If you’re in the market for a new bed, you’re probably hoping for a restful shopping experience, but first you might want to look at the materials involved and consider their eco credentials too.
For instance, the National Bed Federation has revealed that 80 per cent of mattresses end up in landfill or incineration, taking their toll on the environment.
But it's precisely such shocking figures that are prompting a positive shift in the industry, says the federation's executive director, Jessica Alexander. ‘An increased focus on sustainability is definitely one of the biggest changes we’ve seen over the past few years,’ she says.
British bedmakers are finding innovative ways of working with natural materials. For instance Hypnos - which prides itself on offering 'the most comfortable beds in the world' - now sells only 100 per cent recyclable mattresses, while its wool is sourced from Red Tractor-approved farms, a label usually only found on food.
Some go even further - family-run Harrison Spinks boasts its own sheep farm with fields of flax and hemp, while Devon-based bedmakers Naturalmat use wool from certified organic farms within a 50-mile radius to ensure they keep their carbon footprint small, with solar energy powering their factory
Button & Sprung’s founder Adam Black points out that natural materials are better for your health and comfort too. ‘Materials like wool, cotton, mohair and flax mean no chemicals and they help you regulate your heat.
'If you’re looking to buy in the middle and upper market, it won’t cost you any more to go natural, and the mattress will last just as long. People just need to know there’s a better way.’
5 of the best sustainable bedding companies
Woolroom Promotes the benefits of British wool with mattress toppers, bedding and blankets that are temperature regulating, flame retardant and hypoallergenic for a healthy environment, and proven to improve sleep by up to 25 per cent
Ecosophy Founder Kate Anderson travelled through South Asia visiting farmers and artisans pioneering sustainable textile production and building partnerships along the way
Scooms This company is simplifying bedtime by offering just one top-quality, sustainably sourced duvet, pillow and bedlinen set
Ara Living A husband and wife team who couldn’t find reasonably priced, ethically-made bedding, so built their own transparent supply chain
Bedfolk Long-staple cotton ethically woven into bedlinen, no chemicals or synthetics included
Words by Victoria Hrastic