I’m looking at a pocket spring mattress which has a polyester fibre layer (“soft white fibres”) under a wool Pillowtop. Will this synthetic layer affect the overall breathable and cooling properties of the mattress much?
Hi Josh,
Hope things are going well in your mattress search.
When considering a pocket spring mattress with a synthetic polyester fiber layer (“soft white fibers”) under a wool pillow-top, the impact on breathability and cooling can vary depending on the specific construction and materials used.
Wool, as you know, is naturally breathable, moisture-wicking, and temperature-regulating, which helps with both cooling in warmer weather and warmth during colder months. The wool pillow-top can contribute to maintaining a comfortable sleeping temperature by allowing airflow and managing moisture.
However, the presence of the polyester fiber layer may affect the overall cooling performance of the mattress. Polyester is a synthetic material that is generally less breathable than natural fibers like wool, cotton, or latex. It tends to trap more heat and may not wick moisture as effectively, which could cause the mattress to feel a bit warmer. That said, the exact effect will depend on the thickness, density, and construction of the polyester layer. Some modern polyester fibers are designed with ventilation channels or a more open weave to improve airflow, which could mitigate any negative effects on breathability.
In general, if the polyester( for all practical purposes is a plastic) layer is thin or not overly dense, the wool pillow-top will likely still be the primary factor in regulating temperature, and the impact on cooling may be minimal. However, if the polyester layer is thick or heavily packed, it could slightly hinder the overall breathability of the mattress. If cooling is a primary concern for you, it’s important to consider the overall balance of materials in the mattress and whether it incorporates any additional cooling features, techniques or ventilated latex. Ultimately, while the polyester layer may have some effect on breathability, the wool pillow-top could still provide a good level of comfort and temperature regulation, though it may not be as cool as a mattress made entirely of natural or highly breathable materials.
It is always easier to evaluate the construction of the mattress in its entirety, but to view your question more broadly or generally, there may be minimal affect. Similarly, some pocket springs may use polyester or poly blend fiber as encasement for the springs, and the response would be somewhat similar. Although, the quality of the fiber, thickness and blend of other integrated materials, can affect the mattress in others ways, such as the friction of the springs against the fibers and causing them subject to excessive wear and tear, and air flow via the springs causing the mattress to retain some heat.
Hope this offers the insight you were seeking.
Maverick.