Who certifies natural latex mattresses?

While a majority of companies work to be ethical and honest with consumers, some may bend the facts or obscure information about what they sell. This can be especially true in the mattress industry, as manufacturers are allowed to keep information on materials and additives under wraps under the premise of trade secrets. Perhaps the best way for consumers to get unbiased information is to consult third party certification bodies. These organizations exist to test products and offer their seal of approval, so consumers have a standardized way to compare products. When it comes to searching for natural latex mattresses, the primary certification you will want to be familiar with is the Oeko-Tex 100 standard. Keep reading to learn more about this certification and others that can help you uncover natural latex mattresses.

Oeko-Tex

 Oeko-Tex Association is an independent, third-party product review board. Oeko-tex© is a system that is used to evaluate textile products throughout their production stages. It is well-known in Europe, however people are less familiar with the Oeko-tex labeling in the United States.  The products that are granted use of the label have met strict adherence to guidelines governing dangerous and harmful chemicals. They also have health safeguards in place and include safe work practices as part of the criteria.  The criteria for meeting their approval means a product is free of any banned or controlled substance, substances being considered for banning or thought to be harmful, and following guidelines on health protection.

Oeko-Tex uses four different categories to classify products based on its intended use. Thus a coat for an adult will have different requirements than a baby bed or pajamas. The Oeko-tex© Standard 100 certification means that every single component meets the standards that have been set for the entire product.  Thread, buttons and metal zippers as well as the printing are all included.

Textiles considered for this standard:

• Product Class I – This includes bedding and clothing for children aged 0-3 years. It is the most stringent classification.
• Product Class II – This is for textiles and bedding that touch the skin, including undergarments.
• Product Class III – This group of items includes coats, stuffings and other textiles that do not actually come into contact with bare skin.
• Product Class IV – The group includes curtains and textiles used in furnishings, floor coverings and mattresses.

To apply for Oeko-Tex 100 certification, natural latex mattresses must meet the following:

• No heavy metals.
• No pesticides or chlorinated phenols.
• Strictly limited levels of phthalates, organic tin compounds, colorants, benzene and toluene.
• No more than trace amounts of formaldehyde.
• Must have a skin friendly ph level.
• Free from chloro-organic carriers.
• No biologically active finishes.
• No allergenic dye-stuffs and dye stuffs that form carcinogenic arylamines of the MAK-groups III A1 and III A2.

Companies that carry this certification in the U.S. recognize the importance of consumer health issues. Natural latex mattresses are already known for being hypoallergenic, anti-bacterial, mold and mildew resistant, and for being inhospitable to dust mites. The addition of the Oeko-tex©  label to natural latex mattresses helps consumers ensure they are getting a safe and healthy product. In North America, the only entity to currently hold Oeko-Tex 100 certification for latex mattresses is Latex International, a prominent manufacturer of latex goods. Their materials are used by several latex mattress retailers.

Organic Certification

Organic certification is guaranteed by different bodies depending on the type of product. When it comes to claims of organic goods, you always to ask WHO is certifying the product and what their credentials are and WHAT exactly is being certified.

Latex foam is not recognized as a certifiable organic product by the USDA. The latex product and farms that produce latex trees may be certified organic, but this certification does not extend to the end products. One body, the Control Union, published their Global Organic Latex Standard last year, which includes mattresses prepared from 95% organic raw materials

Textiles, or fabrics, can be certified organic by a number of organizations. Here are a few of the most trusted organic certification bodies for textiles (i.e. cotton and wool):

• GOTS – Global Organic Textile Standard
• USDA – United States Department of Agriculture.
• Oregon Tilth

Who Sells Certified Natural Latex Mattresses?

Previously, we compared latex mattress brands and here is a recap of our findings with certification details added.

Of the brands we looked at, only half mentioned both Oeko-Tex 100 certifications and provided the name of the body that certifies their cotton covers (if organic).  Astrabeds, Flobeds, and Lifekind all also use 100% natural Talalay latex (likely all from Latex International) with similar guarantees, so the primary differentiating factor is value. Of the the three, Astrabeds 100% natural latex mattresses offer the best value, starting at $1199 ($1049 with current sale) versus $1249 and $1695 with the other lines.

We hope this introductory guide to natural latex beds makes your research process a little simpler and less confusing. The primary takeaway is that when searching for certified natural latex mattresses, you want to start by considering what the mattresses are composed of and what entities can support the retailer’s claims.

Tempurpedic Cloud Reviews: The Good, the Bad, and the Lumpy

There appears to be a great divide developing among Tempurpedic Cloud reviews. Customers either seem to love or hate this bed. As far as pros go, this mattress is held in the same esteem as many other Tempurpedic beds. Consumers have been pleased with the quality of the mattress materials and the reviews are fairly similar to other collections in the line up.

The Cloud line consists of four mattresses: the Luxe, Supreme, Supreme Breeze, and Select. Average review scores range between 3.3-4.5 out of 5 on the brand’s website, with mid priced models appearing most popular. Queen prices range from $1699-3699. We looked at reviews on mattresses at Tempurpedic.com and on third party review websites to develop a picture of this collection based on what owners reported.

Pros from Reviews

Pain Relief

There are a number of reviews who deem this particular mattress more far more comfortable than any that they have ever owned before simply because the memory foam continues to do its job by curving to the sleeper’s body. For people with joint and muscle pain, Tempurpedic Cloud has been able to largely reduce some of those discomforts because the firmness works to support the areas of the body that seem to suffer the most.

Less Odor

As far as odor, reviews indicate that it is still present just as it is with other Tempurpedic mattresses, but there are comparatively less complaints about the smell. This is to be expected as the Cloud line uses lower density memory foam (4.1 lbs compared to 5.3 in other lines) which is known to have reduced off-gassing. Most people are aware that traditional memory foam produces an odor so many also opt to let it air out before sleeping in it.

Cons from Reviews

A number of buyers have indicated that the support this bed offers is second to none. While Tempurpedic Cloud reviews certainly consist of many redeeming qualities, there are some customers who are absolutely disappointed, and here’s why:

Tempurpedic Cloud Reviews Indicate Heat Retention

Tempurpedic is known to be a brand of mattress that sleeps hot and Tempurpedic Cloud reviews are definitely indicating that this specific mattress is no different. Some reviews have stated that it is more noticeable in summer months than any other time and many people have indicated that they have been able to “get over” the heat retention due to the overall comfort that this mattress offers. There are even a few reviews that indicate that they noticed no heat retention in the mattress at all. However, for some people, the heat proved a deal breaker and they returned the mattress.

Differs From Showroom Mattress

One of the biggest complaints of Tempurpedic Cloud reviews is that some people feel like the mattress that they received is much more firm than the showroom mattress. For some, this has simply been a surprise, but not necessarily a bad thing. A few indicated that they actually preferred the firmness more. Some people have said that after a few weeks the mattress becomes broken in and the firmness reaches a comfortable level.  Many reviews indicate a confusion of why the bed is so firm when the name compares the mattress to a cloud.

Possible Support Concerns

Some reviews indicate that the bed is unable to provide proper support when sleeping on side and back, primarily linked with complaints about firmness or softness. Others complained that the mattress lost its ability to provide support after it was broken in. Some reviews have said that after the mattress begins to settle, it can become uneven in some areas thus creating a lumpy effect. For others, their Cloud bed worsened joint and muscle pain which was what they were trying to correct by purchasing this particular mattress.

Overview of Tempurpedic Cloud Reviews

Tempurpedic Cloud Reviews indicate that this bed is the answer for some people and completely wrong for others. Like all mattresses, it comes down to personal preference. Overall, consumers that were unhappy cited inconsistency in firmness or significant changes during the break-in period as the primary reason. While many initially enjoyed the mattress or found the showroom models comfortable, they proved unhappy with support once they purchased the mattress. If you are considering this bed, keep this information in mind when determining the appropriate firmness level.  Tempurpedic Cloud reviews provide good insight for potential buyers, but consumers should always consider trying potential beds out, checking return policies,  and shopping around before purchasing.

What are Gel Mattresses?

The gel trend was largely sparked by Serta, whose iComfort gel memory foam mattress line made a splash in 2011. Originally, it was introduced to help combat the notion that memory foam mattresses sleep hot. The idea is that including a layer of gel in the mattress will offer cooler sleep and assist with pressure relief. Many people often wonder what the gel is, and the best way to get an idea would be to think of the ice packs used for injuries and keeping your lunch cool.

Gel Mattress Types

The different brands incorporate gel in various ways. Some include a gel-pad layer on top or beneath the padding layers. Others pour it into the foam as it sets, or incorporate beads of gel into the foam. Gel memory foam mattresses are the most popular combinations, though gel mattresses are also springing up in latex and and innerspring styles, and even mattress pads.

The Cooling Claim

The key selling point of gel is that it is supposed to sleep cooler than beds without gel. The idea was generated based on complaints from owners of traditional memory foam beds involving overheating. This issue of sleeping too hot affects about 10-15% of all memory foam owners, who report that during the night body heat gets trapped and the bed becomes uncomfortably warm. This seems to be most linked with higher density, high-conforming, and closed cell foams.

By incorporating gel, the manufacturers hope to assuage consumers’ worries of beds sleeping too hot and get an edge over other brands. They tend to explain the “gel action” in fairly vague terms, usually stating the the gel will absorb body heat and transfer it away from the sleeper.

The Facts About Gel Mattresses

If you have used a gel ice pack before, you may have noticed that gel, an aqueous substance, tends to take on the temperature of its surroundings. It may be cold when it comes out of the freezer, but before long it takes on the temperature of your body or the room. There is no reason to think that the gel would behave any differently in a mattress. Initially, it will adopt the room temperature, which will feel cool against your warmer body. However, before long it will match your body temperature and the cooling effect will fade.

Initially, Serta advertised that their iComfort foam slept cooler than Tempurpedic’s memory foam. However, towards the end of 2012 the National Advertising Board ruled that Serta should stop making these claims until it produced scientifically verifiable evidence. In the past year, the chips seemed to be stacked against gel mattresses. Here are a some other recent studies contradicting the cooling claims of gel products:

• Tempurpedic’s study that showed two of their beds slept slightly cooler than iComfort material (less than 1 degree).
• Foam manufacturer Cargill conducted studies showing that plant-based memory foam slept 25% cooler than gel memory foam.
• Consumer Mattress Reports 2013 guide found no discernible differences in breathability from gel mattresses versus standard mattresses.

Others have questioned the durability and longevity of gel mattresses. Due to the opposite natures of water-based gel and oil-based memory foam, there are concerns about how these materials will hold up over type and whether or not the inclusion of gel will affect the structural integrity of the foam. It is also not known how long the gel would continue to offer the claimed cooling properties.

Because this type of bed has only been on the market for a couple of years, reviews are limited especially in regards to durability. There does seem to be slightly fewer complaints of heat percentage-wise, but reviews can still be found that mention overheating on gel mattresses. On leading brands of gel mattresses, reviewers also seem to be more likely to mention quality issues compared to similar types without gel.

The Verdict:

Given the recent studies and mattress comparisons examining gel brands versus their regular counterparts, it appears that gel mattresses cannot conclusively claim any major benefits. For consumers, this means that paying premium prices for mattresses just based on the inclusion of gel may not be a smart buying decision.

Rather than falling for the latest gimmick, consumers would be wise to consider the underlying value of the product and its reputation among consumers. For example, in our comparison of leading memory foam brands which included Serta’s iComfort line, we found that overall, plant-based memory foam mattresses from Amerisleep.com led the group in terms of owner reviews and performance. If you are considering gel mattresses, make sure you research the product quality, cost, owner reviews, and guarantees compared to other options, as purchasing based solely on cooling claims may leave you feeling burnt.

Latex Mattresses Are Good For You

Usually when we buy a product, we want to know what it will do for us. After all a bed might be good for the earth, but if it gives us aches and pains or proves to be a bad value than it is not practical. Natural latex has a number of benefits for owners, from comfort to reducing chemicals.

• 85-86% of consumers are satisfied with all-latex mattresses.
• Effective at reducing back pain and supporting the body’s natural alignment.
• Naturally dissipates body heat and keeps temperature comfortable.
• No toxic off-gassing or overwhelming chemical odors.
• Mold and mildew-proof and anti-microbial, which keeps environmental allergens at bay.
• Dust-mite resistant, which limits the ability of dust mites to infest your bed (responsible for asthma, breathing issues, allergic reactions and more).

Latex is the Best Mattress for the Environment

Mattresses are a growing problem for waste management industry. Indeed, several states are attempting to pass laws that require mattresses to be recycled rather than sent to landfills, where used beds occupy a significant amount space. Adding to the problem is the fact that most mattress materials are not biodegradable, and often contain multiple chemicals that leach into the earth for decades and even centuries. Plus, the materials used to make many beds come from petroleum-based sources which are non-renewable and possibly dangerous. Perhaps one of the biggest advantages the natural latex mattress offers is its environmental benefits.

• Derived from a sustainable resource. Natural latex comes from hevea brasiliensis trees which are tapped while continuing to grow, live, and clean the air. Sustainable latex farms utilize a cyclical method to ensure new trees are always planted to replace ones at the end of their lifespan.
• A latex mattress can last 15-40 years, considerably longer than the 5-10 year average of other beds. This means less mattresses and materials are consumed and discarded.
• Latex is biodegradable and recyclable. At the end of its time as a mattress, the latex material can be recycled and will eventually degrade if place in a landfill.

Natural Latex vs. Synthetic, Memory Foam, and Innerspring Mattresses

How to Choose the Best Latex Mattress

In order to get the best latex mattress, you want to ensure it meets a few key specifications. This will ensure you truly are getting the best bed for you and the earth.

1. The material is made of 100% natural latex – no fillers, blends, or other mattress cores. Be aware that brands can claim a foam is “natural” when it contains synthetic latex, so make sure you see 100%.
2. Know what is used to meet flame retardant standards. Wool is the best option for latex beds.
3. Search for a brand that does not use harsh solvents or chemicals in the manufacturing process.
4. Look for an organic cover, preferably organic cotton, and make sure that it is certified organic by a legitimate agency.
5. Look for a bed that meets Oeko-Tex Standard 100, one of the most rigorous testing processes which ensures a product is free of harmful chemicals.
6. If you are buying online, consider a retailer that ships their beds compressed as opposed to full-size, as this can cut fuel usage significantly.

We often get asked for suggestions when discussing a specific type of bed; for natural latex mattresses we recommend Astrabeds.com. Their collection meets all of the above specifications, and comes with 25 year warranties, 90 day trials, and very competitive pricing.

So is Latex the Best?

Overall, when we look at how a latex mattress benefits the person sleeping on it and the environment, it does appear that latex offers one of the best profiles. Few mattresses will live up to the high standards of healthiness and sustainability that latex sets forth. While not everyone will find their holy grail in this type of bed, a latex mattress should definitely be on your shortlist when comparing mattress types especially if you are concerned about chemicals, allergies, or reducing your footprint.

Adjustable Bed Features

First, you will want to familiarize yourself with the features offered by adjustable bed brands. While they may go by somewhat different names, these core features include:

• Wall Hugger – This term described beds which fit into traditional bed frames and adjust without creating a larger footprint. Bases with wall hugger features keep the head close to the nightstand for convenience.

• Wired versus wireless remote options – The ability to control bed adjustments via a wireless remote control is considered an upgrade from adjustable beds with wired controls. One of the advantages of a wireless remote is that there are no cords to trip over, tangle or hide in bedding, and they can be placed anywhere. Advantages of wired controls include no batteries and no lost remotes.

• AC and DC motors – Both found in adjustable beds and offer similar results, with slight differences. DC offers the quietest operation and is the most common; however some models may offer AC motors which provide a higher operating capacity. You will want to check to ensure the motor’s weight capacity is enough to handle your weight and that of your mattress.

• Zero Gravity – This is a position which virtually eliminates pressure points and provides a sensation of near weightlessness. It is characterized by the legs being above heart level, at an angle that reduces pressure on the spine and encourages deep relaxation.

• Massage – Massage is one of the most popular features on adjustable beds. It works via vibration, and is strong enough to be felt through most mattresses. About ⅔ of people find this feature useful on their adjustable bases.

• Battery Backup – This allows the bed to return to a flat position when the electricity goes out, which is a valuable option for people who have difficulty getting in and out of bed.

• Leg Styles – Some adjustable bases allow for operation with or without the legs attached, and most have multiple heights to accommodate different needs and furniture. Beds can also use either flat legs or casters (wheels).

• Brackets – If you use a traditional metal frame attached to a headboard now, you will want to include headboard brackets with your adjustable bed. These allow a standard headboard to attach directly to the base. If you plan on using the base in a wood frame bed, you probably will not need this add-on.

Bed Size

Adjustable base sizes vary somewhat from traditional mattress sizes. Twin and Full XL sizes offer 80” lengths as opposed to the standard 74”, which makes them a good option for single adults. Queen and king sizes bases also come in split sizes, which allow each side of the bed to be adjusted independently. A split king size is considered ideal for most couples if space permits.

Warranties

Warranties should be compared as they can vary tremendously even from a single manufacturer or retailer. Most offer at least a one-year full warranty, however after that parts and labor may be prorated for different lengths of time. Some manufacturers exclude certain components in the prorated warranties like electronics as well. Returns can also be complicated with adjustable beds due to their size and shipping costs. Read all warranties and make certain you understand them, asking questions on anything you are uncertain of.  Pay special attention to motor warranties and electronics as the remainder of the bed is simply mechanical and less prone to breakage.

Consumer Reviews

Looking at reviews is an important part of researching a purchase. This helps you get an idea of what to expect from a bed, and avoid costly mistakes. The most reputable reviews are those that verify the reviewer as a purchaser (a few third-party services offer this to retailers). The least reputable are testimonials, as these are hand-picked by the retailer and may not representative of most experiences. You can also look at third-party websites devoted to consumer reviews, like Viewpoints, Trustlink and others.

Mattress Choice

Choosing the best mattress to use with the adjustable base is imperative for comfort and satisfaction. Attached mattresses and innerspring mattresses are not desirable, as they will wear faster and offer less comfort. Memory foam mattresses and latex mattresses are supremely suited to this application, as they are able to conform to the underlying base and the sleeper without any loss of support. The best choice is a thinner model as thicker mattresses can hinder flexibility and be too heavy.

Comparison Shopping for an Adjustable Bed

There are many adjustable bed retailers out there, and because a majority of retailers privately brand their bases, it can be difficult to compare across stores. One way to make this easier is to systematically compare the beds you are considering based on the features most important to you. Begin by listing everything you must have, for example: queen size, massage, battery back up, wall hugger, and a price under $1500. Then, make a chart or spreadsheet to track how the different options you encounter measure up to your wants. Below is a sample of a few leading brands based on the sample criteria we mentioned:

Brand	Astrabeds	Sleep Number	Tempurpedic	GoldenRest	Craftmatic
Model	ErgoStar Evolution	FlexFit	Ergo Basic	Supreme	Model 1
Queen Price	$1,399	$1,699	$1,300	$2,079	??
Massage?	Yes	No	No	Yes	Yes
Battery Backup?	Yes	No	No	Yes	No
Wall Hugger?	Yes	No	No	No	No
Average Review	4.6/5 (64 reviews)	4.3/5 (6 reviews)	3/5 (9 reviews)	4.6 (6 reviews)	Testimonials Only

This comparison makes it easy to see how the brands differ and which meet our checklist. Though the adjustable beds appear similar, we found a pretty large range of prices and reviews. The option that meets every criteria in this example is the Astrabeds ErgoStar Evolution adjustable bed, which has the desired features, a solid 4.6 in reviews, and a competitive price. As we keep shopping, we would continue eliminating the options that didn’t stack up, and then compare prices and current sales on the viable bases to select the best overall value.

Being aware and informed on the available options when shopping for an adjustable bed will help you narrow down the marketplace and make a wise decision. Many manufacturers offer a basic, mid and high end model to choose from, with primary differences being features and/or warranty coverage. When shopping for your new bed, you will want to compare not only price, but also features and guarantees to get the best value. We hope you find out tips helpful and that this guide answered some of your basic questions. If you have more adjustable bed questions feel free to let us know!

Consumer Reports’ Best Mattress by Type 2013

The mattress buying guide issued by Consumer Reports finds that all mattresses but the cheapest to be relatively sturdy and likely to offer satisfactory sleep. This correlates with average mattress rankings across the board, which hover in the 65-70% range, and National Sleep Foundation research that any new mattress helps improve sleep quality. But, there are still significant differences among the different types and some receive better ratings than others. First, we’ll look at the different mattress types.

Innerspring Mattresses

Innerspring mattresses remain the most-sold mattresses and the traditional go-to for many consumers. These mattresses feature metal spring or coil support systems topped with padding or foams and encased in fabric ticking. Innerspring mattresses are often sold as sets with the mattress top and box springs. Consumer Reports finds that innerspring beds make moving around easier, but also transfer motion to sleeping partners.

Best Innerspring Mattress Brands

The top-selling brands in this category are Sealy, Serta, Simmons and Spring Air. Based on their initial 12-mattress comparison, they recommend the Simmons Beautyrest Glover Park firm pillowtop, while the ComforPedic Loft Crestwood Luxury Plush ranked lowest.

Memory Foam Mattresses

Memory foam is known for offering superior pressure point relief by transferring weight across the surface of the bed (whereas springs place the most pressure on heaviest areas like hips and shoulders). The other significant benefit is alignment support. Consumer Reports mentions that memory foam was a favorite among people who suffer from pain. The nature of the material prevents motion transfer, but some brands sleep hot, make turning difficult, and can have a chemical odor. Their guide, perhaps unfairly, classifies latex as a type of memory foam.

Best Memory Foam Brands

Tempurpedic is the leading brand of memory foam. In Consumer Reports study, they looked at the Tempur Simplicity and Novaform Serafina, finding that the Tempurpedic ranked slightly higher but ultimately naming the Serafina as their pick for its lower price of $900. We found another memory foam mattress brand, Amerisleep, that offers prices under $1000 as well but higher foam densities and plant-based materials that have been shown to sleep cooler and eliminate offgassing concerns. (Have a look at the comparison info and chart provided by BestMattress-Reviews.org).

Air Bed Mattresses

Air mattresses utilize air chambers within a mattress enclosure. Sleepers can adjust the pressure of the air chamber to affect the mattress firmness via hand controls that operate an attached pump. Many brands feature models with latex and memory foam in addition to traditional pillow-tops. Consumer Reports mentions that dual models let couples enjoy different firmness levels and users report pain relief, but were unhappy with price and noise.

Best Air Mattress Brands

The top selling air bed line remains Sleep Number by Select Comfort. CR does not mention specific a specific brand in terms of its top picks, though there are other retailers like Simply Rest that offer comparable air beds at lower prices (solving the top complaint for this type).

Gel Mattresses

This is a new category on the Consumer Reports’ guide, characterized by the inclusion of gel via infusion or gel layers. Gel is typically added to another mattress type like innerspring or memory foam, and is touted to be more breathable and offer cooler sleep. Their research found that other mattresses breathe just as well however.

Best Gel Mattress Brands

The CR online guide and initial comparison data released do not specifically mention gel brands, though most popular brands include Serta iComfort and Sealy Optimum. Research from Cargill and Tempurpedic have both shown that claims made by gel brands to sleep cooler than plant-based and traditional memory foam may not hold up.

Getting the Best Mattress

Consumer Reports Buying Tips

• Buy a new mattress if your bed is saggy, lumpy, you wake up tired, or if your bed is older than 5-7 years.
• The most expensive mattresses don’t always offer the best sleep.
• Buy in stores.
• Don’t get sucked in by the name-game prevalent among top manufacturers and retailers.
• Don’t buy a new foundation or boxspring if your existing one is in good condition and suitable for your new bed (though check warranty terms to see if it is required).
• Check return periods/comfort guarantees in case you don’t like the bed.
• Wait for a sale.
• Leave your mattress tag on to ensure warranty service.

Our Recommendations

• Shop & research online.
• Check return fees and look for a trial of 30+ days.
• Look for U.S. made mattresses for quality and safety.

While we agree with most of Consumer Reports’ recommendations, there are a number of benefits of shopping online such as being more informed, saving money and better return policies. Shoppers are able to take their time free of sales pressure and truly gain knowledge about potential purchases so that in the end the showroom test drive is no longer required.  People are gaining confidence in purchasing online because of the guarantees that many online retailers offer and the history of consumer satisfaction. A recent study from research group RTI even showed that the standard 15 minute showroom test drive did not help consumers choose a comfortable mattress.

As we go throughout the year shoppers can continue to see how the top brands fair against other emerging brands in the industry.  Many changes are in store for leading companies from new products to mergers, so it will be interesting to see how the market changes over the next year. For those shopping for a new bed, these mattress shopping tips and Consumer Reports’ buying information can help you make a smarter decision and get better sleep.

Adjustable Bed Brand Comparison

The Scoring Process

We looked five main dimensions in our rating system: customer reviews, durability features, price, health-related features, and warranty. Each item was ranked on a scale of 1-5, with 5 being highest.

• Consumer Ratings – analysis of third-party reviews via manufacturer and retailer websites, blog, and other review sources.
• Price – comparison of features versus retail prices. Brands that publish prices ranked higher, as brands which do not publish prices may tend to price gouge and overcharge consumers.
• Health Benefits – analysis of features and consumer reports of benefits. These include relief from symptoms of sleep apnea, edema, acid reflux, breathing difficulties, snoring, fibromyalgia, muscle pain, back/shoulder/neck pain and others. Beds with more position functions tended to rank higher here.
• Durability – analysis of construction details (electronics, mechanical parts, materials). Those with quality control certifications like UL listing and ISO-9001 certification ranked higher.
• Warranty – comparison of warranty length, with greater focus placed on full coverage terms. 20 year and even lifetime warranties are fairly common, but critical components like the electrical parts and motors may only have 1-5 years coverage. Brands with the longer full warranties and most transparent policies ranked highest.

The Results

The Adjustable Bed Brands

#1) Amerisleep – 4.6/5

This was the top ranking brand overall. Amerisleep offers four adjustable beds: their own Ergo Pursuit and Ergo Invincible, and the S-Cape and Prodigy from Leggett and Platt. Reviews averaged at 4.5/5, with the top-selling Invincible scoring 4.7/5 on over 23 reviews. The website publishes their prices online and costs are in line with features. Features like massage and zero gravity led many consumers to report health benefits. Warranty information is provided for each bed, with 2 years on motors and 5 years on parts for the Ergo models.

#2) Sleep Comfort – 3.6/5

Sleep Comfort ranked second, with pros including good ratings for warranty, health benefits and durability. On their website, Sleep Comfort offers their brand in Simplicity, Symphony, and Monarch adjustable beds, and the Leggett and Platt Prodigy. Their beds received an average of 4/5 stars in reviews. The factor that most affected their ratings was price, as they do not publish retail prices. This encourages price gouging and sales people taking advantage of customers who do not negotiate.

#3) Tempurpedic – 3.4/5

Tempurpedic features a line of adjustable beds under the Tempur-Ergo name, including the Basic, Grand and Advanced (last two soon to be replaced with Premier). They tied for third with Select Comfort line. Customer ratings averaged 4/5, and they also received 4’s for durability and health benefits. Points were lost on price for costs higher than average compared to features, and on warranty for a lack of transparency and a policy which covers only 1 year full and 3 years parts.

#3) Select Comfort/Sleep Number – 3.4/5

Sleep Number offers two adjustable bases, the FlexFit and FlexFit+. Their ratings were very similar to Tempurpedic, with beds receiving an average of 4 stars in reviews and scoring good on durability and health benefits. Select Comfort also lost points for higher prices and less than transparent warranties, with many customers reporting feeling mislead about the terms and 2 year full coverage period.

#4) Costco – 3/5

Costco carries several models under the brands Leggett and Platt, Sleep Science, and Nature’s Caress. On average, we found customer ratings to be in the 4/5 range and reporting a good level of health benefits. Price, especially on the mattress adjustable packages, was on the high side, though all prices were published online. Warranty terms varied across the models, with some offering more transparency than others. Full coverage periods ranged from 1-2 years and parts from 2-5 years.

#5) Golden Rest -3/5

Golden Rest offers 8 models of adjustable beds. They scored in average ranges on all aspects we looked, with 3/5 in every category. Ratings were mixed as many people found health benefits in the beds, but longevity and higher prices had negative effects. Their full warranty coverage last 1 year for adjustable beds.

#6) Craftmatic – 2.6/5

Craftmatic is one of the more well known brands among older consumers, and they offer three models including the Model 1, Model 2, and Monaco. Their sales model used to involve high-pressure in home visits from sales people but they are now focusing on online and phone sales. However, they still do not publish price information which subjects shoppers to the same tactics. Overall their brand received an average of 2/5 in reviews due to pricing, durability and transparency issues though pros did include mentions of health benefits. They ranked lower in durability than most other brands, and warranties include only 1 year full coverage.

Overall the biggest influences in our adjustable bed comparison and people’s reviews appear to be transparency and value. Consumers want to get what they are expecting based on salespeople’s and brand’s claims. Those that offer little information or are not fully transparent on pricing and warranties ranked lower in consumer rating and our comparison.  And of course, people want to get a good price relative to the features and durability of the adjustable bed. The top adjustable bed brands according to our research thus offer greater transparency in policies and costs, plus higher levels of quality and features compared to their prices.

All About Luxury Pillows

People are becoming more aware of the role sleep plays in quality of life, and how mattresses, bedding and pillows affect us. Manufacturers are also realizing the people want better-quality pillows, and competing to produce the next best thing. Considered as part of an entire sleep system, luxury pillows are currently enjoying a revival as new products and designs enter the market.

How to shop for Luxury Pillows

Popular contoured shapes and innovative materials have been developed for specific sleep preferences to provide increased comfort and support. While some may be gimmicks, others may make a big difference in your comfort. When considering luxury pillows, look at the following components:

Thickness:  This refers to how tall the profile of the pillow is, which can range from 1″ to 10″. What feels good will depend purely on preference , your body type, and your preferred sleeping position. Generally, back sleepers would do best with a pillow in the medium 2-4″ range, while side sleepers may need a little more loft to support the neck and stomach sleepers may prefer a thin pillow. If you sleep on your side, the pillow height should keep your spine and neck straight, if on your back, the pillow should preserve a natural slightly elevated posture. However, people with GERD/reflux and some breathing disorders may need higher pillows for optimal comfort.

Firmness: The firmness of a pillow affects the support it provides, and again will depend on preference. Pillows that are too soft will provide little support for side and back sleepers, but may be just right for a stomach sleeper. Firmer pillows, especially contour style pillows, are designed to improve alignment for side sleepers. A medium-firm level is considered universal and is a good starting point if you are unsure. Keep in mind that almost all materials tend to soften over time, so picking a pillow slightly firmer than desired may be helpful.

Pillow Material: Know what the pillow contains inside and out. Some may have memory foam or latex upper layers, but cores made of other foams, for example. Filler materials like synthetic latex or cores may be added to reduce costs, but usually don’t help with comfort. This is also important when trying to assess the health benefits, as materials like natural down can harbor allergens and synthetic foams can present chemical concerns.

Cover Material: While most people use a pillowcase, it is still important to consider what the cover contains. You want a healthy, breathable fabric like cotton or bamboo.  A removable cover is preferable for cleaning.

Warranty: Every luxury pillow should come with a warranty to ensure against defects. Look for a period of at least one year. Most pillows, even luxury pillows, will not come with a trial period, especially if unboxed or slept on.

Price: On average when purchasing a luxury pillow, expect to spend in the 80 to 100 dollar price range. Inexpensive styles are not able to provide adequate spine and cranial support and often have to be readjusted throughout the night. Products made of high-quality foams and organic materials may cost more than poly-fill pillows, but the investment in sleep and health is worth it.

Types of Luxury Pillows

Not too long ago, the most luxurious pillows available were made of down feathers. However, nowadays, many types of construction are available, each claiming to offer the best sleep. The following examples are some of the new entries into the luxury market:

• The multidimensional support of memory foam may have been the original inspiration for luxury pillows. This type of material can be formed in contoured slabs or shredded. Memory foam is hypoallergenic, mold and dust mite resistant, crucial to minimizing allergies and related breathing problems. Tempurpedic pillows are one of the most popular luxury brands of this type, with prices ranging from $80-$400 These offer good support, but many people express concerns with chemical odors and offgassing.
• Plant-based memory foam offers another alternative. Using natural ingredients to create memory foam as opposed to the chemical based polyurethane made popular by other companies, these luxury pillows allow more air flow and don’t release dangerous chemicals. Amerisleep’s memory foam pillows utilize the same material from their mattresses, which offers breathability, quick response time, and zero toxic VOCs. These come in two styles and range from $70-90.
• Innerspring pillows are based on traditional mattress designs and wrapped in memory foam or latex. These can be stiff, noisy and thicker than many people enjoy, but claim to offer more durable support than traditional pillows, and comfort via foam layers. Soff-Art is one notable brand making these, at the $50-75 range.
• Gel-based pillows typically combine memory foam or poly foam with a gel layer to regulate temperatures. While nothing may feel as good as the cool side of the pillow, possible issues include keeping it clean, and the fact that gel eventually warms to body temperature.  Luxury pillows with gel are available from a wide range of brands retailers, from the $30-90 range.
• Pure latex pillows offer another realistic and health luxury pillow option. 100% natural talalay latex pillows are considered the best, as the material is free of harsh chemicals, resilient, durable, and available in different firmnesses. Latex is also resistant to mold, mildew, bacteria and dust mites. Astrabeds.com offers a 100% natural Talalay latex pillow starting at $159.

Why are pillows important?

Your choice of pillow actually plays a big role in overall sleep quality. One that requires constant refolding and re-fluffing will disrupt sleep. A bed pillow that is too thin, too high, or unsupportive can cause neck and back pain, and even headaches. Choosing a great pillow that allows you sleep comfortably is thus imperative to getting quality rest.

Another issue with pillows proves susceptibility to allergens and contaminants. Your pillow sits next your face for 8 hours a day, meaning you want it to be as healthy as possible. Certain materials like memory foam and latex are better at preventing the accumulation of bacteria, which could contribute to illnesses or skin irritations, and allergens like dust mites, pet dander, or molds that could affect asthma and health.  Use of a zippered pillow protector can also help increase longevity and reduce allergens in traditional and luxury pillows.

Age of pillows is another important factor.  People often do not realize how long they have slept on their old pillow and how many bacteria and allergens it harbors via skin oils, dust mites and other icky stuff. They also break down over time, meaning that a pillow that used to provide excellent support is no longer adequate.  Most experts recommend replacement every six months to three years. Fiberfill pillows tend to break down and loose support within a few months, while higher-quality memory foam and latex can last for several years. If you find yourself with pains or struggling to get comfortable on your pillow, it may be time to replace it. One test to determine this is placing it lengthwise over your arm to see if it bends in half.  If so, it’s time to replace it with a new one.

Knowing what to look for and what each technology offers is important in choosing the best option for your needs. A pillow remains a highly personal purchase, so no one type is right for everyone. These tips are designed to help explain the differences so you can research and discover if luxury pillows are what the sandman ordered.

Top Memory Foam Mattress Technologies Face Off

Battle 1: Heat

Heat or the feeling of sleeping hot has been a major complaint of consumers since memory foam mattresses hit the market. Some people who tend to sleep hot found that their mattress seemed to trap their body heat, making them swelter through the night, particularly during warm weather. This is because traditional foams have insulating properties, that is they preserve rather than disperse heat. So how do the technologies compare in this regard?

• A traditional memory foam mattress can feature either open or closed cell structures, but even the open cell variety has been known to sleep warmer for significant minority of people. Tempurpedic sought to address the problem by cutting channels into their mattresses to help air run out. Questions remain though as they have also released a line, Tempur-Breeze, to address complaints of sleeping hot. Little is known about how or why the Breeze line would be cooler, and some reviewers still indicate sleeping hot despite the higher price.
• Plant-based technology, like that used by Amerisleep.com, has been proven to dissipate heat up to 9 times faster than traditional foam. Studies indicate it also sleeps 25 percent cooler than the gel type. This vast improvement is due to plant-based materials and a much larger cell structure than competitors which allows increased airflow to reduce heat. A look at reviews shows very little mention of heat.
• Gel infused memory foam or the combination of a gel layer with a memory foam mattress became popular of the past year, through lines like Serta iComfort. This relies on the fact that gel is considered an ambient material, meaning it assumes the temperature of what surrounds it. Most people are familiar with the microwavable and freezer type gel packs which absorb either the heat or cold they are exposed to. Since our bodies are 98.6 degrees, the gel will feel cool initially, but will gradually heat up and will hold more heat than even traditional memory foam. Gel mattress companies advertise that their products will transfer body heat to the lower levels of memory foam and release it there rather than cradling the sleeper in a hot pocket, however serious questions remain. For example, Serta recently agreed to stop making claims that their beds sleep cooler after a Tempurpedic study showed otherwise.

Battle 2: Off Gassing

Off-gassing refers to the release of fumes from within a memory foam mattress which can range from simply a “new” odor to dangerous VOCs. Consumers have expressed concerns over the length of time these gasses will be released. Almost every newly manufactured product has an odor of some sort, though the composition and danger of off-gassing is determined by the materials it includes.

• Traditional memory foam mattresses have been severely critiqued for chemicals, citing as many as 61 dangers associated with them. Both the International Agency of Research on Cancer and departments within the State of California have identified 18 of these 61 as having harmful effects on health. The smell associated with traditional memory foam is the release of these dangerous compounds. Tempurpedic and other standard memory foams receive reports of off-gassing much higher than average. The brand makes no claims one way or the other about the presence of VOCs.
• Plant-based technology replaces a proportion of the petroleum additives with bio-materials, and often eliminates other nasties from production. Amerisleep mattresses have been recognized to free of VOCs and are created with zero-emissions.  While they may still have a “new” scent, it is on par to that of other beds and hasn’t received reports of respiratory discomfort at the level of traditional memory foam.
• Gel memory foam has not been studied in depth regarding the release of VOCs or if so the information is not available at this time. Because most lines use traditional memory and simply inject or pour gel into it, one could assume it that if it were VOC-free the companies would promote this in their advertising. Initial reports from consumers indicate odors, but slightly less severe than standard foam depending on the brand.

Battle 3: Response Time

Despite hearing a great deal about response time, consumers may not understand the term, what it measures and how different types compare. In essence this term refers to the length of time it takes compressed foam to return to its original state. Memory foam is often referred to as “slow response” due to the length of times it takes to press it down and how long it takes to respond and come back. Composition of the memory foam mattress is a key factor as are the following: changeable viscosity; elasticity, measuring how long it takes to come back, referred to as “memory”; and resilience, which provides “bounciness” or the “pushback”.  While it may seem cool to see your hand print in a bed for several seconds, owners of slow response foams often have complaints of a feeling stuck, sleeping in quicksand and even have reported decreased sexual enjoyment. While memory foam shouldn’t be as springy as latex, greater responsiveness helps resolve these concerns. Response time of the three:

• Tempurpedic shows a 45-60 response time. This means after sleepers change position, it takes nearly a minute for the bed to catch up. This is another top complaint with memory foam, especially among older individuals.
• Amerisleep features a 5-8 second response time. This is one of the quickest response times for higher density memory foams, allowing people to move easily in bed and avoid feeling stuck as the mattress adjusts and re-contours quickly.
• Gel based memory foams show 30-45 second response time, slightly better than Tempurpedic but still considerably less than Amerisleep.

Battle 4: Durability

Does density equal quality? To some degree the answer is yes, as denser foams are far more durable than lesser weights. In fact, a memory foam mattress composed of low-density foams, those which are 4 pounds and less, often get referred to as “throw-aways” as they will not last more than a few months. Memory foam density is calculated by determining the weight of one cubic foot, and ranges from 2.0 to 8.0 pounds. We recommend purchasing mattresses with a 4.0 -5.3 pound density as they will remain supportive and comfortable for years on the average, as well as providing the right level of “give” and durability. Anything over a measure of 6.0 will be too hard and dense for most people. The top three choices battle it out below:

• Tempurpedic features 5.3lb density foam in most of their traditional line, though the Simplicity has only 2.5lb density, and some of the other new lines may feature reduced densities as well. As one of the older brands, their mattresses have scored reasonably well for durability.
• Amerisleep memory foam mattresses feature densities ranging from 4.5-5.3 lbs. were first introduced in 2007. They continue to rank as high in durability as their competitors for durability and lifespan.
• Gel-based memory foam mattresses have only recently entered the market, most in 2012, with Sealy and Serta Optimum both integrating gel with an average of 3.0-5.0 lb. foam. Though the beds have good warranties, our concern with this infusion is water and oil don’t tend to mix well – some examples on Youtube show the gel beads simply flaking out of the foam, or the poured gel simply settling to the bottom. Uneven mixing combined with a recent report on their higher rate of flammability raise some questions about this type of foam.

And the winning Memory Foam Mattress Technology is…

A mattress is a very personal purchase, so whats right for one person may not be best for another. In our comparison and opinion, the plant-based memory foam offers the best combination of performance and value. It sleeps coolest, is responsive to sleepers movements, contains less or no harmful chemicals, and is as durable as the alternatives. We like the Amerisleep plant-based memory foam mattress collection for their online direct availability, selection of firmnesses, strong verified reviews, good guarantees and affordable prices.

Declining Sales

In the fourth quarter of 2012, Tempur-Pedic experienced a 58% drop in profit and 7% drop in sales over 2011. Although their stocks rose 17% they are currently still down by more than half from their 52 week high, but double from the plummet in 2012 summer. The recovery in shares was not enough to salvage the fiscal year for Tempur-Pedic however. For 2012 overall, they reported a 1% overall drop in sales from 2011, which equates to approximately $15,000,000 in lost revenues. Net income dropped from $220 million to $107 million and overall profit margin also declined 1.5%. The company attributes this to the economy, but their actions and industry insiders believe competition is closing in on Tempurpedic’s market share.

Product Differentiation

Tempur-Pedic unveiled an expansion to their already extensive collection of premier comfort sleep systems at the 2013 Las Vegas Market. The newer Tempur-Cloud, Simplicity, Tempur-Ergo, and Tempur-Breeze lines represent Tempur-Pedic efforts to recover lost market share and maintain standing. Many of the products seek to directly address consumer complaints like hot sleeping, excessive firmness, and high price, though many copy features of products already available in the market. It seems that rather than drop their prices to compete with more affordable options, they are utilizing competitor’s technologies and their luxury brand image.

Tempur-Choice Air Beds

The Tempur-Choice collection is set to debut in spring of 2013, though some details have been released already. The mattresses will feature adjustable air pressure systems with 120 settings, digital controls, tri-zone technology, and 4″ of Tempur-ES in the Supreme and 5″ in the Luxe. The prices will range between $3499 and $3999 for queen sets. Aside from the inclusion of their branded memory foam, the setup seems quite similar to current air bed offerings. The move represents the most interesting shift yet from the company into a mattress category they have fervently competed against.

The chart below compares the new Tempur-Choice collection to existing offerings by Select Comfort’s Sleep Number Innovation Series and SimplyRest’s Luxury Series air bed mattresses. The similarities are apparent in terms of comfort settings and bed options, though their prices are considerably higher.

TEMPUR-Ergo Premier Adjustable Bed

The TEMPUR-Ergo Premier adjustable bed will be offered as the brand’s premier adjustable. It will feature wireless WiFi and app-enabled controls and three-zone massage with preset programs. The base will have a 5 year full, lifetime limited warranty. The degrees of adjust-ability and other remote control features were not available at press time. The TEMPUR-Ergo Premier product appears to show marked similarities to current market models, representing less innovation and more imitation.

For example, the ErgoStar LifeWave base from Astrabeds offers nearly identical features at pricepoints hundreds less than the proposed pricing of Tempurpedic’s new bed. The LifeWave has wireless controls, position memory, fully customizable two-zone wave massage with 3 programs, an anti-snore feature, zero gravity button and instant flat position. The Prodigy by Leggett and Platt also offers similar premier features and WiFi/App controls. Comparatively speaking, the Ergo Premier Queen size bed will be priced at $1,999 while the ErgoStar LiveWave Queen bed is priced at $1,699 and the Prodigy at $1,699 as well.

Will Tempur-Choice & New Direction Help?

Tempurpedic acknowledged for the first time in 2012 that competition was influencing their sales. For a company that previously ignored competition, the about face is important and is expressed in their new product lines.

Yes, Tempur-Pedic were the original innovators of the memory foam mattress. However, as more and more retailers offer high-end, high-quality products at much lower prices, the luxury brand looses (simple brand economics, really). When technology becomes familiar, more people gain access to it and the price drops. As new versions come out, the old become obsolete, or less exclusive. Cell phones once cost an arm and a leg, color TVs were for the rich and famous, and flat screens once were, too. Now the market is saturated with these items and prices have dropped considerably.

For years however, Tempur-Pedic sat comfortably thinking consumers would not notice these other brands, and that no one would improve on their technology. Unfortunately for their consumers, Tempur-Pedic still believes their technology is the one-and-only supreme luxury, and prices have not dropped to reflect the market or economy. Now as market saturation grows and competition stiffens, Tempupedic seeks new revenue via the Tempur-Choice and TEMPUR-Ergo Premier lines and in a proposed Sealy buyout.

So the question remains, is the Tempur-Choice line of beds showing Tempur-Pedic’s innovative technology, or a desperate cry to stay in the game with their top competitors? Saying that Tempurpedic is still the leading innovator in the market becomes difficult when one looks at other lines offering similar or better products cheaper. Rather, it appears that the brand is now struggling to keep up with new technologies in Tempur-Choice and their other lines, which presents an uphill struggle (late entrant versus first mover advantage) and a trend surely concerning for investors.