energy costs, or both, smart home setups are the way to go. Combine any number of smart home devices to create the right setup for a more energy-efficient home.
Ryan Womeldorf is a freelance writer who covers technology and consumer goods, including smart home tech. He is a husband and father of two (five if you count his pups).
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Sense overview
Sense stepped into the home energy monitor industry just a few years ago. The Boston-area company began using machine learning in order to provide real-time looks at electrical usage. This also came in the wake of a discovery that always-on devices accounted for nearly 23% of all home electricity usage.
Sense developed its tech with a team from some of the biggest names in voice recognition. The team consisted of engineers from Amazon, Vlingo, Phillips, SpeechWorks, ScanSoft, and Nuance.
What came of that was the Sense home energy monitor. This Wi-Fi-enabled sensor has the capability of displaying real-time energy use data right to users' smart phones thanks to a small box that attached to the home's electrical box.
Sense offers sophisticated energy monitoring
Compared to others in the industry, Sense is top of the line. Its diverse range of features, easy-to-use smart phone application, and even a solar energy option for improved savings, is the reason for the higher price tag.
Despite the relatively high price, consumers have rated it quite well. Utility companies have verified that it is 99.5% accurate and it can even track usage of individual appliances for improved accuracy and tracking.
It has shown that it records 1 million data points per second, which is a rate that is not only larger but faster than most other competitors. Combined with other energy-efficient products like smart thermostats and smart lights, the Sense energy monitor could help you reduce your energy consumption considerably. For those looking to get a better sense about their power usage, Sense may just be the best the market has to offer.
Types of Sense home energy monitors
Sense works by connecting a monitor to your home's breaker panel. It then takes the voltage and current measurements of your electricity consumption. It does this over 1 million times every second to produce high-resolution data. The monitor then transmits the data through a Wi-Fi antenna to your app or desktop.
Furthermore, Sense is capable of individual device detection. This allows you to get a sense of how much energy your home uses, and which appliances and electrical devices use the most energy when running.
There are two Sense home energy monitors: the standard Sense unit and the Sense Solar. The latter is meant to provide the services to those who run off of solar power, providing greater clarification and understanding of solar energy usage.
Sense Energy Monitor
Sense
The Sense energy monitor provides real-time, 24/7 data that is accessible through iOS, Android, and desktop apps. That means being able to check energy usage patterns whenever it suits you. Even better, schedules and alerts can be set at the user's discretion to create a truly customize data system.
Why buy: The Sense home energy monitor allows for optimal energy tracking convenience. Users can get live updates on their power consumption from their smart phone whenever and wherever they like.
How it works
The Sense home energy monitor works simply enough. It attaches to your home's circuit breaker, measuring energy usage right down to individual appliances and devices for a better understanding of where your home's electrical usage is. Sense recommends that you have a licensed electrician do the installation.
There are also customer safety monitors that can be set with audible notifications. Keep track of critical devices like well pumps, sump pumps, HVAC systems, water heaters, or flat irons without having to constantly monitor them yourself. Most importantly, the components have been ETL/Intertek certified. That certification ensures that it is safe for operation within an electrical panel.
The Sense features compatibility with many smart home devices. Pairing up the Sense with Google Assistant, Amazon Alexa, Phillips Hue, IFTTT, smart thermostats, and smart plugs can help you optimize your home's energy efficiency.
Sense Solar Energy Monitor
Sense
Like the Sense, the Sense Solar can track usage data in real-time. It can also track your appliances and devices on an individual basis to give you a more comprehensive window into your home's energy consumption.
Why buy: The Sense Solar can detect the exact amount of energy that the solar panels on your home are generating 24/7. This feature quickly gives you a better idea of which appliances are drawing power (and how much) at any given time as well as the effectiveness of your solar panels.
How it works
The Sense Solar home energy monitor is much the same as the original version, though this one tracks solar energy usage. It connects to your home's breaker panel like the Sense, just with an additional wire to connect to the solar inverter in your home's main electrical box.
The Sense Solar uses the same simple interface for its smart phone function that the regular Sense does. Users can chart energy usage over time, even creating profiles of monthly, weekly, or daily usage, whatever works best for the user.
It is recommended that only electricians handle the installation process.
The Sense app
Perhaps the biggest selling point for both Sense and Sense Solar is the mobile app. The Sense app is used to connect to their smart home energy monitors and provides the ability to monitor volts and current one million times per second.
The real-time, 24/7 data is available in a number of interfaces that allows for customized profiles. Users can set monitoring reports that display overall usage as well as individualized device performance.
With a large, easy to identify interface, users are able to generate reports that fit their usage needs. Moreover, they can see real-time data to monitor devices as they run.
If that weren't enough, users can also set goals, view trends, and even set audible alerts whenever energy levels are too high. The Sense app lets you take control of your home's energy usage and electricity bill.
Sense pros and cons
Both the Sense and Sense Solar have their own distinct advantages and disadvantages. Here is a breakdown for both versions.
Sense pros
For starters, the Sense app is super user-friendly. Even the most technologically-challenged can pick up the app and navigate its interface with little to no trouble.
Moreover, the app shows a ton of historical data. If you want to look at specific trends going back to installation date, you can call those up easily. Daily, weekly, and monthly reports are available to provide a better understanding of data usage over time so you can identify patterns and problem spots.
Finally, it provides individual device tracking. If you want to get truly granular and see which devices take the most energy to run, that is easily available through the app.
Sense cons
At $299.99, the cost isn't cheap. Furthermore, professional installation is highly recommended. That is an additional cost on top of the already steep price for the unit itself. Those installation fees take an already costly unit up a notch.
There is also the issue that it does not have cost calculations. While it can track energy usage in real-time, it doesn't tell you what that translates to in terms of actual money. Knowing what your energy is costing you will take a little extra sleuthing.
Sense Solar pros
The Sense Solar energy monitor is one of the best at tracking solar production in real-time. Some similar solar devices only offer updates in 15 minute increments whereas the Sense Solar can track up to the second.
Moreover, it tracks electrical production and consumption as well, so you know if your appliances are drawing more energy than the solar panels are putting out. Not to mention the user-friendly app that makes it possible to create various profiles for tracking and consuming data.
Sense Solar cons
Even more expensive than the standard Sense at $349.99, the Sense Solar monitor is definitely an investment. This particular home energy monitor is designed to help homeowners get the most out of their own solar panels. If you just want to identify ways to reduce energy usage, there are definitely cheaper options.
The other negative is that it has trouble finding always-on appliances. That's not to say it can't find them, it just takes some time and patience. It also may detect the same device multiple times, creating confusion.
Conclusion
Both the Sense and Sense Solar energy monitors deliver real-time data on electrical consumption that can be customized however the user wants. Aside from needing a professional installation, users can access and customize data easily through the app, creating profiles displaying information that can help you save money on your electric bill.
Though it is one of the most expensive options on the market, there are few that can deliver real-time data customization and app convenience the way the Sense does. With a 99.5% accuracy in readings, it is hard to top the convenience and accuracy that Sense provides.
Ryan Womeldorf is a freelance writer who covers technology and consumer goods, including smart home tech. He is a husband and father of two (five if you count his pups).
Eye-Catching Designs Made from Recycled Plastic Bottles
The company sells a range of eco-friendly items like leggings, rash guards, and board shorts that are made using recycled post-consumer plastic bottles. There are currently 16 causes represented by distinct marine-life patterns, from whale shark research and invasive lionfish removal to sockeye salmon monitoring and abalone restoration.
One such organization is Get Inspired, a nonprofit that specializes in ocean restoration and environmental education. Get Inspired founder, marine biologist Nancy Caruso, says supporting on-the-ground efforts is one thing that sets Waterlust apart, like their apparel line that supports Get Inspired abalone restoration programs.
"All of us [conservation partners] are doing something," Caruso said. "We're not putting up exhibits and talking about it — although that is important — we're in the field."
Waterlust not only helps its conservation partners financially so they can continue their important work. It also helps them get the word out about what they're doing, whether that's through social media spotlights, photo and video projects, or the informative note card that comes with each piece of apparel.
"They're doing their part for sure, pushing the information out across all of their channels, and I think that's what makes them so interesting," Caruso said.
And then there are the clothes, which speak for themselves.
Advocate Apparel to Start Conversations About Conservation
Waterlust's concept of "advocate apparel" encourages people to see getting dressed every day as an opportunity to not only express their individuality and style, but also to advance the conversation around marine science. By infusing science into clothing, people can visually represent species and ecosystems in need of advocacy — something that, more often than not, leads to a teaching moment.
"When people wear Waterlust gear, it's just a matter of time before somebody asks them about the bright, funky designs," said Waterlust's CEO, Patrick Rynne. "That moment is incredibly special, because it creates an intimate opportunity for the wearer to share what they've learned with another."
The idea for the company came to Rynne when he was a Ph.D. student in marine science.
"I was surrounded by incredible people that were discovering fascinating things but noticed that often their work wasn't reaching the general public in creative and engaging ways," he said. "That seemed like a missed opportunity with big implications."
Waterlust initially focused on conventional media, like film and photography, to promote ocean science, but the team quickly realized engagement on social media didn't translate to action or even knowledge sharing offscreen.
Rynne also saw the "in one ear, out the other" issue in the classroom — if students didn't repeatedly engage with the topics they learned, they'd quickly forget them.
"We decided that if we truly wanted to achieve our goal of bringing science into people's lives and have it stick, it would need to be through a process that is frequently repeated, fun, and functional," Rynne said. "That's when we thought about clothing."
Support Marine Research and Sustainability in Style
To date, Waterlust has sold tens of thousands of pieces of apparel in over 100 countries, and the interactions its products have sparked have had clear implications for furthering science communication.
For Caruso alone, it's led to opportunities to share her abalone restoration methods with communities far and wide.
"It moves my small little world of what I'm doing here in Orange County, California, across the entire globe," she said. "That's one of the beautiful things about our partnership."
Check out all of the different eco-conscious apparel options available from Waterlust to help promote ocean conservation.
Melissa Smith is an avid writer, scuba diver, backpacker, and all-around outdoor enthusiast. She graduated from the University of Florida with degrees in journalism and sustainable studies. Before joining EcoWatch, Melissa worked as the managing editor of Scuba Diving magazine and the communications manager of The Ocean Agency, a non-profit that's featured in the Emmy award-winning documentary Chasing Coral.
What is a smart home energy monitor?
A smart home energy monitor is a gadget that fits onto your home's electrical panel. The unit then monitors energy consumption throughout your home, showing you energy use patterns and even real-time data.
It gives you an accurate picture of the amount of energy that your home uses to help you break down your electric bill. A smart home energy monitor can even give you a baseline of electricity consumption when appliances are not in use, as well as data on how much energy individual appliances use. That can give you the type of specific data on your electricity usage needed to make the proper changes and upgrades within your home.
How does a smart home energy monitor work?
A smart home energy monitoring system is relatively simple. Start by attaching it to your home's breaker box. The device then works by not only monitoring the energy usage throughout the home, but by also identifying the unique energy signature of individual devices and appliances.
Depending on the type of monitor you choose, you can monitor energy levels when those appliances are on, how often they get used, what they cost per month to operate, and more. This gives you a comprehensive look into your electrical usage to help identify ways you can be more energy-efficient. Pairing a smart home energy monitor with other products like smart thermostats and smart plugs can help you take control of your home's day-to-day energy use.
Popular home energy monitor brands
Some of the most popular brands of home energy monitors include Sense, Eeydro, Efergy, Neurio, Smappee, and Emporia Energy. There are other brands out there too, but these are the biggest names. Below are more details on each one and the systems they offer.
Sense
The Sense Energy Monitor offers a simple way to keep track of your power usage. The brand offers both solar and standard variations that plug into just about any existing breaker panel with ease. The cool thing about this system is that it connects to a Sense app that provides real-time energy data whenever you want it.
The Sense will break down energy usage in ways that the average electric bill will not. This allows for a greater, more in-depth look at energy usage like never before. At $299.99, it is a bit on the pricey side, but it is one of the best options out there for detailed, real-time breakdowns of your home's power consumption and even includes goal-setting features and alerts.
Eyedro
Eyedro offers four different home energy monitoring options, including two that can monitor your home's solar production. They range in price from $99 to $299, depending on which one you choose.
The non-solar Eyedro sensors are a bit more cost effective, but there are limitations when compared to Sense. For one, connecting to your Wi-Fi is a lot more challenging as it will require ethernet connectivity or a wireless mesh setup. Additionally, it will not connect to any smart home devices or systems.
Still, Eyedro provides the same simple interface that shows a breakdown in energy output by device for real-time data and energy insights. You can set up daily, weekly, monthly, and yearly monitoring reports for a more controlled monitoring experience.
Efergy
Efergy offers a wide selection of smart home energy monitors. These include online energy monitoring options that allow you track your energy use online and through an app, or systems that include a wireless home display. Efergy systems provide a cost-effective means of monitoring your home's electrical output.
Efergy sensors connect easily to any home electrical box for fast and easy installation that does not require an electrician. The sensor then transmits your energy data to a wireless display or Wi-Fi enabled hub.
The Efergy wireless displays offer a portable, compact interface to help you track your energy use. It can be placed anywhere in the home and uses its large memory to store data that can be observed monthly, weekly, or daily. It even has an audible alert that notifies in the event of excessive electrical usage.
Neurio
The Neurio smart home energy monitor is another smart device that can monitor energy usage in real time. At $199.99, it is priced similarly to other top-of-the-line devices out there.
The Neurio W1 HEM home energy monitor provides 24/7 access and updates so that you can see the live impact of energy consumption in your home. It also features a simple installation process that takes only 15-20 minutes. The Neurio system could help you identify ways to save up to 20% of your energy use each month.
Smappee
Smappee offers a top-of-the-line energy monitoring system on par with the Sense home energy monitor. The Smappee Infinity home energy monitor has some very impressive features that make it a great option. In addition to just monitoring your home's power meter, this system can also monitor your gas and water usage. It features smart control with dynamic load balancing.
The system features a modular design so you can add individual components to customize your system to your home. Plus, with the Smappee Switch and Smappee Output Module, you can control your appliances remotely and set up schedules to help lower energy use.
Emporia Energy
One of the most cost-efficient options, Emporia Energy monitoring systems can provide much of the same functionality and insights at a fraction of the price. The Gen 2 Emporia Vue Smart Home Energy Monitor delivers real-time data, alerts, goals, and more through a smart phone app available on iOS and Android devices. Available for $70 on Amazon, this is one of the most affordable whole-home systems out there.
The Emporia Vue app will even provide energy-saving recommendations to help homeowners reduce their energy usage and their carbon emissions each month. The company also offers a wireless Vue Utility Connect monitor, though this system is only available in certain states.
What to look for in a smart home energy monitor
There are a few crucial aspects when it comes to choosing the right smart home energy monitor. After all, you are trying to track the energy usage effectively and efficiently in your home. The better the tool, the more effectively that can happen, and the lower your electricity bill and energy consumption.
The most important factors to consider are appliance recognition, real-time cost tracking, mobile apps, solar energy capabilities, and the installation process.
Appliance recognition
Energy monitoring is great but if you don't know where the issues are it can be difficult to know where to make changes. With appliance recognition, you can track the energy usage in real-time of each individual appliance. This provides a better indication as to which appliances are lagging behind and may need replacing in the near or immediate future.
Real-time cost tracking
Each monitoring system will offer comprehensive tracking reports ranging from daily all the way up to yearly. But the best way to see the energy use impacts of your appliances and devices is through real-time cost tracking.
Understand in clear terms what each device costs to run and which ones may not be doing the most effective job. The great thing about this feature is you can start to see major spikes during the day, which can help you set better energy schedules. This is a highly-effective tool for reducing your energy usage through these monitors.
Mobile apps
Access to our appliances and devices through our smart phones is crucial, and easier than ever. When using smart phone applications, users can monitor their home's energy usage live, make adjustments to settings, set alarms, and so much more. Those without apps work can still help you save energy, but don't provide the level of convenience and detail that you can get from those with mobile apps.
Solar energy capable
If you have upgraded your home with solar energy, be sure that you select smart home energy monitors that are capable of tracking how much energy your panels generate. This allows you to better understand the breakdown of your home's energy sources, specifically the ratio of solar vs. electric energy you are consuming.
Using a solar monitoring system can help you use less electricity to reduce your emissions and save you money.
Installation (professional or DIY)
Ease of installation matters as well. The more difficult the installation, the more likely it will require an electrician to do the job. While it is always better to have an electrician handle installation if you are not comfortable working with your electric panel, that is an additional cost. Keep that in mind when making your choice. Ease-of-installation is also important in case you ever want to add additional monitors, or features like smart plugs, to your system.
Benefits of Home Energy Monitoring
There are a few primary benefits to home energy monitoring. The chief among them is identifying areas or appliances that may be trouble spots so you can improve your home's energy efficiency.
This can help you save money on your bills and reduce your home's overall energy consumption. The right changes can equate to a few hundred dollars saved annually, and a smaller carbon footprint.
Ryan Womeldorf is a freelance writer who covers technology and consumer goods, including smart home tech. He is a husband and father of two (five if you count his pups).
Volatile organic compounds, or VOCs, are used to make most home products—furniture, paint, carpets, and even the construction materials used to make the home itself. Over time, VOCs like formaldehyde, benzene, ammonia, and toluene are off-gassed into the air and can cause serious health issues.
Typical electrostatic air filters can't remove VOCs, but luckily, there's an aesthetically pleasing, natural, NASA-proven way to return your air to a better state: stocking your home with air-purifying plants. Read on to learn more about the 20 best air-purifying plants you can put in your home, as well as care instructions for each species according to the experts at the University of Georgia's College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences.
1. Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum)
Cellar Door Plants
Best For Air Purification
We're going with NASA on this one. According to the air-purifying plants study, the peace lily is unmatched in its ability to filter a range of chemicals from your air. Pair that with its low maintenance and unique look, and there's no doubt it tops our list of best air-filtering plants.
How To Keep It Alive
Light: Medium light to bright, indirect sunlight
Water: Keep soil moist
Temperature: Average, 65 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit
Humidity: Average, 25% to 49% humidity
Need to Know: Toxic to humans and pets if ingested
2. Snake Plant (Sansevieria trifasciata)
Cellar Door Plants
Best For Frequent Travelers
Ask any botanist which household plant requires the least maintenance, and the snake plant will surely be mentioned. This trendy plant makes for an excellent gift for avid travelers who are away from their homes for weeks at a time, or anyone else interested in low-maintenance, air-purifying plants.
How To Keep It Alive
Light: Low light to bright, indirect sunlight
Water: Soil's surface should dry before re-watering, but soil can also become moderately dry before re-watering
Temperature: Average, 65 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit
Humidity: Low, 25% to 49% humidity
Need to Know: Mildly toxic to humans and pets if ingested
3. Golden Pothos (Epipremnum aureum)
File:Epipremnum aureum 31082012.jpg - Wikimedia Commonscommons.wikimedia.org
Best For Quick Growth
Devil's ivy, money plant, hunter's robe—the golden pothos plant goes by many aliases. But no matter what you call it, there's no denying this species' ability to purify carbon monoxide, benzene, and formaldehyde from your air. It's also one of the quickest-growing (and easiest to maintain) houseplants, so it's great for beginner home gardeners.
How To Keep It Alive
Light: Low light to bright, indirect sunlight
Water: Soil's surface should dry before re-watering
Temperature: Average, 65 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit
Humidity: Average, 25% to 49% humidity
Need to Know: Toxic to humans and pets if ingested
4. Bamboo Palm (Chamaedorea erumpens)
green palm tree near buildingPhoto by katie manning on UnsplashBest Floor Plant
No relation to actual bamboo, this palm makes an excellent floor piece in any home. The eye-catching fronds create an interesting and natural centerpiece, all while silently filtering the benzene, trichloroethylene, and formaldehyde from your air.
How To Keep It Alive
Light: Low light to medium light
Water: Soil's surface should dry before re-watering
Temperature: Average, 65 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit
Humidity: Average, 25% to 49% humidity
Need to Know: Nontoxic
5. Scarlet Star Bromeliad (Guzmania lingulata)
File:Scarlet Star (Guzmania lingulata) (2857478111).jpg - Wikimedia ...commons.wikimedia.org
Best For Your Bathroom
In a recent study, chemists at the State University of New York Oswego found bromeliads, like the Scarlet Star, to remove 80% of VOCs from the air in only 12 hours. These flowering plants love humid environments, so consider placing them in the bathroom where they can soak up the steam from your showers.
How To Keep It Alive
Light: Bright, indirect sunlight
Water: Soil's surface should dry before re-watering
Temperature: Average, 65 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit
Humidity: High, 50% or higher humidity
Need to Know: Nontoxic
6. English Ivy (Hedera helix)
Cellar Door Plantss
Best Trailing Plant
The leaves of English Ivy come in many different styles, but all are mesmerizing when trailing down bookcases or out of hanging planters. Pot your ivy in soil or water and give it nutrients, and it becomes a low-maintenance, air-filtering piece of natural art.
How To Keep It Alive
Light: Medium light to bright, indirect sunlight
Water: Soil's surface should dry before re-watering
Temperature: Cool to average, 50 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit
Humidity: Average, 25% to 49% humidity
Need to Know: Mildly toxic to humans and pets if ingested
7. Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)
Cellar Door Plants
Best Hanging Plant
The spider plant has become one of the most popular houseplants of modern times, and for good reason. In addition to being nontoxic, low-maintenance, and easy on the eyes, it works well as a carbon monoxide and VOC eliminator.
How To Keep It Alive
Light: Medium light to bright, indirect sunlight
Water: Keep soil moist
Temperature: Average, 65 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit
Humidity: Average, 25% to 49% humidity
Need to Know: Nontoxic
8. Boston Fern (Nephrolepis exaltata)
Best For Home Propagating
While the Boston Fern will do just fine in average humidity, a savvy plant owner will consider moving it into the bathroom with the Scarlet Star for some serious growth. When it outgrows its current pot, you can easily separate the roots into two separate plants. Keep this propagation cycle going to turn your home into a mini Jurassic world.
How To Keep It Alive
Light: Medium light to bright, indirect sunlight
Water: Soil's surface should dry before re-watering
Temperature: Average, 65 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit
Humidity: Average to high, 25% to 50% or higher humidity
Need to Know: Nontoxic
9. Aloe Vera (Aloe barbadensis)
Best Dual-Purpose Plant
Aloe vera plants are not only useful after you forget to re-apply your reef-safe sunscreen. They're also great to keep in your home for their air-filtering properties. Make sure they get plenty of sun (or install indoor grow lights if natural light isn't an option), and they'll earn their keep by removing formaldehyde from your air.
How To Keep It Alive
Light: At least 4 hours of direct sunlight per day
Water: Soil can become moderately dry before re-watering
Temperature: Warm, 70 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit
Humidity: Low, 5% to 24% humidity
Need to Know: Toxic to humans and pets if ingested
10. Chinese Evergreen (Aglaonema modestum)
Best For Child-Free, Pet-Free Homes
One of the most popular indoor plants in the world, the Chinese Evergreen thrives in low-medium light, making it ideal for brightening up darker corners of your home. For centuries, this plant has been bred throughout Asia as a "lucky plant," and in NASA's clean air study, scientists proved its ability to bring the fortune of good health.
How To Keep It Alive
Light: Low light to medium light
Water: Soil's surface should dry before re-watering
Temperature: Average, 65 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit
Humidity: Average, 25% to 49% humidity
Need to Know: Toxic to humans and pets if ingested
11. Corn Plant (Dracaena fragrans)
File:Corn Plant (Dracaena fragrans 'Massangeana').jpg - Wikimedia ...commons.wikimedia.org
Best For Serial Plant-Killers
Corn plants' thick canes make them visually appealing, but they're also one of the most effective air-purifying plants, removing VOCs like formaldehyde, benzene, trichloroethylene, and carbon dioxide. Plus, their care is near foolproof, so they're a great choice for those of us who don't exactly have a green thumb.
How To Keep It Alive
Light: Medium light to bright, indirect sunlight
Water: Soil's surface should dry before re-watering
Temperature: Average, 65 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit
Humidity: Average, 25% to 49% humidity
Need to Know: Toxic to pets if ingested
12. Janet Craig (Dracaena deremensis)
Cellar Door Plants
Best For Large Spaces
Improving your air quality is near effortless with the Janet Craig plant. This large, easy-to-grow floor plant can survive in anything from low light to bright, indirect light and doesn't need much water. It fills a room beautifully, purifying the air at the same time.
How To Keep It Alive
Light: Low light to bright, indirect sunlight
Water: Soil's surface should dry before re-watering
Temperature: Average, 65 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit
Humidity: Average, 25% to 49% humidity
Need to Know: Toxic to humans and pets if ingested
13. Broadleaf Lady Palm (Rhapis excelsa)
File:Broadleaf Lady Palm (Rhapis excelsa).jpg - Wikimedia Commonscommons.wikimedia.org
Best For Filtering Cleaning Fumes
Haven't yet swapped harsh household disinfectants for eco-friendly cleaning products? The ornate broadleaf lady palm can help remove toxic ammonia that may be trapped in the air in your home or apartment.
How To Keep It Alive
Light: Medium light to bright, indirect sunlight
Water: Soil's surface should dry before re-watering
Temperature: Average, 65 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit
Humidity: Average, 25% to 49% humidity
Need to Know: Nontoxic
14. Weeping Fig (Ficus benjamina)
Cellar Door Plants
Best Indoor Tree
Weeping figs, also called ficus trees, are easy to care for and have superior formaldehyde-filtering abilities. However, if you have a sensitive immune system, this may not be the plant for you—weeping figs are one of the most common sources of household allergens, behind dust and pet dander.
How To Keep It Alive
Light: Bright, indirect sunlight to direct sunlight
Water: Soil's surface should dry before re-watering
Temperature: Average, 65 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit
Humidity: Average, 25% to 49% humidity
Need to Know: Toxic to humans and pets if ingested
15. Rubber Plant (Ficus elastica)
Best For Tall Growth
If you're looking for an air-purifying plant that grows tall quickly, consider a rubber plant. When given the proper care, this species—which was named for its latex-loaded sap—can grow up to two feet per growing season, topping out at about 10 feet tall.
How To Keep It Alive
Light: Medium light to direct sunlight
Water: Soil's surface should dry before re-watering
Temperature: Average to warm, 65 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit
Humidity: Average, 25% to 49% humidity
Need to Know: Toxic to humans and pets if ingested
16. Areca Palm (Chrysalidocarpus lutescens)
Cellar Door Plants
Best For Pet Owners
Areca palms not only filter indoor toxins from the air, but they also act as a natural humidifier, adding moisture to the air around them. If you have playful pets, they may be attracted to the palm's dangling fronds, but rest assured they're nontoxic and won't harm your animals if bitten or swatted at.
How To Keep It Alive
Light: Medium light to bright, indirect sunlight
Water: Keep soil moist
Temperature: Average, 65 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit
Humidity: Average, 25% to 49% humidity
Need to Know: Nontoxic
17. Flamingo Lily (Anthurium scherzerianum)
Best Color
A pop of bright color can liven up any room, and in that regard, the flamingo lily has you covered. This plant promotes wellness by removing formaldehyde, xylene, toluene, and ammonium while adding a vibrant touch to your house or apartment.
How To Keep It Alive
Light: Medium light to bright, indirect sunlight
Water: Keep soil moist
Temperature: Average, 65 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit
Humidity: Average to high, 25% to 50% or higher humidity
Need to Know: Toxic to humans and pets if ingested or touched
18. Chrysanthemum (Chrysanthemum morifolium)
File:Chrysanthemum morifolium 08NOV.jpg - Wikipediaen.m.wikipedia.org
Best Air-Purifying Flower
Prefer the look of blooming flowers to leafy green plants? Chrysanthemums are an excellent pick. Simply pot these flowers, set them on a sunny windowsill, and enjoy a home with fewer traces of formaldehyde, benzene, and ammonia.
How To Keep It Alive
Light: At least 4 hours of direct sunlight per day
Water: Keep soil moist
Temperature: Average, 65 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit
Humidity: Average, 25% to 49% humidity
Need to Know: Toxic to humans and pets if ingested
19. Warneckii (Dracaena deremensis)
Most Versatile
The Warneckii is yet another species in the Dracaena genus that performed well in NASA's clean air study. The best part about this plant? You can pot a small clipping or larger stalks to fill any space in your home or apartment—no matter how big or small.
How To Keep It Alive
Light: Low light to bright, indirect sunlight
Water: Soil's surface should dry before re-watering
Temperature: Average, 65 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit
Humidity: Average, 25% to 49% humidity
Need to Know: Toxic to humans and pets if ingested
20. Dragon Tree (Dracaena marginata)
Trendiest
It's safe to say dragon trees are having a moment. These trendy air-purifying plants have become a popular fixture of modern decor, but their benefits go far beyond aesthetics—they also filter trichloroethylene, formaldehyde, benzene, and carbon dioxide from the air around you.
How To Keep It Alive
Light: Low light to bright, indirect sunlight
Water: Soil's surface should dry before re-watering
Temperature: Average, 65 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit
Humidity: Average, 25% to 49% humidity
Need to Know: Toxic to humans and pets if ingested
Each product featured here has been independently selected by the writer. If you make a purchase using the links included, we may earn commission.
Melissa Smith is an avid writer, scuba diver, backpacker, and all-around outdoor enthusiast. She graduated from the University of Florida with degrees in journalism and sustainable studies. Before joining EcoWatch, Melissa worked as the managing editor of Scuba Diving magazine and the communications manager of The Ocean Agency, a non-profit that's featured in the Emmy award-winning documentary Chasing Coral.
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It's easy to understand why so many yoga brands are on a mission to become greener versions of themselves. After all, what better way to supplement a practice designed to heal and enhance one's life than to use an eco-friendly yoga mat designed with the same ethos in mind?
When it comes to finding eco-friendly yoga mats, it helps to know what to look for. As with many other sustainable products, it all boils down to searching for mats made with eco-conscious practices front and center.
While the very textiles used to make the mats play a major role, the amount of emissions produced as a result of creating them is just as important. Not all companies are transparent about their production processes, but we've tracked down the facts about a few mats.
Below, discover five eco-friendly yoga mat brands to consider for your next flow-inspired purchase.
Each product featured here has been independently selected by the writer. If you make a purchase using the links included, we may earn commission.
5 Best Eco-Friendly Yoga Mats
Manduka eKOlite Yoga Mat
Amazon
Promising to inspire people to become their most empowered selves, Manduka puts full focus on efforts geared toward helping its shoppers be more conscious members of society.
One such way that it does this is by committing to creating top-of-the-line yoga mats that are designed to last. By creating long-lasting, high-quality mats, Manduka is able to assist shoppers in their efforts to cut back on consumption. What's more, the company ensures that all of its mats are created without harmful chemicals and dyes (which, by the way, have the ability to not only disrupt water sources during the production process but individuals' hormone balance during use).
But that's not all. In addition to nixing chemicals from all mats, Manduka's eKo Mats are made from biodegradable natural tree rubber and manufactured with zero waste and no harmful plasticizers. The PRO Mats are made from the highest quality PVC—a form of synthetic plastic—on the planet and manufactured emissions-free. While PVC is seldom recyclable, Manduka ensures shoppers that they need not worry, as these high-grade PRO Mats are guaranteed to last for life. Once they do meet their demise (if ever), they can be returned through the company's Live On program, in which The Renewal Workshop breaks down the mats and recycles them.
As sustainable as Manduka's mats are, its accessories are just as earth-friendly, with towels made of recycled plastic water bottles, blocks made of sustainable cork, and straps made of unbleached 100% natural cotton.
The point is, if you're looking to fully revamp your yoga routine with mats and accessories, Manduka is your number-one bet. It's a top brand chosen by yoga instructors around the world.
SUGA Recycled Wetsuit Yoga Mat
SUGA
If you love the ocean as much as you love your yoga practice, you'll swoon over SugaMats. The California-based yoga mat company specializes in mats made of recycled wetsuits. It started as an idea to divert surfers' and scuba divers' old non-biodegradable neoprene wetsuits from entering landfills and now makes all its mats out of donated materials.
If you have an old wetsuit you'd like to recycle, you can drop it off at one of their partner stores or mail it in and you'll receive a 10 percent discount on your next purchase in return. For every wetsuit recycled, roughly one SugaMat is created. As durable as the mat is designed to be, the brand acknowledges that shoppers may want to replace it at some point. When you're ready, just send your used mat back to Suga to be recycled, and the brand will also give you a discount on a future purchase. Read more about the company's origins in our SugaMats review.
Liforme Love Yoga Mat
Amazon
Designed under the premise of "Good for you, Good for the planet," Liforme mats are biodegradable, non-toxic, and PVC-free. The brand prides itself on being eco-friendly, ethical, and socially just, and, as such, they only use the highest-quality materials and focus on conservancy efforts with each and every one of their products.
By dedicating 5% of sales from two of their collections, they've raised over $200,000 for their charity partner, Friends of the Earth.
Additionally, from a social justice standpoint, they support women and children's rights, racial diversity, and LGBTQ+ rights. And they're not just all talk. They put their money where their mouth is and have donated to various organizations outright, as well as created mats specifically to benefit certain causes, like the Rainbow Hope Mat, in which 5% of sales go to GLAAD, a media-monitoring organization geared toward promoting LGBTQ+ acceptance.
Beyond charity, the most unique aspect of Liforme mats is that they're tailored to promote balance and stability via their revolutionary grip and alignment system. So, if you've ever had difficulty maintaining balance during your practice, a Liforme mat may be the ultimate choice for you.
2nd Wind Yoga Mat
Amazon
Rhode Island-based health and wellness brand 2nd Wind is renowned for its intricate yoga mats, all of which are made with sustainability in mind. Each mat is made with 100% natural and sustainable cork and rubber, water-based ink, and no glue, latex, PVC, or toxins. Additionally, each mat is biodegradable. Sustainability aside, the artistic appearance of each mat is something to bat a lash at.
You can purchase 2nd Wind mats that have a rubber face or that have a towel infused mat for added grip. Instead of having to purchase a secondary yoga mat cover, these mats prevent slipping with a soft surface that's heat pressed into the rubber.
Scoria Blossom Cork Yoga Mat
Scoria
Toronto-based Scoria Yoga is beloved for its eco-friendly cork yoga mats. Each mat is made with sustainably sourced cork and backed with natural tree rubber. The two materials are adhered with eco adhesives that are bonded under high temperatures. Additionally, the designs—which are stunning—are crafted with non-toxic, water-based ink.
As if the production of each mat isn't enough to swoon over, know that Scoria is partnered with Feeding Children Everywhere and for every mat purchased, 10 meals are donated to those in need.
What's more, the very meals delivered are sustainable, as they're vegan and wrapped in biodegradable packaging. All this is to say, Scoria has brought the idea of sustainability full circle with its cork yoga mats and give-back program.
Rebecca R. Norris is a full-time freelance writer living in the DC metro area. She writes for a variety of publications, covering everything from beauty and wellness to style and news. She is a graduate of George Mason University. There, she earned her B.A. in Media: Production, Consumption, and Critique, along with a minor in Electronic Journalism. The Virginia native is a lover of lists, Stevie Nicks, dark chocolate Sprinkles cupcakes, and the Oxford comma.
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- Can Yoga and Meditation Help Us to Connect With Nature? - EcoWatch ›
What makes Avocado the most popular organic mattress?
There are two groups that most people will turn to while researching a product: Expert reviewers and fellow consumers. When it comes to picking the best organic mattress, both the pundits and verified customers agree that an Avocado mattress is at or near the top of the list.
U.S. News & World Report recently gave Avocado a nod in the categories of best mattress, best for back pain, best for stomach sleepers, best firm mattress and best hybrid mattress, citing its ability to provide a more restful night's sleep.
Avocado mattresses were also named best healthy mattress and best organic mattress in Health.com's Healthy Home Awards, best mattress in a box for the environmentally conscious by Shape magazine and best organic mattress by Good Housekeeping.
The brand has also received a certificate of endorsement from the American Chiropractic Association and been consistently lauded by Consumer Reports. What's more, there are more than 18,000 5-star Avocado mattress reviews from verified customers.
Avocado corporate stewardship
Peeling the curtain back on the company's operations and mission, it's easy to see why so many Avocado mattress reviews consider it to be the best in the business.
The brand's products are American-made, designed in Hoboken, New Jersey, and manufactured by hand in Los Angeles.
Its factories are powered by renewable energy, and Avocado produces its own natural latex and ethically harvests wool from sheep that the company raises itself.
It's because of that commitment to sustainability and eco-friendly practices that the Avocado mattress became the first in the world to achieve net-zero carbon emissions. And earlier this year, the company announced that it now offsets more carbon than it generates.
It's also important to mention that Avocado is certified organic by the USDA, as well as being GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard) certified and GOLS (Global Organic Latex Standard) certified.
Beyond its goal of providing superior products that promote healthy sleep, Avocado believes in the power of sustainability and social responsibility—a belief it backs up by donating 1% of all revenue to environmental nonprofits.
Each product featured here has been independently selected by the writer. If you make a purchase using the links included, we may earn commission.
Top Avocado products
Here are a few of Avocado's highest-rated products.
Avocado Vegan Mattress
Avocado
- GOLS organic certified latex
- GOTS organic certified cotton
- 1,000+ pocketed support coils
- No polyurethane foams, polyester, or toxic fire retardants
- Replaces all cotton with wool
- Vegan certified
- PETA-approved
- Over 750 Avocado mattress reviews give this product a 4.6-star rating
This breathable latex foam mattress has a reduced carbon footprint and is super comfortable. Instead of the organic wool some mattress brands use, the cotton covering composed of eco friendly cotton materials.
It's a latex mattress—not a memory foam or innerspring. Latex foam is bouncier than memory foam, hugs your body more, and is quick to recover it's shape. This bed is firm to medium firm.
Off-gassing is a familiar trait among most new mattresses that com in a box. When you open the Avocado you will smell something like formaldehyde—but don't fret. It goes away as you let the organic cotton cover air out.
Alpaca Wool Plush Mattress Topper
Avocado
- Certified organic and natural materials
- Natural alpaca and GOTS organic certified wool and cotton
- Soft, plush feel that's more "luxurious" than most common products
- Elastic straps to hold it in place
- Over 100 reviews give the product a 4.1-star rating
Unlike some other pillow tops designed to provide support, this top layer is designed to provide pressure relief. Made with raw materials that are certified organic, the organic wool topper is an eco-friendly way to add a bit more comfort to your natural mattress.
Avocado Green Pillow
Avocado
- GOLS organic certified latex and GOTS organic certified kapok
- Organic jersey cotton liner that's machine washable
- GOTS organic certified quilted cotton cover
- GREENGUARD Gold certified, vegan, and handmade in Los Angeles
- Nearly 4,500 reviews give this product a 4.5-star rating
Organic Superfine Suvin Cotton Sheets
Avocado
- GOTS organic certified Indian Suvin Cotton
- 1,000 thread count per inch weave
- Sateen finish
Most mattress companies also have pillows, sheets, and sleep accessories to go with their product line. Avocado sheets stand out for their organic certification. These sheets are made completely with GOTS certified organic cotton. They're a cool, comfy way to cover that new mattress.
Beyond just its top-selling mattresses and bedding, Avocado manufacturers ancillary bedroom products like bed frames, dressers and end tables.
What should I look for when buying an organic mattress?
Whether it's an Avocado mattress or another product from a reputable manufacturer, there are a few things to consider before making a purchase.
The first thing to know is that accreditation gets a little fuzzy.
The reality is that not all mattresses claiming to be "natural" or even "organic" will qualify for an official organic label from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). In order to do so, mattresses must be made up of 95% certified organic materials.
In addition, no harmful chemicals can be used in the processing or production of the mattress, which is considered a complex finished textile product.
As you research, you may find that some mattress manufacturers will call their products "organic" because they use a smattering of organic products—but not enough to carry the USDA seal, a practice that's known as greenwashing.
To find a mattress that has been certified organic, you'll want to look for accreditations like GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard).
You can also look for the GOLS (Global Organic Latex Standard) logo.
These two standards help to uphold the 95% organic rule.
Once you're squared away with certifications, the rest of the buying process is similar to purchasing a traditional mattress.
First, you'll want to find one that satisfies your desired level of comfort.
As a rule, many organic mattresses tend to be a bit stiffer, so testing its firmness—either before purchase or during a trial period after you get it home—is in your best interest.
Do I pay more for an organic mattress?
As with most purchases—especially in the organic space—cost is a factor. A goal of bringing home the best eco-friendly mattress money can buy can price some consumers out of the organic market entirely.
Like any consumer good, organic mattresses come in a variety of price points based on size, comfort level, materials used and amenities. However, generally speaking, you will pay more for an eco-friendly mattress than you might for a traditional mattress.
What am I paying for with an organic mattress?
Perhaps the biggest reason why someone would purchase an organic mattress is because of its sustainability.
In a recent survey by Southern Cross University, more than three-quarters of all participants said they wanted to learn more about sustainable lifestyles. And for at least some of those people, supporting the environment meant altering their habits of consumption.
Further, statistics show a substantial cross-section of consumers across various age ranges who are even willing to pay more for eco-friendly products and services.
One of the reasons why someone might be willing to pay more to purchase the best organic mattress is for their own safety.
Products treated with harsh or toxic chemicals can contaminate the air we breathe, a particularly troubling hazard considering we spend about one-third of our lives in bed. To make matters worse, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) says that indoor air can be as much as five times more polluted than outdoor air. Air-purifying plants can help rid your home of toxins after you purchase new furniture, including mattresses, but it's best to not introduce them in the first place.
There's also the durability factor of a certified organic mattress. Compared to an organic mattress, there could be several years difference in how long a traditional mattress lasts before wear and tear or loss of support forces a replacement purchase. And because an organic mattress has high-quality materials that maintain its support and shape, you're likely to report better sleep patterns for longer.
Avocado mattress review: Our final thoughts
If your quest to find the best organic mattress has led you to Avocado, it's a good place to start. The brand has a verifiable commitment to sustainability, uses natural and non-toxic materials, and even donates a share of its revenues to nonprofits with a similar mission and vision. Plus, Avocado mattress reviews are overwhelmingly positive.
Whatever direction you go in for your next purchase, we encourage you to think about how your purchases impact the world. Small choices over time add up, and we can all shop a little smarter.