CertiPUR-US is a certification program for flexible polyurethane foam used in mattresses and upholstered furniture. It tests foam for certain chemicals and emissions levels.
CertiPUR-US certified foams are analyzed to meet standards for:
- Content: Made without ozone depleters, PBDEs, TDCPP or TCEP flame retardants, mercury, lead, and heavy metals
- Emissions: Low VOC emissions for indoor air quality (less than 0.5 ppm)
- Durability: Physical performance standards
It's important to understand what CertiPUR-US is not:
- It's not organic or natural - it certifies synthetic polyurethane foam
- It's an industry program, funded by foam manufacturers
- It doesn't test for all potentially harmful chemicals
- It doesn't address the environmental impact of petroleum-based foam
CertiPUR-US can be a reasonable baseline when synthetic foam is necessary, but for those seeking natural alternatives, look for natural latex with GOLS certification or organic cotton and wool bedding with GOTS certification.