Barry Cik, an environmental engineer, wasn’t about to let his new grandchild sleep on a mattress containing vinyl/PVC, polyurethane foam and potentially harmful chemicals.
Cik then set out to find a suitable organic baby crib mattress, but those contained latex and/or wool, and were not waterproof. And if the mattress were to get wet, mold and fungus could grow. Cik concluded the organic baby mattresses on the market were nothing more than miniaturized adult mattresses, which made little sense for babies.
Together with his sons, Jeffrey and Jason, he founded Naturepedic Organic Baby and Children’s Mattresses, an organic and nontoxic baby and children’s mattress company. In less than five years, the company has changed the industry, as many of the more traditional mattress companies have been forced to follow a more environmentally friendly manufacturing approach such as Naturepedic’s.
Today, Naturepedic mattresses are sold throughout the U.S. in 300 retail stores and via 200 Internet sites.
Cik’s interest in environmental issues began early, as he earned an advanced degree from The Ohio State University with a focus on environmental and engineering surveys and materials. He also has several environmental certifications. He has also sought certification from the GREENGUARD Children & Schools Certification Program and the mattress was the first of its kind to receive the distinction. This certification ensures that the product has passed some of the most rigorous emissions testing in the world and that the products improve the quality of the air that children breathe while they sleep.
Cik’s concern for the environment goes beyond its products. Naturepedic’s website has become a portal for information important to the organic industry and green manufacturing standards, featuring, a wealth of information to keep people up to date on the industry.
How to reach: Naturepedic, (800) 917-3342 or www.naturepedic.com
