Matrafix

When buying a mattress, people often feel overwhelmed and relatively uninformed about its components—especially considering how frequently we use it. An oversaturated market with countless variations and designs makes it difficult to feel truly satisfied with a purchase, not to mention the high prices. Matrafix is an attempt to shed some light on this issue and view the mattress as a simple, configurable product. Often, the differences in quality are not as significant as the price range in which mattresses are offered might suggest. A core made of PU cold foam or innerspring is the standard. This core is then covered with simply glued layers of different foams. Finally, a cover is added, and the product is ready for sale. When a mattress is taken apart, it becomes clear how well the innerspring or foam cores can still be reused. The top layers of a foam core can be removed using a hot wire. The same method can also be used to cut new comfort zones into the foam. This process is illustrated here in a simplified form, but works in the industry in the same way using CNC-controlled hot wires. In innerspring mattresses, the core is surrounded by foam blocks, which can also be easily separated. Disassembling a mattress reveals how interchangeable the individual components are—whether foam parts, layers, the cover, or the core itself. Before reusing the individual components, a thorough cleaning is naturally advisable and likely desired. By exposing the foam parts to UV light, most bacteria can already be rendered inactive.

Additionally, cleaning with steam and heat ensures that the mattress is effectively freed from all contaminants and microorganisms. This type of mattress cleaning is already an established service industry and could easily be integrated into the Matrafix service. Following the cleaning process, the customization takes place. Firmness level, lying comfort, surface texture, and overall feel can be adjusted by selecting different materials and layer thicknesses. In the production of natural mattresses, materials such as coconut fibres, sheep’s wool, cotton, natural latex, or horsehair are commonly used. Mattresses made entirely of such materials often start at a price of €1,000 or more, which is why their market share remains at only about 2%. The refurbishment of mattresses, therefore, provides an opportunity to integrate natural materials into the product cycle—at least partially—making it a much more affordable option for consumers. The long-term goal is to gradually replace foam materials entirely. Matrafix thus combines sustainability and circular economy principles with added value for both consumers and the environment. The benefits of using this service are obvious: there is no need to worry about disposal, it is more cost-effective than purchasing a new mattress, yet highly customizable, and it allows for ongoing consultations and adjustments whenever needed.