What Are Natural Mattresses?

I’m Hannah Shore, Head of Sleep Science, and I’ve put together this guide to explain what natural mattresses are and how they’re made, so you can feel confident and informed when choosing the best option for your sleep.

Natural mattresses are made using layers of fibres derived from plants or animals - like wool, cotton, mohair, cashmere or latex. These fibres are often blended to create a comfort layer that sits on top of a pocket sprung base, giving you a comfortable and luxurious night’s sleep, while offering a luxurious and refreshing nights' sleep.

---

Why are natural mattresses tufted - and what does it do?

To keep their natural fillings in place, natural mattresses are usually tufted. This traditional technique threads the mattress layers from top to bottom, preventing the fillings from shifting over time. It’s also what gives many natural mattresses their signature cushioned, buttoned look.

The natural fibre’s main job is to make the top layer of your mattress nice and cosy to sleep on.

---

Are natural mattresses 100% natural?

No, natural mattresses aren’t 100% natural. While natural mattresses feature layers of plant or animal-based fibres, they're often combined with other materials to enhance their performance.

Think of it this way - if you had a mattress filled only with wool or cotton, it might feel soft at first, but without structure, you’d sink right through it. That’s because natural fibres are mainly used for comfort, not support.

To provide proper support and structure, natural fillings are often combined with pocket springs. These springs handle the bulk of the support, helping to keep your spine aligned and promoting a healthy sleeping posture.

Some natural mattresses even blend their natural fibres with synthetic fibres, like polyester, for added durability or comfort.

---

What natural fillings are used in mattresses?

There are many varieties of natural fillings used in mattresses, and most natural mattresses will feature a blend of these fibres to enhance their comfort and support.

These fillings can be split into two main categories: plant-based fibres and animal-based fibres.

Plant-based natural mattress fillings

Some of the most popular plant fibres used in natural mattresses include:

• Cotton - sourced from cotton plants
• Bamboo - sourced from bamboo plants
• Natural latex - sourced from the sap of latex rubber trees
• Linen - sourced from the fibres in the stalks of flax plants
• Flax - sourced from the fibres on the outer stalk of flax plants
• Hemp - sourced from hemp plants
• Coir fibre - sourced from coconut husks
• Kapok - sourced from the kapok tree

Animal-based natural mattress fillings

The most popular animal-based fibres used in natural mattresses include:

• Sheep wool - sourced from sheep fleeces
• Alpaca fleece - sourced alpaca fleeces
• Cashmere - sourced from the undercoat of Cashmere goats
• Mohair - sourced from Angora goat coats 
• Cashgora - a blend of Cashmere and Angora goat coats
• Pashmina - sourced from Himalayan goat coats
• Silk - sourced from silkworms

What’s the difference between long and short fibres?

Each of the natural fillings listed above is either a short or long fibre, and this distinction impacts the overall feel and durability of the mattress.

• Short fibres provide a softer, fluffier feel but are generally more fragile. When used alone in a mattress, they can compress more easily and settle unevenly, leading to dips and sagging over time. That’s why short fibres are usually blended with longer fibres to improve their durability. Shorter fibres are often placed closer to the top of the mattress so you can enjoy their soft, comfortable feel. An example of a short fibre is silk.

• Long fibres tend to have a firmer feel, but they’re much more durable. They’re often used deeper in the comfort layers of the mattress to prevent any scratchy sensations (think of wearing a woollen jumper!). To keep the mattress feeling soft on top, a short fibre layer is placed on top of the long fibre layer, so you still get the benefits of both without the scratchiness.

Most natural mattresses use a blend of both short and long fibres to create a balanced, luxurious feel. The combination enhances comfort, durability, and the overall sleeping experience, giving you the best of both worlds.

---

Natural mattresses bring together the best of comfort, breathability, and support using expertly layered plant and animal fibres and pocket springs or open coil springs. Whether you’re after temperature regulation, a luxurious feel, or a more sustainable sleep, there’s a natural mattress blend that’s perfect for you.

Explore our range of natural filling mattresses today and find the perfect match for your sleep style.