Most of us assume that if a product is on the shelf, it’s safe to use. But in today’s fast-paced manufacturing world, cost-cutting often comes at the expense of quality, especially when it comes to materials used in everyday items like bedding, towels, or clothing.
That’s where independent certifications like Oeko-Tex® play a critical role. They help consumers identify products that have been tested for harmful substances and meet internationally recognised safety standards.
If you’ve ever wondered what is Oeko Tex and why it matters, this article will walk you through what the certification means, how to read its different labels, and why it’s especially important when it comes to the materials we sleep on every night.
What Is Oeko-Tex?
Oeko-Tex® is a globally recognised certification system that tests textiles for harmful substances. Established in 1992 by independent research institutes in Europe and Japan, the goal was simple: give consumers confidence that the fabrics they bring into their homes are safe for human health.
When a product carries the Oeko-Tex label, it means every component—from threads and buttons to zippers and dyes—has been tested for substances that could pose a risk. This includes known irritants like formaldehyde, heavy metals, and certain pesticides, as well as hundreds of other potentially harmful chemicals.
Unlike general marketing terms like “eco-friendly” or “non-toxic,” Oeko-Tex certification is based on strict laboratory testing and scientific standards. It’s not just a label, it’s a guarantee that the product has passed one of the most thorough textile safety tests in the world.
The Different Oeko-Tex Labels and What They Mean
Not all Oeko-Tex certifications are the same. Each label focuses on a different aspect of safety, sustainability, or production. Here are the four most common ones you’ll see—and what they tell you:
STANDARD 100 by Oeko-Tex
What it means: Every part of the product (threads, buttons, fabric, etc.) has been tested for harmful substances.
Where you’ll see it: Clothing, bedding, towels, and other finished textiles.
Who it’s for: Anyone who wants peace of mind that what touches their skin is safe, even for babies.
What it means: The product is not only tested for harmful substances (like STANDARD 100), but also made in environmentally friendly facilities under socially responsible working conditions.
Where you’ll see it: Higher-end or eco-focused textile brands.
Who it’s for: Buyers looking for both safety and ethical, sustainable production.
What it means: The cotton is grown organically and verified to be free from genetically modified organisms (GMOs) and harmful chemicals throughout processing.
Where you’ll see it: Bedding, baby clothes, towels, and other cotton-based products.
Who it’s for: Shoppers looking for true organic materials with verified safety.
Quick Tip: The most common label for bedding and sheets is STANDARD 100 Oeko tex®. If you’re shopping for items that come into close contact with your skin, this is the one to look for first.
Why Oeko-Tex Certification Matters for Bedding
Your bed is where your body spends a third of its life. For many people, especially those with sensitive skin, allergies, or respiratory issues, what you sleep on really does matter.
Sheets, pillowcases, and mattress covers are in direct contact with your skin and nose for hours at a time. If these fabrics contain harsh chemicals or residual toxins from manufacturing, you may end up breathing them in or absorbing them through your skin night after night.
Oeko-Tex certified bedding removes that worry. It ensures that no harmful substances are lingering in your sheets, no formaldehyde, no pesticides, no heavy metals, no questionable dyes. Just clean, safe fabric that won’t irritate your skin or trigger sensitivities.
This peace of mind is especially valuable for:
People with allergies or eczema
Parents choosing bedding for babies or children
Sleepers with asthma or sensitivities to synthetic smells
Older adults with delicate skin or compromised immune systems
Oeko-Tex certification isn’t about luxury, it’s about safety and trust. You shouldn’t have to wonder what’s in your sheets.
Letto’s Commitment to Certified Safety
Letto’s products are proudly OEKO-TEX® certified, ensuring every fabric is free from harmful chemicals and safe for sensitive skin.
From sheets to mattress covers, we prioritise your health by using environmentally friendly materials tested to the highest standards.
For those seeking peace of mind and quality sleep, Letto offers trusted bedding that supports your well-being every night.
Letto x Oeko-Tex: the Key to Healthier, Safer Bedding
Oeko-Tex certification means your bedding isn’t just soft—it’s safe. It guarantees that every material meets strict standards, free from harmful chemicals and irritants.
Choosing Letto’s Oeko-Tex certified products means you’re investing in healthier sleep and peace of mind, especially if you have sensitive skin or want to avoid toxins in your home. With Letto, safer, cleaner bedding is always within reach.
Explore Letto’s full range of OEKO-TEX® certified sheets, mattresses, mattress covers, and pillows designed for comfort and peace of mind.
Look for the OEKO-TEX® STANDARD 100 label on every Letto product—your guarantee of toxin-free quality you can trust.
Getting a full night’s rest can feel impossible when lower back pain is part of the picture. For many older Australians, discomfort through the night or stiffness in the morning has become a frustrating part of daily life. Poor sleep can make everything harder, from getting out of bed to staying active.
The way you sleep plays a big role in how your back feels. Finding the best sleeping position for lower back pain can relieve pressure on the spine, reduce inflammation and muscle tension, and improve overall sleep quality. Alongside this, the right bed setup can support your body’s natural alignment and help you wake up feeling better.
This guide outlines common causes of lower back pain at night, which sleep positions help most, and how adjustable beds can provide tailored support and long-term comfort.
Common Causes of Lower Back Pain at Night
Lower back pain is one of the most common complaints among older Australians. While it can be caused by medical conditions, everyday factors often play just as big a role, especially when it comes to how you sleep.
Here are some of the most common contributors to back pain during the night:
Age-related changes: As we age, the spinal discs naturally lose flexibility and cushioning. This can lead to stiffness, inflammation, and general discomfort, particularly when lying still for long periods.
Poor spinal alignment: Sleeping in positions that twist or strain the spine places uneven pressure on the lower back. Over time, this can lead to chronic pain or flare-ups during the night.
Unsupportive mattresses: A mattress that is too soft or too firm may not offer the support your body needs. This can cause your spine to curve unnaturally and your muscles to work overtime to keep you stable.
Limited movement during sleep: Staying in the same position for hours can reduce circulation and increase tension in the lower back, especially if your body is not well supported.
Understanding these root causes is the first step toward better sleep and pain relief. The next step is knowing how your sleeping position can help—or make things worse.
How Sleeping Positions Affect Lower Back Pain
The position you sleep in plays a major role in how your spine is supported overnight. Some positions keep your back aligned and relaxed, while others can twist your spine or place pressure on the lower vertebrae.
Here’s how the main sleep positions affect your back:
Back sleeping: Can be helpful when the knees are slightly elevated. This supports the spine’s natural curve and reduces lower back strain.
Side sleeping: One of the best options, especially with a pillow between the knees to keep hips aligned.
Fetal position: A looser version can ease pressure on joints, but curling too tightly may strain the lower back.
Stomach sleeping: This is the most likely to cause pain. It flattens the spine’s natural curve and puts pressure on the neck and lower back. This is definitely the worst sleeping position for lower back pain.
Some small tweaks can make a big difference in how your back feels by morning.
Best Sleeping Positions for Back Pain
If you’re currently experiencing lower back pain and not sleeping on your side or back, it may be time to reconsider your position. Stomach sleeping often worsens discomfort by forcing the spine into an unnatural angle. We really discourage sleeping in this position.
The best sleeping position for lower back pain is on your side with a pillow between your knees. This helps keep the spine, hips, and pelvis aligned, easing pressure on the lower back.
If side sleeping doesn’t feel comfortable or sustainable, lying on your back with your knees slightly elevated is a strong second option. This position supports the spine’s natural curve and can help reduce overnight tension.
Switching to one of these positions can provide noticeable lower back pain relief over time, especially when combined with a supportive sleep surface that adapts to your body’s needs.
How Adjustable Beds Can Help with Lower Back Pain
If you’re already sleeping on your side or back but still waking with lower back pain, your mattress could easily be the culprit. A mattress that doesn’t provide enough support or that sags in places can throw your spine out of alignment, no matter how good your sleeping position is.
Adjustable beds give you the power to customise your sleep position for maximum comfort and spinal support. By allowing you to elevate your head, feet, or both, these beds help maintain the natural curve of your spine while reducing pressure on sensitive areas.
For lower back pain, raising your knees slightly can ease tension by promoting better alignment and posture between your hips and pelvis. Elevating your upper body can also improve circulation and reduce muscle stiffness.
Split king and queen adjustable beds are especially useful if you share your bed, since each person can adjust their side independently without disturbing the other.
Many models, including Letto’s range, also offer features like zero gravity positioning and gentle massage options. These functions help relax muscles and encourage deeper, more restorative sleep.
Sleep Wellness Tips for Lower Back Pain
Use a body pillow to keepyour hips and spine aligned
Incorporate gentle exercise into your daily routine for strength
Prioritise health care and consult professionals if pain persists
Letto’s Solution to the Best Sleeping Position for Lower Back Pain
Lower back pain can seriously disrupt your rest and daily life. Finding the right sleeping position combined with supportive bedding is key to easing discomfort and improving recovery overnight.
Side sleeping or back sleeping will be your best position for sleep to reduce back pain, and adjustable beds that let you customise elevation and support can reduce pressure and help your spine stay aligned all night long.
With features designed for comfort and pain relief, Letto adjustable beds offer a practical way to upgrade your sleep setup and wake up feeling refreshed and free from pain. Explore Letto adjustable beds todayor request your free buyer’s guide to find your perfect fit.
If you wake up feeling like you’ve gone a few rounds with a wrestling mat instead of your mattress, you’re not alone. Back pain is incredibly common, especially as we get older. And while there’s no magic fix, a properly supportive mattress can make a huge difference in your comfort, mobility, and overall sleep quality.
Finding the best mattress for back pain doesn’t have to be overwhelming. The right setup should support your spine, reduce pressure points, and adapt to your body, not the other way around.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the common causes of back pain, how to choose the right firmness, what features really matter in a mattress, and how adjustability can change the game for your sleep and spine.
Understanding the Causes of Back Pain in Older Adults
Back pain isn’t just annoying, it can seriously mess with sleep, movement, and quality of life. Knowing what causes it helps you pick a mattress that actually supports your body.
The Usual Suspects
As we get older, some common issues cause back pain:
Degenerative disc disease: Discs thin and lose cushioning, causing stiffness.
Osteoarthritis: Joint inflammation, often painful in the lower back.
Spinal stenosis: Narrowed spinal spaces can pinch nerves, especially when lying flat.
Muscle weakness or imbalances: Poor posture or inactivity leads to muscles that don’t support your spine well.
Why the Right Mattress Matters
A bad mattress can make back pain worse by throwing your spine out of alignment. Too soft or too firm mattresses cause pressure on muscles and joints, leading to sore mornings.
The right mattress supports your spine neutrally and eases pressure, helping your body truly relax.
Mattress Firmness: What’s Best for Back Pain?
Finding the right firmness is key—too soft and your spine sags, too firm and pressure builds up.
Firmness is how hard or soft a mattress feels, but it’s personal and depends on your body, sleep position, and pressure sensitivity.
Here are the common firmness levels
Soft (1–4/10): Best for side sleepers needing pressure relief; usually not supportive enough for back pain.
Medium Firm (5–7/10): Ideal for most sleepers, especially back and side sleepers; supports spinal alignment.
Firm (8–10/10): Best for stomach sleepers or heavier folks needing extra support; can be too hard for side sleepers.
Match Firmness to Your Sleep Style
Back sleepers: Medium-firm keeps the spine neutral without hips sinking too much.
Side sleepers: Medium to medium-soft cushions for the shoulders and hips to prevent soreness.
Stomach sleepers: Firmer mattresses prevent spine overextension, though this position isn’t recommended for back pain.
If you’re unsure, medium-firm is the safest bet for easing back pain, offering the best mix of comfort and support.
Why Adjustable Bases Can Help with Back Pain
Even with the best mattress, pillow top and ideal firmness, sometimes a flat bed just isn’t enough to fully relieve back pain. That’s where adjustable bases come in. They let you customise your sleeping position to better support your spine and reduce pressure on sensitive areas, giving your back the relief it needs throughout the night.
Here’s why adjustable bases make a real difference:
Improved Spinal Alignment
Raising your head or legs slightly can take pressure off the lower back, hips, and shoulders, common spots for pain.
For example, elevating your legs helps reduce strain on the lumbar spine, which can ease discomfort from sciatica or herniated discs.
Reduced Pressure on Problem Areas
Sleeping flat isn’t always the best option. Adjustable bases help distribute your body weight more evenly, lowering pressure on your lower back and improving circulation, especially beneficial if you have arthritis or joint pain.
More Comfortable Sleep Positions
Everyone’s sleep needs are different. Adjustable bases let you switch positions easily:
Zero Gravity: Elevates legs and head to take stress off the spine.
Head Elevation: Helps with acid reflux, snoring, and upper back tension.
Knee Support: Slight leg raise eases lower back stiffness.
Flexibility for Changing Needs
Back pain isn’t always consistent. Being able to adjust your position at the touch of a button lets you find the perfect angle when pain flares up or you just need a different kind of support.
Pairing Mattresses with Adjustable Bases
Not all mattresses are built to work with adjustable bases. Since the base moves to different positions, your mattress needs to be flexible enough to bend without losing support or durability.
The best matches include:
Memory Foam Mattress: Soft, contouring, and naturally flexible, which is great for adjustability.
Latex Mattress: Responsive and durable, with enough bounce to handle movement.
Hybrid Mattress: Mattresses with flexible coil systems combined with foam layers provide good support and adaptability.
On the other hand, traditional innerspring mattresses with rigid, non-flexible cores tend to be poor matches. They don’t bend well and can wear out quickly when paired with an adjustable base.
When shopping, look for mattresses with flexible, durable support layers. It’s always a good idea to test how a mattress moves on an adjustable base or check the manufacturer’s compatibility recommendations.
If this sounds a bit overwhelming, companies like Letto make it easier by offering pre-matched mattresses and adjustable base packages. This way, you can be confident your mattress will work perfectly with your adjustable base with no guesswork involved.
Letto’s Adjustable Bed and Best Mattress for Back Pain
We know what it takes to ease lower back pain while you sleep. Letto’s adjustable beds offer customisable positions, massage options, and features like zero gravity and anti-snoring modes that help your body find real relief.
Paired with a cooling gel memory foam mattress in the perfect firmness for side or back sleepers, it’s designed to support your spine night after night.
The Split Queen size lets couples enjoy their own comfort settings without losing the closeness of sharing a bed.
Ready to Sleep Better? Let Letto Help
Finding the best mattress for back pain doesn’t have to be complicated. Letto offers expertly matched mattress and adjustable base packages designed to provide the support and comfort your back needs.
Not sure which combination is right for you? Reach out to our team for personalised advice tailored to your sleep style and pain relief needs.
Contact us today to find your perfect mattress for back pain—or explore our adjustable base packages online now.
Finding a good pillow can make a big difference in how well you sleep and how you feel throughout the day. The right pillow supports your neck and spine, helps prevent aches and pains, and contributes to more restful, uninterrupted sleep.
But with so many options available, choosing the right one can quickly get overwhelming. From memory foam to feather, soft to firm, the choices can start to blur together, especially if you’re not sure what you actually need.
That’s where this guide on how to choose a pillow comes in. Whether you’re a side sleeper, dealing with neck pain, or simply looking to improve your overall sleep setup, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to find a pillow that suits your body, your sleep habits, and your comfort preferences.
Why Choosing the Right Pillow Actually Matters
Sleep Better with the Right Pillow
Your pillow isn’t just there to feel soft under your head—it plays an essential role in how your entire body rests. A well-chosen pillow supports the natural curve of your neck and helps keep your spine in proper alignment while you sleep.
When your pillow doesn’t provide the right support, it can lead to poor posture during sleep. Over time, this may contribute to stiffness, discomfort, and even more disrupted sleep. For older adults, these small misalignments can have a bigger impact, especially if you’re already managing aches, arthritis, or reduced mobility.
A supportive, well-fitted pillow can also help with:
Reducing tossing and turning by easing pressure points
Easing tension and headaches caused by neck strain
Improving sleep quality so you wake up feeling more refreshed
The right pillow works with your sleep position and body, not against it. That’s why choosing the right one isn’t just about comfort. It’s about giving your body the support it needs to truly have a good night’s sleep.
The Different Pillow Types (Pros + Cons)
There’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to pillows. Each type offers a different feel, level of support, and long-term comfort. Here’s a clear breakdown of the most common pillow types and who they’re best suited for.
Memory Foam Pillow
What it is: A dense, contouring material that responds to your body’s shape and heat.
Pros:
Moulds to your head and neck for personalised support
Helps reduce pressure points
Often recommended for neck and shoulder pain
Cons:
Can retain heat (look for cooling features like cooling gel if you tend to sleep warm)
Some find it too firm or slow to adjust when changing positions
Best for: Side and back sleepers, and those managing neck pain.
Latex Pillow
What it is: A natural or synthetic material with a bouncy, responsive feel.
Pros:
Breathable and naturally cooling
Durable and long-lasting
Hypoallergenic (if made from natural latex)
Cons:
Typically firmer than other types
Can feel too dense for those who prefer a softer pillow
Best for: Sleepers who need firm, responsive support with a cooler feel.
Feather or Down Pillow
What it is: Feather pillows are made from the soft undercoating (down) or outer feathers of ducks and geese.
Pros:
Soft, lightweight, and moldable
Offers a classic, cushioned feel
Cons:
Needs regular fluffing to keep its shape
May not provide enough support for some sleepers
Not suitable for those with feather allergies
Best for: Stomach sleepers or anyone who prefers a soft, traditional feel.
Polyester (Down Alternative) Pillow
What it is: Polyester pillows are a synthetic fill designed to mimic the softness of natural down.
Pros:
Hypoallergenic and affordable
Soft and lightweight
Cons:
Tends to flatten over time
May not offer consistent support
Best for: Budget-conscious sleepers or those needing an allergy-friendly option.
Adjustable Pillow Fill
What it is: Pillows with removable or customisable fill, often made from shredded foam or latex.
Pros:
Adjustable loft and firmness
Can be tailored to your preferred sleep position
Adaptable over time as your needs change
Cons:
May require trial and error to get the right feel
Occasionally needs readjusting
Best for: Combination sleepers or anyone who prefers flexibility and personalisation.
How to Choose a Pillow Based on Your Sleep Position
Your sleep position plays a big role in what kind of pillow will support you best. It’s all about keeping your head, neck, and spine in a natural, neutral alignment—so you wake up without stiffness or pain. Here’s what to look for depending on how you sleep most of the night.
Side Sleepers
Side sleepers need extra support to keep the head and neck aligned with the spine. A pillow that’s too flat can cause your neck to bend downward, while one that’s too high can push it upward.
Look for:
Medium to firm pillow support
Higher loft (thicker pillow) to fill the gap between your head and shoulder
Contoured or memory foam pillows can work well for added neck support
Back Sleepers
Back sleepers need a balance—something that supports the natural curve of the neck without pushing the head too far forward.
Look for:
Medium firmness
Medium loft (not too flat, not too high)
Pillows with gentle contouring or cervical support can help reduce strain on the neck
Stomach Sleepers
This is the trickiest position when it comes to spinal alignment. Sleeping face-down can put pressure on your neck and lower back, so it’s important to choose a very soft, low-loft pillow—or no pillow at all.
Look for:
Soft, low-loft pillows
Down or down alternative for moldability
Some stomach sleepers prefer placing a thin pillow under their chest or hips instead, to reduce lower back strain
Combination Sleepers
If you move around during the night, flexibility is key. You’ll want a pillow that adjusts easily or supports multiple positions.
Look for:
Adjustable-fill pillows that let you customise height and the pillow’s firmness
Medium loft to suit a variety of positions
Responsive materials like shredded memory foam or latex
Finding the Right Pillow Shape for Your Sleep Style
It’s not just about softness and support—shape plays a big role in how well your pillow works for your body. The right shape can help cradle your neck, support your spine, and even reduce tossing and turning.
Standard Pillows
The classic rectangle.
These work for most people and fit into nearly any pillowcase. They’re great if you don’t have specific support needs and just want something comfortable and familiar.
Best for: Everyday use, especially if you’re switching between sleep positions.
Contour Pillows
Curved to follow the shape of your neck and head.
Usually made from memory foam, these pillows have a gentle dip in the middle and raised edges to support the natural curve of your neck.
Best for: Back and side sleepers, or anyone with neck pain or stiffness.
Cervical Pillows
Designed specifically for spinal alignment.
These often have a more structured shape with targeted support zones. They’re ideal if you have medical concerns or persistent neck/back pain.
Best for: People with chronic neck issues or posture-related discomfort.
Wedge Pillows
Triangular-shaped pillows that elevate your upper body.
These are great for reducing acid reflux, snoring, or sinus pressure. They also pair well with adjustable beds.
Best for: Back sleepers, people with medical needs, or anyone who prefers sleeping at a slight incline.
Body Pillows
Long, full-body support.
These oversized pillows give you something to hug or wrap around, which can ease pressure on joints and improve alignment, especially for side sleepers or during pregnancy.
Best for: Side sleepers, pregnant people, or anyone who wants extra support and comfort.
Understanding Firmness and Loft (aka Pillow Height)
When it comes to pillows, two things matter just as much as shape: firmness and loft. The pillow density affects how your neck and head are supported, and whether you wake up refreshed or with a crick in your neck.
What is Pillow Loft?
Loft simply means the height or thickness of your pillow when it’s fluffed up and lying flat. It plays a big role in how well your pillow keeps your head and spine aligned.
Low Loft: Flat and thin. Best for stomach sleepers.
Medium Loft: Mid-level height. Works for back sleepers or combo sleepers. These medium profile pillows are typically 4-5 inches when lying flat.
High Loft: Thick and supportive. Great for side sleepers or anyone with broad shoulders.
What About Firmness?
Firmness refers to how much give your pillow has. In other words, how soft or solid it feels when you rest your head on it. It’s closely tied to the fill material (like memory foam vs. down), and it affects how much support you get.
Soft: Easily compresses under your head. Best if you like to sink in.
Medium: Offers a balance of softness and support.
Firm: Keeps its shape and provides maximum support. Ideal if you need strong neck alignment.
How to Pick the Right Combo
Think of firmness and loft as a team—they work together to support your sleep style. For example:
A side sleeper with broad shoulders may need a firm, higher profile pillow to fill the gap between the head and neck and the mattress surface.
A back sleeper might prefer a medium firmness and medium loft.
A stomach sleeper usually needs a soft, low-loft pillow to avoid neck strain.
If you’re not sure, adjustable pillows (where you can add or remove filling) offer a great middle ground until you find your sweet spot.
How to Choose a Pillow for Neck Pain, Back Pain, and Medical Conditions
If you’re waking up with aches or stiffness, your pillow could be part of the problem—and part of the solution. Choosing the right pillow can make a huge difference when it comes to managing pain and getting deeper, more restful sleep.
Best Pillows for Neck Pain
Neck pain often comes from poor alignment. If your pillow is too high, low, or soft for your sleep position, your neck ends up bent at an awkward angle all night.
What to look for:
A pillow that supports the natural curve of your neck
Contour or cervical pillows made from memory foam or latex
Medium to firm support if you sleep on your side or back
Adjustable-fill pillows for finding the perfect pillow height
Best Pillows for Back Pain
If your pillow doesn’t align your head with your spine, it can throw your whole back out of balance. And for lower back pain, your sleeping position matters too.
What to look for:
For back sleepers: a medium-loft pillow that supports the neck without tilting the head
For side sleepers: a high-loft pillow that fills the gap between your shoulder and head
Optional: a second pillow under your knees (back sleepers) or between your knees (side sleepers) for extra support
Best Pillows for Other Medical Needs
Certain conditions, like sleep apnea, acid reflux, or circulation issues, may require extra elevation or specific support.
What to look for:
Wedge pillows or an adjustable bed to elevate the upper body
Pillows made from hypoallergenic or breathable materials for allergy sufferers
Ergonomic designs that promote a neutral sleeping posture
If you’re working with a physio, chiropractor, or doctor, it’s worth checking in for tailored advice—but starting with a pillow designed for alignment is a solid first step.
Matching the Right Pillow with an Adjustable Bed
Letto’s adjustable bedschange the way you sleep—literally—so your pillow needs to keep up. When your head and upper body are elevated, a flat or unsupportive pillow can push your neck into an awkward angle.
As you raise the head of the bed, the space between your head and the mattress increases. A standard pillow might not offer enough support in this position, which can lead to neck strain or disrupted sleep.
Tips for Better Support:
Look for contoured or adjustable-fill pillows that maintain alignment even when you’re reclined
Memory foam or latex options tend to hold their shape well at different angles
Pair your pillow with your position—if you often sleep slightly elevated for reflux or breathing, go for a higher loft
Letto’s sleep systems are designed to work together, so if you need help choosing a pillow that complements your adjustable bed, our team is always here to guide you.
When (and How Often) to Replace Your Pillow
Even the best pillow doesn’t last forever. Over time, pillows can lose their shape, flatten out, and collect sweat, oils, and dust mites—none of which are ideal for a restful night’s sleep.
Signs It’s Time for a New Pillow:
You wake up with neck or shoulder pain
It’s lumpy, flat, or starting to lose shape
You’re constantly fluffing or folding it to make it comfortable
It’s yellowing or has a smell that won’t wash out, indicating the accumulation of dead skin cells and other allergens
It’s been 1–2 years (especially for polyester or down-filled pillows)
How to Stretch Your Pillows Lifespan:
To keep your pillow in top condition, use pillow protectors and wash them regularly. AllLetto pillowscome with a washable cover for easy maintenance.
If you’re looking for a pillow that adapts to your sleep style, the Letto Shredded Memory Foam Pillow offers the ultimate in customisable comfort. With its adjustable loft and firmness, you can fine-tune it to support your head, neck, and shoulders just the way you like it. Designed to relieve pressure points and maintain spinal alignment, this pillow helps you get the deep, restful sleep you deserve.
Final Thoughts on How To Choose A Pillow
Choosing the right pillow is one of the easiest yet most effective ways to achieve a better night’s sleep. It’s not just about comfort—it’s about support, alignment, and making sure your pillow suits your body and sleep style.
Letto’s range of pillows, adjustable beds, and sleep systems can help you find the perfect match for your needs. From adjustable pillows to beds designed for personalised comfort, we’re here to help you get the best rest possible.Ready for better sleep?Explore Letto’s full rangeof pillows and adjustable beds for a setup tailored just for you—because better sleep starts here.
A good night’s sleep starts with a fresh bed—and that includes a clean mattress. Over time, even the best mattresses collect dust, sweat, dead skin cells, and allergens. But don’t worry: you don’t need special tools or hours of free time to keep yours in great shape.
This guide walks you through some tips on how to clean a mattress at home, step by step. It’s simple, doable, and worth it for the health and comfort benefits.
Why Cleaning Your Mattress Matters
It’s easy to remember to wash your sheets, but the mattress itself? That’s a different story. Over time, it quietly collects a surprising amount of dust, sweat, skin cells, unpleasant smells and even allergens like pet dander and dust mites. All of that can affect how you sleep, especially if you deal with allergies or sensitive skin.
Cleaning your mattress regularly helps cut down on sneezing, stuffy noses, and those mysterious morning sniffles. It also helps eliminate odours that build up slowly over time, even if you can’t quite smell them yet. A fresh mattress doesn’t just look better—it feels better, too.
And here’s a bonus: keeping your mattress clean can actually help it last longer. When it’s cared for properly, it holds its shape, support, and comfort much better over the years. A little routine maintenance can make a big difference in how well you sleep and how long your mattress lasts.
Step-by-Step: How to Clean a Mattress Properly
You don’t need any fancy cleaning supplies, tools, or special products to get your mattress fresh again. Just a vacuum, a few simple ingredients, and a little time. Here’s how to do it:
1. Strip the Bed
Start by removing all your bedding—sheets, pillows, mattress protectors, and anything else on top. Toss the linens in the wash (hot water is best if you’re dealing with dust mites or allergies).
If you use a mattress topper, now’s a good time to clean or air that out too.
2. Vacuum the Surface
Grab the vacuum cleaner’s upholstery attachment and slowly go over the entire surface of the mattress. Pay special attention to seams and edges where dust and crumbs tend to hide. If you haven’t cleaned your mattress in a while, you might be surprised by how much the vacuum picks up.
Pro tip: If you can, vacuum the sides of the mattress as well as underneath—it all adds up.
3. Spot Clean Any Stains
If you see any visible stains, now’s the time to tackle them. The key here is to never spray cleaner directly onto the mattress. Mattresses don’t dry quickly, and too much moisture can lead to mould or damage.
Instead, you’ll want to spot-clean using a stain remover, and which one you use depends on the type of stain. For things like sweat stains, urine stains, or other biological stains, an enzyme cleaner is your best bet. Hydrogen Peroxide is great for blood stains. These break down the proteins in the stain and help lift them without harsh scrubbing.
Here’s how to do it:
Spray the cleaning solution onto a clean white cloth, not the mattress.
Gently blot the stained area with the damp cloth—no rubbing.
Dampen a second clean cloth with cold water and blot again to rinse the area.
Repeat as needed, using just a few drops. You want to use as little product and moisture as possible.
This gentle cleaning process is ideal for most common mattress stains—and helps prevent damage while still getting the job done.
If your mattress is compatible, you can also do a brief steam cleaning for an additional step.
4. Deodorise with Baking Soda (or Sunlight, If You Can)
After spot-cleaning, it’s time to freshen things up. If you can place your mattress in the sun, do it. A few hours of direct sunlight can naturally kill bacteria, evaporate excess moisture, and give your mattress that fresh-outside feeling. It’s one of the best ways to deodorise without using any products at all.
But if dragging your mattress out isn’t realistic (we get it), baking soda is an excellent option for cleaning your mattress. Just sprinkle a light, even layer across the entire mattress and let it sit for at least 30 minutes, but we recommend leaving it for longer if you have the time. Baking soda helps pull out odours and any lingering dampness from spot-cleaning.
Once it’s done its thing, grab the vacuum and go over the mattress again to remove the powder.
5. Let It Air Out
Once you’ve vacuumed up the baking soda, give the mattress a little extra time to air out, especially if you used any moisture during spot cleaning. Open a window, turn on a fan, or let some fresh air circulate if the room allows.
The goal is to make sure everything is completely dry before putting the sheets back on. Trapping moisture under your bedding can lead to odours or mildew down the line, and no one wants that. A dry mattress really is a happy mattress.
How Often Should You Clean Your Mattress?
To keep your mattress fresh and in great shape, it’s important to clean it regularly. Here’s a simple guide to help you stay on track:
Regular Cleaning (Vacuum + Baking Soda): Aim to do a routine mattress cleaning every 1–2 months. Do a quick vacuum and sprinkle baking soda to help remove dust and odours from your mattress.
Deep Cleaning (Add Stain Removal + Airing Out): Every 6 months, do a more thorough cleaning. This includes spot-cleaning to remove stains, airing out the mattress, and giving it a full once-over with baking soda. This helps extend the life of your mattress and creates a hygienic sleep environment.
After Spills, Accidents, or Illness: Clean right away to avoid any stains or lingering smells. The sooner you address spills or accidents, the easier it is to prevent them from setting in.
Long-Term Tips to Keep Your Mattress Fresh
Want to spend less time cleaning and more time sleeping? Here’s how to protect your mattress between cleanings:
Use a waterproof mattress protector: A mattress cover is your first defence against spills, stains, and dust mites. Wash it monthly.
Rotate your mattress: Turn it head-to-foot every 3–6 months to help it wear evenly.
No food or drinks in bed: A morning cup of coffee is nice… until it spills.
Limit pets on the bed: We love them, but they bring fur, dander, and the occasional accident.
What Not to Do
To keep your mattress in top shape, there are a few cleaning mistakes you’ll want to avoid:
Don’t soak your mattress: Avoid applying too much moisture. Soaking can cause mould or mildew to form inside the mattress, which is a nightmare to deal with. Some mattresses, especially memory foam, are not designed to handle any liquid at all, so always check the care instructions.
Avoid harsh cleaners: Stay away from bleach, ammonia, or any harsh chemicals. These can break down the materials in your mattress.
Don’t skip drying time: Always make sure your mattress is completely dry before remaking the bed. Trapping moisture underneath can lead to funky smells and unwanted bacterial growth.
Time for a Fresh Start?
Cleaning your mattress may not be something you think about often, but a little care goes a long way. By vacuuming regularly, spot-cleaning stains, and giving your mattress time to air out, you can extend its life and enjoy a fresh, clean sleeping surface. Remember to flip it every few months, and always make sure it’s completely dry before putting your bedding back on.
If your mattress has seen better days, it might be time for a fresh start. Check outLetto’s adjustable beds. With you in mind, they are designed for lasting comfort and easy care, perfect for ensuring a good night’s sleep for years to come.
