Will a bamboo mattress topper keep me cool in Summer?

A bamboo mattress topper will indeed keep you cool in the summer, yes, but it doesn’t make sense, does it? How does the same thing keep you cool when it’s hot, and warm when it’s cold? Well, it’s all down to the way those bamboo fibres are constructed.

How does bamboo keep you cool (and warm!)

When used in fabric, the fibers of cotton and bamboo have several differences in their properties and characteristics.

Cotton fibers are known for their softness and breathability. They are highly absorbent and can hold up to 27 times their own weight in water. Cotton is also a durable fiber that can withstand frequent washing and use without losing its shape or texture. However, cotton fibers are more prone to shrinking and wrinkling than other fibers, which can affect the longevity of cotton fabric.

Bamboo fibers, on the other hand, have a unique combination of softness, absorbency, and strength. Bamboo fibers are naturally smooth and round, which makes them incredibly soft to the touch. They also have a porous structure that allows air to circulate freely, making them more breathable than cotton.

Bamboo fibres are highly absorbent and can wick away moisture from the skin, making them ideal for use in products like towels and bedding. (Also, bamboo fibres are naturally antibacterial and hypoallergenic, which makes them a good choice for people with sensitive skin. Bonus!)

So how does this keep you cool?

Well, cotton holds onto its moisture, so when you’re in bed on a hot summer night your perspiration gets trapped leaving you lying on a damp clammy bed. If you’ve got a cotton topped mattress AND cotton sheets, it’s even worse.

Bamboo breathes much better, which means when it absorbs your sweat, it dissipates it slowly, just as you would if it stayed on your skin, cooling you down and keeping you and your bedding dry and airy. Clever huh?

So how does a bamboo mattress topper keep you warm in the winter then?

In the winter, you’re not perspiring, so those lovely bamboo air pockets trap all the warmth that comes from your body instead and keeps you warm.

And if you do get so warm that you start sweating, it acts in the same way it would in the summer and reduces the temperature by dissipating your perspiration. They call this thermoregulating. It’s why it’s a great choice for baby clothes and workout gear too.

Is a bamboo covered mattress topper as durable as a cotton one?

Another factor that contributes to the softness and absorbency of bamboo fibers is the natural presence of a substance called pectin. Pectin is a complex carbohydrate that is found in many plant cells, including bamboo. It acts as a natural lubricant that helps to keep the bamboo fibers soft and flexible, even after repeated washing and use.

That’s why they recommend using a gentle detergent on a low temperature gentle cycle on the washing machine, and if you follow the washing instructions then this, in addition to the pectin, will keep your bamboo topper, sheets and other items pristine for years to come.

What’s the best thickness for a mattress topper?

The ideal thickness for a mattress topper depends on personal preference and the condition of your existing mattress. Typically, mattress toppers range in thickness from 1 to 4 inches.

If your existing mattress is too firm or too soft, a topper with a thickness of 2-3 inches may be ideal to provide additional comfort and support. However, if your mattress is in good condition and you just want to add a layer of softness, a thinner topper of 1-2 inches may suffice.

It’s important to note that a thicker topper does not necessarily mean better quality or more comfort. Ultimately, the best thickness for a mattress topper will depend on your personal preferences and the condition of your existing mattress.

How do mattress toppers attach to the mattress?

Mattress toppers can attach to the mattress in a few different ways depending on the design of the topper. Here are some common methods:

1. Fitted Sheet Style: Some mattress toppers come with a fitted sheet style cover that slips over the mattress and topper. This type of topper is held in place by the fitted sheet and does not require any additional attachments.
2. Anchor Bands: Some mattress toppers have anchor bands, which are elastic straps located at the corners of the topper. These straps slip under the corners of the mattress to hold the topper securely in place.
3. Adhesive Strips: Some mattress toppers come with adhesive strips that attach the topper to the mattress. The adhesive strips are placed on the underside of the topper and then stuck to the surface of the mattress.
4. Velcro Strips: Some mattress toppers come with Velcro strips that attach to the surface of the mattress. The Velcro strips are located on the underside of the topper and attach to corresponding strips on the mattress.

It’s important to note that not all mattress toppers have attachments and some may simply rest on top of the mattress. The attachment method will depend on the specific design of the topper.

Can you put mattress toppers in the washing machine?

Whether you can put a mattress topper in the washing machine depends on the type of mattress topper and its care instructions.

Some mattress toppers, such as those made of memory foam or latex, should not be washed in a washing machine as the agitation can damage the material. Instead, they should be spot cleaned with a mild detergent and warm water, and left to air dry.

Other types of mattress toppers, such as those made from natural fibers like cotton or wool, may be machine washable. However, it’s important to check the care instructions on the topper to determine if it can be washed in a machine, and if so, what temperature and cycle settings should be used.

In general, it’s a good idea to check the care instructions on your specific mattress topper before attempting to wash it in a washing machine. If you’re unsure, you can always contact the manufacturer or consult a professional cleaning service for advice on how to clean your topper.

Do you use a sheet over a mattress topper?

Yes, it’s common to use a sheet over a mattress topper. In fact, using a fitted sheet over the mattress topper helps to keep it in place and provides a smooth surface to lie on.

When choosing a fitted sheet for a mattress with a topper, it’s important to consider the depth of the mattress to ensure that the sheet will fit over both the mattress and topper. Many fitted sheets are designed to accommodate a variety of mattress depths, so be sure to check the size and depth measurements before purchasing.

What are the different types of bamboo mattress topper?

Bamboo mattress toppers are an excellent choice for those who want to add extra cushioning to their mattress and improve their sleep quality. Bamboo is a natural material that has gained popularity in recent years due to its softness, durability, and eco-friendliness. There are several types of bamboo mattress toppers available on the market, each with their unique features and benefits.

The first type is a pure bamboo mattress topper

This is made entirely of bamboo fibers. This type of topper is soft, breathable, and hypoallergenic, making it an ideal choice for people with allergies or sensitive skin. Additionally, pure bamboo toppers are excellent at regulating temperature, keeping you cool in summer and warm in winter. Bamboo fibers are naturally moisture-wicking, which means they can absorb sweat and moisture from your body, keeping you dry and comfortable throughout the night.

Another type of bamboo mattress topper is a blend

Usually of bamboo and other materials, such as cotton, polyester, or memory foam. These toppers offer a combination of benefits, such as the softness and breathability of bamboo and the support and contouring of memory foam. The bamboo blend toppers are also excellent at regulating temperature, as the bamboo fibers work with the other materials to wick away moisture and keep you comfortable.

The third type is a topper with purely a bamboo cover

Mattress toppers with a bamboo cover can be filled with a variety of materials, depending on the manufacturer and the desired level of comfort and support. Here are some common materials that may be used:

1. Memory Foam: Memory foam mattress toppers are popular for their ability to contour to the shape of the body, providing personalized support and pressure relief. Memory foam toppers with a bamboo cover are also known for their breathability and moisture-wicking properties.
2. Latex: Latex mattress toppers are known for their durability and support, and can be made from natural or synthetic materials. Latex toppers with a bamboo cover are often hypoallergenic and resistant to dust mites, making them a good choice for allergy sufferers.
3. Down or Down Alternative: Mattress toppers filled with down or a down alternative are known for their softness and luxurious feel. They can provide additional warmth and comfort, and are often used to add a layer of softness to a firm mattress.
4. Wool: Wool mattress toppers are often used for their natural breathability and temperature-regulating properties. They can help to keep you warm in the winter and cool in the summer, and are often hypoallergenic and resistant to dust mites.