Exploring Options: A Discussion about Kapok

Posted on by Mike Hassenberg

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?

 

 

Is Natural Latex Toxic?

Posted on by Mike Hassenberg

Will I be allergic to the latex mattresses sold in your store?

I often get the question, if I’m allergic to latex such as latex gloves, will I be allergic to your latex mattresses. The answer thankfully in most cases is no. The latex found in the mattresses we carry whether it be Dunlop or Talalay, does not produce the same allergic reactions.

What is a latex allergy? 

A latex allergy is caused by a reaction to the proteins that are contained in natural or synthetic latex. Most people have found out they have a latex allergy through commonly found items such as rubber bands, balloons, latex gloves, or baby bottle nipples. Natural latex is known to cause Type 1 and Type 4 reactions. Testing for a type 1 reaction is done through a blood test. Testing for a type 4 is done through a skin prick test. Less than 1% of people in the US have a latex allergy. Although latex allergy is rare, the condition is more common in certain high-risk groups. … Between 8 to 17% of health care workers and others who regularly use latex gloves are allergic to latex.

Lets take the example of latex gloves. Latex gloves are a blend of synthetic and natural latex. Healthcare professionals use gloves for many hours at a time over the years, while they are in that chosen career. Touching the latex does not actually trigger the allergy. However, repeatedly breathing in the microscopic powder that lines the gloves can. The powder is released in bursts when workers snap on or off their latex gloves. The powder contains microscopic proteins. If you have long term exposure to these proteins you can develop an allergy.  Once a person has become sensitized, they may then react to skin contact as well.

If I do have a mild to medium allergy can I use a latex mattress?

Yes, if you do have an allergy you might want to consider limiting your handling of the naked latex. If you have purchased a mattress from us that needs to be assembled maybe have someone else do it for you. When the mattress is encased in an organic cotton and wool casing, plus mattress pad and sheets you should be very well protected from the latex. There is a more serious but rare type of allergy systemic immune response to natural latex. Severe allergy symptoms to latex would be feeling like your throat is closing, difficulty breathing or skin swelling. If these are the symptoms you experience when being around latex, maybe you should seek out another product such as a mattress just just contains organic cotton and wool.

 

 

The Pros and Cons of a Latex Mattress

Posted on by Mike Hassenberg

Trying to figure out if a latex mattress is right for you? In this post, I will go through some of the positives and negatives of latex. First, I’ll tell you what a latex mattress is. A latex mattress is made with layers of latex or rubber. The sap of the rubber tree is harvested and baked into a foam, that acts as the mattress core. The cover of the mattress is typically made from organic cotton and wool. The wool in the casing acts as a natural fire retardant, so there is no need for fire retardant chemicals.

There are two types of latex:  Dunlop and Talalay. Talalay latex goes through two extra steps. After the latex is poured, the mold is sealed and the process is continued in a vacuum chamber. The mold is then flash-frozen before it’s baked. Dunlop latex is denser which makes it firmer than Talalay. Talalay has a pillowly soft surface feel. Side sleepers can benefit from a Talalay mattress, if they need extra pressure point relief. Dunlop is a little cheaper to make so usually has a lower price point, and is a good choice for customers who like a firmer mattress. Most manufacturers will make their mattresses with one type of latex or the other. However, Savvy Rest one of the brands we carry offers both types.

Okay now the pros:

Comfort – Latex mattresses are extremely comfortable. They are supportive but still offer the pressure point relief that you need.

Organic/Natural/Sustainable – Natural latex is a sustainable alternative to polyurethane and memory foam. It is not synthetic or treated with possibly harmful chemicals. Latex can be certified as GOTS the industry’s standard for organic certification. Latex is actually biodegradable.  If you left it out in the sun for long periods of time unprotected, it was start to decompose.

Customizable – Many latex mattresses can be customized to your firmness preference. Both Dunlop and Talalay latex come in different densities/firmness. You can have a range of firmness from plush to firm. The mattress can even be split down the middle, where one side can be firmer than the other. This works well for couples that may have a difference in opinion as to what constitutes the perfect mattress.

Pressure relief – As mentioned before latex offers excellent pressure relief, especially Talalaly. If you are a side sleeper, Talalay can cradle your hips and offer gentle support.

Sleeping Cool – Unlike memory foam, latex does not trap in heat. This enables you to have a more comfortable nights sleep. It is this chemical reaction between memory foam and your body heat that allows the mattress to conform to your body’s curves. This reaction may feel good at first but will cause your body to overheat.

Durable – Latex mattresses are designed to be durable. They usually have much longer warranties then synthetic conventional mattresses. They are less prone to dips overtime.

Cons?

Okay there are a few cons.

Weight – Latex mattresses are heavy and can not be supported on a traditional box spring. It is preferred that the mattresses are placed upon a slated bed or foundation, where the slats are no more than 3.5 inches apart. This will also allow the mattress to breath.

Price: Yes, latex mattresses are more expensive because of the natural materials that comprise them. There is a cost to the certifications they must go through as well. However, as a natural mattress store owner I have to say if you can make the price point work it is worth it! We try to carry mattresses at many different price points.

 

 

 

What’s the Difference Between a Plush and Firm Mattress?

Posted on by Mike Hassenberg

What’s the Difference Between a Plush and Firm Mattress?

Written by Liz, September 10, 2018

what is the difference between plush mattress and firm mattress

Before purchasing a mattress, it’s important to know the type of feel that your body needs. Do you need a plush mattress or a firm one? Which will give you necessary comfort for healthy sleep?

Let’s break down the differences and benefits associated with plush and firm mattresses.

What is a Plush Mattress?

A plush mattress is a mattress with a soft feel. It’s the type of mattress that you gently sink into, cradling and hugging you as you fall asleep.

What is a Firm Mattress?

A firm mattress is, well, firm. It shouldn’t necessarily feel like a plank of wood but it’s the type of mattress that doesn’t have a ton of give. A firm mattress doesn’t have that sinking feeling but instead has sturdy support.

Comfort

Everyone defines comfort in their own way. This is because we are all different shapes and sizes. What is comfy and cozy for one person may be horribly unpleasant for another.

When shopping for a mattress, you have to think about your height, weight, sleeping position, and if you have any medical conditions, such as back issues or hip pain.

You also have to listen to your body and figure out if you need firm, sturdy support or plush pressure point relief.

support for back sleepers

Support for Back Pain

If you have nerve-related back pain or back pain from an injury, a medium-firm to firm mattress is the best option. Stability is key. If you’re sinking into your mattress, that lack of back support will simply result in more pain.

However, keep in mind that back pain doesn’t always mean they you need a firm mattress. If you’re waking up in the morning with back pain that subsides as the day goes on and you don’t feel like you are sinking into your mattress at all, that may mean your mattress is too firm. Opting for a plush mattress or adding a topper to your current mattress can help ease that back pain.

support for side sleepers

Pressure Relief

A plush mattress is the best option if you’re a side sleeper looking for pressure point relief.

Shoulder Pain

If you’re a side sleeper with shoulder pain, sleeping on a firm mattress will only exacerbate that pain. It could even be the cause of the discomfort in the first place.

We typically recommend side sleepers have at least one layer of Talalay latex in their mattress, specifically the top layer of their mattress. Talalay is soft and pillowy. It’s excellent for pressure-point relief because it gently cradles the body as you drift to sleep.

Hip Pain

Talalay is also recommended for those suffering from hip pain. Again, a firmer mattress will only put more pressure on your hips (your hips take on most of your body’s weight) so a plush mattress is key.

A top layer of Talalay latex (typically Soft Talalay) will add necessary responsiveness, giving your hips relief.

What if I’m a Stomach Sleeper?

We’ve shared useful information for those who sleep on their back and side, but what about stomach sleepers?

Overall, stomach sleepers need a firm mattress. If a mattress is too soft, this will cause your stomach and hips to sink in and with that, your back to bend. You’ll wake up uncomfortable and sore.

Splitting Your Mattress

Do you need a firm mattress but your partner needs a plush one? Don’t worry—you don’t have to sleep in separate beds to get what you want.

Savvy Rest organic mattresses can be split so one side of the mattress differs from the other.

Explore our best-selling layered mattress options

customizable organic mattresses

Serenity

Our flagship natural mattress is customized with personalized combinations of Soft, Medium and/or Firm latex. Choose Dunlop, Talalay, or both!
Organic pillowtop mattress with natural latex

Unity Pillowtop

The Unity Pillowtop has four 3″ layers: it is simply the 3-layer Serenity organic mattress with the Harmony latex topper on top for added luxury.
organic mattresses for children

Tranquility

The Tranquility is made just like the Serenity, but with two 3″ layers of natural latex. It’s a good choice for toddler beds, bunk beds, or smaller adults.

We believe comfort shouldn’t involve compromise. Everyone should have exactly what they need to get the sleep they deserve. Sweet dreams!

Keep Mattresses out of the Landfill

Posted on by Mike Hassenberg

Article from Green Business Bureau:

Mattresses pose a serious problem when it comes to disposal. These large household products take up more than their fair share of space in landfills because they’re difficult to compact, clog machinery, and create large soft spaces that can turn into sinkholes after filling. The problem of mattress disposal can be confronted from two sides. The first is to recycle old mattresses, reusing their components to make new products. The other side of the equation involves purchasing organic/natural, biodegradable mattresses. For those in the hotel industry, understanding how to make smarter mattress purchase and recycling decisions can help positively impact green programs your organization may be undertaking.

MATTRESS RECYCLING

Mattresses are a complex product with numerous recyclable components. Mattress recycling programs deconstruct the bed, removing the materials that can be reused or repurposed. This process not only prevents the mattress from entering a landfill but also reduces the need to use more natural resources in product manufacturing.

Depending on the mattress type, the components that can be reused include:

  • Foam: The foam used in the comfort layer of the mattress can be compressed to make carpet padding, oil filters, mats, and upholstery stuffing.
  • Fabric: The exterior fabric, whether it’s natural or synthetic, can be shredded and made into other textiles.
  • Metal: Innerspring mattresses can have as much as 25 pounds of steel coils. Once removed, these coils can be melted down to make tools, construction materials, and auto parts.
  • Wood: The wooden frame of a box spring can be used in flooring or chipped to be used as mulch or compost.

Not all recycling facilities offer mattress recycling. Hotels are in a unique position, with the high number of mattresses they require, to develop mattress recycling programs within their local communities for their use and the use of community members.

BETTER MATTRESS CHOICES

The other side of mattress disposal is making wise purchasing choices. Everyone from private consumers to large hotel chains can make purchasing decisions that protect the environment. While there’s not a mattress available on the market today that will completely break down without a trace, there are 95 percent biodegradable mattress options.

NATURAL LATEX MATTRESSES

Natural latex mattresses begin as sap from a rubber tree. Through one of two manufacturing processes, that sap eventually becomes a natural latex mattress. Of the two processes, Dunlop and Talalay, Dunlop latex mattresses are the most biodegradable and won’t create sinkholes in a landfill. These mattresses come with a high price tag, and they will still be composed of anywhere from 5-40 percent synthetic latex.

NATURAL AND ORGANIC MATTRESS OPTIONS

If an expensive natural latex mattress is out of your budget, there are hybrid latex/innerspring mattresses that are highly biodegradable, but don’t carry such a hefty price tag.  In this case, keep an eye out for eco-friendly components like:

  • Plant-based polyfoam
  • Plant-based memory foam
  • Organic fibers in the cover like cotton or wool
  • Wool, cotton, thistle, or Kevlar fire socks

CERTIFICATIONS

Because there are no regulations or standards for what constitutes a “green” mattress, you’ll need to look for certifications from organizations that monitor environmental impact rather than trusting a “natural” or “organic” listing on a sales tag. A few certifications to watch for include:

Taking the time to recycle old mattresses and research your next mattress purchase are both great ways to keep mattresses out of landfills. For an example of a hotel that is currently undertaking a mattress recycling program, check out this recent article on Hilton’s recycling initiative.

_____________________________________________________________________

Author Bio:

Rick Blanchard is an expert on sleep product materials and manufacturing for BestMattressReviews.com. His research covers the entire life cycle of mattresses and bedding, including production, wear over time, and disposal. Rick lives in Tarrytown, New York.

Sleep Positions

Posted on by Mike Hassenberg
bigstock-Senior-man-and-woman-sleeping--133364783.jpg

We know the classics: starfish, fetal, side, stomach, stick straight, and many more. However, what is the best sleep position for you and how can you get the most out of your sleep position?

SIDE SLEEPERS

There are so many different ways to sleep on your side, but all help relieve and calm insomnia and chronic sleep deprivation. While sleeping on your side, putting a pillow between your legs/knees can also relieve back pain by taking pressure off your hips and lower back. P.S — many believe it is most comfortable to bend your knees towards the chest while sleeping on your side. “This position (where your torso and legs are relatively straight) also helps decrease acid reflux, and since your spine is elongated, it wards off back and neck pain. Plus, you’re less likely to snore in this snooze posture, because it keeps airways open. For that reason, it’s also the best choice for those with sleep apnea” (National Sleep Foundation).

BACK SLEEPERS

If sleeping on your back is your most comfortable sleep position maybe try a few of these alternatives. Back sleeping is known to cause lower back pain and episodes of sleep apnea. This can cause a lack of sleep and overall restfulness. To ease these symptoms place a pillow under your knees to allow your spine to curve naturally. On Health.com, ” It’s also ideal for fighting acid reflux, says Eric Olson, MD, a sleep medicine specialist at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minn. ‘If the head is elevated, your stomach will be below your esophagus so acid or food can’t come back up.'” Healthy Sleeping Positions

STOMACH SLEEPERS

Though it can be done, and with fewer risks with a proper pillow, many sleep professionals are against sleeping on your stomach due to the major strain on your lower back and neck. Stomach sleepers also tend to have more restlessness and don’t feel fully alert because of tossing and turning at night. If you sleep on your stomach try your best to sleep with a thin pillow, if any, this allows your neck and vertebrae to align and cause less strain. Stated by the National Sleep Foundation, “seven percent of adults pick this pose, but it can lead to back and neck pain, since it’s hard to keep your spine in a neutral position. Plus, stomach sleepers put pressure on their muscles and joints, possibly leading to numbness, tingling, aches, and irritated nerves.”

Display room with pale wooden finsihes and OMI Rossa Pocket Coil Organic Mattress

New Rossa Organic Pocket Coil Mattress has Arrived

Posted on by Mike Hassenberg

Rossa

The Rossa™ certified organic mattress is a customizable one-sided zipper-cover mattress. It features pocket-coil technology, encased in natural biodegradable materials, paired with a certified organic latex layer on the surface. Choose a split or solid latex comfort layer with firmness options in plush, medium, or firm. A sculpted surface is available at an additional charge to add pressure-point relief and increase air circulation, helping sleepers stay cool and comfortable. The pocket-coil springs are placed in a certified organic cotton encasement to prevent shifting over time. Covered in 10-oz. certified organic cotton on the bottom, the mattress is finished with our signature quilted woven cover.

FIRMNESS: Customizable
*DEPTH: Approximately 12″
CORE: Pocket-Coil Innerspring System
SURFACE: GOLS-Certified Organic Natural Rubber Latex**
COVER: Quilted GOTS-Certified Organic Wool and GOTS-Certified Organic Cotton Cover
SYNTHETIC FIRE RETARDANTS: None
SIZES: Twin – King
FOUNDATION: Wood-Slat Foundation with slat spacing no greater than 1”
WARRANTY: 20-Year Limited Warranty

Rossa Foundation Requirements

The Rossa mattress requires a unique foundation. The coil springs used in most supporting box springs are approximately 3 inches in diameter. The diameter of coils used in the Rossa mattress is approximately 1.5 inches. What this means, is that to prevent the pocket coils from resting on an unsupported space, one of the following options must be used:

  • Order the Rossa with the coordinating OMI foundation, which is padded to offer the coils proper support.
  • Order the Rossa with the supplemental foundation layer. The supplemental foundation layer can then be placed on top of a supportive platform bed, box spring, or foundation.
  • Place on a slat bed frame with no more than 1 inch between slats (most platform bed frames have 2-3 inch space between slats)

Not using proper support could void the warranty

Promotional Pricing Available:

(mattress only): twin $1,195 •  full $1595 • queen $1995 • eastern king $2795 • cal king $2795

Introduction to The Natural Mattress Company!

Posted on by Mike Hassenberg

Hello,

Thank you for visiting our new blog! I thought in our first blog, we would talk a little about what our store is all about. We are Vermont’s largest natural mattress showroom. We feature mattresses from brands like Organicpedics, Savvy Rest, Green Sleep, White Lotus, Heart of Vermont and Ergovea! Our mattresses are made of all natural materials such as Natural Latex, Wool and Organic Cotton. Wool acts as a natural fire retardant, so there is no need to spray fire retardant chemicals on our mattresses!

If you are looking to live a more chemical free lifestyle and reduce toxic chemicals from your home, the mattresses in our showroom could be the perfect solution for you! We have mattress options that can fit almost any budget. A queen green cotton and wool mattress made by White Lotus starts at $915.00! The mattress is all natural and made in the USA!

We also carry Vermont made bed frames from Vermont Furniture Design in Winooski VT. Their bed frames come in either Cherry, Maple or Walnut. If you are need of bedding or pillows, we have those too. We have pillows made of wool, kapok or shredded/molded latex. Beautiful organic cotton bedding such as sheets, duvet covers, quilts and mattress pads and from brands like Coyuchi and Sleep and Beyond. We also have access to the full line of Cisco Brothers Furniture. The most sustainable and comprehensive line of furniture found possibly anywhere. Just beautiful!

We look forward to welcoming you into our new showroom located at 3198 Shelburne Road in Shelburne Vermont. Thank you so much for your interest in having a natural nights sleep!

Mike & Shannon