Natural latex mattresses are a new product in the natural bedding industry. Pure latex bedding is resistant to mold, bacteria and dust mites, and is fire resistant. Make sure that the natural latex mattress is not a blend containing anything but pure latex. Latex allergies are a serious problem for some people. Some believe that the metal in box springs become magnetized when in the presence of a room's normal electricity, and radiates its own field that distorts the earth's natural radiation, making sleep less restful.
Some companies now provide mattresses free of metal springs.
Green on a Budget Buying a clean, used mattress that is old enough to have outgassed most of the toxic fumes is a viable option, as long as the mattress has never been fumigated. Look in the want ads for used mattresses, or put an add in yourself. Inspect the mattress carefully before buying it. Avoid commercially sold used mattresses as they have probably been treated with pesticides and disinfectants. You can seal in some of the fumes emitted from mattresses by making a barrier cloth encasement.