BekaertDeslee, global leader in mattress textiles and sleep solutions, has introduced PURIFAIR™, an advanced textile technology designed to significantly reduce volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in mattresses – helping create healthier, fresher sleep environments.
As awareness of indoor air quality continues to grow, VOC emissions have become an increasingly important consideration in bedroom environments. New mattresses and upholstered products are among the most common contributors to indoor VOCs, often responsible for the characteristic “new mattress smell” caused by off-gassing from foam and other materials.
With PURIFAIR™, BekaertDeslee addresses this challenge at its source. Developed in collaboration with a University of Cambridge spin-off, PURIFAIR™ is a proprietary textile treatment that captures VOC molecules as they escape from the mattress core, binding them within the mattress fabric before they disperse into the surrounding air.
Unlike fragrance-based or masking solutions, PURIFAIR™ works through physical VOC capture, without adding scents, coatings, or compromising the look, feel, or performance of the mattress textile.
The result is a noticeably fresher first impression, improved perceived comfort, and enhanced confidence for end consumers – without requiring changes to existing mattress designs or production processes.
PURIFAIR’s effectiveness has been validated through independent laboratory and sensory testing. Comparative studies using gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS) and blinded sensory panels demonstrated:
• A measurable reduction in total VOCs emitted by PURIFAIR™-treated mattresses
• Lower odor intensity and higher acceptance ratings compared to untreated mattresses
• A strong preference for PURIFAIR™-treated products in simulated bedroom environments In sensory evaluations, panelists consistently described PURIFAIR-treated mattresses as fresher, cleaner, and more pleasant, while untreated samples were more frequently associated with strong or off-putting odors.
PURIFAIR’s approach to improving indoor air quality has earned international recognition. In 2024, the technology received two German Innovation Awards – winners of both the Excellence in B2B in Transformative Solutions and Materials & Surfaces categories.
These awards underline PURIFAIR’s role as a forward-looking material innovation for the bedding and home interiors industry.
To support manufacturers, retailers, and industry stakeholders, BekaertDeslee has also published an in-depth Whitepaper exploring VOCs in sleep environments, the science behind PURIFAIR™, and the results of independent testing.
The whitepaper provides data-driven insights into how mattress textiles can play an active role in improving indoor air quality – reflecting BekaertDeslee’s commitment to transparency, research, and responsible innovation.
