What are mattresses made out of - summary:
- Mattress comfort is important, and understanding materials helps you choose a better fit.
- Mattresses can be single or multi-layer, and many foams are polyurethane-based.
- Memory foam (viscoelastic polyurethane) mattresses are denser and longer-lasting.
- Infused foams (for example, copper, gel, graphene) have properties like antibacterial claims, temperature balance and slower heat-up.
- Latex mattresses materials are generally hypoallergenic and dust-mite resistant. It is important to note that some people (estimated 6%) have a latex allergy.
- Look for certifications on your mattress sustainable materials, “Made in New Zealand” products over cheaper overseas options, and test mattresses in-store to understand what materials work for you.
Have you ever just laid down on to a mattress and felt so comfortable that you knew you were about to have a great night’s sleep? Maybe it’s a new mattress you’ve just purchased, one you’ve had for years or even one you slept in while on holidays, whichever the case, knowing what mattresses are made of will help you understand just why it’s so comfortable, and more importantly, make sure the next mattress you buy is perfect for you.
Sleep comfort is a unique preference, much like your ideal coffee. Are you a café latte, cappuccino or macchiato person or do you prefer your coffee to be a strong 3/4 decaf, half soy, half skinny, 1 sugar, 1 pump of caramel and 2 pumps of vanilla?
Mattresses are as diverse as coffee styles, with many different ingredients including latex, foam, memory foam, springs - and even water. Mattresses are made from multiple components, and - just like coffee - you will favour some of these mattress components over others.
While the ingredients are important to find your ideal beds, it’s also really important for you to understand some of the science inside beds. From the science of back support to the science of foam and springs, SleepMaker mattresses wouldn't exist without chemists, engineers and biomechanics.
Typically, a mattress is divided into three sections: the support core, which serves as the bed's foundation, underneath the softer comfort layer, which is constructed of more reactive materials and provides cushioning close to the surface. Foams, metal coils, or latex are frequently used for support cores, while cotton, wool, foam, latex, and other materials can be used for comfort systems, depending on the mattress. The top and third layer is the sense layer, which consists of the fabric quilting and any other surface-level treatments. At SleepMaker our sense layer often features quilting made from fibres like wool, silk, cashmere, TENCEL or a durable stretch knit.
What are foam and latex mattresses made of?
Let’s start understanding mattress ingredients by asking what are foam mattresses made of? Quite simply, foam mattresses are often either one single layer or multiple layers of foam. There are several types of foams that can be used in mattresses.
SleepMaker traditional foams
The term "Polyurethane foam" is typically used to describe traditional foam used in mattresses. Most bedding foams, including memory foam, are made of polyurethane. At SleepMaker we use Dreamfoam, whichis a breathable comfort layer that combines superior consistency and support with unrivalled resilience and a uniquely silky feel. Dreamfoam has received a Green Ribbon award for its environmentally considerate production process, which uses fewer chemicals than other foams.
SleepMaker memory foams
Memory foam, also known as visco elastic foam, is a kind of polyurethane foam that has been chemically modified to make it more elastic and responsive than regular bedding foam. It can be pricier because it is quite dense and provides excellent comfort while also lasting a lot longer than less costly foams. Thanks to memory foam's performance and reputation, it's considered a premium foam; it's worth having in your mattress.
SleepMaker infused foams
You may have heard of some of our infused foams like Fusion:Gel and Fusion:Graphene, and yes, a lot of science has gone into creating these infused foams. Essentially infused foams are made of foam with an element infused into it. The foam used can either be a traditional foam or a memory foam, depending on its purpose. The elements infused into foams include things like copper (which is known for its antibacterial, anti fungal and surface viral reducing properties) or graphene which is a super-conductor that aids temperature regulation. Gel infused foams have visible gel particles evenly infused through our superior memory foam. The gel particles are energy-absorbing, so gel infused memory foam takes longer to heat up than regular memory foam. This is extremely important in the early phase of sleep.
SleepMaker latex
Natural latex is sourced from sustainable farms in Sri Lanka. Natural latex provides excellent support for your entire body and is naturally hypoallergenic and resistant to dust mites, making it ideal for people who suffer from allergies. Latex is also resistant towards mildew, and mold; and has antibacterial, and antifungal qualities, perfect for a healthier sleep.
While all latex is made from the sap of the rubber tree, there are two different processes used to turn liquid latex into soft, comfortable latex foam. The latex used by SleepMaker is created using the Dunlop process. Although the more expensive of the two processes to manufacture, the Dunlop process creates a denser, more durable foam, that has a better feel and is made without the use of additional chemicals to form the foam.
What are innerspring mattresses made of?
Metal coils/springs are used in the support cores of innerspring mattresses to create a sturdy, durable foundation. For more than a century, innerspring mattresses have been a preferred option. The style, which is still in demand today, is considered to have started in the 1870s.
At SleepMaker, we are able to manufacture our own springs right here in New Zealand. We have a range of pocket springs and zoned pocket springs, in addition to specialist spring systems we've developed inhouse - and there are more innovations on the way. Pocket springs are individually pocketed and great for targeted support right where you need it most. We also have progressive springs that are hourglass-shaped and actively detect and deflect pressure. In some cases these are combined with regular pocket springs in a super responsive zoned support design.
What mattress materials should you avoid?
So given all of the science, research and development that goes into SleepMaker mattresses you must be wondering which mattress materials to avoid?
You want to look for a mattress that is made from the best mattress materials possible. Look for the Made in New Zealand logo so you know your mattress is made locally, to local quality standards. You might also want to look for more sustainable materials, like natural fibres or latex.
Finally, there are a number of newer, cheaper brands of mattresses on the market at the moment. Many of these mattresses are made overseas and may contain chemicals or materials that aren't typically used in New Zealand mattresses: fibreglass is a recent example we've seen in imported mattresses. They may also use a lighter, thinner springs that aren't suitable for Kiwi sleepers.
Choosing the best mattress materials
Choosing the best mattress materials really does come down to your own personal preference. You might want to consider the type of back support you want and think about things like breathability, durability, stain resistance, comfort etc., so don’t forget to ask questions about the functionality of the technology in mattresses.
While you might have your morning coffee order down pat, we bet there was a time in your life when you didn’t really know what kind of coffee person you were. You’ve no doubt had to drink a few bad coffees before you found the one you loved – and looking for a new mattress is much the same, only you don’t have to buy the ‘coffee’ to ‘taste’ it – you get to try mattresses in store!
Get the best nights sleep possible with SleepMaker
When you’re ready for that new mattress, take the weekend, pop on some baggy, comfy loungewear and head to your local mattress retailer. Test a range of mattresses and feels, and get expert advice from the knowledgeable store staff to refine the perfect sleep recipe for you.
Before you head out, why not take our Sleep Selector Quiz to get our recommendation, and check out our list of retailers to find a store close to you.
