FAQ

Mattresses

Feathers and Down, continued

Why are separate mattresses recommended for double beds?

There are both technical and practical reasons for separate mattresses. First, if there is a significant weight difference between the two individuals. It is important that each person have a mattress appropriate for his or her body weight. In addition, in a single mattress, the movement of one sleeper often affects the resting of the other. This problem is eliminated with the use of separate mattresses. It is also more convenient for each partner to have independent control of head, back and footrest positions. Finally, the bed frame prevents the mattresses from slipping apart, so the center division is unnoticeable.

Is it uncomfortable to use two mattresses on a queen- or king-sized bed?

On the contrary, the personalized bed can be achieved with two mattresses. The bed frame prevents the mattresses from slipping apart, making the division between mattresses undetectable with permitting you to enjoy all the advantages described above.

Do separate mattresses need separate sheets?

It depends on the model of the slat base. On models where only the headrest is adjustable, both mattresses can be covered with a single sheet. If one or both slat bases feature mechanically or electrically adjustable headrest, backrest and footrest, separate sheets are recommended for greater versatility. A single comforter can be used in either case.

Can I use a single mattress with two slat bases?

If the reasons listed in the first question do not affect your preferences, you may choose to use a single mattress. If the members of the couple have similar body weights, the same type of mattress would be appropriate for both. A single mattress could be used if they don’t mind keeping the bed in one position for both individuals. Of course, they would no longer have the option of raising the backrest of one slat base for reading or watching television while keeping the other in the flat position for sleeping. Finally, it takes two people to flip a large mattress each week, while one person can handle the narrower mattresses alone.

What is the guarantee on these products? How long do they last?

The mattresses and bases are both guaranteed for 10 years. With appropriate and careful use, the slat bases can last for many more years. The Star-Flex and Astro-Flex can last up to 20 or 30 years. The same is true of the Moon-Flex. The life span of a mattress may be prolonged to 12 or 14 years with appropriate maintenance (turning it over once a week.) However, it should not be kept any longer than that. After 10 years a mattress has become saturated with the toxins eliminated through the normal perspiration of the sleeping body. For the same reason, it is unsanitary for parents to pass their old mattresses on to their children.

Does the mattress prevent the slat base from adjusting to the spine?

Not at all. SWISS SLEEP SYSTEM® mattresses are compatible with the slat bases, and are designed to work together with the base, providing appropriate orthopedic back support. In fact, the mattresses accentuate the effect of the slat base.

Why should I use a mattress pad under the mattress?

A pad placed under the mattress protects against the continual friction between the mattress and the slats. Our pads are made of a specially designed material that does not inhibit air circulation to the mattress.

How can I protect my mattress?

A protective mattress pad will protect your mattress from spilled liquids, perspiration stains, and children’s or pets’ accidents. The 100% cotton pad absorbs liquid and prevents it from passing into the mattress during the night. Of course, a soiled pad must be removed, washed and replaced as soon as possible or the next morning.

Can the natural materials in the mattress cause allergic reactions?

The natural materials contained in the mattresses undergo sophisticated treatments to make them appropriate for household use, and are chemically treated to prevent most allergic reactions. However, those with strong allergies to natural materials (statistically less than 5%) may select one of our fully synthetic mattresses. Please contact us.

Does “orthopedic” mean a mattress is hard?

Orthopedic means “related to orthopedics.” Orthopedics is defined as “the branch of medicine dealing with the treatment of deformities, diseases, and injuries of the bones, joints, muscles, etc.” (Webster’s New World Dictionary)

The term “orthopedic” has been misused, especially with sleep-related products, because it has to come to be used as a synonym for “hard.” This is due to historic records of the medieval practice of putting boards under mattresses. An orthopedic mattress, in the correct sense of the word, is one that permits the skeletal system, joints, muscles, etc. to lie at a perfect rest, without pressure points that damage the natural state of the body, causing pain or forcing muscles to contract.

In this sense, all of our SWISS SLEEP SYSTEM® mattresses are orthopedic, although they do differ according to the individual’s body weight. A mattress suitable for a small, light person is not the same as the one designed for a person with greater body weight. The important thing is that a mattress be right for your body: it must not be so soft that it yields completely to your body weight, or so hard that it leaves a space beneath the lordosis when you lie down.

Our integrated slat base and mattress systems are personalized beds that adapt perfectly to your body. There are different options for each body type and medical or physical condition.

Does a polyurethane mattress make the bed too hot?

No. SWISS SLEEP SYSTEM® mattresses are made with special material to regulate temperature and control moisture. They also include ventilation channels that expel moisture and absorb fresh air, allowing the mattress to breathe throughout the night.

Do polyurethane mattresses tend to “cave in” after a while?

That depends on the quality of the polyurethane. If poor quality material is used, the mattress probably will cave in.

SWISS SLEEP SYSTEM® mattresses use only the highest quality materials. You can check the quality by comparing the density per cubic meter of the polyurethane used in different mattresses. Our mattresses are also reinforced at the midsection, where the body’s weight is concentrated and where the mattress receives the heaviest use. These measures prevent the product from caving in. Remember that it is important to take proper care of your mattress by turning it over at least once a week, flipping it from side to side one week and from end to end the next.

Does polyurethane pose and danger of toxicity?

Not at all. SWISS SLEEP SYSTEM® mattresses are manufactured using strict quality controls. They have been sold for decades on the European market, meaning that they also comply with all current European Union and Swiss environmental and health standards. The mattresses sold in America conform to all US standards as well.

Should mattresses be vacuumed to eliminate mites?

Vacuuming a mattress does not eliminate mites, since these parasites have tiny “claws” that permit them to hold on to a mattress just as they do on human skin. Washing, brushing, rubbing and vacuuming are all ineffective; the mites remain on the mattress. SWISS SLEEP SYSTEM® mattresses inhibit the rapid reproduction of these parasites. Still, the best-known way to get rid of them is to starve them. That is why SWISS SLEEP SYSTEM® uses advanced technology to provide firm back support in a lightweight mattress. The mattress is easy to turn over once a week, removing the mites from their food supply.

How can I clean the mattress if, for example, a child wets the bed?

The best way to treat this problem is to prevent it. SWISS SLEEP SYSTEM® offers mattress pads for this purpose. If a child wets the bed, the pad prevents urine from filtering into the mattress. In the morning, the pad can be removed, washed and replaced on the bed, preventing odors, stains and deterioration of the product.

Why should mattresses be turned each week?

Every mattress should be turned over at least once a week for hygienic reasons and to prolong the life of the product. Why do we change our clothes each day, even if they are not soiled? We do it because the body eliminates toxins through perspirations. Our bodies continue to perspire at night, as well as shedding tiny particles of skin. These substances accumulate on the surface of the mattress, creating a paradise for mites, which in turn produce allergies and asthma. Turning the mattress over once a week removes the skin residue, starving the mites. This assures that the surface where you spend eight hours or more each night remains clean. At the same time, you are taking care of the mattress. Turning it from side-to-side once a week and end-to-end the next allows it to wear uniformly in all areas, just as it was designed to do.

Can a mattress be used with a bed base made by another company?

It is possible, but generally not recommended. The mattresses and slat bases of the SWISS SLEEP SYSTEM® are designed to work as a single product, with each item accentuating the advantages of the other. For example, the mattress is designed to regulate temperature and moisture. If it is placed on a plywood base, the lace of air circulation prevents it from performing these functions. If it is placed on inflexible slats, it will be unable to adapt to the body and provide fully orthopedic back support.

Can a mattress made by another company be used with a SWISS SLEEP SYSTEM slat base?

This is possible if the mattress is of good quality, but generally it is recommended to use the complete system for maximum comfort. The mattresses and slat bases of the SWISS SLEEP SYSTEM® are designed to work as a single product, with each item accentuating the advantages of the other. Best results can be achieved when combining a visco-elastic memory foam or latex mattress with one of the Swiss Sleep System slat base.

Can an adjustable slat base by SWISS SLEEP SYSTEM® be used to make a mattress
made by another company into an adjustable bed?

It is possible to use a SWISS SLEEP SYSTEM® adjustable slat base to turn your flat mattress into an adjustable sleep system if the mattress if in good condition and not too stiff. Visco-foam, memory-foam mattresses, and latex mattresses do not generally improve with a slat base and are very good for use with adjustable beds. Innerspring mattresses are only recommended with adjustable beds with headrest, and footrest adjustment. Adjustable slat bases with backrest and knee rest adjustment are only recommended with foam and latex mattresses. The sitting position of an adjustable bed can damage the innersprings over time. The mattresses and slat bases of the SWISS SLEEP SYSTEM® are designed to work as a single product, with each item accentuating the advantages of the other. Only a well-matched system adapts to the body and provides fully orthopedic back support. Should you have any additional questions please contact us through the form on the Contact Page.

Feathers and Down

Why use feather pillows and duvets?

Down bedding insulates and is extremely comfortable and pleasant to the touch, increasing sleeping comfort considerably. Down warms the body more efficiently than synthetic polyester fibers, and is certainly more durable than other types of bedding. The combination of down and 100% cotton fabrics makes for breathable bedding that insulates by absorbing air and losing moisture easily. Finally, a duvet makes it very easy to make the bed in the morning. Just shake out the comforter and let if fall over the bed.

Do the feathers in pillows and comforters cause allergies?

An allergic reaction to feathers depends on two things:

1. How well the feathers and/or down were cleaned and sterilized before the product was manufactured (closely linked to the quality and price of the product). In the finest products, such as those imported by SWISS SLEEP SYSTEM®, the feathers and down are washed, cleaned and sterilized seven to ten times. The feathers and down used in inferior products are washed just two or three times. The cleaning and sterilization process removes dirt, dust, dander and invisible skin residues that adhere to feathers and down. These substances are the cause of most allergic reactions.

2. How well you care for the product. It is important to shake and air feather and down bedding (hang it on the clothesline to eliminate dust and moisture). These products must always be aired in the shade, as exposure to direct sunlight can cause deterioration of feathers and down.

Only people allergic to bird proteins would have an allergic reaction to the down itself, as feathers and down are composed of proteins.

How can I judge the quality of a feather or down product before I buy, and why is there such a large price difference between one down-filled pillow or duvet and another?

Before selecting your feather or down pillows and duvet, it is important to recognize the differences between the various products on the market.

What to look for:

1. Is the product filled with feathers or down?

Down is much finer (and more expensive) than feathers. Down feathers are much smaller and do not have a quill. It is the down that provides temperature regulation in a duvet. Feathers trap and retain body heat, making the bed unpleasantly hot.

2. Even for a product described as “down filled,” what percentage of down does it contain?

According to U.S. law, a duvet must contain at least 80% down in order to be considered a down duvet. The remaining percentage may consist of feathers, cotton, or any other material. Fur is commonly used. SWISS SLEEP SYSTEM® comforters are filled with 100% goose down of the highest quality.

3. Is the down natural or synthetic?

For insulating effect, it is important that the down be 100% natural. Synthetic materials trap and retain the heat that the body emits during sleep, producing an uncomfortably hot, sweaty feeling in the bed. The outer material of the pillow or duvet is also important. Covering materials of 100% cotton are more pleasant to the touch and help the down work efficiently.

4. Is the item filled with down or pure down?

Down is found at the base of the feather or on the bird’s breast. Pure down comes from the breast and is of higher quality. It is denser and able to absorb more air, which directly affects its capacity to regulate temperature. SWISS SLEEP SYSTEM® duvets are filled with pure down.

5. Where does the down come from?

High quality down comes from mature birds in cold climates. The highest quality down available for use in pillows and comforters is the white down from the breast of adult geese from Hungary, Poland and France.

6. How well has the down been cleaned?

Obviously, the more thoroughly and carefully the down is cleaned, the more costly the final product will be. Down that is not processed appropriately before being used in bedding products can contain dust, pollen, bacteria, dander, skin residues, etc., which can cause allergic reactions and even give off an unpleasant odor. The down used in SWISS SLEEP SYSTEM® pillows and duvets are cleaned and
sterilized to comply with strict standards of hygiene, eliminating any chance of an allergic reaction.

7. How heavy is the duvet?

The duvet should not feel very heavy or dense. The higher the quality of the duvet, the lighter it will be. If a duvet feels heavy, its filling probably has a high percentage of feathers.

The higher the percentage of feathers, the lower the quality of the duvet. Obviously, a duvet with 1000 grams (2.2 pounds) of pure down in its filling with be more expensive than one with just 500 grams (1 pound). The flexibility of the down and its ability to trap air (another measure of its quality) are what allow it to maintain a consistent temperature. The lighter and more flexible the duvet, the greater the capacity for air. It takes more ounces of the stiffer, smaller down feathers from young birds to obtain the effect of a smaller quantity of elastic down from mature birds. Because the lighter down from mature birds is of higher quality, the highest quality duvets tend to be lighter and generally have a higher price.

8. What is the outer shell made of?

The best material for the outer shell of a down duvet is 100% cotton, which repels dust and is breathable, permitting air to pass through to the down. SWISS SLEEP SYSTEM® duvets are made from Sarcenet, a very fine, high-quality cotton weave that feels soft and silky.

Cold climate: If the down comes from a cold climate, it has undergone many winter seasons. The down on the bird’s breast grows more dense and larger, increasing its capacity to absorb air. You can visually test the quality of down by pressing on a pillow or duvet with your hand. Look to see how easily the product recovers its original shape with you remove your hand. This is an indication of how well the down absorbs air. The more elastic the product (the more quickly it resumes its original shape), the better it will insulate to maintain a consistent, comfortable temperature.

Mature birds: Down from mature birds has matured for several years, making it less fragile and longer lasting, which makes for a more durable product. Should you have any additional questions please contact us through the form on the Contact Page.

Slat Bases

What happens to an electric bed when the power goes out?

The control unit has a battery that can lower the bed into the sleeping position in the event of a power failure. The bed cannot be raised without electricity.

Can an electrically adjustable bed cause insomnia from electromagnetic fields?

No, it can’t. The bed has an adapter that shuts off the electromagnetic field to protect you.

Can children play with an electrically adjustable bed?

Just as you would not let your child play with the family car, vacuum cleaner, or any other household appliance, it is best not to permit children to play with an electric bed. Of course, they can use and enjoy their parents’ bed or even have their own electrically adjustable bed, but they should not play with it by constantly changing the positions. The bed’s two motors are designed for a maximum period of two continuous minutes of use, after which they would need to rest for 30 minutes before being activated again. Changing positions in the normal manner requires the motors to be in use for just seconds, so an adult would reach the desired position quickly and be able to readjust or return to the sleeping position at any time.

Can the slat base be used with a mattress made by another company?

It is possible under certain conditions, but generally it is recommended to use the complete system for maximum comfort. A compatible mattress is needed in order to make the most of the advantages of a slat base. For example, if you purchase a base with an adjustable headrest or backrest, then place a rigid mattress on top of it, you will be unable to use these adjustable features. Likewise, using a thick, heavy mattress would counteract the orthopedic benefits of the slat base, preventing it from adapting to your back as you sleep. If the mattress if of good quality, especially when combining a visco-elastic memory foam or latex mattress with one of the SWISS SLEEP SYSTEM® slat base, good results can be achieved. Remember the mattress and slat bases of the SWISS SLEEP SYSTEM® are designed to work as a single product, with each item accentuating the advantages of the other.

Is the space between the two bases uncomfortable in a full, queen- or king-sized bed?

The side rails are thin curved pieces. Even if a person were to lie directly on the center of the bed, 95% of the body area would be resting on the flexible slats. Furthermore, the space between the mattresses is completely unnoticeable. For reasons of comfort and space, it is preferable for each person to have his or her own sleeping space, another reason that separate mattresses are recommended.

Do the feathers in the bedding cause allergic reactions?

Feathers themselves do not cause allergic reactions; allergies are a reaction to the dust that accumulates in feather or down bedding that has not been properly shaken or aired. Down pillows and comforters should be shaken and aired in the shade for half an hour each week. They should not be exposed to direct sun, which can damage both feathers and down. Although the care tags indicate items may be machine washed and tumbled dry, this should be done only when absolutely necessary, as it can cause deterioration of feathers and down. The sterilization of the feathers before the product is manufactured is equally important. The sterilization process is closely related to the quality and price of the end product. The comforters and pillows offered by SWISS SLEEP SYSTEM® are of the highest quality and are guaranteed to meet the strictest standards of sanitary and quality control.

How does the European sleep system differ from the American one?

The European sleep system is simpler (fewer accessories but in top quality make it easier to make the bed), more hygienic (the duvet cover can be washed weekly, keeping it free of dust, perspiration, crumbs, etc.) and more comfortable (the soft duvet cover is in direct contact with the skin). In fact, the European system is so popular that feather and down duvets and duvet covers are now sold and used in the United States. The traditional European sleep system includes a knit sheet with elastic all the way around the edge, keeping it firmly in place on the mattress. The only other bedding items are pillows and a duvet protected by a slip cover. Duvet covers are available in a wide variety of designs and fabrics, including satin, cotton, silk, etc. All of these materials are luxuriously soft to the touch and available in attractive, elegant designs. The slipcover and pillowcases are sold as a set for a versatile and sophisticated bedroom décor. The covers are removable and can be washed and changed once or twice a week. The insulating duvet assures a comfortable bed climate whether the outside temperature is hot or cold. SWISS SLEEP SYSTEM® carries a prestigious line of Swiss duvet covers, which change each year to provide a series of new and different designs that reflect the most recent European styles.

How soon after purchase will my sleep system be delivered?

Delivery is usually immediate. Currently we have a delivery time for the US market. Should you have any additional questions please contact us through the form on the Contact Page.

Memory visco-foam mattresses, airbeds, mattress toppers, adjustable beds

Do some foam mattresses make the bed too hot?

Yes, there are some foam mattresses that do not have the air channel system and the internal design to achieve the optimal sleep climate. Further more, some synthetic overlays and covers can create an uncomfortable environment. Memory or visco-foam mattresses where the body sinks deep into the mattress and is surrounded by the foam are known to create especially hot sleep experiences.
SWISS SLEEP SYSTEM® mattresses are made with special materials like sheep wool, camel hair and silk to regulate temperature and control moisture. They also include ventilation channels that expel moisture and absorb fresh air, allowing the mattress to breathe throughout the night.

How is the temperature and humidity regulation in air and waterbeds managed?

Every waterbed or airbed system has a closed plastic system to keep the support mediums (water, air) enclosed. This plastic system also creates a barrier for the circulation of air resulting in restricted temperature and humidity regulation. This can create a hot/cold (sweat then freeze) and humid bed climate. Most high-quality airbed and waterbed manufacturers try to overcome this with special mattress layers. Because of these reasons we do not believe that water or air mattresses offer support comparable to the SWISS SLEEP SYSTEM® at every important body zone, and that water and air bed systems can not deliver an equal comfortable sleep climate.

Do foam mattresses tend to “cave-in” or “break” while used on adjustable beds?

That depends on the quality of the foam. If poor quality material is used, foam mattresses can cave in but generally good foam mattresses last ten years and are far better for adjustable beds than spring mattresses. Due to the constant bending into the sit position, inner spring mattresses can “cave in” when the springs in the middle of the mattress get bent and damaged. Such occurrences can be found on several discussion groups on the Internet. SWISS SLEEP SYSTEM® mattresses use only the highest quality foams. You can check the quality of the foam by comparing the density per cubic meter of the polyurethane used in different mattresses. Our mattresses are also reinforced at the midsection, where the body’s weight is concentrated and where the mattress receives the heaviest use. These measures prevent the product from caving in.

Many companies advertise orthopedic mattresses. What does “orthopedic” mean?

Orthopedic means “related to orthopedics.” Orthopedics is defined as “the branch of medicine dealing with the treatment of deformities, diseases, and injuries of the bones, joints, muscles, etc.” (Webster’s New World Dictionary) The term “orthopedic” has been misused in many advertisements, especially with sleep-related products, because it has come to be used as a synonym for “hard” or “extra firm” mattresses. Always ask yourself why an advertised mattress should give you better structural support in all important body zones. An orthopedic mattress, in the correct sense of the word, is one that permits the skeletal system, joints, muscles, etc. to lie at perfect rest, without pressure points that damage the natural state of the body, causing pain or forcing muscles to contract.

Can one mattress satisfy all individuals, small, tall, light and heavy?

Many companies advertise one-fit-all mattresses, which simplifies and lowers their production and inventory costs. Next to the above-mentioned sleep preferences there are back and side sleepers, and individuals that tend to be hot and others to feel cold in bed. Obviously the choice of the ideal mattress is as individual as selecting the optimal shoes or clothing. In one sense, all of out SWISS SLEEP SYSTEM® mattresses are optimal, although the ideal model does differ according to the individual’s body weight and sleep preference. A perfect mattress suitable to a small, light person, is not the same as one designed for a person with greater body weight. The important thing is that a mattress be right for your body: it must not be so soft that it yields completely to your body weight, or so hard that it leaves a space beneath the lordosis when you lie down. Especially those who tend to sleep on the side. They need to look for a mattress with a defined shoulder comfort zone.

Are no-turn mattresses better? Or what is the benefit of turning mattresses?

Our opinion is, and many health experts agree, that any mattress anywhere in the world should be turned over once a week for hygienic reasons, and to prolong the life of the product. Why do we change our clothes each day, even if they are not soiled? We do it because the body eliminated toxins through perspiration. Our bodies continue to perspire and shed tiny particles of skin. These substances accumulate on the surface of the mattress, creating a paradise for mites, which in turn produces allergies and asthma. Turning the mattress over once a week removes the skin residue, starving the mites. This assures that the surface where you spend eight hours or more each night remains clean. At the same time, you are taking care of the mattress. Turning it from side to side one week and from end to end the next allows it to wear uniformly in all areas, just as it was designed to do. Our opinion is supported by several research studies, but at the end it is your call which mattress system you prefer. Many of the luxury innerspring mattresses are so heavy that turning them can be extremely difficult. Compare that to SWISS SLEEP SYSTEM® mattress mattresses that are light and easy to turn. By using two twins instead of a king mattress, you simplify the turning and allow individual firmness.

Can I use a current mattress with an adjustable slat base to make an adjustable bed?

It is possible to use a SWISS SLEEP SYSTEM® adjustable slat base to turn your flat mattress into an adjustable sleep system if the mattress is in good condition and not too stiff. Visco-foam mattresses, memory-foam mattresses, and latex mattresses do generally improve with a slat base and are very good for use with adjustable beds. Innerspring mattresses are only recommended with adjustable beds with headrest, and footrest adjustment but NOT for sit or upright position. Adjustable slat bases with backrest and knee rest adjustment are only recommended with foam and latex mattresses as the sitting position of an adjustable bed can and, in our opinion, will damage any innerspring mattress over time. The mattresses and slat bases of the SWISS SLEEP SYSTEM® are designed to work as a single product solution, with each item accentuating the advantages of the other. Therefore only a well-matched system adapts to the body optimally and provides fully orthopedic back support.