Bed frame

• Made from non-toxic natural materials such as solid wood, rattan, or bamboo – no large metal parts
• No finish or vapor permeable finishes (e.g. natural oil or wax finishes)
• Top edge of headboard to mattress ≥ 40 cm (16 in) to protect against drafts (especially with cold exterior walls)
• Rounded shapes to prevent injury
• Bed height ≥ 60 to 70 cm (24 to 28 in) for easy and safe getting in and out and to avoid exposure to potential electromagnetic fields from the floor
• Bed length: body height +25 cm (10 in) / bed width: ≥ 90 cm (35 in) per person

Bed slats (usually placed on a bed frame or foundation)

• Frame made of untreated solid wood – no large metal parts
• Narrow cross slats or rods made of pre-stressed glued laminated wood – flexibility should be checked annually; replace worn slats (e.g. in the pelvic area) with intact slats (e.g. in the foot area)
• Bed slats mounted flexibly, e.g. on rubber profiles or latex strips
• Adjustable to body weight and/or back problems (adjustable “multi-zone slatted bed frames”)
• Possibly adjustable head and foot sections
• Avoid electromagnetic pollution, e.g. do not use electric motors or unplug the motor at night

Mattress

• Good comfort: flexible and supportive at the same time
• Optimally coordinated with slatted frame (complete bed system!)
• Tailored to body weight, typically 12 to 24 cm (5 to 10 in) thick
• Good thermal insulation and air permeability
• Absorbs and wicks away sweat
• Free of metal (e.g. no metal innersprings)
• Free of toxins, odorless or pleasant odor (may need to be aired for a few weeks/months before use) Natural materials such as kapok, hemp, sheep’s wool, horsehair, coconut, 100% natural latex – mattresses often consist of several layers of different materials (for more information on natural latex, see GOLS – Global Organic Latex Standard and QUL – Quality Association for Environmentally Friendly Latex Mattresses)

Mattress topper

• Mattress toppers are easier to air than mattresses because they are much lighter.
• Replace approximately every 4 years (due to body odor)
• Ideal: sheep’s wool or camel hair – good thermal insulation combined with high moisture absorption

Duvet and pillow

• The right balance between heat insulation and heat dissipation, as sweating or feeling cold can significantly affect your quality of sleep. An all-season duvet is ideal, combining a thicker and a thinner duvet depending on the season or room temperature.
• Choose a duvet that is appropriate for your height (if you are over 180 cm / 6 ft tall, the duvet should be about 220 cm / 7.2 ft long).
• Ideal materials: cellulose fibers, cotton, hemp, linen. Animal materials absorb and wick moisture better: sheep’s wool, cashmere, camel hair, or angora.
• Customized neck support pillows with a supportive or yielding feel (consult an orthopedist if you have neck or back problems).
• The pillow has a greater influence on the depth of sleep than the mattress, so it is best to try different options.