Horsehair mattresses

Matrasses are a vital part of everyday life – they affect the quality of sleep, and thus health and overall well-being. In recent decades, a wide range of materials have appeared on the mattress market, from latex and memory foam to different types of springs and hybrid combinations. However, among these materials, one stands out that has been used for centuries and is now coming to the fore again – horsehair. Horsehair mattresses are a natural, eco-friendly and luxurious alternative for those who value sleep quality and natural composition.

The trade mark POTEMA® defines the branded technology concept of a professionally qualified Carpet Service® implementation company dedicated to the regular maintenance, cleaning, disinfection, impregnation of synthetic, natural, wool, silk and American-made mattresses, beds and textiles. This branded concept delivers the utmost professionalism in full synergy with maintaining ethical, environmental and quality performance standards, including a contractual guarantee of contractor services.

Horsehair Mattresses are suitable for anyone who values quality sleep and natural materials. Their breathability and moisture-wicking ability make them an ideal choice for people suffering from allergies, asthma or excessive sweating. Also, those looking for a mattress with long life and excellent body support will appreciate the properties of horsehair. Horsehair mattresses are the ideal combination of traditional craftsmanship and modern necessities for quality and healthy sleep. They represent an investment in comfort, health and the environment that pays off not only in the short term, but especially in the long term.

History and importance of horsehair as a material

The use of horsehair in mattresses has a long tradition going back several centuries. Horsehair was widely used in ancient civilisations, where it was used not only as a material for mattresses, but also for upholstering furniture, making brushes and many other products. In Europe, horsehair became synonymous with luxury and quality sleep in the 18th and 19th centuries. Thanks to their strength, elasticity and resistance to moisture, they were considered the ideal material for filling mattresses and pillows.

Horse horsehair is made from the coarser hairs of horses, most often from the tail or mane. These hairs are long, strong and flexible at the same time, making them an ideal combination for use in mattresses. Horsehair is also a material that naturally adapts to the body, wicks away moisture and provides high comfort. Moreover, nowadays there is an increasing interest in eco-friendly materials, which has revived the popularity of horsehair mattresses as a sustainable and natural solution.

Benefits of horsehair mattresses

Natural material

One of the biggest advantages of horsehair is its natural origin. Unlike synthetic materials, which can contain chemical impurities and cause allergic reactions, horsehair is a completely natural material. This means that horsehair mattresses are eco-friendly, environmentally friendly and healthier for the human body.

Excellent breathability

Horsehair has a unique structure that allows for excellent air circulation. This makes horsehair mattresses breathable and prevents moisture accumulation. This property is crucial for temperature regulation during sleep. The mattress thus remains cool in the summer months and comfortably warm in the winter, contributing to better sleep quality and overall well-being.

Moisture wicking

Thanks to its natural moisture-wicking ability, horsehair is resistant to mould, dust mites and bacteria. This makes them an ideal choice for people suffering from allergies or asthma. Moisture that is expelled from the body during the night does not meet any obstacles in the horsehair and is immediately wicked away, preventing odours and ensuring a hygienic sleeping environment.

Long life and durability

Koon horsehair is known for its high durability. Unlike some synthetic materials that flatten and lose their strength over time, horsehair retains its elasticity and shape for many years. A horsehair mattress is a long term investment, as a properly maintained mattress can last for decades.

Adaptability and body support

Thanks to the elasticity of horsehair, the mattress follows the shape of the body perfectly while providing sufficient support for the spine and joints. This type of mattress is thus suitable for anyone suffering from back pain or for those looking for a comfortable and healthy sleep. The horsehair conforms to the body, but at the same time provides enough resistance so that the sleeper does not lie in an overly soft environment that could lead to incorrect posture.

Horsehair mattress manufacturing process

Making horsehair mattresses is a complex process that requires expert care and traditional techniques. First, the horsehair is carefully cleaned and sterilised to remove any impurities and potential allergens. The horsehair is then brushed, which helps to fluff it up and ensure maximum breathability.

Next, the horsehair is layered and braided to create a resilient yet firm mattress base. This process requires a high level of expertise and manual dexterity, which is reflected in the quality and durability of the mattress. In the final step, the horsehair is combined with other natural materials, such as cotton or wool, to make the mattress as comfortable as possible and promote a healthy sleep.

Comparison of horsehair mattresses with other types of mattresses

When choosing a mattress, it is crucial to consider various aspects such as comfort, body support, moisture wicking and environmental impact. Horsehair mattresses are exceptional in many ways, but let’s compare them with some other types of mattresses that are commonly available in the market.

Memory foam

Memory foam is popular for its ability to conform to the shape of the body and provide relief from pressure points. However, unlike horsehair, memory foam is not breathable and can accumulate heat, which is particularly disadvantageous for people who sweat excessively at night. Memory foam also does not exhibit the durability of horsehair and can deform over time.

Latex

Latex mattresses are considered an eco-friendly alternative to synthetic foams. They are durable, breathable and regulate temperature well, similar to horsehair. However, horsehair has a natural ability to wick away moisture, which is lacking in latex mattresses. Also, their elasticity and body support are usually better with horsehair.

Spring mattresses

Spring mattresses are a cheaper alternative that provides good moisture wicking and breathability. However, sprung mattresses are not able to conform to the shape of the body in the same way as horsehair mattresses. Additionally, spring mattresses can be noisy and lose their resilience over time, whereas horsehair mattresses remain form-fitting.

Maintenance and care of horsehair mattresses

To make sure a horsehair mattress lasts as long as possible, it is important to care for it properly. While horsehair is durable and easy to maintain, there are a few basic rules to follow.

Regular ventilation

Thanks to its ability to wick away moisture and regulate temperature, the horsehair mattress does not need to be cleaned frequently. However, regular ventilation helps to keep the mattress fresh. It is recommended to air the mattress once every few months.

Moisture protection

Although horsehair wicks away moisture, excessive exposure to water or humidity can damage the structure of the material. Therefore, it is advisable to protect the mattress from direct contact with water, and if spillage occurs, it should be dried as quickly as possible.

Regular rotation

In order to wear the mattress evenly, it is recommended to rotate it regularly. This prolongs its life and ensures even support for the body.

Ecological aspects of horsehair mattresses

With the growing awareness of environmental protection, there is a growing demand for sustainable products, including mattresses. Horsehair is a natural material that is biodegradable and environmentally friendly. In addition, horses suffer no harm in the extraction of horsehair, making this material ethically acceptable.

Cleaning and regular disinfection of mattresses

The mattress is one of the most important elements of our home, having a major impact on our health, well-being and quality of sleep. When choosing a mattress, we pay close attention to its material, hardness and ability to adapt to the shape of the body. Unfortunately, we often forget that we also need to care for and clean the mattress regularly. Although many people don’t realise it, a mattress can become an ideal environment for dust mites, bacteria, mould and other dirt. In this text, we’ll explain why regular mattress cleaning is important, what your options are, and how to choose the best mattress cleaner.

Mattress Vacuuming & Knocking: Professional vacuums with a HEPA filter and HEPA bag must have an electric vibrating knocking head. This technology of KIRBY® / HYLA® vacuum cleaners makes it possible to remove surface mold spores, dust mites by dry method from the mattress surface.

Cleaning with special chemical cleaners: Professional antibacterial disinfectants and cleaners from the manufacturer and brand POTEMA® / Dr. Schutz® bring an environmentally friendly, anti-allergenic way of disinfecting mattress surfaces.

UV-C lamp: We recommend entrusting your mattress to industry professionals who have a UV-C germicidal mattress lamp. UVC-producing lamps are designed to be safely used on mattress surfaces and other household items. The radiant energy of the UVC radiation acts directly on microorganisms that reside on the surface and top layer of the mattress. The disinfection process usually takes several minutes, during which time the lamp kills up to 99.9% of the bacteria and other harmful organisms present.

OZON: we recommend entrusting your mattress to industry professionals who have the BIO-OZON® vacuum cleaning system. The disinfecting properties of ozone result from its ability to oxidize molecules in the cells of bacteria, viruses and other microorganisms. When ozone comes into contact with these pathogens, it disrupts the cell membrane or wall of the microorganism, leading to its decomposition and subsequent death. This process works similarly to the action of conventional disinfectants, but without the use of chemicals, which is beneficial for people who prefer natural and eco-friendly solutions.

In indoor applications such as mattress cleaning, ozone not only kills bacteria and viruses, but also mites, mold spores and other allergens. Its ability to destroy harmful microorganisms without toxic residues makes it ideal for the environment in which we sleep and rest.

Allergens, mold spores, bacteria, viruses and dust mites are not only a hygiene problem in mattresses, but also a health problem. But with proper prevention, maintenance and the right choice of mattress, the risks can be significantly reduced. Even the thickest sheets and blankets cannot protect us from micro-particles. Dust mites or moulds, which often number up to one million and produce allergy-causing faeces that settle in our mouths, noses, eyes, etc. every time we move. In addition to the allergy manifesting as itching, mucous membrane inflammation, bronchitis, asthma and shortness of breath can be added. This condition can be prevented by professional cleaning and deep dry disinfection thanks to UV-C radiation or vacuum ozonation of the mattress with thorough machine vacuuming and above all regular maintenance.