Different types of mattress filling can provide dramatically different properties to a mattress. This is why they are one of the most important things to consider. Some are warmer, some softer and others more resilient. As the different fillings have such varying properties they are commonly combined to provide to create a mattress that has a specific comfort whilst offering excellent support, breathability and resilience.
When deciding on a new mattress it is important to know exactly what fillings are inside. If you have problems with things such as allergies or getting warmth in bed the choice of fillings will make the problem better or worse.
To provide you with a little background knowledge, we have compiled a list of some of the most popular types of mattress filling currently used in mattresses and what properties they each have.
Natural types of mattress filling
Latex – A natural material which is sourced from the rubber tree. It has many advantages such as being quick responding, gives little resistance, has anti-microbial properties and offers excellent support and pressure relief. Throughout the last 6 years, Latex mattresses had been practically pushed out of the market by Memory Foam but have recently made quite the comeback. This is due to the many advantages they have over Memory Foam mattresses. Giving you both comfort and support whilst being a little cooler to sleep on. Due to this many manufacturers have started to re-implement the use of Latex into their mattresses. This is being done either in combination with other materials or by using latex as the sole material.
Cotton – A natural filling which provides a soft, cool feel. Cotton provides excellent airflow and is excellent at absorbing moisture.
Wool – A natural filling that is breathable, resilient and offers a luxurious feel.
Horse Hair – Used in many mid to high-end mattresses, hair is added due to its high resilience. Resulting in an increase in the durability and lifespan of the mattress.
Coir fibre – Made from coconut fibre these pads are used to provide a barrier above the springs. This prevents the spring system from being felt by the user.
Cashmere, Mohair and Silk – These types of mattress filling are natural fibres are added to provide extra luxury to a mattress. They are more commonly found in high-end beds and mattresses.
Water Beds
Water – Waterbeds are simply a vinyl bag filled with water that is encapsulated within a foam frame. The advantage of these beds, along with being good for allergies, is that the body is supported and contoured to perfectly, inducing very little pressure on the user. The downsides to waterbeds are that they aren’t as readily available as standard beds and many people aren’t keen on how they feel. Along with this, existing bedrooms may need their floor strengthening due to the extra weight.
Synthetic types of mattress filling
Polyester – Polyester is a synthetic material used in many mattresses due to its good recovery properties.
Visco Elastic (Memory Foam) – Memory foam is the well known NASA developed foam. It is used in mattresses to reduce pressure and provide support to the body. It works not just with gravity but also with the heat of the body. When the user lies on the bed, their body temperature warms the foam allowing it to react, soften and mould to the user. Memory foam is available in varying qualities and density all of which provide a different feel.
Polyurethane – A widely used, petroleum-based foam which is used alone or in combination with other materials. As with Memory Foam, the performance, quality, price, and density of Polyurethane in a mattress can differ greatly.