What does 20% silk and 80% polyester mean for performance?

This blend combines the natural benefits of mulberry silk (hypoallergenic properties, temperature regulation, luxurious feel) with the practical advantages of conjugated polyester (resilience, durability, easier care). Pure silk toppers are exceptionally expensive and require delicate maintenance. Pure polyester lacks the natural temperature regulation and hypoallergenic properties. The 20/80 blend delivers the coveted characteristics of silk at more accessible pricing whilst the conjugated polyester provides loft retention and bounce that pure silk cannot match. This represents intelligent material engineering rather than compromise.

What is conjugated polyester?

Conjugated polyester features fibres that are specially twisted during manufacturing, creating a crimped, springy structure rather than straight fibres. This twisting provides extra resiliency and bounce, allowing the filling to maintain loft even after compression. Standard polyester fibres flatten and lose effectiveness relatively quickly. Conjugated polyester bounces back reliably, maintaining that plump, supportive feel through years of use. This technical enhancement significantly improves performance and longevity compared to basic polyester filling found in budget toppers.

How does silk provide temperature regulation?

Silk fibres have a unique cellular structure that naturally adapts to ambient temperature changes. When it’s cold, silk traps warm air in tiny air pockets between fibres, providing insulation. When it’s warm, these same fibres release excess heat and permit air circulation, preventing overheating. This isn’t marketing language; it’s genuine material science that’s made silk coveted for centuries. The lightweight construction of this topper allows it to drape over your mattress naturally, eliminating the hot and cold pockets that occur with heavier, less responsive materials. Combined with the breathable cotton twill casing, you get year-round comfort that adapts to seasonal changes.

Is this genuinely hypoallergenic?

Yes, through natural properties rather than chemical treatments. Mulberry silk contains sericin, a natural protein that dust mites find inhospitable. Sericin also resists mould and mildew growth, creating an environment that remains cleaner naturally. The 100% cotton casing enhances this by permitting breathability that synthetic covers block. For allergy sufferers or asthma patients who want natural comfort without down or feathers (which can trigger sensitivities), this silk blend provides an excellent alternative. Regular airing maintains freshness, though washing is possible when necessary.

Why 6cm depth instead of thicker options?

The 6cm depth provides substantial comfort enhancement without the excessive sink of 9-10cm toppers. Some sleepers find very thick toppers feel like they’re swallowed by their bed, losing the sense of proper support. The 6cm depth adds luxurious softness and that characteristic silk drape whilst maintaining connection to your mattress’s support characteristics. The medium to firm support level means you get cushioning without feeling like you’re floating or disconnected from proper spinal alignment. This depth also makes the topper easier to manage when fitting sheets or washing.

Will 15-inch straps fit my John Ryan mattress?

The 15-inch (approximately 38cm) straps accommodate standard mattresses comfortably but may feel taut on our deepest handmade mattresses. Our Origins range at 30-33cm depth sits at the upper limit of this strap length. For very deep Artisan mattresses (33-36cm), these straps may be marginally short. If you have a particularly deep mattress, consider our Ultra Deep Dual Layer Topper with 35cm straps instead. Measure your mattress depth before ordering to ensure proper fit without strain on the elastic.

How do I care for a silk blend topper?

The conjugated polyester content makes this considerably easier to care for than pure silk. You can carefully hand wash or use a gentle machine cycle with cold water and mild detergent, though many customers opt for professional cleaning to ensure longevity. Regular airing in sunshine helps maintain freshness between washes. The cotton twill casing can handle more robust cleaning than delicate silk covers. Avoid harsh detergents, bleach, or high heat drying. The natural properties of silk mean it stays fresher longer than synthetic-only toppers, requiring less frequent deep cleaning.

What does medium to firm support mean?

This topper provides cushioning and softness whilst maintaining enough structure to prevent excessive sink. You won’t feel like you’re sinking into a cloud and losing connection to your mattress’s support system. The generous fill creates that slightly plump feeling that supports your frame as you settle into the luxurious softness, but there’s enough resistance to maintain proper spinal alignment. This makes it suitable for back and side sleepers who want comfort without compromising support. If you prefer very soft, enveloping cushioning, the Comfort Plus with 1200gsm might be more appropriate.

Is this suitable for people who sleep hot?

Absolutely. The temperature-regulating properties of silk make this an excellent choice for warm sleepers. Silk naturally releases excess heat rather than trapping it like synthetic materials or memory foam. The lightweight construction and cotton twill casing enhance breathability considerably. Many customers specifically choose silk blend toppers to moderate overheating issues they’ve experienced with other materials. Whilst not as breathable as pure wool, this silk blend offers significantly better temperature management than polyester-only or memory foam alternatives.

How does this compare to feather and down toppers?

Both offer natural luxury, but with different characteristics. Feather and down provide exceptional insulation and that traditional plush feel, but they can trigger allergies, require careful maintenance, and may feel too warm for some sleepers. Silk blend toppers offer hypoallergenic properties without allergen concerns, superior temperature regulation that works year-round, and easier care requirements. The choice depends on priorities: if you want maximum warmth and traditional luxury, choose down. If you want natural comfort with better temperature management and hypoallergenic properties, choose silk blend.