The Hohenstein Institute, a Germany-based textile research and testing laboratory, has developed a chemical-free mattress that protects against dust mites and bed bugs. Dr. Dirk Höfer, director of the Institute for Hygiene and Biotechnology, determined the technology, originally intended to protect against dust mites, would also be effective in protecting against bed bugs. "In general, house dust mites and bed bugs have the same preferences in terms of their living conditions: they live in close proximity to people and love the warm, moist atmosphere of mattresses so they multiply there extremely quickly."

The goal was to create a hostile environment for dust mites and bed bugs on and inside of a mattress by increasing the temperature and decreasing humidity. Flexible textile heating elements distributed throughout the mattress's core are used to heat the mattress twice a week, ensuring the temperature remains at 55ºC and the humidity is below 40 percent. A special power supply unit prevents dangerous electric shocks and the formation of electrosmog, which can cause interference and health problems. Because the mattress's temperature can be controlled, the system also may be used in cold weather as an alternative to an electric blanket.

"For many people, thanks to this new mattress it will now at last be possible to enjoy an undisturbed night's sleep, without insect bites or allergic reactions," Höfer said.

April 19, 2011