The primary task of a hotel room is to provide its guests with a sound sleep. The primary task of a hotel room is to provide its guests with a sound sleep.

What are some of the latest technologies in the world of beds and bedding for the hospitality industry?

Farah Aslam: The latest technology that we offer our clients includes anti-microbial bed linen, along with ‘ready to use’ linen. These fabrics are specially treated to deter bacteria, even at lower washing temperatures, whilst always smelling fresh. Additionally ‘ready to use’ linen is perfect for new [hotel] openings, since it can be placed directly from the box to the bed.

Pinar Tunali: As a manufacturer of bedding materials, we look to offer new products featuring the latest technology. A product that is a result of some of the latest technological advancements is the ‘temperature-regulating fabric’ that helps balance body temperature.

Elisabeth Hintermann: We manufacture all-natural ecological and biological products without any chemicals. We cultivate our cotton from pesticide-free farming and see it through till the final fabric. Another advancement is the hydrophilic technical equipment made from a special weaving technique. This enables quicker release and reabsorption of moisture, which gives our products softness and renders good quality as well. We also have specialised chemical treatments to meet cruise liners requirements featuring flame-retardant equipment along with products for wellness resorts with vitamin E treatment for anti-aging bedding. These are all based on customers’ requests and wishes.

Balan Somasundaram: Natural and eco-friendly products are increasingly being preferred. We have recently launched the Cloud Nine Symphony series of mattresses featuring a seven zone natural latex core that eliminates pressure points and improves blood circulation. We have also introduced mattresses with bamboo fibre tickings which are natural products, biodegradable and cause no environmental pollution while being tenacious and stable. Organic cotton fabric, which is biologically grown with low impact on environment, is another alternative offered by us to provide a safe and healthy sleeping experience.

What factors should hoteliers consider when choosing beds?

Farah Aslam: There should be a ‘comfort plan’, and design set up for the bed in a hotel room. The mattress is obviously the main element along with its composition, however, other elements such as the mattress topper/feather bed, memory foam pillows, leg pillows, contour pillows etc. are equally important. These elements, that used to be optional, have become key among many hotel groups. Even if a hotelier purchases a top-of-the-line mattress, the pillow set-up can ‘make or break’ the bed.

Elisabeth Hintermann: Hotels need to enthral their guests. Attributes such as longstanding trust [in quality products], long life and extended warranty periods should be guaranteed. Mühldorfer also retails its mattresses when guests have enjoyed their experience and would like to extend the experience to their homes.

Balan Somasundaram: Hoteliers should primarily look for comfort and durability. They also have to ensure consistency in quality while choosing beds. They should look at whether the critical components of a mattress like the springs, the foam and fibre are manufactured in-house or not, as in-house manufacturing will ensure quality consistency.

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