The Science of Cooling Mattresses and How They Improve Sleep

Sleep is essential to our health and well-being, yet many people struggle with it, particularly when heat disrupts their rest. Temperature is one of the most significant environmental factors affecting sleep quality. Excessive heat can lead to restlessness and fragmented sleep, which is where cooling mattresses come into play. Here’s an exploration of the science behind Octave cooling mattresses and how they contribute to improved sleep quality.

Why Temperature Matters for Sleep

Our body’s core temperature naturally decreases as we prepare for sleep, a process regulated by our circadian rhythm. Cooler body temperatures signal the brain to release melatonin, the sleep hormone, helping us transition into deeper, more restful sleep stages. When the surrounding environment is too warm, this natural cooling process is disrupted, leading to discomfort and wakefulness.¹

A cooling mattress, designed to regulate body temperature, can provide a more stable and comfortable environment, supporting this essential drop in body temperature.

Three Great Options to Choose From

Outstanding comfort tailored to every budget.

Best Seller

12" HEIGHT

Octave Vista

Our top-selling memory foam mattress, with an advanced mix of cooling, cushioning, and support.

Cooling
Pressure-Point Relief
Motion Isolation

Starting from

C$599 Shop Now

Popular Upgrade

13" HEIGHT

Octave Mirage

The next level up, engineered for even better cooling, pressure-point relief, and ergonomic support.

Cooling
Pressure-Point Relief
Motion Isolation

Starting from

C$899 Shop Now

Premium Choice

14" HEIGHT

Octave Horizon

The ultimate version of the Octave mattress, designed for Canadians who are serious about sleep.

Cooling
Pressure-Point Relief
Motion Isolation

Starting from

C$1,199 Shop Now

The Technology Behind Cooling Mattresses

Our cooling mattresses incorporate various technologies to enhance temperature regulation. Here are some common cooling methods.

Cooling Fabrics

High-quality covers with materials like CryoFusion™ Cooling Nanofiber or other advanced textiles create a cooling sensation on contact and enhance overall airflow.

Copper-Infused Foams

Copper particles in memory foam act as heat conductors, drawing heat away from the body. Copper also has natural antimicrobial properties, making it a dual-purpose choice in mattress materials.

Gel-Infused Foams and Phase Change Materials (PCMs)

Gel infusions, often in memory foam, dissipate body heat and create a cooler surface. Unlike traditional foam, which can retain heat, gel foams can significantly lower surface temperatures. We apply PolarMAX® phase-change material which helps manage thermal energy by absorbing and releasing heat, helping your Octave stay at the perfect temperature.

Breathable Latex

The aerated latex foam layer found on Octave Mirage and Octave Horizon mattresses is naturally more breathable than foam, and allows for increased airflow. It keeps the sleep surface cooler and reduces moisture buildup, adding to a more pleasant sleep experience.

Air Channels: Enhancing Airflow for Cooler Sleep

Air channels are a game-changer in mattress design, offering a simple yet highly effective solution for improving airflow and temperature regulation. Integrated directly into the mattress layers, these channels create pathways that promote constant air circulation, preventing heat buildup. Unlike traditional foams that can trap body heat, mattresses with air channels allow warm air to dissipate while drawing in cooler air, creating a consistently comfortable sleep environment. This enhanced breathability is particularly beneficial for those who sleep hot, ensuring a cooler, fresher, and more restful night’s sleep.

How Cooling Mattresses Improve Sleep Quality

Our 2024 survey showed that 95% of Octave owners were satisfied with the overall quality of their sleep since switching to the Octave mattress. When we asked Octave mattress owners who had previously tried other bed-in-a-box mattresses, a clear majority said they preferred Octave to any other bed-in-a-box mattress they have ever tried. By addressing temperature fluctuations, cooling mattresses offer several sleep benefits:

• Deeper, Restorative Sleep: A recent article in Nature found that conductive body heat loss during sleep, facilitated by a cooling memory foam mattress, may help increase slow-wave sleep (SWS) and calm the heart². Some researchers believe that slow-wave sleep plays a key role in helping the brain recover and restore itself, as well as in maintaining and strengthening overall sleep quality.³
• Enhanced Comfort for Couples: Mattresses with cooling features can be especially beneficial for couples, as they help manage the combined body heat, minimizing sleep disturbances from overheating.
• Reduced Night Sweats: For individuals prone to night sweats or living in warmer climates, cooling mattresses provide relief from waking up damp or uncomfortable.

Choosing the Right Cooling Mattress

The best cooling mattress for each person may vary based on individual preferences, body type, and sleeping position. Here are some key factors to consider:

• Material and Cooling Technology: Look for mattresses with gel-infused, copper-infused, or phase-change materials, as they are among the most effective cooling options.
• Breathability and Airflow: Consider mattresses with aerated layers or open-cell foams that promote airflow, especially if you tend to sleep hot.
• Firmness Level: Firmer mattresses often sleep cooler than softer ones, as less body sinkage allows for better airflow around the sleeper. However, comfort preferences should guide your firmness choice.
• Temperature Control Layers: For those who experience severe night sweats, Octave’s cooling cover can add an extra layer of temperature regulation.

Conclusion

The science of cooling mattresses goes beyond simple temperature management—it’s about creating an environment that aligns with our body’s natural rhythms for sleep. With advancements in cooling materials and technologies, these mattresses are a valuable solution for anyone seeking restful, undisturbed sleep, regardless of the season. Whether you live in a warm climate, are a naturally warm sleeper, or simply want to optimize your rest, a

1. Temperature and sleep. How our environment affects our sleep. Accessed Nov. 18, 2024.
   https://www.sleepstation.org.uk/articles/sleep-tips/sleep-and-temperature/ ↩︎
2. Enhanced conductive body heat loss during sleep increases slow-wave sleep and calms the heart. Accessed Nov. 19, 2024.
   https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-024-53839-x ↩︎
3. Slow Wave Sleep: Does it Matter? Accessed Nov. 19, 2024
   https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC2824210/ ↩︎