You are probably your own best judge in determining whether or not a mattress suits you personally.
But that does not preclude the Consumer Council from putting 20 mattress samples to a laboratory test for an objective evaluation of their quality and performance - the first in 10 years.
The results contain a wealth of information on issues ranging from body support to lumbar support, permeability for moisture and insulation to durability, and to flammability. Highlights of the test include:
On body support, it was found that most mattresses (14) were judged satisfactory before and after the durability test. But some (5) were notably less satisfactory after the durability test.
On lumbar support (point elasticity), only 1 sample achieved a 4-point score on a 5-point scale. 3 samples with only 1 point were found to have poor lumbar support. The remainders (16) were rated between 2 and 3 points.
On permeability for moisture and insulation, all models were found to be satisfactory lying within physiological limits (of temperature below 36℃ and relative humidity below 60%).
On durability, all models passed the durability test without signs of damage (in coils and fabrics). But 4 models sustained considerable height loss - 2 with more than 9 mm and 2 more than 12 mm.
On flammability, all models were found to be in compliance with the EN597-1 smouldering cigarette test. 8 models were found, however, to be unsatisfactory in the EN597-2 match-flame equivalent test.
According to the Customs and Excise Department, mattresses passing the smouldering cigarette test which is generally adopted in many jurisdictions will be considered as being in compliance with the general safety requirement specified in the Consumer Goods Safety Ordinance.
Nonetheless, suppliers are urged to make their products safer as far as practicable, to enable their products to pass match flame tests.
The attention of consumers was drawn to a common misconception that the firmer the mattress the better or hard mattress provides better support. Actually, the degree of firmness needed depends very much on the body, shape and weight and sleeping position.
So, try before you buy; and if the bed is for two, shop together.
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