Hi Anita,

Many thanks for your question on horsehair and horsetail mattresses and the differences between types of horsehair in bed making.

The quick answer to your question is that usually, white horsetail commands a higher price point. Not because it has any noticeable difference to black or brown horsetail but because it is rarer. People perceive it as a cleaner neater mattress upholstery fibre. Fibre producers know this and the limited supply then commands a far higher price point.

It is the same principle for Alpaca fibre mattresses. Pure white Alpaca fibre is vastly more expensive than the greyer fibres. The feel is identical it is just an aesthetic difference.

Why is horsetail used in mattress making?

Horsetail and horsehair are incredibly resilient natural fibres for mattresses. When they have been cleaned and braided into ropes they are then heat-treated before being untied. This crimps the hair making it react like a natural spring. Horsehair and horsetail are then used in mattress making to act as a firmer springy support layer in mattress comfort layers.

Horsehair and horsetail are breathable and high wicking meaning that natural fibre mattresses featuring horsetail are far cooler than synthetic or memory foam mattress alternatives. True horsehair and horsetail are only found in the highest quality mattresses. The main concern you should have is when horsetail features in a fibre blend. Usually with either polyester or cattle fibre to help reduce costs.

Always make sure you ask the exact horsetail GSM (grams per square eter) and if it is blended with what and the percentage.

Horsetail Mattress Choices:

If you're looking for a horsehair or horsetail mattress please take a look at the following mattresses we hand-make.

• Artisan Bespoke 004 - Medium feel
• Artisan Luxury - Soft feel
• Artisan Bespoke - Firm feel

We hope that helps Anita and if you have any more mattress related questions please get back in touch on info@localhost or 0161 437 4419.

Sleep well
John & Ryan