Exploring Options: A Discussion about Kapok

The majority of customers that walk into Natural Mattress Company have done their research. They’ve read about wool and latex, heard about buckwheat and are interested in what the natural mattress industry as a whole can offer. But most of the patrons that make it into my store have never heard about Kapok. And why should they? The material is not used often, rarely mentioned, and grows on a tree looking exactly like cotton, making it easily mistaken. But should more people be researching this hidden gem?

 

What is Kapok? 

Kapok, according to an article done by Green Living Ideas, is a “soft, silky fiber,” akin to that of wool. It grows all naturally on trees, native to warmer climates, and is easily harvested. The material can be used to make anything, from pillows to life jackets, because of their natural fluffy texture and inherent water resistance. Kapok can be found in some mattresses but is more often used in pillows. Kapok pillows are light, easily moldable, and provide customers with another option aside from the typical wool and latex combo.

 

 Why should I consider buying Kapok?

Well, Kapok has a lot of pros and very few cons. For example, customers looking for that woolly texture but hate the smell might be interested in this neutral material. Similarly, the material is so lightweight, it is easier for customers to carry, transport, pack, or even throw in a good ole fashioned pillow fight! Sachi, the supplier of Natural Mattress Company’s Kapok pillows, even proclaims Kapok as a cruelty-free alternative to those afraid of sheep mistreatment. Like most organic materials, Kapok is chemical free and is advised for side and back sleepers to offer the most support.

Like most natural materials, there is one con to Kapok. Over time the material compresses and will likely shrink in volume. The best way to avoid this is to fluff the pillow as much as possible, while also rotating and flipping the pillow to avoid one spot becoming denser than the rest.

With a little bit of love and care, Kapok may just be the material for you. Stop by the Natural Mattress Company to test out this mystery material and feel free to ask our staff any questions. If you are interested in learning more about Kapok, consider reading the Green Living article linked below!

 

What is Kapok and How is it Used?