Heveya® Journal
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When it comes to sheets, look no further as our Heveya® Linen Sheets are one of the best sellers in the market. Adored for its beautiful texture and natural look , they’re a great addition to your cosy bedroom.
At Heveya®, we are focused on providing all natural and organic bedding products. Starting with our famous Heveya® mattresses, we have now expanded to Heveya® linen sheets simply because of its breathability which allows you to stay cool and comfortable no matter the weather. This perfectly matches the qualities of our mattresses, making them a formidable duo to have in your bedroom.
Why choose Flax Linen?
Over time, many of us use the term “linen” to generalise bed sheets as a whole. However, the actual meaning of “linen” refers to one particular type of sheet formed by the fibres of a flax plant. When it comes to overall comfort, durability and aesthetics, flax linen is in the forefront of sheets. Let us share with you how these beautifully textured sheets can give you comfortable sleep!
Heat regulating
Most sheets in the market are breathable. However, the breathability of a sheet depends on the way the sheet was woven. Tightly woven sheets prevent proper ventilation which causes the sheet to be less breathable. As for flax linen, the material has a molecular structure which doesn’t require them to be tightly woven together. Linen sheets also can absorb up to 20% of its weight in moisture before feeling damp. Water (sweat) is absorbed and wicked away from the skin and evaporates quickly, leaving you feeling cool and dry throughout the night.
Hypo-allergenic
Linen is also considered a good material for sensitive skin. Due to its breathability, it allows good airflow and is less likely to cling onto the skin. Also, due to its lower thread count and looser weaves, dust and other particles will not be trapped within the material, making flax linen a great choice for those sensitive with allergens.
Easy to care for
It’s a fact that linen fabric requires little maintenance. As it's made of a hardy fibre, you can simply toss it into the washing machine. It will soften with every wash but retains its overall structural integrity.
We would recommend tumble drying the sheets on the lowest temperature. Remove them while they are slightly damp and allow the remaining water to evaporate naturally. Ironing is unnecessary as the creases and natural drape add to its appeal!
Eco-friendly
For Heveya®, working with sustainable materials is important to us. Our linen sheets come from European Flax plantations that are naturally organic because no insecticides, pesticides or chemical fertilisers were used to grow them. Furthermore, these plants need very little irrigation when grown and are minimally processed. Compared to other materials, linen requires less water to create linen products. To put this in perspective, making a linen shirt will only require one quarter of the water to be used for making a cotton shirt.
Flax is a sustainable and environmentally friendly plant source. All parts of the plant are useful and can be fully utilised from fibres to flax seeds, leaving no waste behind. Last but not least, flax linen sheets as the end product are made from 100% natural fibers and are biodegradable. There is no better way to help our planet heal while having a comfortable night's rest.
How flax linen sheets are made
Once flax plants grow, they are then pulled from the ground; this is to ensure that the longest fibres of the flax plant are obtained. After being harvested, the retting process begins. This stage involves the breaking down of the natural adhesives within the plant to separate the fibres. After this, scutching, the separation of long fibres from short fibres and from leftover seeds, is done. Typically short fibres are used to make monetary notes, while the long fibres are used to make textile goods. This ensures that none of the fibres go to waste and the entire plant is fully utilised. Following the scutching process, the fibres are then combed for any impurities, then they are spun in heated water around 60°C. This is to allow the fibres to turn into threads. After this, it is woven to form a sheet and ready to be fitted across your bed for a comfortable night's sleep!
Sealing the deal
Flax linen is great value for money! As one of the strongest natural plant fibres in the world, linen sheets can last for many years. So don't worry if you like to toss and turn throughout the night or wash your bed sheets often.
Due to its unique properties, flax linen sheets get softer and more comfortable with each wash as well. You may have heard the term “Stonewashed Linen”. As the name suggests, it refers to linen which undergoes washing through abrasive means to achieve a softer texture. For longevity reasons, Heveya® Flax Linen Sheets didn’t go through this process and therefore, the sheets still retain their natural crispness and you’ll get to enjoy these sheets for many years to come!
Flax linen sheets are a must have!
Made from 100% ethically sourced and certified organically grown flax, Heveya® Linen Sheets are luxurious, breathable, hypoallergenic, antimicrobial and temperature regulating. Certified with Oekotex Class-1, our sheets are free from chemicals and even safe for babies. Check out our linen sheets sets here. They come with everything you need to make your bed look inviting and give you your well-deserved rest.
Don’t worry if linen is not your cup of tea, we also carry silky-soft bamboo lyocell sheets which are also cooling and breathable, perfect for Singapore's warm weather.
When it comes to a good night's sleep, comfort and support are important, which can't be achieved with bedsheets alone. Having a good mattress is the most important ingredient! Head down to our showroom to see how our Heveya® organic latex mattresses pair with our bedsheets to achieve the cosiness you need.
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Feeling a bit lost navigating the world of latex mattresses? You’re certainly not alone. Terms like blended, natural, organic, Dunlop, and Talalay get thrown around a lot, so it’s worth clarifying what they mean when you’re trying to find the best bed for a good night’s sleep
You might be wondering what the differences are between these types of latex? Does it really affect sleeping comfort or how soundly you sleep? And why do some types cost quite a bit more? These are really good questions, and it's easy to feel a bit lost with all the options.
Right then, let’s make it clear! This guide will simply explain the differences between blended, natural, and organic latex. We'll also explain what processing methods like Talalay mean for comfort, and introduce you to Dunlop, the method Heveya® mattresses are created from. The aim? To give you the knowledge you need to choose wisely, without the confusing technical jargon.
Before We Dive In: What Actually is Latex Foam Anyway?
Before comparing the labels, let's quickly touch on the basics. What is this bouncy stuff we call latex foam?
Ever wonder where latex mattresses come from? It starts as a milky white liquid sap tapped right out of rubber trees, called Hevea brasiliensis. This natural sap is the key ingredient for that bouncy mattress foam, and it's gathered responsibly, mainly in warmer parts of the world.
Of course, raw tree sap isn't mattress-ready. It needs processing. The liquid latex is mixed with curing agents and then baked in a mould. This process, called vulcanisation, turns the liquid into the stable, elastic foam used in bedding.
So, why do people enjoy latex mattresses? Latex foam boasts several great natural properties:
•Unique Buoyancy: It offers a springy, responsive feel, pushing back gently for support without that 'stuck' feeling some foams give.
•Excellent Support & Pressure Relief: It moulds to your body, helping keep your spine aligned while cushioning pressure points like hips and shoulders.
•Durability: High-quality latex, especially natural and organic types, is incredibly resilient and can last for many years (think 15-20+) without sagging.
•Breathability: Its natural open-cell structure lets air circulate, helping dissipate heat and moisture for a cooler sleep compared to many synthetic foams.
Now that we've got the basics, let's tackle those potentially confusing labels.
Unpacking the Labels: Blended vs Natural vs Organic Latex Explained
Understanding these terms helps you know what you’re really buying when looking at latex mattress types.
Blended Latex: The Budget-Friendly Mix
First up is blended latex. As the name implies, it’s not purely from the rubber tree.
What it is: Basically, it's a blend. It mixes some natural latex (from rubber trees) with man-made latex. The man-made bit is usually a type called SBR, which is based on petroleum (like oil products). The amounts in the mix can vary quite a lot; some have loads of man-made stuff, others are closer to half natural, half man-made (like 50/50), or even mostly natural.
Why it exists: The primary purpose of blended latex is to balance cost with performance. High-quality natural latex is more expensive and has a fluctuating supply. By combining it with a more cost-effective synthetic latex, manufacturers can ensure steady production and offer mattresses at a more accessible price point.
Pros: Generally the most affordable latex option; can still offer some latex bounce; potentially consistent feel.
Cons: Less natural material means fewer pure latex benefits (like breathability); contains petroleum chemicals; potential for more initial off-gassing smells; reduced durability, as cheap 'fillers' like chalk are often added, causing the mattress to deteriorate much faster.
Key Takeaway: A blended latex mattress mixes natural and man-made materials, mainly for affordability. It’s a compromise.
Natural Latex: Straight from the Tree (Almost!)
A significant step towards a plant-based option.
What it is: This foam is made almost entirely from rubber tree sap. It's the go-to for those wanting a more natural sleep surface without needing full organic certification.
Clarification - The Small Print
Turning sap into foam requires a few processing aids (like curing agents). This means 'natural' latex isn't 100% pure sap in the end. However, quality natural latex must contain at least 95% natural rubber. Be wary of vague labels like "made with natural latex" – true natural latex shouldn't be a blend.
Pros: Much more eco-friendly than blended (uses a renewable resource); offers fantastic natural elasticity, support, and bounce; highly durable; naturally breathable for cooler sleep; less potential for chemical smells; naturally hypoallergenic (resists dust mites/mould).
Cons: Costs more than blended latex due to harvesting/processing expenses; the term "natural" isn't as strictly regulated as "organic," so quality can vary (look for transparency!).
Important Note: Remember, natural vs organic latex are distinct. Natural latex comes from nature but doesn't automatically meet strict organic standards. Let's look at that now.
Organic Latex: The Top Tier for Purity and Peace of Mind
This is the premium standard, focusing on purity, health, and environmental care.
What it is: Organic latex is natural latex, but produced under much stricter, certified guidelines from farm to factory.
How it's Different – The Journey Matters:
•The Farm: Rubber trees must be grown on plantations following rigorous organic farming standards – absolutely no synthetic pesticides, herbicides, or chemical fertilisers. This promotes biodiversity, protects the environment, and ensures the raw sap is purer.
•The Factory: Processing the sap into foam also meets strict organic criteria, often limiting processing agents and favouring safer alternatives, alongside eco-sound manufacturing.
•The Proof: Genuine organic latex requires certification. The most recognised global standard is GOLS (Global Organic Latex Standard). Look for this logo! It guarantees the latex meets strict environmental/social criteria and contains at least 95% certified organic raw latex. Other labels like eco-INSTITUT (low emissions) can complement GOLS.
Quick Fact: GOLS certification covers latex purity and fair labour practices plus responsible wastewater treatment.
Pros: Highest purity, minimising chemical exposure (ideal for sensitivities); most eco-friendly, supporting sustainable practices; exceptional durability and comfort; biodegradable; provides peace of mind via verifiable certification (GOLS).
Cons: Typically the most expensive type due to stringent requirements, certification costs, and often higher farming expenses.
Key Takeaway: Organic latex (especially GOLS certified) is the premium choice for health, eco-consciousness, and verified purity. You pay more for the highest standard.
What About "Talalay"? Demystifying the Latex Making Process
You often see "Talalay" mentioned Natural Talalay Latex, Organic Talalay Latex. What does that signify?
Crucially, Talalay is NOT a type of latex material.
Think of baking again. You have your flour (latex source: natural or organic). Then you choose how to bake – a standard oven or maybe a fancy steam method. Talalay is one of those methods.
Dunlop and Talalay: Understanding the Latex Making Process
You will often see the terms "Dunlop" and "Talalay" used when discussing latex. It's crucial to know that these are not types of latex material, but rather the two primary manufacturing processes used to create the foam. Think of it like cooking: You start with the same high-quality ingredient (natural latex sap), but use a different recipe to achieve a unique result.
At Heveya®, we have proudly chosen the time-tested Dunlop method to create our mattresses. Let's explore both processes.
The Dunlop Process (The Heveya® Method)
The Dunlop process is the original, classic method for creating latex foam. Its elegant simplicity results in a mattress that is naturally supportive, resilient, and extremely durable.
1.Mix and Pour: The liquid latex sap is frothed with air and poured to completely fill the mattress mould.
2.Vulcanisation (Baking): The mould is baked in a large oven, causing the liquid to cure and set into a solid, supportive block of latex foam.
What the Dunlop Process Achieves (The Feel & Performance):
1.Naturally Supportive & Firm: This often refers to the Dunlop process, where gravity creates a denser base, resulting in a 'progressive support' feel. In contrast, the Talalay process creates a more uniform softness throughout, offering a distinctly different type of comfort.
2.Extremely Durable: Dunlop latex is renowned worlwide for its exceptional durability and longevity. It holds its shape and provides consistent support for many years.
3.Eco-Efficient: As a simpler process, it requires less energy to produce, aligning with a more sustainable approach to manufacturing.
The Talalay Process
The Talalay process is a more complex, multi-stage method.
1.Partial Fill & Vacuum: The mould is only partially filled with latex, then sealed and vacuumed. This expands the latex to fill the entire mould, making it feel more uniformed.
2.Flash Freezing: The expanded foam is flash-frozen, which locks an open, interconnected cell structure in place.
3.Vulcanisation (Baking): The frozen block is then baked to cure the foam.
What the Talalay Process Achieves (The Feel & Performance):
•Softer & Bouncier: Due to the air infused by the vacuum and freezing steps, Talalay often feels lighter and more buoyant than Dunlop of a similar firmness.
•Consistent Cell Structure: The process creates a very uniform cell structure from top to bottom.
Putting It All Together
Both Dunlop and Talalay can be used to process natural or organic latex sap. An "Organic Talalay" mattress uses organic sap with the Talalay method, while a "Organic Dunlop" mattress uses organic sap with the Dunlop method.
Heveya®'s choice to use the Dunlop process is a deliberate one, focused on delivering a mattress with unparalleled support, proven durability, and a more eco-efficient production footprint.
Why the Price Difference? Is Organic Latex Worth It?
You've seen the price pattern: Blended is cheapest, Natural mid-range, Organic is premium. Why? And crucially, is organic latex worth it?
Let's break down costs:
•Blended: Cheapest due to lower synthetic material costs.
•Natural: More expensive due to labour-intensive harvesting/transport/processing of rubber sap.
•Organic: Most expensive due to: stricter organic farming (often lower yields, higher labour); costly GOLS certification (audits, compliance); potentially segregated processing needs; the premium paid for verified purity.
•Talalay Process: More complex and energy-intensive than Dunlop, adding cost regardless of latex source.
So, Is Organic Talalay Worth the Extra Spend?
1. The "Organic" Component (The Source & Purity)
This is what the GOLS (Global Organic Latex Standard) certification guarantees. It focuses on health and environmental impact.
•Source: The rubber tree sap is harvested from plantations that do not use chemical pesticides or herbicides.
•Purity: The processing of the sap into foam is done without harmful chemicals, ensuring the final product is as pure and non-toxic as possible.
•Benefit: Peace of mind for health (ideal for those with chemical sensitivities), and a more sustainable, eco-friendly product.
2. The "Talalay" Component (The Feel & Performance)
This is a sophisticated, multi-step manufacturing process that creates a specific type of latex foam. It's often contrasted with the simpler Dunlop process.
•Process: The mold is only partially filled with latex, which is then expanded by a vacuum to fill the space. It is flash-frozen to lock in an open-celled structure, and then baked (vulcanized).
•Resulting Feel: This creates a remarkably consistent, "buoyant," and cloud-like foam. It feels softer and offers more contouring pressure relief than Dunlop of the same firmness level.
•Key Benefit:
•Superior Pressure Relief: Excellent for side sleepers and those with shoulder or hip pain.
•Unmatched Breathability: The flash-freezing step creates a very open and consistent cell structure, allowing for maximum airflow. Talalay is widely considered the most breathable and cool-sleeping latex available.
Making Your Choice: A Quick Cheat Sheet for Latex Types
Feeling clearer? Here’s a simple guide:
Feature
Blended Latex
Natural Latex
Organic Latex (GOLS Certified)
Source
Mix: Natural + Synthetic (SBR)
Mostly Rubber Tree Sap (>95%)
Certified Organic Rubber Tree Sap (>95%)
Purity
Contains Petrochemicals
High Natural Content
Highest Purity, Verified
Eco-Friendly
Least
Good (Renewable Resource)
Best (Sustainable Farming)
Health Focus
Lower
Good (Hypoallergenic)
Best (Minimal Chemicals)
Feel
Varies; Can be less 'latex-like'
Good
Excellent
Breathability
Okay to Good
Good
Excellent
Durability
Good
Good
Excellent
Certification
Good
Quality varies
GOLS is the key standard
Price
(Most Affordable)
(Mid-Range)
(Premium)
Remember the Process:
•Talalay Process: Generally softer, bouncier, more breathable. Often for comfort layers. Adds cost.
•Dunlop Process: Generally denser, firmer, more supportive. Often for support cores. Less expensive process.
The most crucial decision is not what you can afford today, but what offers the best value over 20 years. Therefore, the first step should be to commit to a high-quality, durable mattress built to last. Only after making this foundational decision should you refine your selection by considering the source material (like the certified purity of Organic) or the specific feel offered by the Talalay and Dunlop processes.
Your Path to Truly Restorative Sleep: The Heveya® Natural Organic Latex Mattress
Thinking that pure, healthy, and comfy organic latex sounds right for you? We agree! We're passionate about how nature helps us sleep well. That’s the reason the Heveya® mattress is carefully made with certified natural organic latex.
Choosing Heveya® means choosing:
•Pure & Healthy Sleep: Certified organic latex and natural materials mean no harmful pesticides or unnecessary chemicals. Better for you, kinder to the planet.
•Tailored Comfort & Support: Organic latex is both soft for comfort and supportive enough to keep your spine nicely lined up while you sleep.
•Naturally Cool & Breathable: The open-cell latex structure plus natural covers promote airflow, helping regulate temperature for undisturbed sleep.
•A Durable Investment: Organic latex is highly durable, long-lasting and offers a comfortable sleep.
•Naturally Hypoallergenic: It naturally keeps dust mites and mould away, which is great for allergy sufferers and means a cleaner bedroom.
Buying a Heveya® Natural Organic Latex Mattress isn't just getting a bed, it's choosing deeper, more refreshing sleep and creating a healthier space for yourself. Investing in a Heveya® Natural Organic Latex Mattress is more than buying a bed; it's choosing deeper, restorative sleep and creating a healthy sanctuary. For our customers in Singapore, you can also explore our LUX Mattress features two layers of natural organic latex paired with an additional plush Talalay Latex Topper, available at our Takashimaya counter.
Ready for a Naturally Better Night's Sleep?
Experience the pure comfort, support, and peace of mind of a Heveya® Natural Organic Latex Mattress. Discover the difference quality materials make.
Conclusion: Choosing Your Perfect Latex
So, that's the main takeaway on Blended, Natural, and Organic Talalay Latex. Hopefully, it all makes more sense now! Just remember the basics: Blended is a mix, often about saving money. Natural comes mostly from trees and works really well. Organic offers top purity and is best for the planet. And Talalay is simply how it's made, usually giving a softer, bouncier feel than the firmer Dunlop method.
Knowing this helps you ignore the confusing ads and pick the mattress that's truly right for you, what you like, what you can spend, and what matters most to you. Choosing a comfy mattress is genuinely looking after your health. Sleep well!
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Pillows are among the key requirements for a good night’s sleep. Without the right pillow, you get less rest and can even suffer from neck and back pain due to lack of support. In that sense, investing in a good pillow is an investment in your health! and for many, that means finding the right pillow for back pain.
This is why it’s so important to choose a good pillow. It’s equally important to understand that one-size-fits-all doesn’t apply here. Different people have different preferences and sleeping habits, so there will be variations in the ideal pillows for them.
Fortunately, there are ways to figure out what kind of pillow you should get. Here, we’ll give you a quick guide to seeking out a pillow that can get you through an uninterrupted night’s sleep.
What kind of sleeper are you?
You should first assess what kind of sleeper you are. Do you sleep on your side? On your belly? Or do you lie down on your back? Or a combination of them all? Whichever it is, it determines what kind of pillows you should get. That’s because the way you sleep tells you what sort of support your neck and spine require when you’re in bed. Back sleepers should get thin pillows that won’t throw their head forward. That’s because having their heads thrown forward puts stress on their necks.
Side sleepers should opt for a high pillow, on the other hand. That can help keep their neck and spine aligned while providing good support. The width of your shoulders will also affect the ideal thickness of your pillow. This is because the pillow fills the space between the neck and the shoulder for a side sleeper. Thus, a person with wide shoulders will need a thicker pillow than someone with narrow shoulders. After all, there will be more space between the first person’s neck and shoulder.
As for front sleepers (those who sleep on their bellies), they should get a flat pillow. This is to make sleeping comfortable for them and avoid misalignment of the neck and spine by pushing the head backwards.
That said, the best way to find a pillow is really to try them in a showroom. This will let vendors assess if you like to toss and turn. Usually, they will take that information as well as the position in which you fell asleep as a gauge. From there, they can suggest a suitable pillow for you.
What kind of material should it be?
Now, aside from pillow shape and firmness, you have to think about the pillow’s material as well. There are different materials used in pillows, with different pros and cons. You have to think about your needs, such as if you’re allergic to certain materials, if your skin is sensitive, if the material is washable, and so on.
Here are the main types of pillows based on material:
Microfiber Pillows
It’s the cheapest choice around, washable, and can come in different sizes. However, microfiber pillows don’t last very long, aren’t too breathable, and wear out easily.
Down/Feather Pillow
A classic choice, feather pillows can be moulded to suit your neck. However, the maintenance of these pillows can be quite difficult. They need professional cleaning and can get flattened easily, so they may be a bad choice for those who prefer firmer pillows.
Kapok Pillows
A vegan alternative of a down pillow, kapok is soft and free from toxic materials. However, it can’t hold its shape and is highly flammable. Its fine fibre also can trigger allergies for those who have sensitive airways.
Memory Foam Pillows
One of the newer options, memory foam can mould into a person’s neck and back to help with support and sleep quality. However, this foam is not ideal in hot climates due to it being dense and heat-retentive.
Latex Pillows
Natural latex is often confused with memory foam. That’s because both contour to the shape of the head and neck. However, natural latex is chemical-free and can be told apart easily from the way they “rebound” after use. Natural latex pillows are bouncy, whereas memory foam ones do a slow release.
Natural latex pillows are an ideal pillow type. Hypoallergenic and breathable, they offer ample support and are durable, making them a wise investment for your sleep and an excellent pillow for back pain. As long as you’re willing to pay a good sum, a natural latex pillow is a wise investment for your sleeping.
An example of a great latex pillow is the Heveya® pillow, made of 100% natural organic latex. With an open cell structure and pincore holes, it doesn’t retain heat and is breathable. What’s more, it repels dust mites naturally and has a mould resistant core, making it naturally hypoallergenic. It also comes with a removable bamboo cover for easy washing so you can always have a hygienic and healthy sleep.
Firmness and form preferences aren’t a problem either, as Heveya® pillows come in different firmness options and shapes and sizes. You can get it through our online shop, so take a look at them if you want the best when it comes to latex pillows. These latex pillows can help you sleep all night with no interruptions.
Get the best of sleep
Take note, however, that the pillow is only one part of what you need for restful sleep. It needs to go with the right mattress or you may still find yourself unable to relax in your bed. If you don't know how to pick the right mattress or where to get one, try this list of the best mattresses in Indonesia. Putting the right pillow with one of those mattresses should help you sleep sweeter than ever before.
