Don't underestimate the power of your pillow! Sleep quality matters, and the material your pillow is made from can play a big role. Let's explore the benefits and drawbacks of synthetic, wool, and cotton sleep products to find the perfect one for a restful night.
According to the National French Institute of Sleep and Vigilance, we spend about one-third of our lives either sleeping or attempting to do so.
Researchers say that factors contributing to better sleep quality include avoiding the consumption of stimulants such as coffee and tea, vitamin C, and carbonated drinks before bedtime. Furthermore, they emphasize abstaining from any physical exercise post 8 PM, indulging in a warm bath two hours before sleep, engaging in reading, and avoiding a heavy dinner.
Now that lifestyles have undergone changes and modern life has pushed many traditional handmade and natural products to the sidelines, fewer people use wool blankets and mattresses. This has led to a significant number of individuals experiencing joint problems and muscle pains. Traditional felt, given its exceptional properties, can be highly effective in treating many of these conditions and even preventing them.
We should remember that the bed also has a temperament.
Wool mattresses have a warm and dry temperament; therefore, they are a suitable bed option for individuals with a cold temperament.
Cotton mattresses have a cold temperament. Choose your sleeping mattress type based on your temperament and disposition.
Similarly, considering the temperament of the season, choose cotton mattresses for summer and wool ones for winter. Mattresses with synthetic fibers like wool glass (commonly used in modern mattresses) can disrupt temperament.
What materials are used to make mattresses?
Mattresses are made from various materials, with synthetic fibers, cotton, and wool being common in mattress production. Each of these materials has its own advantages and disadvantages, suitable for different users and environmental conditions. In the following, we will examine the pros and cons of each of these two types of materials.
Synthetic Fiber Mattresses
Synthetic fiber mattresses are made from materials such as polyester, polypropylene, and nylon, which possess greater resistance and polishability compared to cotton. These fibers are not biodegradable and can contribute to pollution and environmental contamination during production and disposal. Synthetic fiber mattresses tend to be heat-retaining, leading to a sensation of warmth and perspiration on the body, especially at higher temperatures.
What is the danger of glass wool in quilts, pillows, and mattresses?
Glass wool is a kind of fibrous material made from the melted glass raw materials or cullet.
Glass wool is a composite material made of fine fibers of glass with a fibrous structure. It is typically produced from recycled glass, along with some regular sand and a specific resin, providing it with excellent thermal resistance.
One glass wool roll is made from recycling ten glass bottles. It comes in various forms like bulk, tubular, and is commonly used in quilts and blankets, making it a popular insulation choice in the market.
ASTM standards, in many cases, incorporate common standards and rules for both mineral wool and glass wool insulation due to their very similar structures. Therefore, they are commonly referred to as Mineral wool.
Glass wool, due to its resilience and resistance to heat transfer, is used in quilts, pillows, and mattresses. However, direct contact with this material poses risks such as respiratory issues, breathing problems, cancer, etc. Therefore, it is not recommended.
When their cover is removed, particles of glass wool are released into the air, posing a health risk and potentially causing asthma.
According to research there is a high elevation in relative risk of lung cancer among glass fiber production workers.
This material is commonly used as a thermal insulator in residential and industrial installations. Due to its fibrous and filamentous structure, glass wool traps air within itself, exhibiting elastic properties. This structure allows it to demonstrate good acoustic properties, making it suitable for sound insulation as well.
Laico Sleep Produc
Laico is a type of composite fiber that consists of long, very fine threads and is white in color.
This fiber, known for its high resiliency, is the most resilient among various types of weaving.
Laico is made from polyester and cotton. (Polyester, a synthetic fiber, is often used for filling pillows, mattresses, and sleeping bags.)
Laico is a polyester fiber bonded together using an adhesive called "Bayko" to produce a firm and reversible state.
It is commonly used in various applications such as inside jackets, blankets, and quilts.
Laico is also commonly used as stuffing for furniture.
Laico is produced in two types: simple and carpet backing. Interestingly, Laico generates electricity, while wool discharges static electricity.
Cotton Mattress
Cotton is a natural fiber that allows air to circulate, keeping your skin cool and dry. The softness of cotton also reduces friction against the skin, minimizing the risk of irritation and chafing. Additionally, cotton is hypoallergenic, making it suitable for individuals with sensitive skin or allergies.
Cotton mattresses offer various benefits such as softness, insect resistant textiles, providing coolness in warm seasons, and more.
Cotton vs. Synthetic Mattresses: What’s the Difference?
Cotton and fiber mattresses vary in the materials and substances used in their construction.
Cotton mattresses are typically made from cotton fibers, and these fibers, due to their softness, gentleness, and coolness, are more popular compared to synthetic fiber mattresses.
Cotton is a breathable material that absorbs moisture. This helps sleepers stay dry and comfortable during the night.
Moreover, mattress cover is made of ticking cotton fabric, creating a soft and comfortable sleeping surface.
Fiber mattresses are made from various materials such as polyester, polypropylene, and silicon fibers.
These types of mattresses are typically made from quilted materials.
A quilted mattress, leveraging the high density of its fibers to craft a soft and supportive sleeping surface, provides sleepers with a smooth finish and a high level of comfort.
Fiber mattresses are typically lightweight, soft, and machine-washable.
Considering these differences, the choice between a cotton mattress and a fiber one depends on your preferences, needs, and the importance you place on your health.
Wool
Having been around commercially for hundreds of years, it is fair to say it is probably the most successful natural fiber.
The oldest wool cloth fragments discovered on the continent were found in a Danish swamp – they date to around 1500 BCE.
Wool fibers, also known as keratin, possess both acidic and alkaline properties and contains elements such as hydrogen, nitrogen, carbon, and sulfur.
Wool is used for making winter clothing. It is recyclable and renewable, possessing water-resistant and strong properties, leading to high demand for wool products. Wool fibers are obtained from sheep and other animals for textile purposes.
For instance, Cashmere is made from the soft undercoat of cashmere goats , Qiviut is produced by musk oxen. , Bison down or buffalo wool from bison, Angora wool is a fluffy fiber that comes from the soft, thick coats of angora rabbits, and various types of wool from camels. Wool is protein-based with a low percentage of fat. Chemically, it is distinct from more common cotton fabrics, which are primarily composed of cellulose.
Wool fibers can be sourced from different animals; however, sheep wool fibers consist of three components.
Cuticle – This is the outside protective layer. It’s layered with “scales” that overlap each other, much like tiles on a roof.
Some wool fibers appear under a microscope like tiny hooks. This implies they can be spun together.
Cortex – the core of each fiber containing small oval cells with melanin, resembling skin pigments similar to that found in human hair.
Medulla -The medulla is a central core of cells and is a honeycomb-like keratin structure with air spaces in between. In case the medulla is filled with air. Honeycomb cells of each strand that provides many air spaces that give wool its thermal value.
Wool fibers are hydrophilic, meaning they readily absorb moisture.
This indicates that wool readily absorbs dye, leading to the vivid colors commonly observed in wool products found in weaving shops.
Benefits of Wool
Natural fibers, especially in summer clothing, carpet and floor coverings (rugs and carpets), and felt, exhibit excellent properties that synthetic fibers cannot replace. These advantages are briefly mentioned below:
- Sheep wool acts as a pain reliever, regulating body temperature to improve blood circulation.
- Sheep wool contains natural fibers that are naturally compressed, contributing to strengthening your body.
- The natural regulating properties of wool reduce heat. When you feel excessive warmth, it can help cool your body and maintain a proportional temperature.
- In adults, sheep wool enhances blood circulation, and this effect extends to infants, especially premature or underweight babies.
- Sheep wool is naturally resistant to dust and dirt.
- This type of wool can wick away excess moisture, prevent bacterial growth, and contribute to better breathability.
- Sheep wool is hypoallergenic.
- Sheepskin contains a substance called lanolin which is similar to that found in human skin. It is kind to sensitive or inflamed skin so many believe it can help to soothe or desensitise rashes or skin conditions such as , eczema, psoriasis and cellulitis.
- Over time, sheep wool promotes restful sleep. Recent research indicates that sheepskin can even contribute to get peaceful sleep.
- Even if you suffer from skin conditions like eczema and struggle with comfortable sleep, lying down and resting on it can bring a sense of tranquility to your sleep.
- Due to its chemical and physical structure, wool fibers minimize the impact of weather changes on the body by promoting a state of balance through absorbing body sweat.
- Wool typically retains about 60% more compact air than other fibers, enhancing the body's resistance to weather fluctuations.
- In the past, wool was employed in the production of blankets and mattresses, and the warmth generated from wool assisted in blood circulation.
- Lying down and resting on wool over time contributes to restful sleep. Recent research has shown that animal skins can even help promote peaceful.
- Even if you suffer from skin conditions like eczema and struggle with comfortable sleep, lying down and resting on it can bring a sense of tranquility to your sleep.
- Wool is an active and intelligent fiber
- Organic wool is antimicrobial and antibacterial: Bacteria, fungi, and mites thrive in a moist and warm environment. However, since wool creates a dry environment, it inhibits the growth of bacteria such as mold and prevents mites and other undesirable elements. Wool's breathability helps regulate temperature while not trapping the heat essential for bacterial growth.
Fungal spores are a common cause of allergies, but wool generally doesn't promote spore contamination. Wool allergies are uncommon and are often related to the rubbing of coarse fibers, causing itching for those with sensitive skin. However, using finer wool, specifically less than 17.5 microns, may demonstrate that it's not an allergen. In fact, fine wool might provide relief for individuals with eczema and dermatitis.
Characteristics of Wool Mattress
A wool mattress, crafted from natural wool fibers sourced from animals like sheep, has gained popularity. This mattress type boasts distinctive features that may prompt you to consider switching to it. Here are some characteristics of a wool mattress:
1- Cozy Warmth Sensation:
One prominent feature of a wool mattress is its ability to evoke a warm and cozy sensation, especially during the cold seasons. During colder nights, the wool fibers act as a natural insulator, trapping heat to keep you warm.
2- Breathability and Moisture Absorption:
Natural wool boasts excellent breathability, effectively absorbing and wicking away moisture. This feature creates a sense of freshness and dryness in the mattress, helping you stay dry and comfortable throughout the night.
3- Softness and Gentleness:
A wool mattress, due to the use of wool fibers, possesses exceptional softness and gentleness. This feature ensures a delightful and comforting sensation when lying on the mattress, enhancing your overall sleeping experience.
4- Adaptability to Cold Seasons:
Due to its thermal properties, a wool mattress is suitable for cold seasons and colder climates. If you live in an area with cold winters, a wool mattress can be a fitting choice.
5- Resistance and Durability:
Wool, being a natural material, generally exhibits high resistance and can contribute to the long-term stability of the mattress. The quality of the mattress and how it's cared for and used naturally affect its durability.
Fatigue and exhaustion, consequences of inappropriate sleep products
Sleep is considered one of the most important events in everyone's life. A proper and quality sleep enhances the body's immune system, improves mood throughout the day, and contributes to many other issues. Therefore, we should prioritize our sleep and not choose just any place to rest.
Indeed, it's not suitable to sleep on the sofa, in front of the TV, or in a stretched position while studying. Even when sleeping on a bed, using an appropriate mattress is crucial to avoid the adverse effects of inappropriate sleep products.
The quality of your sleep is just as crucial as its duration. Experiencing hypnic jerks, waking up fatigued, headaches, body aches, and overall tiredness, even with an adequate amount of sleep, may indicate a lack of attention to your sleep quality.
A restful sleep is crucial for preparing your mind and body to face the day's challenges, stress, and daily activities, ensuring readiness for the day ahead.
Some individuals underestimate the importance of their sleep quality and must accept the consequences.
However, perhaps it's time to address and alleviate the distressing issues associated with poor sleep quality by identifying suitable solutions and paying a bit more attention to how they sleep. In this article, we aim to delve into the problems individuals face during or after sleep and provide solutions to overcome them.
Other influential factors on sleep quality
As mentioned, numerous factors impact having a good and comfortable sleep, such as the level of light, sound, and oxygen in the bedroom, alongside using an appropriate and standard sleep product. A good night's sleep, if sufficient, directly influences the quality of nearly two-thirds of your life. Investing in a quality sleep product is a kind of long-term investment where you'll realize its benefits and superiority over time due to its longevity and higher quality.
Choosing the best mattress
The truth is, before anything else, you must find a mattress made from suitable materials. Many reputable brands manufacture their mattresses using synthetic compounds. Although the overall cost of these mattresses is lower than natural ones, most artificial mattresses don't allow air to circulate well. The most comfortable mattresses are those with covers made from natural materials such as wool and cotton.
These types of mattresses have good insulation, allowing air to circulate easily. A mattress that stays warm during winter is the same one that remains cool in the summer.
For example, wool has a unique ability to regulate moisture. It can absorb moisture without feeling clammy, helping to regulate body temperature and prevent sweating while sleeping.
Each person loses about 500 milliliters of water during the night due to sweating and breathing. Wool absorbs moisture, contributing to better sleep. This characteristic leads to more warmth in cold seasons and greater coolness in warm seasons.
It's important to note that personal experience and individual preferences also play a crucial role in choosing a mattress. Some people may be accustomed to sleeping on a relatively firm surface, while others find greater comfort on a softer surface. At the end, the best mattress is the one that provides you with the comfort and necessary sleep quality for your well-being.
Why woolen bedding products?
Our experience and recommendation favor the use of wool mattresses, wool duvets, and wool pillows due to these benefits:
- Antibacterial properties
- Active and intelligent fiber
- Improved and accelerated blood circulation, preventing blood clots and blood viscosity
- Peaceful sleep
- Enhanced sleep quality
- Discharge and elimination of static electricity from the body, promoting a calming effect and preventing night sweats
- Energizing
- Non-allergenic and hypoallergenic
- Open pores of the skin for better breathing and skin nourishment, addressing skin issues
- Aid in treating bone diseases
- Improved lumbar disc conditions
- Alleviation of fatigue and reduction of tension
- Providing warmth to the body
- Air purification
- Improved concentration
- Moisture control and body temperature regulation
- Cool in summer and warm in winter.
Important tips:
✓ In general, sweating during sleep can moisten the mattress, creating a breeding ground for microbes, bacteria, and unpleasant odors. One way to prevent mattress odor is through proper air circulation. Therefore, after getting out of bed, allow heat and moisture to dissipate with fresh air circulation.
✓ Also, try to expose your mattresses to sunlight occasionally. The sweat from your body over time may cause the mattress to develop a bad smell or become contaminated with bacteria in the bedroom. When the mattress is exposed to sunlight, it helps eliminate contamination.
