Natural mattresses
Natural materials mattresses are becoming an increasingly popular choice nowadays as more and more people think about their health and the impact their everyday choices have on the environment. Natural mattresses are made from renewable, eco-friendly materials such as organic cotton, natural latex, coir, wool and bamboo. These mattresses are designed to offer healthy, comfortable and natural sleep while respecting nature’s cycles. The use of natural ingredients reduces the impact on the environment and offers a safer and healthier choice for the user.
The trade mark POTEMA® defines the branded technology concept of a professionally qualified Carpet Service® implementation company focused on 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.
Natural mattresses offer a combination of health, comfort and eco-friendly approach, making them the ideal choice for the modern consumer. Unlike conventional mattresses that contain synthetic foams and chemicals such as flame retardants or various plastic materials, natural mattresses use materials free of toxic substances. For this reason, natural mattresses are recommended not only for people with allergies, but also for anyone who wants to ensure a safe and healthy sleeping environment.
Benefits of natural mattresses
The benefits of natural mattresses can be summarized in a few basic categories: health benefits, environmental impact, quality and comfort, and durability. In this section, we look in more detail at how these aspects improve sleep quality and contribute to a sustainable lifestyle.
Health benefits
One of the main benefits of natural mattresses is their beneficial effect on health. Mattresses made from natural materials typically do not contain toxic chemicals that are common in synthetic mattresses. Chemicals found in conventional mattresses, such as formaldehyde or various flame retardants, can release fumes that negatively affect the air quality in the bedroom. Long-term exposure to these substances can be associated with various health problems, including allergies, respiratory problems or even hormonal disorders.
Natural mattresses made from hypoallergenic materials such as natural latex, wool or bamboo fibres are particularly suitable for people with allergies, asthma or sensitive skin. These materials are resistant to dust mites, bacteria and mould, which helps prevent allergic reactions and improves the air quality in the room. In addition, natural mattresses are often better at regulating temperature and wicking away moisture, which contributes to better sleeping comfort.
Environmental impact and sustainability
Natural mattresses have a positive impact on the environment because they use renewable resources that can be grown and harvested without permanently damaging nature. Materials such as organic cotton or latex are grown and processed without the use of chemical pesticides and fertilizers, which improves soil health and reduces pollution of water sources. Also, the production process of natural mattresses has a lower carbon footprint because synthetic materials are not made from petroleum.
Another advantage is that natural mattresses are mostly biodegradable or easily recyclable, which reduces waste in landfills. When their lifespan comes to an end, materials such as cotton or wool can decompose in nature without leaving toxic traces.
Quality and comfort
Natural mattresses are designed to provide a higher level of comfort and body support while you sleep. Materials such as natural latex have a natural elasticity that allows for even distribution of body weight and maintenance of proper spinal position. This reduces pressure on the joints and spine, which helps prevent pain and improves sleep quality.
In addition, wool and bamboo fibres have excellent thermoregulatory properties, which means that they keep the body warm during winter and cool it down in summer. This makes it possible to achieve an optimal sleeping temperature all year round.
Long life
Natural mattresses tend to be made of high-quality and durable materials, which prolongs their life. Latex mattresses can last longer than mattresses made from foam or other synthetic materials because latex is resistant to wear and deformation. Coconut fibers or wool also contribute to the durability of the mattress without losing its strength or resilience. As a result, investing in a natural mattress guarantees long-term comfort and stability.
Materials used in natural mattresses
There are several key materials used in the production of natural mattresses, each of which brings specific properties and benefits. Below, we take a closer look at the most commonly used natural materials.
Natural latex
Natural latex is one of the most popular materials for making natural mattresses. This material is extracted from the sap of the rubber tree and has unique properties that make it ideal for making mattresses. Natural latex is resilient and provides excellent support for the body, which means it easily conforms to the shape of the body and helps to distribute weight evenly. This material is also hypoallergenic, resistant to dust mites and bacteria, making it a great choice for those with allergies.
Latex also features high durability and resistance to warping, meaning natural latex mattresses are long-lasting. Natural latex is also environmentally friendly, as rubber trees grow quickly and can be used for many years without harming nature.
Organic cotton
Cotton is one of the most widely used natural materials in the textile and mattress industry. Organic cotton is grown without the use of pesticides and synthetic fertilizers, making it a more environmentally friendly option. Cotton fibers are soft, durable and have excellent moisture wicking ability, which helps keep the mattress dry and hygienic.
Organic cotton is an ideal choice for mattress covers that are in direct contact with the skin, providing a comfortable surface for sleep. Its natural breathability and hypoallergenic properties make it suitable for people with sensitive skin and allergies.
Wool
Wool is another important natural material that is often used in the production of mattresses. It is known for its ability to naturally regulate temperature, meaning that wool warms in winter and cools in summer. This is especially important for people who sweat or tend to overheat while sleeping.
Wool is also naturally fire resistant, eliminating the need for chemical flame retardants commonly used in synthetic mattresses. It is also hypoallergenic and dust mite resistant, making it an ideal material for those with allergies.
Coir
Coconut fibres are extracted from coconuts and have excellent ventilation properties. Coconut fibre is firm and durable, making it an ideal material for people who prefer a firmer mattress. Coir often serves as a support layer when combined with latex or other natural materials. The fibers do not heat up and have a natural ability to wick away moisture, which helps keep the mattress dry and fresh.
Bamboo fibers
Bamboo is a plant that grows very quickly and its cultivation does not require chemical pesticides, making it a very eco-friendly material. Bamboo fibers are hypoallergenic, antibacterial and very breathable. They are often used as a covering material, offering a soft, comfortable surface while providing a healthy environment for sleep.
Types of natural mattresses
There are several types of natural mattresses, which vary in materials and construction. Each type has its own specific characteristics and is suitable for different needs and preferences.
Latex mattresses
Latex mattresses are considered to be the highest quality type of natural mattresses due to their properties. Latex provides a natural elasticity that supports the body in an ideal position, and its resistance to deformation ensures a long life for the mattress. Latex mattresses can be made from pure natural latex or a combination of natural and synthetic latex.
Cocoon mattresses
Coconut mattresses contain layers of coconut fibres that provide firm support for the body and are suitable for those who prefer a firmer surface. Coconut mattresses are often combined with other natural materials such as latex or wool to offer optimal comfort and ventilation.
Combination mattresses
Combination mattresses include different layers of natural materials to provide a balance of firmness, resilience and breathability. For example, mattresses can combine layers of latex and coir to provide good support and a soft surface.
Natural mattress covers
Some mattresses are made of different materials but have a natural cover. These covers, often made of cotton or bamboo, provide a hypoallergenic, comfortable surface and reduce the risk of allergies.
How to choose the right natural mattress
When choosing a natural mattress, there are several factors to consider, such as your weight, height, health needs, and personal preference in mattress firmness.
- Determine your ideal firmness level: People who prefer softer mattresses may opt for latex, while those looking for firmer support will appreciate a mattress with a coconut layer.
- Consider health needs: If you have allergies or asthma, look for hypoallergenic materials like latex or wool.
- Environmental preferences: If you care about the environment, opt for mattresses with certifications like GOTS or OEKO-TEX, which certify that they have been produced in an environmentally and health-friendly manner.
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 to disinfect mattress surfaces.
UV-C Lamp: We recommend entrusting your mattress to industry professionals who have a UV-C germicidal mattress lamp. UV lamps that produce UVC radiation 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 a few 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.