What is Tampico? The natural vegan mattress fibre uncovered

With the market for animal-free mattress fibres becoming more popular there are some seemingly new additions to mattress upholstery fibres making an appearance. Tampico is one of the latest fibres to be used in vegan mattresses which we have discussed at length here.

So lets take a look at Tampico a bit closer.

What is Tampico fibre?

Tampico fibre is made from the materials of a plant in areas of northern Mexico. Tampico is also known by its true plant name of “Agave Lechugilla” which grows in semi-arid conditions. You probably better recognise the Agave as a tropical architectural plant of smaller indoor house plants with broad spikey fleshy leaves.

Is Tampico a new fibre?

Tampico is not a new fibre at all but has been around for centuries. it’s only more recently started to be used in super high-end mattresses like Savoirs No4 Vegan mattress here in the UK.

Tampico has been exported for centuries all over the world. In the past Tampico has been used to make rope, cords or as a brush head material.

Is Tampico a good natural fibre?

Tampico fibre is a very resistant and durable natural material. The additional benefit is that it has a delicate, fine and soft texture.  It also has potential abrasive qualities which is why it’s often used around the world as bristles for brushes and brooms when used in its more raw state. Tampico has good water retention, breaks down quickly when composted and has good resistance to both chemicals and heat. Making it a really resilient fibre for mattresses a bit similar to coir or hemp.

What is Tampico used for?

Tampico has been described as “Mexico’s natural wonder” because of its multi-functional natural properties. This fibre is used as an all-natural filling for all sorts of brushes, brooms, tough bristles and mats.