FAQS

At the heart of each mattress and pillow we create is our iconic TEMPUR® Material, born from NASA technology. In the late 60s, NASA scientists invented a completely new material that was then used onboard the Space Shuttles. Our founders realized the material’s unique potential. So they took that original NASA invention and spent years perfecting it into TEMPUR® Material and created the world’s first viscoelastic mattress and pillow.

First proving its value in the healthcare sector, TEMPUR® is now found in bedrooms around the world, transforming the sleep of millions. It’s why we’re the only mattress and pillow brand recognised by NASA for improving the quality of life. This honour sets us apart, keeps us humble and inspires us to continually innovate, for sleep that’s out of this world - and it all started with those original NASA scientists.

FAQS

Buying a new mattress is a big investment, and the decision about which one to choose shouldn't be taken lightly. It's something you'll spend a third of your life in for the next 10 years (as long as you choose the right one of course).


We know that TEMPUR® very different from the conventional mattresses that are available today. So to help you decide if a TEMPUR® mattress could be right for you we've collected all of our most commonly asked questions together..


Q: How is the TEMPUR® mattress different?
A: The one thing that all conventional (spring, waterbed, memory foam) mattresses have in common is that they force the user to conform to them. With TEMPUR®, the mattress actually conforms to the body.


Q: But why is this better?
A: Engineered to conform to your body shape, when you lay on a TEMPUR® mattress, not only will you experience pressure relieving properties, but also support where you need it for true, restful sleep.


Q: Can I try it out before I decide to buy it?
A: YES! With our 100 night trial you can try out a TEMPUR® mattress from any of our current collections listed online with the exception of products found in the Outlet section. (Unless indicated otherwise, mattresses listed in Outlet are excluded from our extended home trial.) We are confident you will love your new bed, but if you change your mind, simply get in touch and we will arrange to collect your order from you. Currently returns from a UK Mainland address are free, In the event this service is chargeable, the cost would be £72.00. We recommend you retain both your packaging and old mattress until you are certain TEMPUR® is the right sleep solution for you. Please see our Returns Policy for further details.


What about the practical aspects....

Q: Do I need to turn the TEMPUR® mattress?
A: No, in fact the TEMPUR® mattress should never be turned.


Q: TEMPUR® mattresses have removable covers. How do I look after them?
A: One of the advantages of owning a TEMPUR® mattress from our TEMPUR® current collections is that all models have removable covers.* Most can unzipped, removed and machine washed at either 40°C or 60°C. (This task is easier with two people.) In addition our Elite and Luxe models have been designed with QuickRefresh™ tops. This means you only need unzip, remove and wash the top layer which you directly sleep on. It is important when you launder your mattress cover that you always follow the manufacturer's instructions which can be found on a label stitched inside.


*A few models may have TEMPUR® Material such as soft-touch embedded or quilted into their covers. These can still be unzipped and removed, but for airing only. Again we recommend you check the label stitched inside the cover after you have taken it off. Also because we are always looking to improve our products, TEMPUR® owners of older models should check the care instructions of their mattress carefully. Some models such as the TEMPUR® Celebrity 31 could have covers which cannot be removed or washed.


So just to re-cap, as a general rule of thumb, if your mattress has TEMPUR® Material embedded or quilted into the cover (this applies to the majority of older 'Deluxe' models,) while it may be removed for airing, it is not washable. Any subsequent washing will invalidate your guarantee.


We also recommend the use of a TEMPUR® Mattress Protector to keep your bed nice and fresh.


If you are not sure, please call us on 0800 0111 083 during regular office hours for further advice. You may also find some use hints and tips on our Caring for TEMPUR® page.


Q: Can I use an electric blanket with my TEMPUR®mattress?
A: We would not recommend using an electric blanket with a TEMPUR® mattress as the mattress works best with your natural body heat, so you may not feel the optimum support if an electric blanket is used. However, if you would still prefer to use an electric blanket, we would suggest an over blanket rather than an under blanket. An over blanket will be perfectly safe to use and will not damage the mattress.


Q: Can the TEMPUR® pillow be washed?
A: The actual TEMPUR® pillow, made from TEMPUR® Material, cannot be washed. Contact with water or cleaning fluids will damage it. However most TEMPUR® pillows have a removable washable cover. This item can be laundered in accordance with the washing instructions found on the label sewn inside the pillow cover.

*Please note for older models such as the TEMPUR® Deluxe Pillow, if the cover cannot be removed do not attempt to wash it. There is a high possibility you will cause irreversible damage, destroying the benefits which the patented TEMPUR® Material provides.


Q: So, how does it work? What's it made from?
A: The TEMPUR® pressure relieving material is composed of billions of viscoelastic spherical shaped, open cells. The cells respond to your body temperature and weight then shift and re-organise their position to mould to the exact contours of your body. It becomes softer in warmer areas (where your body is making the most contact with the surface) and remains firmer in cooler areas (where less body contact is being made).


Q: Won't it make me feel hot?
A: We get this question often, but in fact, sleeping warm on a TEMPUR® mattress is not an issue that our owners raise frequently. Our mattresses are designed to respond to your body temperature, which activates their ability to conform to your body, offering support and reducing pressure points. It is worth noting that with the improved support and reduced pressure points on your body, you may find you need lighter bedding. If you feel warmer, try using a lower tog duvet, breathable bedding and keep your room well ventilated.


Q: I've seen references to NASA associated with TEMPUR®. What's the connection?
A: At the heart of each mattress and pillow we create is our iconic TEMPUR® Material, born from NASA technology. In the late 60s, NASA scientists invented a completely new material that was then used onboard the Space Shuttles. Our founders realized the material’s unique potential. So they took that original NASA invention and spent years perfecting it into TEMPUR® Material and created the world’s first viscoelastic mattress and pillow.

First proving its value in the healthcare sector, TEMPUR® is now found in bedrooms around the world, transforming the sleep of millions. It’s why we’re the only mattress and pillow brand recognised by NASA for improving the quality of life. This honour sets us apart, keeps us humble and inspires us to continually innovate, for sleep that’s out of this world - and it all started with those original NASA scientists.


FACT:
Many people believe that waterbeds give you almost perfect support by allowing your body to ‘float’ in a natural position. In fact, due to displacement the waterbed creates what experts call the “hammock effect.” This is an unnatural and unhealthy curve of the spine resulting from improper support. The TEMPUR® mattress allows your spine to rest in its natural position, giving you optimum sleeping posture and comfort.


FACT:
Fully sprung mattresses covered by quilted thickly padded ticking mean you are lying on row after row of coiled sprung metal. This often creates pressure points that can cause painful joints and an aching back. The viscoelastic material in the TEMPUR® mattress moulds to your body, adjusting to your body weight, and distributing it evenly, reducing pressure and providing maximum support. Our TEMPUR® Hybrid Collection incorporates Precision™ Micro Coils in the base layer for those customers who prefer a faster response, but want the benefits that TEMPUR® Material brings too.


FACT:
Several copy visco mattresses are available today, but they are not viscoelastic and do not have the density of the TEMPUR® Material or its durability of 10 years. The TEMPUR® open cell viscoelastic material moulds to the exact contours of your body, giving you maximum support and pressure relief where you need it most.