An introduction to Merino wool

Merino wool is a natural fibre made from the wool of Merino sheep. This unique breed originated in Spain and was introduced to New Zealand in the early 1800s. Merino sheep are well-suited to the New Zealand high country due to their ability to thrive in extreme climates. This makes their wool an excellent material choice for clothing and bedding due to its natural temperature regulation and breathability.

What makes Merino wool unique?

Merino wool is a natural, lightweight fibre known for its softness, temperature regulation, breathability, and moisture wicking. Its natural wool benefits include odour resistance and the anti-bacterial properties of lanolin, which prevents the build-up of odour-causing bacteria.

Is merino wool soft?

Merino wool is exceptionally soft due to its high fibre density, with fibres that grow in longer, thinner layers than traditional wool.

What is merino wool good for?

Merino wool is excellent for bedding and clothing due to its luxurious softness, odour resistance, longevity, and easy maintenance.

Why is Merino wool ideal for luxury bedding?

Luxury wool bedding has thermophysiological benefits including superior moisture control and temperature regulation, as well as antimicrobial properties that make it uniquely suited for a fresh, dry sleeping experience. It excels in terms of breathability, making it ideal for a range of ambient temperatures, sleep preferences, and seasons.

The origin of Merino wool

Highly prized Merino wool originated in Spain and found favour under Moorish rule in the Middle Ages. This breed was introduced to Australia and New Zealand in the 1800s. By the 1850s, New Zealand Merino wool had become one of our main agricultural industries.

Sourcing Merino wool from New Zealand’s South Island

Dreamwool’s Merino wool is sourced directly from select high-country farms. We have four central South Island growers who produce Merino for us in Tekapo, Hakataramea and Kurow.

The process of making Merino wool

Merino wool production begins with annual sheep shearing, where wool is carefully removed from the sheep, examined, and quality checked. It is then sorted and cleaned before the fibres are separated in a process called carding. From there it is needled into a batt form with graduated density for greater comfort and finished into final Merino products.

Sustainable practices in Merino wool production

Sustainable wool products offer a range of benefits for our local environment including renewability and biodegradability. Merino sheep are bred on land not suitable for agriculture and can be sheared for many seasons, making them a sustainable and renewable resource. Products made from Merino are durable and long-lasting, meaning that they will not need to be replaced often. Merino wool is also bio-degradable at the end of its lifecycle, unlike synthetic fibres which can contain toxins and microplastics.

Key characteristics of Merino wool fibers

Merino wool is supremely soft and luxurious due to its high fibre density, which also makes it especially strong and durable. Merino wool fibres are moisture- and odour-resistant, temperature-regulating, naturally elastic, and highly breathable.

Fine and soft texture

Merino wool has a naturally crimped texture and a very fine fibre diameter, yielding a high fibre density. This results in a soft and elastic texture ideal for clothing and bedding applications.

Natural temperature regulation and breathability

Due to the harsh climates experienced by Merino sheep, their wool naturally regulates temperature, moving the dial in comfort and delivering unparalleled microclimate control. These sheep have evolved to produce wool that keeps them warm during icy winters and cool during scorching summers.

Durability and resilience in luxury mattresses

Manufacturing quality is the number one factor that affects mattress durability and resilience. This includes the quality and quantity of all of the bed’s components, including its natural materials, latex, and spring system. Merino wool is naturally stain-resistant and long-lasting, making it an excellent choice for durability and resilience.

Why Merino wool is perfect for Dreamwool mattresses

Merino wool provides luxurious comfort with unparalleled microclimate control for a truly restful night’s sleep. By using thick, plush layers of Merino, Dreamwool mattresses effortlessly maintain your ideal sleep temperature and draw humidity away quickly, ensuring a dry, breathable bed environment throughout the night. It is also naturally hypoallergenic, antimicrobial and breathable, making it a healthier luxury option compared to synthetic alternatives. The outcome is a mattress that enhances the natural attributes of its materials, offering optimum comfort and well-being.

Caring for Merino wool latex mattresses

Rotating your mattress quarterly will help it maintain its shape and provide you with comfort and support for longer. The best way to clean a Merino wool latex mattress is to avoid using too much liquid and treat it like you would any other natural fibre. Dreamwool mattresses also feature a zip-off woollen overlay that can be hung in direct sunlight to eradicate dust mites.

Proper storage is essential for maintaining the longevity and quality of your latex mattress. This comprehensive guide will walk
you through the steps to prepare, protect, and position your mattress for short- or long-term storage while keeping it in excellent condition.

Preparing Your Latex Mattress for Storage

Before placing your latex mattress in storage, it’s important to clean, inspect, and dry it thoroughly.

Strip Off Bedding and Accessories

Remove all bedding, mattress toppers, and any accessories like pillow protectors or pads. This ensures the mattress is ready for proper cleaning and storage.

Conduct a Visual Inspection

Inspect your mattress for stains, tears, or signs of damage. Address these issues before storage to prevent further deterioration.

Clean and Dry the Mattress Thoroughly

Spot-clean any stains using a mild detergent, and allow the mattress to air-dry completely. Avoid storing a damp mattress, as it can lead to mold
or mildew growth. Ideally, leave the mattress to dry for two to three days before storage.

Essential Storage Materials for a Latex Mattress

Choosing the right materials can protect your latex mattress from damage during storage.

Choosing a Protective Mattress Cover

Select a plastic mattress cover or bag that fits snugly and allows some airflow to prevent condensation. Avoid airtight coverings,
as they can trap moisture and lead to mildew.

Using Silica Gel Packets to Control Moisture

Place silica gel packets inside the storage bag to help absorb excess moisture. While these packets can aid in keeping the mattress dry,
ensure your storage location is not excessively damp.

Selecting the Right Size Storage Bag or Box

A plastic storage bag or box of the same size as your mattress works best. Ventilation is crucial to maintain the mattress’s integrity while stored.

Finding the Ideal Storage Location

The location of your mattress storage plays a critical role in preserving its quality.

The Importance of a Cool, Dry, and Ventilated Space

Store your mattress in a space that is dry and well-ventilated. Avoid damp or excessively cold environments, as they can encourage moisture buildup.

Avoiding Direct Contact with the Floor

Always store the mattress on a flat, level surface off the ground, such as a bed frame or a sturdy platform. Avoid direct contact with
the floor to protect against dirt, dust, and moisture.

Proper Positioning of a Latex Mattress in Storage

Correct positioning ensures that your mattress maintains its shape and comfort layers.

Why You Should Store the Mattress Flat

Latex mattresses are designed to remain flat to preserve their structure. Folding or storing the mattress on its side can
cause sagging or permanent deformation.

Using a Sturdy, Level Surface or Bed Frame

Place the mattress on a bed frame, pallet, or any flat, elevated surface to keep it in optimal condition.

How Long Can You Store a Latex Mattress?

Avoid Storing on Its Side

Unlike pocket-spring mattresses, latex mattresses lack the necessary internal support to be stored upright.
Side storage can cause the fillings to shift and sag over time.

Store for the Shortest Time Possible

Latex mattresses are designed to be slept on, not stored for extended periods. If you must store your mattress,
limit the duration to prevent deterioration.

Additional Tips for Long-Term Storage

If long-term storage is unavoidable, follow these tips to minimize potential damage.

Rotate and Check on the Mattress Every Few Months

Periodically rotate the mattress to distribute pressure evenly and maintain its shape.

Air Out the Mattress Periodically

Remove the cover and air out the mattress to refresh the materials and reduce any trapped odors or moisture.

What to Avoid When Storing a Latex Mattress

Avoid Side Storage

Never store your latex mattress on its side, as this can damage the internal structure and compromise comfort.

Avoid Damp Environments

Always choose a dry, ventilated space for storage to prevent mold and mildew growth.

Avoid Blocking Ventilation

Ensure the mattress can breathe by using covers with openings and keeping the storage area ventilated.

By following these steps, you can ensure your latex mattress stays in great condition while in storage,
ready to provide years of comfort when it’s time to use it again.

Finding the Ideal Bed Position

The ideal position for your bed is with the head end along a solid wall, preferably an interior wall. By avoiding exterior walls and windows,
you can minimise unwanted draughts, temperature fluctuations, and street noise.

Which Way Should Your Bed Face?

Ultimately, this is a personal preference, as each bedroom and home layout is different, but it is advised to
face your bed with the head end along an interior wall.

Bedroom Feng Shui Bed Placement

A traditional feng shui bed position recommends placing your bed in a “commanding” position where you can easily
see your bedroom door while in bed, without directly facing it.

It is also recommended not to place your bed directly under architectural features, beams, or sloped ceilings. If this is unavoidable,
you could choose to mask architectural ceiling elements with paint or fabric.

Importance of Bed Placement and Sleep Quality

By placing your bed with the head end along a solid wall, and one that is not shared with a bathroom, you can ensure
less noise disruption overnight and avoid draughts and temperature changes from nearby windows. This will result in
better overall rest and comfort and is the best bed placement for better sleep quality.

Common Bed Positioning Mistakes to Avoid

It is best to avoid placing either long side of your bed along a wall, as this can compromise comfort and access—particularly
in a bed space shared with a partner—and can promote condensation. It is best to provide clear access to both sides of the bed.

Optimal Bed Directions and Their Benefits

Feng shui principles suggest that, by facing your bed south, you can encourage wealth and prosperity.
Doing so while also diagonally facing your bedroom door is considered to be the best feng shui position for overall quality of life.

Alternatively, you could face east, which feng shui tradition says will promote better health.

Choosing the Best Direction for Your Personal Needs

Ultimately, this will depend on your home layout and personal preference, but it is best to prioritise access and comfort to
ensure minimal sleep disturbance and optimal quality of sleep.

Improving Bed Placement with Supportive Elements

Most modern bedrooms include one or more bedside tables that can provide added convenience and comfort if they fit comfortably in your space.

Using a Solid Wall and Headboard for Support

A solid wall is important for temperature consistency and noise limitation, whereas a headboard provides
aesthetic beauty and enhances the overall look of the bedroom space.

Creating Balanced Space on Both Sides of the Bed

Balanced space on both sides of the bed, where possible, allows clear pathways to the bed and ensures equal
partner comfort and access.

Final Tips for the Right Bedroom Layout

• Reduce Bedroom Clutter:

  Maximise bed size. Your bed and your quality of sleep are what matter, so Dreamwool recommends buying the biggest mattress you can comfortably fit in your sleeping space. Don’t sacrifice the size of your mattress for another bedside table and, in doing so, give yourself a lesser quality of sleep.

• Maintain a Clear Line of Sight to the Door:

  A clear line of sight to the door provides better security, which can lead to a more restful sleep. It is also recommended as part of traditional feng shui principles.

• Keep Electronics and Distractions Out of the Bedroom:

  It is best to leave all distractions out of your bedroom, including laptops, phones, and televisions. Your bed should be used exclusively for sleeping and sex, with no distractions or electronics allowed.

Why Mattress Lifespan Matters for Sleep Quality

Mattress lifespan is an indicator of quality craftsmanship. Fewer or lower-quality fillings equal a poorer quality of sleep; this accelerates as the layers wear. A luxury mattress will provide better quality sleep for longer because it has more high-quality materials in it.

How does mattress age affect sleep comfort?

The fewer layers, the less comfortable a mattress will be as it ages. You will feel the bed get firmer, and you will see it show more signs of wear, with less resilience and support than when it was new.

What role does support play in long-term sleep health?

Support is critical for long-term sleep health because a mattress that is more compliant and contouring to your body profile will provide a better quality of rest with less tossing and turning.

When to Replace Your Mattress?

How long should you keep a mattress? While a luxury mattress could last you 10+ years, you may need to replace it sooner if your body composition or sleep needs change. In terms of our best mattress replacement tips, we say you should replace your mattress as soon as your comfort begins to suffer.

How long do most mattresses last?

Most standard mattresses are made to last an average of 5-7 years, though many people sleep on them long after their use-by date. With a Dreamwool mattress, you’ll typically get optimum comfort and support for 10-15 years. That said, there are many factors that can impact this, including the kind of base you’re using and your individual body composition and sleep preferences.

How long does a pocket sprung mattress last?

A pocket sprung mattress lifespan is typically a little shorter; in the case of Dreamwool pocket spring mattresses, about 12+ years.

How long does a latex mattress last?

A latex mattress lifespan can be a bit longer, as those sleepers are already used to a slightly firmer feel. For Dreamwool mattress owners, this tends to be up to 15 years.

Key Factors That Affect Mattress Durability

Manufacturing quality is the number one factor that affects mattress durability. This includes the quality and quantity of all of the bed’s components, including its natural materials, latex, and spring system.

How do materials impact mattress lifespan?

The quality and quantity of materials in your mattress determine the amount of time you can expect to get optimum comfort and support. In particular, natural materials stand up better over time than man-made alternatives.

Does mattress quality influence longevity?

Mattress quality goes hand in hand with longevity. Luxury latex and premium spring systems will endure better than their synthetic or poorly manufactured counterparts.

What effect does sleeping position have on wear?

Back sleepers have a more even weight distribution across the mattress’s surface area, meaning they tend to see slower wear and tear. Side sleepers, in comparison, have their weight concentrated over just 5% of the surface area, which can lead to quicker wear.

How does regular maintenance extend mattress life?

Rotating your mattress regularly – Dreamwool recommends once a season – can extend mattress life and reduce wear by allowing you to use your sleeping surface more evenly over time.

Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Mattress

One of the first signs that your mattress is nearing the end of its comfortable lifespan is ridging or bowing in the middle; some body impression is to be expected, but this should not exceed what is comfortable. Beyond that, if you’re not sleeping as well, feeling less rested, and experiencing more interrupted sleep, these are signs it’s time to replace your mattress.

Is sagging a clear sign of a worn-out mattress?

Yes, sagging is a clear sign that you are due for an upgrade. Run your hand along the surface, and if you can feel the wear on the comfort layers, it’s time for a new mattress.

How to Extend the Life of Your Mattress

Our best advice for a long mattress lifespan is to buy a quality mattress in the first place. This will ensure that you have optimum comfort and support for as long as possible. But when your mattress does start to deteriorate – and all mattresses eventually do – you should replace it.

Should you rotate your mattress regularly?

Absolutely, rotating your mattress quarterly will help it maintain its shape and provide you with comfort and support for longer.

Why use a mattress protector for added durability?

Mattress protectors give an added layer of protection for normal sleep activities such as perspiration. The thing to remember is that your protector still needs to be breathable in order to maintain the full comfort of your mattress.

What Defines a Luxury Mattress?

The word ‘luxury’ is overused by many manufacturers, regardless of the actual quality and craftsmanship of the mattresses they sell. A top-quality mattress is defined by what’s inside as opposed to the words that are used to describe it. And true luxury is an investment worth making. 

Materials used in luxury vs. standard mattresses

The quality and quantity of materials used in luxury mattresses far exceed what you will find in a standard mattress. A luxury mattress contains a high volume of natural materials that are breathable, durable, and sourced from reputable manufacturers with sustainable supply chains. Standard mattresses typically contain a smaller amount of synthetic fillings that are selected based on what is most cost-effective to produce.

Craftsmanship and design quality

Luxury mattresses typically include a number of handcrafted components. This hands-on craftsmanship, as opposed to the mass production of many standard mattresses, enables constant improvements to design quality to maintain an optimum sleep experience.

Advanced features in luxury mattresses

Dreamwool luxury mattresses, are designed based on benefits as opposed to features; our focus is on the joy of ownership. Luxury mattress benefits include better quality materials in higher volumes, higher manufacturing specifications, and second-to-none comfort and support.

Comfort and Support: Luxury vs. Standard Mattresses

When considering a high-end mattress vs. a regular mattress, the biggest difference is in manufacturing quality. Nothing is pared back in Dreamwool luxury mattresses, which offer more of everything and in the best quality available.

How do luxury mattresses improve comfort?

Luxury mattresses feature the highest volume of the best natural materials, offering more cushioning and optimum comfort for your body in a range of customisable options for different firmnesses and fillings. It is also worth noting that a premium bedding comparison quickly demonstrates the importance of using premium linens with your luxury mattress. Don’t decrease your comfort by using substandard bedding on a luxury bed!

Support differences between luxury and standard options

Standard mattresses typically offer the minimum you can get away with in terms of material volume and quality, whereas luxury is the other end of that scale. While they may feel comparable, at first, standard mattresses degrade and lose their comfort quickly because their material quality doesn’t stand the test of time.

Which mattress type offers better pressure relief?

A luxury mattress offers optimum pressure relief due to high manufacturing quality and the combination of products being used. Dreamwool luxury mattresses offer many customisable elements, such as spring gauge and density of fillings, to provide a truly personalised sleep experience. Both pocket spring and latex mattresses are excellent for pressure relief, depending on your body composition and individual sleep needs.

Durability and Lifespan

Luxury mattress durability is increased due to more and better quality fillings that will support and comfort your body for longer.

Why luxury mattresses last longer

Comfort differences in mattresses are the biggest consideration when looking at durability. While a standard mattress, in theory, could be used for as long as a luxury mattress, the experience of sleeping on it is vastly different over time. Ultimately, the time you spend in a luxury bed is far better.

Typical lifespan of standard vs. luxury mattresses

The optimum comfort period for a standard mattress might be 5-7 years, whereas for a luxury mattress, it is typically more like 10-12 years.

Factors that impact mattress durability

There are a number of factors that might impact the durability of your mattress over time, including manufacturing quality, body composition, and frequency of turning.

How luxury mattresses add long-term value

Being more rested and recovered for the day ahead adds long-term value to your life. 

Is a luxury mattress worth it? Absolutely. A good night’s sleep is the best investment you can make in tomorrow.