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Is it possible to buy a mattress for years?

5 stycznia 2024
Durable mattress, comfortable sleep, foam mattresses
Choosing a mattress made of appropriate materials has a significant impact on its lifespan. When aiming to buy a mattress for years, it is essential to be aware that the primary criterion for its evaluation is the parameters of foams, which include letter and numerical markings representing physical properties. Therefore, when purchasing a mattress, obtaining detailed information allowing for a conscious choice based on solid data is crucial.

We analyze the durability of spring mattresses, paying special attention to the issue related to the action of memory steel in their cores. We also discuss the durability of latex mattresses, highlighting features related to their use. This includes potential allergies or lack of breathability, which affects their quality.
Sturdy mattress, peaceful sleep, foam mattress

Durability of the mattress and types of foams

The durability of a mattress is closely related to the type of foam used. The primary criterion for assessment is the foam parameter, which is labeled by manufacturers. A universal foam parameter consists of a letter designation (V, T, or HR) followed by a sequence of four digits, where the first two digits represent the density in kg/m3, and the next two digits indicate the hardness in kPa (kilopascal). In cases where the manufacturer specifies hardness in N (newton), a sequence of five digits is also allowed, which is becoming increasingly popular.

It is essential to remember that higher foam density translates to its hardness. However, this has nothing to do with the hardness of the foam, which is indicated by a different parameter. Therefore, during the mattress purchase, it is crucial to demand detailed parameters that allow for a proper choice based on solid data. Of course, the type of foam is also significant in this parameter.

Foams with the highest durability are HR foams, a relatively expensive type of foam with open cells, allowing for air circulation. Air can be removed from the foam under pressure, and upon getting up from the mattress, it is pushed back inside, providing adequate dynamics. Here too, the density of the foam is key to the mattress's long life.

On the other hand, T foams are avoided as they are significantly less durable. They have closed cells, meaning that air is trapped inside foam bubbles. Lying on it causes pressure, leading to bursting of foam bubbles, and consequently, the mattress collapses. Therefore, closed-cell foams are strongly discouraged when aiming for a mattress for years, not a short period.
You have the right to know what the composition of the mattress is!
Let's also remember that the right to information is key to a successful purchase, not only for a mattress but for anything else as well. According to Article 25 of the Act on Combating Unfair Competition, the omission of specific parameters of polyurethane foams in a mattress can be interpreted as a deliberate attempt to mislead and confuse the consumer, aiming to gain an advantage. Such practices constitute a violation of the principles of fair competition as they result in a lack of clear indication of the essential features of the mattress, which is detrimental to the buyer.

Another legal aspect is related to Article 546 §1 of the Civil Code, which imposes an obligation on the seller to provide the buyer with the necessary explanations regarding legal and factual relationships related to the purchase of goods. Therefore, leaving the consumer unaware of the parameters of foams or other materials inside the purchased mattress is considered unacceptable. Simultaneously, the absence of clear and truthful information is regarded as misleading buyers, preventing them from making a conscious and full use of the purchased product.

In accordance with Article 5461 §1 of the Civil Code, if the mattress buyer is a consumer, the seller is obligated to provide clear, understandable, and non-misleading information in Polish before concluding the contract. This information is necessary for the correct use of the acquired item. Therefore, misinforming the customer about the mattress parameters is treated as an attempt to conceal the product's properties, suggesting a contradiction with the law.

We must also remember that in the context of Article 5461 §3 of the Civil Code, a seller in a brick-and-mortar store should provide appropriate conditions allowing the consumer to make a choice, including the verification of the quality and functioning of a particular mattress model. Hence, the common lack of the possibility to test a mattress in conditions close to natural ones in the store is considered a failure to fulfill this obligation.
Spring mattress, pocket spring mattresses, steel springs

Longevity of spring mattresses

Still, you can come across spring mattresses that are mainly chosen by older people. They are accustomed to this type of mattress, which dominated the market for decades. However, they conceal certain doubtful issues related to durability, mainly due to the use of steel springs as the main core element of such a mattress. The key aspect here is the memory of steel, which affects the behavior of the springs.

In short, the shape memory effect occurring in steel should cause it to return to its original shape. In reality, however, the steel spring does not fully return to the same height. Physical experiments prove that compressing the spring results in a permanent reduction in its height, albeit by a microscopic value. Over time, the deformation of the spring in the mattress will be perceptible and then visible. And flipping the mattress to the other side won't change that.

Most available spring mattresses leave much to be desired in terms of quality. Even models with pocket springs rarely meet rational quality standards. Steel springs placed in separate pockets, glued together, do not provide the necessary dynamics and support for the spine in its anatomically correct position. Users of such mattresses consistently experience significant discomfort during sleep. It is also worth noting that, as a rule, such mattresses tend to degrade quickly.
Latex mattress, latex mattresses, mattress manufacturers

The truth about latex mattresses

Although they are not at all eco-friendly, latex mattresses still enjoy demand due to their supposedly natural origin. However, it is worth examining the key aspects related to the properties of this material. While natural latex is derived from rubber tree milk, the production of latex typically involves the use of harmful chemicals. This can make it potentially hazardous to health. Additionally, many people develop a latex allergy solely from being in its vicinity.

Another characteristic of latex is the lack of air circulation, which results from its structure. The material itself does not allow air to pass through, remaining a consistent mass. In the market, you can find latex mattresses with vertically hollowed holes. However, these seem to be pointless, as warm air does not move downward but upward, according to the laws of physics.

It will also not be a mattress for many years, as this is also dictated by physics. In principle, latex is dynamic only when it has the right humidity. Unfortunately, as time passes, latex dries, losing this property. Moreover, the drying of latex causes it to naturally crumble, spreading dust around. Even with a good mattress cover, this dust may escape, causing allergies. Above all, such a mattress will lose its functionality.
Layers in the mattress, foam in mattresses, 160x200 mattress

Features of a durable mattress

Choosing the right mattress that will serve for many years requires consideration of several key features, including the structure and type of materials used. A long-lasting and comfortable mattress should, of course, be layered. This means using various layers of materials with different functionalities. Such construction allows for even weight distribution, which, in turn, translates into increased durability. It is also more elastic, allowing for better adaptation.

The key element of mattress durability is the foams used in its production. When choosing your ideal mattress, pay attention to the foam density that forms its core. The higher the foam density, the longer the mattress will maintain its original shape and properties. Foams with higher density are more resistant to deformations caused by regular use, significantly increasing the mattress's lifespan. This refers, of course, to HR and V foams, as it is generally advisable to avoid less durable T foams.

A mattress for years consists of a type of foam that provides dynamics and durability. They must maintain the density and hardness at the right level to provide support and comfort at the highest level. It is worth investing in a mattress that will meet expectations in terms of comfort but will also last for many years, retaining its properties.

We also encourage you to explore other articles on the best sleep and health blog, as well as the Encyclopedia of Healthy Sleep prepared by the ONSEN® team of specialists. For those who care about spine health, we recommend a set of spine exercises prepared by our physiotherapist.
Mattresses, foam mattress, mattress manufacturer, mattress store

FAQ: Mattress for years

Does the foam parameter affect the durability of the mattress?

Yes, the foam parameter is a crucial criterion for evaluating the durability of a mattress. It consists of a letter designation (V, T, or HR) and a four-digit or five-digit sequence, where the first two digits represent density, and the subsequent ones represent firmness. This letter designation is key because it indicates the type of foam. The higher the density of the foam, the more durable it will be, and consequently, the mattress will last longer.

Why are HR foams considered the most durable, while T foams are discouraged in mattresses?

HR foams are characterized by an open cell structure, allowing air circulation and the foam's return to its original shape. They also positively impact the dynamics of the mattress. Meanwhile, T foams have closed cells that are less durable due to cracking, leading to a quick sinking of the mattress.

Is a latex mattress durable?

Although latex often comes from a natural source, such as rubber milk, its production typically involves harmful chemical substances. It turns out that more durable and less harmful mattresses are often made from synthetic latex. The more natural latex in the mattress, the greater the risk of it breaking, thus reducing its durability.

Why do holes in latex mattresses not improve air circulation?

Latex does not allow air to pass through due to its structure. Vertical holes in latex mattresses are considered ineffective because warm air does not flow downward but upward. The structure of latex often prevents natural air circulation, affecting sleep comfort and reducing its lifespan.

What indicates that a mattress will be durable?

The durability of a mattress is usually determined by several key factors that are worth considering when choosing a product. At the forefront is the type of foams used, which is crucial. Mattresses based on high-resilience HR foams are characterized by the greatest durability due to their open cell structure, allowing efficient air circulation. Another important aspect is the density of the foams, where higher density typically translates to a longer mattress lifespan. Additionally, the construction of the mattress plays a significant role.

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