Mattress and Sleep Terminology Glossary: From A to Z

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Shopping for a new mattress is pretty stressful, as there are different factors to consider and types to choose from. What’s more is that the packaging, manufacturers and sellers might use some terms that would only make you more confused. This would lead to a longer time shopping or choosing certain products. To make things easier, we have compiled different terms that you would come across with anything mattress and sleeping related. You can keep this guide at hand whenever you’re going mattress shopping!

A

Adaptive Polyfoam

(Foam Mattress)

This is a material made from the modification of polyurethane. When used to make mattresses, it is highly responsive and molds to the body comfortably.

Adjustable Base

(Mattress Accessories and Structure)

This is a support system under your mattress that allows you to change the position of some parts to enhance comfort. You can raise up the mattress under your feet or head with a mobile application or remote control. It also helps with ailments related to sleeping like snoring and back ache.

Actigraphy

(Miscellaneous Terms Related to Sleep and Mattresses)

This is a process of tracking sleep habits. To practice actigraphy, you would wear a device on your wrist to record sleep data and understand your habits.

American Academy of Sleep Medicine

(Miscellaneous Terms Related to Sleep and Mattresses)

Founded in 1975, this is an organization based on using sleep to enhance the health of others. They do this by optimizing sleep.

American Society of Clinical Hypnosis

(Miscellaneous Terms Related to Sleep and Mattresses)

This is an organization that trains healthcare professionals to collect a clinical hypnosis certification.

Alaskan King

(Miscellaneous Terms Related to Sleep and Mattresses)

This is a mattress size that measures 108 inches by 108 inches. It is a square mattress that is known for being popularly available yet uncommon when it comes to purchase. This is because it is highly oversized.

Alberta King

(Miscellaneous Terms Related to Sleep and Mattresses)

This is a square mattress with a measurement of 96 inches on all sides. It is shorter than the Alaskan king on all sides by a foot.

B

Base Layer

(Mattress Construction)

Also called the support core, this is the lower and thick layer of the mattress which usually consists of dense polyfoam, air chambers, metal springs and Dunlop latex.

Bed-in-a-Box

(Mattress Purchase and Delivery)

As the name implies, this is when a mattress is packaged in a box to be delivered. It would be compressed, vacuum sealed and rolled before being placed in a box.

Break-in Period

(Mattress Purchase and Delivery)

This is the period that you need to use a mattress before you can claim that it doesn’t meet your expectations and ask for a replacement. It can be between two weeks and thirty days.

Blended Latex

(Latex Mattress)

This is the mixing of synthetic and natural latex, and can also include other fillers like sand or clay. It can be used in the making of mattresses.

Body Impressions

(Mattress Performance)

These are the indentations caused by laying down on a mattress, and can remain there for a long time. The more it sags, the less comfort it offers.

Breathability

(Mattress Performance)

This shows you how air flows through a mattress. The more breathable a mattress is, the cooler it is during summer yet more comfortable during winter.

Bounce

(Mattress Performance)

Similar to responsiveness, this is how quickly a mattress regains its shape when the weight on it has been removed. Bouncy mattresses make it easier to move around.

Bonnell Coils

(Hybrid and Innerspring Mattress)

These are coils connected to helical wires. They are shaped as hourglasses and are less responsive and inexpensive.

Bed Frame

(Mattress Accessories and Structure)

This is a structure built to elevate the mattress. The mattress is usually installed into the bed frame which can be made from wood or metal, and it supports the entire mattress. It usually ha a headboard, footboard and four legs holding it all together.

Base

(Mattress Accessories and Structure)

This is a term used to describe the structure supporting your mattress. It can increase the height of the mattress too. There are different types of bases including foundation, slatted base, box spring, platform bed and adjustable base.

Box spring

(Mattress Accessories and Structure)

This is a type of base that consists of reliable coils and a wooden frame. Their first use is to support innerspring mattresses.

BedJet

(Miscellaneous Terms Related to Sleep and Mattresses)

This is a type of fan that has been designed for beds, and it is used to make the environment cooler during sleep. It can be installed in your bed after purchase.

Brown Noise

(Miscellaneous Terms Related to Sleep and Mattresses)

These are types of sounds that can help people sleep better. Also called red noise and Brownian noise, this consists of different noises with varying frequencies and energies.

C

Cover

(Mattress Construction)

This is the outer fabric layer of a mattress, and in most cases, it cannot be removed. It is an integrated part of the mattress for protection and cushioning.

Comfort Layer

(Mattress Construction)

This is the topmost layer of the mattress and has the most impact on the feel of the mattress when you lay on it. This is why the comfort layer is usually made with soft materials.

Comfort Guarantee

(Mattress Purchase and Delivery)

This is the exchange policy of a mattress company, like the amount of time you have in which you can return the mattress or exchange it with another one if it doesn’t meet up to your expectations.

Copper-Infused Foam

(Foam Mattress)

As the name implies, this is memory foam or polyfoam with copper in it. This prevent microbial growth in mattresses and direct heat away from the body when laying on the mattress.

Convoluted Foam

(Foam Mattress)

This type of foam looks similar to an egg carton because of the dimpled texture. Its structure improves the breathability and support of a mattress, and can be used in all layers. It can also be made of memory foam or polyfoam.

Conforming

(Mattress Performance)

This means how the mattress conforms to the shape of your body when you lay on it. The more it molds to your body, the better pressure and comfort it offers.

Comfort

(Mattress Performance)

This is a quality of a mattress that shows how well it allows for relaxation, conforming, contouring, breathability and more. It is subjective, meaning it depends on the sleeper.

Contouring

(Mattress Performance)

This is also similar to conforming and it shows how much the surface of the mattress hugs your body and reduces pressure.

CertiPUR-US

(Mattress Standards and Certification)

This is a United States certification for foam materials up for purchase. If you see the label on your mattress, it means that it was made with no phthalates and other heavy metals.

Certified Organic

(Mattress Standards and Certification)

This is a certification assigned to organic materials on mattresses. Those that qualify to be organic materials include latex, cotton and wool, and they are tested based on the practices in sourcing and processing them.

Coil Gauge

(Hybrid and Innerspring Mattress)

This is used to measure how thick a coil is, and for mattresses, the value can go as high as 17. The higher the value, the thinner the coils and softer the mattress.

Continuous Coils

(Hybrid and Innerspring Mattress)

This is a network of coils created with the same wire. When you have continuous coils in your mattress, you can expect durability, firmness, affordability and stability.

Coil Count

(Hybrid and Innerspring Mattress)

As the name implies, this is the number of coils the entire mattress or each layer contains. The larger the mattress, the more the coils, although knowing the number does not mean you automatically know the quality of the bed.

Coil-on-Coil

(Hybrid and Innerspring Mattress)

This is a setting where two layers of metal coil are combined in a single mattress. There is a layer on top usually consisting of microcoils or pocketed coils while the bottom is made up of any type of supporting coil.

Certification in Clinical Hypnosis

(Miscellaneous Terms Related to Sleep and Mattresses)

This is a certification that can be obtained by healthcare professionals to show that they are effective in using hypnotherapy for treatment.

Chamomile

(Miscellaneous Terms Related to Sleep and Mattresses)

This is a flower that can be used to make tea, and although it has many uses, the most popular involves using it as a sleep aid.

Circadian Rhythm

(Miscellaneous Terms Related to Sleep and Mattresses)

This is also called a sleep-wake cycle. It is used to describe the 24-hour sleep-wake cycle that all living organisms go through.

Circadian Rhythm Sleep-Wake Disorder

(Miscellaneous Terms Related to Sleep and Mattresses)

This is a sleeping disorder that can lead to poor and low-quality of sleep. It is caused when the light-dark cycle and circadian rhythm of the body is disconnected.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia

(Miscellaneous Terms Related to Sleep and Mattresses)

This is a form of talk therapy that is directed towards curing insomnia in patients. It helps patients modify their cognitive behaviors and beliefs though coping mechanisms.

Cortisol

(Miscellaneous Terms Related to Sleep and Mattresses)

This is a hormone that usually has a high level with those diagnosed with depression and anxiety. It is secreted in the body and the higher the levels are, the more disrupted the sleep cycle would become. It is also high in those that have insomnia.

California King

(Miscellaneous Terms Related to Sleep and Mattresses)

This is a mattress size that measure 72 inches wide by 84 inches long. It is the longest mattress size in the series of standard mattresses. It is four inches longer yet four inches narrower than a normal king mattress.

California Queen

(Miscellaneous Terms Related to Sleep and Mattresses)

This is a mattress size that has a measurement of 60 inches wide by 84 inches long. It is a non-standard size, and is longer than the normal queen mattress by 4 inches.

D

Durability

(Mattress Construction)

By durability, we mean how a mattress lasts in the face of wear and tear. Durability shows how long a mattress can last, although the average should be between 7 and 10 years. Durability depends on the quality, weight, type and core of the mattress.

Density

(Mattress Construction)

A denser material in mattresses mean that it is more durable and firmer. It is measured by pounds per cubic foot.

Dunlop Latex

(Latex Mattress)

This is a type of latex made with the Dunlop process. It is usually firm and durable, so it can be found in the mattress core and comfort layer.

Deep Compression Support

(Mattress Performance)

This is how much a mattress can support body parts that sink more into the mattress like your hips. The better the support, the less chance for your mattress to sink while using. It’s especially ideal for sleepers over 230 pounds.

Delayed Sleep-Wake Phase Disorder

(Miscellaneous Terms Related to Sleep and Mattresses)

This is another type of Circadian Rhythm Sleep-Wake Disorder, which is identified when the patient has a delayed sleep pattern. Here, they find it difficult to go to sleep at a time that makes sense compared to their daily responsibilities and schedule.

Desyrel

(Miscellaneous Terms Related to Sleep and Mattresses)

This is an antidepressant that is usually prescribed to patients that have trouble sleeping.

Dextromethorphan

(Miscellaneous Terms Related to Sleep and Mattresses)

This is a cough medicine which leads to drowsiness and can make patients sleep.

Dodow

(Miscellaneous Terms Related to Sleep and Mattresses)

This is a sleep aid that takes people through breathing exercises. These exercises help them to relax, then leading to sleep.

Doxylamine

(Miscellaneous Terms Related to Sleep and Mattresses)

This is an antihistamine drug that is used short-term to treat insomnia.

E

Euro-Style Pillow-Top

(Mattress Construction)

Also called Euro-Top, this makes the comfort system of a mattress plushier. They are usually denser than the normal pillow tops.

Edge Support

(Mattress Performance)

This is also about support, but based on the outermost part of the mattress. The better the edge support, the stronger the surface area.

Ease of Movement

(Mattress Performance)

This lets you know how freely you can move around on your mattress. It includes how the mattress reacts when you change your sleeping pattern, get in and out, and have sex.

Eco-INSTITUT

(Mattress Standards and Certification)

This is a certification that indicates that the foam of your mattress has been tested for VOC emissions by third party.

Extra-Long Staple Fibers

(Miscellaneous Terms Related to Sleep and Mattresses)

These are long and smooth fibers that can be measured up to 1 3/8 inches. They are usually very soft and long-lasting, and can be found in mattresses.

Egyptian Cotton

(Miscellaneous Terms Related to Sleep and Mattresses)

This is a luxurious and expensive type of cotton that can be found in mattresses. It is an extra-long staple fiber known for its softness and breathability. It is gotten from the Gossypium Barbadense cotton plant in Egypt.

F

Foam Density

(Foam Mattress)

This is measure based on the pounds per cubic foot to determine the weight in connection to volume. It determines the mattress firmness and durability.

Fire Sock

(Mattress Construction)

This is a material that covers the inside of the mattress. It is usually made of sand, wood pulp or fireglass to give it a stretchy and fire-resistant function so that the mattress is protected from fire accidents. A fire sock can be added if the mattress is not fire-resistant.

Firmness

(Mattress Performance)

Firmness measures how hard or soft, or thick or flimsy a mattress feels. The manufacturer can indicate the firmness with grades, numbers or in other ways.

Foundation

(Mattress Accessories and Structure)

This is also called a base, and it is a support system under the mattress consisting of wooden slats and a frame.

Flat Head Syndrome

(Miscellaneous Terms Related to Sleep and Mattresses)

This is a condition where a baby gets a flat spot at the back of their head, as the name implies, because they are resting on one part of the mattress for a long time. Some baby mattresses are designed to prevent this.

Flannel

(Miscellaneous Terms Related to Sleep and Mattresses)

This is a type of material that can be used to cover mattresses or as a bedding accessory. It is brushed and woven in a different way from normal yarn fibers and is known for its softness.

Family

(Miscellaneous Terms Related to Sleep and Mattresses)

This is a rectangular mattress that measure 140 or 120 inches by 80 inches. It is way wider than most mattresses because of its design to take up different people and pets.

Flipping

(Miscellaneous Terms Related to Sleep and Mattresses)

This is associated with flippable or reversible beds. They have the ability to switch between two sleep surfaces on either side. The two side can also few based on their firmness and comfort. But ask the seller since most mattresses have just one sleep surface.

Family XL

(Miscellaneous Terms Related to Sleep and Mattresses)

This is the largest mattress size. It is the longer type of the family mattress, with a measurement of 144 inches by 84 inches.

G

Gel Memory Foam

(Foam Mattress)

This is a memory foam with different gels or beads in them. They can differ in sizes, but the point is to enhance the temperature regulatory capabilities of the mattress.

Global Organic Latex Standard

(Mattress Standards and Certification)

This is an organic certification sign given to organic latex that meets the standards. The standards are based on the environmental and social practices engaged in when getting the latex.

Global Organic Textile Standard

(Mattress Standards and Certification)

This is similar to the Global Organic Latex Standard, but it is for all organic textiles like wool and cotton. The textile has to be verified by a third-party and meet certain conditions for environment and social standards.

Greenguard

(Mattress Standards and Certification)

If your mattress has the Greenguard label, it means that it has gone through a review and routine testing that proves it has low emissions. The certification is stricter than others.

GABA

(Miscellaneous Terms Related to Sleep and Mattresses)

This is Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid, which can be found in OTC sleep aids. It is used to calm the brain activity, thereby leading to sleep.

Gel-Infused Memory Foam

(Miscellaneous Terms Related to Sleep and Mattresses)

This is a type of memory foam that has gel in it, making it feel cooler. Having gel-infused memory foam is helpful when sleeping during hot days.

Ginger

(Miscellaneous Terms Related to Sleep and Mattresses)

This is a plant that can be used for different herbal remedies, including treating sleep issues. It also treats anxiety and depression which can lead to insomnia.

H

Hybrid Mattress

(Hybrid and Innerspring Mattress)

This is a type of mattress with a massive comfort system made with foam or latex, and a coil support core. It is a mix between innerspring and all-foam mattresses, which means you can enjoy benefits from both sides.

5-HTP/L-5-Hydroxytryptophan

(Miscellaneous Terms Related to Sleep and Mattresses)

This is an amino acid that you can find in an OTC sleep aid. It is used to create the neurotransmitter serotonin in your body.

Hypersomnia

(Miscellaneous Terms Related to Sleep and Mattresses)

This is a condition in which a person sleeps during the day or sleeps excessively.

Hypnosis

(Miscellaneous Terms Related to Sleep and Mattresses)

This is a state of mind that is similar to unconsciousness or sleep but isn’t.

Hypnotist

(Miscellaneous Terms Related to Sleep and Mattresses)

This is a person trained and licensed to carry out hypnotherapy. They can be found in the clinical setting.

Hypocretin

(Miscellaneous Terms Related to Sleep and Mattresses)

This is an hormone in the brain that promotes wakefulness and controls REM sleep.

Hypoallergenic

(Miscellaneous Terms Related to Sleep and Mattresses)

This is a feature that a material can have. Hypoallergenic materials have a less chance to cause allergic reactions to those with allergies and sensitive skin. They can be found in mattresses too to prevent mildew, mites, mold and allergens.

I

Insulator Layer

(Mattress Construction)

This layer is in between the support core and comfort system of any innerspring mattress. It enhances the feel of the mattress and also stops the sleep surface from dropping into the springs after the mattress has been used constantly.

Indentation Load Deflection

(Foam Mattress)

This is used to calculate how much force is required to compress latex or foam by twenty-five percent. The higher it is, the firmer the mattress. It is also called indentation deflection force.

Innerspring Mattress

(Hybrid and Innerspring Mattress)

This type of mattress is made up of a fabric cover, coil at the core and very little or no cushioning. The demand for innerspring mattresses has dropped, which means not many companies produce it.

Insomnia

(Miscellaneous Terms Related to Sleep and Mattresses)

This is a difficulty in which a person has trouble falling asleep or staying asleep until it’s time to wake up. It can be acute or chronic, which means short- or long-term.

J

Jet Lag

(Miscellaneous Terms Related to Sleep and Mattresses)

This is a temporary type of Circadian Rhythm Sleep Wake Disorder caused when the person travels through different time zones in a short period. It can lead to insomnia.

L

Lemon Balm

(Miscellaneous Terms Related to Sleep and Mattresses)

This is a plant in the mint family that is useful for different remedies, including lulling people to sleep.

Lavender

(Miscellaneous Terms Related to Sleep and Mattresses)

This is a group of flowers that can be used to make oil, under the mint family. Lavender oil can be used in aromatherapy techniques to promote sleep.

Linen

(Miscellaneous Terms Related to Sleep and Mattresses)

This is a type of fabric made from flax, characterized by its lightweight and durable design. It is more sustainable than polyester and cotton when considering production. It can be used to make mattress covers or beddings.

Lyocell

(Miscellaneous Terms Related to Sleep and Mattresses)

This is a type of fabric made from rayon. It is used to create fibers which then form textiles, and these are used to make different kinds of mattress- and sleep-related accessories.

L-Theanine L-y-Glutamylethylamide

(Miscellaneous Terms Related to Sleep and Mattresses)

This is an amino acid that can be sold as an OTC sleep acid. It can also be found in some kinds of teas and mushrooms, but not produced by the human body.

M

Mattress Core

(Mattress Construction)

This is another name for the support layer in the mattress, and can contain air chambers, coils, latex or polyfoam. It makes the mattress sturdier and more supportive.

Mattress Warranty

(Mattress Purchase and Delivery)

Like all other products, mattresses also come with warranty which determines how long the manufacturer would protect you from defects on the material. It can go as high as 25 years depending on the manufacturer.

Memory Foam

(Foam Mattress)

This is also known as viscoelastic foam, and functions as a high-density and close-conforming polyfoam which was first created by NASA. It gives a hugging sensation and is best for transition and comfort layers.

Motion Isolation

(Mattress Performance)

This is how best the mattress can prevent vibrations from one part of the bed meeting another. Like you feeling it when your sleep partner gets out of bed or moves around.

Microcoils

(Hybrid and Innerspring Mattress)

This is a thin layer of coils that doesn’t surpass 3 inches of thickness. It is usually used as a transition layer to enhance the support, temperature control, responsiveness and durability of the mattress.

Minicoils

(Hybrid and Innerspring Mattress)

This is another term to describe microcoils.

Mattress Encasement

(Mattress Accessories and Structure)

This is a protective structure that covers all six sides of a mattress. It is used to protect it from contaminants.

Mattress Topper

(Mattress Accessories and Structure)

This is an additional layer of cushion that you can find on a mattress for extra comfort. They can be up to four inches thick and are used to add to the pressure relief, height, firmness and contouring while reducing the impact of wear and tear on the mattress.

Mattress Cover

(Mattress Accessories and Structure)

This is a material that you wrap around the mattress to protect it from wear and tear. The surface can be protected by normal bedding accessories although it can also be with an integrated fabric that covers all parts of the mattress.

Mattress Protector

(Mattress Accessories and Structure)

This is another type of cover on the surface of all sides of the mattress, but this one prevents mold, mites, allergens and stains. They are usually designed as a fitted sheet that you can remove and wash, and are usually waterproof too.

Magnesium

(Miscellaneous Terms Related to Sleep and Mattresses)

This is an alkaline earth material that can also be sold as an OTC sleep acid. It’s deficiency can lead to fatigue and drowsiness.

Melatonin

(Miscellaneous Terms Related to Sleep and Mattresses)

This is a hormone produced naturally in the pineal gland of a body. Its function is to regulate your sleep cycle. It can be sold in supplements to treat sleep disorders.

MDD

(Miscellaneous Terms Related to Sleep and Mattresses)

This is Major Depressive Disorder, and can be identified by a wide range of sleep disorders and other symptoms like a very low mood. It is serious mental illness with a higher risk of suicide.

Mindfulness

(Miscellaneous Terms Related to Sleep and Mattresses)

This is a state of awareness of your present, usually used in metal health practices to encourage patients to accept their present.

Multiple Sleep Latency Test

(Miscellaneous Terms Related to Sleep and Mattresses)

This is a test used to check for sleep disorders. It can check how long it takes for the patient to sleep and if they ever fall into REM sleep.

Maypop

(Miscellaneous Terms Related to Sleep and Mattresses)

Also called Purple Passionflower, this is a flowering vine that is used for its sedative properties in herbal remedies.

N

Natural Fibers

(Mattress Glossary)

As the name implies, these are fibers gotten from natural sources. These include plants and animals, like cotton and wool which you usually find in mattresses. They can be used in the layers or part of the mattress cover.

Natural Latex

(Latex Mattress)

This is latex made from natural sources. Latex is naturally gotten from rubber tree sap although 5% of it can include other agents used in the curing procedure.

Nanocoils

(Hybrid and Innerspring Mattress)

These are coils that don’t surpass 1 inch of thickness.

N1, N2 and N3

(Miscellaneous Terms Related to Sleep and Mattresses)

These are the first, second and third stages of SWS when you begin falling sleep, then entering a light sleep and then entering a deep sleep, respectively.

Narcolepsy

(Miscellaneous Terms Related to Sleep and Mattresses)

This is a sleep disorder identified by insomnia, cataplexy and hallucinations. It leads to tiredness during the day.

Norepinephrine

(Miscellaneous Terms Related to Sleep and Mattresses)

This is a hormone that decreases when you sleep and increases when you’re awake and stressed. It plays a part in body mobilization.

O

Old-Mattress Removal

(Mattress Purchase and Delivery)

This is a service that usually comes with the White Glove Delivery, where they can remove your old mattress and get rid of it for you.

Organic Latex

(Latex Mattress)

This type of latex is those that meet particular standards for sourcing and processing. The organic certification for latex is the GOLS or the Global Organic Latex Standard.

Off-Gassing

(Mattress Performance)

This is a process that newly manufactured mattresses go through, which involves releasing the chemical odors. Off-gassing in memory foams and polyfoam have more noticeable odors than mattresses with other materials.

OEKO-TEX Standard 100

(Mattress Standards and Certification)

This is a certification that shows that the textile on your mattress was tested for harmful substances.

Offset Coils

(Hybrid and Innerspring Mattress)

These are coils added to mattresses to enhance contouring. They are shaped like hourglasses with squared-off sides and an hinging effect.

Obstructive Sleep Apnea

(Miscellaneous Terms Related to Sleep and Mattresses)

This is a type of sleep apnea in which a person stops and resumes breathing consistently while sleeping or resting.

P

Polybrominated Diphenyl Ethers

(Mattress Construction)

This is a flame retardant. It is used on different customer products like mattresses.

Pillow Top

(Mattress Construction)

This is a type of a comfort layer used to make your mattress feel plushy. It is sown to the top of the mattress, and is usually made of foam or fiber.

Polyurethane Foam

(Foam Mattress)

Popularly called polyfoam, this is a type of foam used to make mattresses. They come with different feelings and can be used in different layers of the mattress.

Point Elasticity

(Mattress Performance)

This is how best the mattress can compress at one part without other parts getting affected by it. Memory foam has better point elasticity while materials with lower elasticity include latex.

Pressure Relief

(Mattress Performance)

This is how much a mattress can reduce force and tension when you lay on it. Those with good pressure relief take care of your shoulders and hips, improving spinal alignment and redistributing your weight.

Pocketed Coils

(Hybrid and Innerspring Mattress)

With this type, each coil is wrapped in fabric sheets and can move individually. This reduces motion transfer and increases contouring when you use the mattress. It is usually found in hybrid mattresses.

Platform Bed

(Mattress Accessories and Structure)

This is a type of bed frame that is built with a slatted or solid base. These beds have a simple design and little to no aesthetics, so they are more affordable and popular.

Parasomnia

(Miscellaneous Terms Related to Sleep and Mattresses)

This is a condition where someone that is unconscious or asleep would do things they usually do when they’re awake. These include driving, chores and even sex. When the condition is severe, it is dangerous for them and those around them.

Pima Cotton

(Miscellaneous Terms Related to Sleep and Mattresses)

This is a type of cotton gotten from the Gossypium Barbadense species of cotton, and it is usually an extra-long staple cotton.

Percale

(Miscellaneous Terms Related to Sleep and Mattresses)

This is a standard kind of weave with an average weight. The thread count usually starts around 200, and it is crisp and easy to wash. It can be used to make beddings and mattress accessories.

Ply

(Miscellaneous Terms Related to Sleep and Mattresses)

This is the number of threads that make up a textile. A manufacturer can twist a particular number of threads together, whether single ply or multi-ply.

Primary Insomnia

(Miscellaneous Terms Related to Sleep and Mattresses)

This is a type of sleeplessness, but this isn’t caused by serious factors like depression or chronic pain.

Q

Quilting Layer

(Mattress Construction)

This layer is made of fibers or foam and is usually stitched to the cover of the mattress to improve the pressure relief. It also makes a mattress more breathable and better at regulating temperature.

R

Responsiveness

(Mattress Performance)

This is when a mattress goes back to its original shape when a weight is removed. This makes them responsive and durable. Coils are best for responsiveness in a mattress.

Rainforest Alliance

(Mattress Standards and Certification)

This program is used to certify that a product was manufactured based on economic, social and environmentally sustainable practices. It is usually used to certify organic latex.

Rayon

(Miscellaneous Terms Related to Sleep and Mattresses)

This is a fiber gotten from plants or a fabric derived from viscose.

REM

(Miscellaneous Terms Related to Sleep and Mattresses)

This means Rapid-Eye Movement Sleep, and it is a stage in the sleep cycle where we dream mostly.

S

Support Layer

(Mattress Construction)

This is also called the mattress core or the base layer, this is the thickest part of the comfort system. The support layer is usually made up of polyfoam or innerspring coils, although air chambers and latex are found in fewer mattresses.

Support Foam

(Foam Mattress)

This is high-density foam made of firm polyfoam. It is usually found in the mattress core.

Synthetic Latex

(Latex Mattress)

This is artificial latex, made from petrochemicals. Although they are more affordable, they also last less then natural latex.

Sinkage

(Mattress Performance)

This is another word for conforming, and it shows how best the mattress molds around your body.

Support Factor

(Mattress Performance)

This is used to compare the amount of force needed to compress the materials like foam or latex to a particular degree. A higher support factor means the mattress offers better support and top quality, although manufacturers don’t usually announce the value.

Sex

(Mattress Performance)

This is a measure of how good a mattress is during intimate activities. It depends on the bounce, the contouring and the edge support.

Support

(Mattress Performance)

This is a measure of how well a mattress keeps up your body and ensures a neutral spinal position while you lay down. The main pillar of support of a mattress is the core, and contouring is also important.

Spinal Alignment

(Mattress Performance)

This shows the position of the spine compared to the way it’s supposed to be, and how it’s aligned to the rest of the body.

Sustainable Furnishings Council

(Mattress Standards and Certification)

This is an organization consisting of retailers and manufacturers, including those in the mattresses market. They are focused on promoting sustainable practices and eco-friendliness.

Serotonin

(Miscellaneous Terms Related to Sleep and Mattresses)

This is an essential neurotransmitter which is useful for regulating the sleep cycle among other functions.

Shift Work Disorder

(Miscellaneous Terms Related to Sleep and Mattresses)

This is another type of a Circadian Rhythm Sleep-Wake Disorder, also called Shift Work Sleep Disorder. It happens when your standard sleep cycle is disrupted because of changes in your daily schedule.

Sleep Deprivation

(Miscellaneous Terms Related to Sleep and Mattresses)

This is when you’re not getting enough quality sleep, and can be associated with health issues like diabetes and stroke.

Secondary Insomnia

(Miscellaneous Terms Related to Sleep and Mattresses)

This is when sleeplessness is caused by another condition like mental illnesses.

Sleep Latency

(Miscellaneous Terms Related to Sleep and Mattresses)

This is a measure of how long it takes for one to fall asleep.

Sleep Tracker Bullet Journal

(Miscellaneous Terms Related to Sleep and Mattresses)

This is the practice of recording hours of sleep with a notebook. It is an analog method with the purpose of making sleep a purposeful focus.

Sleep Hygiene

(Miscellaneous Terms Related to Sleep and Mattresses)

This are sleep-related habits.

Sleep Onset Insomnia

(Miscellaneous Terms Related to Sleep and Mattresses)

This is a condition in which a patient has trouble falling asleep in particular. They might not have trouble getting quality sleep once they fall asleep.

Sinkage

(Miscellaneous Terms Related to Sleep and Mattresses)

This is how much a mattress dips in when it I’d pressed for a long time.

Sleep Cycle

(Miscellaneous Terms Related to Sleep and Mattresses)

This cycle includes stages of REM and deep sleep, which alternate. Adults have 90 minutes for each cycle and up to five cycles per night. In one cycle, there is slow wave sleep, REM and waking up briefly.

Slow-Wave Sleep

(Miscellaneous Terms Related to Sleep and Mattresses)

This is also called deep sleep or Non-REM sleep. It consists of stages N1, N2 and N3 previously explained in this glossary. During this time, the body temperature lowers a little and brain waves become slower.

Spielman Model

(Miscellaneous Terms Related to Sleep and Mattresses)

This is a model used to explain chronic insomnia, and is generally accepted. There are three pillars of the model which include predisposing factors, precipitating triggers and perpetuating habits.

Supima

(Miscellaneous Terms Related to Sleep and Mattresses)

This is a trademark you can find on beddings that are made with American-grown Pima cotton. It is a non-profit organization that gives out these licenses.

T

Transition Layer

(Mattress Construction)

This layer acts as a bridge between the comfort system and the support layer. They aren’t found in all mattress models, but they would improve the comfort of mattresses and also prevent sinking after long-term use.

Ticking

(Mattress Construction)

This is a term used to describe the mattress cover, which determines the durability, comfort and breathability. It can be made from viscose, cotton that has been woven tightly or synthetic blends of fabric.

Trial Period

(Mattress Purchase and Delivery)

This can also be called a sleep trial or at-home trial depending on where it is being purchased from. It allows you to try a mattress in your home and can include a compulsory break-in period. If you’re satisfied, you can then purchase it permanently.

Talalay Latex

(Latex Mattress)

This type of latex is made with the Talalay process, which leads to a soft and airier type. It is made with frothing the sap from the rubber tree, making it into a mold which would be vacuum-sealed and then baking it.

Temperature Control

(Mattress Performance)

This shows how good a mattress is with controlling temperature while you sleep through the different seasons. It depends on the heat retention properties and breathability of a mattress.

Tencel

(Miscellaneous Terms Related to Sleep and Mattresses)

This is a well-known brand name of lyocell fabric. It is gotten from plant sources like eucalyptus. It is usually sourced and manufactured sustainably.

Tart Cherry Juice

(Miscellaneous Terms Related to Sleep and Mattresses)

This is used as an OTC sleep acid. As the name implies, it is a juice made from tart cherries.

Thread Count

(Miscellaneous Terms Related to Sleep and Mattresses)

This is a measure of how many threads per inch in a textile.

Texas King

(Miscellaneous Terms Related to Sleep and Mattresses)

This mattress measures 80 by 98 inches, and is a rectangular bed. It is oversized and way wider and longer then the California king mattress.

Twin XL

(Miscellaneous Terms Related to Sleep and Mattresses)

This bed has a measurement of 38 inches by 80 inches for the width and length respectively. It is longer than the normal twin bed size, and it can only take one sleeper. But, it provides more legroom.

V

Vicks NyQuil

(Miscellaneous Terms Related to Sleep and Mattresses)

This is a popular commercial medicine usually used to enhance the quality of sleep whenever you have a cold or the flu.

Vistaril

(Miscellaneous Terms Related to Sleep and Mattresses)

This is the brand name of hydroxyzine, which is an antihistamine that can treat different problems with sleep. It is also used as anesthesia.

Viscose

(Miscellaneous Terms Related to Sleep and Mattresses)

A fiber used to make rayon fabrics. It is derived from plants in which cellulose is removed with a particular solution.

Volatile Organic Compounds

(Miscellaneous Terms Related to Sleep and Mattresses)

Abbreviated as VOCs, this is a byproduct of certain manufacturing processes, including those for mattresses. It would cause off-gassing and decrease the air quality of a room.

Value

(Miscellaneous Terms Related to Sleep and Mattresses)

Value is a the balance between what the retailer or manufacturer is offering and the quality of the mattress. While the former includes the discounts, price and customer service, the latter features the comfort provided by the mattress.

W

White Glove Delivery

(Mattress Purchase and Delivery)

This is a service offered by mattress retailers in which they can remove your old mattress and dispose of it, set up a new one and dispose of the packaging. It can come at an extra cost.

Wrapped Coils

(Hybrid and Innerspring Mattress)

This is another word used to describe pocketed coils. They can also be called Marshall coils.

White Noise

(Miscellaneous Terms Related to Sleep and Mattresses)

This can also be called background noise but it is a series of different sound waves all on the same intensity. It is used to relax people and help then sleep.

Wyoming King

(Miscellaneous Terms Related to Sleep and Mattresses)

This is the smallest mattress in terms of square and oversized models. It measures 84 inches on all sides, which gives it the same length as the California king. It’s one of the oversized mattresses that fits easier into a bedroom.

Z

Zoned Support

(Mattress Construction)

This is a feature in mattresses that gives you different kinds of firmness on the sleep surface. The zoned support allows you to choose where you want cushioning and support to be on your mattress.