The mattress industry has undergone a lot of changes over the past few years. While malls and retail parks are still full of bedding shops where consumers can walk in and try out mattresses, pressure seems to be growing by the day on this conventional distribution model. Bed-in-a-box mattresses are constantly disrupting the market. If you are hearing the term for the first time, these are simply mattresses that are sold online but are delivered to your doorsteps compressed in a vacuum packaging.
Traditionally, most bed-in-a-box products were 100% foam mattress because foam was easier to compress and package. However, over the recent past, boxed mattress manufacturers have decided to enlarge their product portfolio by introducing a wide range of boxed mattress models.
So, what are these changes and what some of the trends to watch out for in this budding industry?
- Ready To Roll Options
Boxed mattress customers are keen on how the products they order are packaged and delivered. They want mattresses that are easy to roll and set up. Accordingly, leading boxed mattress manufacturers are paying close attention and are investing in new technology to enable them meet these needs. They are using technology to create new types of foam that can be rolled up and boxed easily without loss of comfort or support.
- Good Recovery Features
One of the biggest challenges of bed-in-a-box mattresses is the recovery in the foam. For starters, recovery is the feel that you get when you sink in your mattress and it gives your body good support. If a mattress recovers too fast, it means that it is too firm and the sleeper doesn’t get the feeling. So, how do you get a good recovery so that your mattress stays like visco-elastic foam but still get you good airflow and breathability?
Well, manufacturers have been focusing on more hybrid mattresses, which entail integrating multiple layers with different functionalities. This means that besides the support layer, manufacturers are building memory foam layers and energy transition layers. So, instead of single layer mattresses, boxed mattress manufacturers are shifting to multiple layers to increase their functionalities.
- Greener Alternatives
Like other industries, the bed-in-a-box industry is shifting towards the use of 100% natural materials. For instance, manufacturers are finding alternatives to conventional polyurethane foam. Latex suppliers are also shifting to value-added products, more natural additives, different types of perforations, extra ingredients, and greener treatments to cater for people with allergies.
Additionally, boxed manufacturers are shifting to the use of natural covering fabrics such as bamboo fiber, wool, and organic cotton as alternatives to synthetic products. Some suppliers are also introducing materials such as copper-infused yarns to provide more value to consumers. Copper yarns are believed to reduce inflammation, relieve pain, and increase energy levels.
There you have it; some of the top trends in the bed-in-a-box mattress industry. Experts believe that we may see more development in the coming years. For instance, moisture and heart rate monitoring functionalities might be possible going forward. It might also be possible to customize hardness and ventilation for improved comfort.
