idw – Informationsdienst Wissenschaft
Nachrichten, Termine, Experten
Nachrichten, Termine, Experten
Who hasn't experienced this? Instead of deep rest, many people struggle through restless summer nights due to heat buildup and heavy sweating. Especially the combination of high temperatures and humidity creates an uncomfortable microclimate under the duvet – with negative effects on sleep quality. A new textile development now addresses this exact problem and has the potential to significantly transform the bedding market.
Developed as part of an interdisciplinary research project funded by the German Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy, the new duvet is the result of a collaboration between the Institute of Materials Science at Hof University of Applied Sciences (ifm), the Sleep Medicine Center at the University of Regensburg, and industry partners such as Erzgebirgische Steppdeckenfabrik in Ehrenfriedersdorf and technical textile manufacturer Jahn in Schwarzenbach am Wald. At the heart of the development is an innovative filling made of so-called spacer fabrics – three-dimensional textiles with open channels and an air-filled intermediate layer.
This textile architecture allows for rapid moisture transport away from the body without losing thermal performance. The stationary air layer continues to provide insulation, while the open structure actively contributes to regulating the microclimate – entirely without electronics or additional components.
Focus on Sleep Climate
While conventional duvets provide good thermal insulation, they often fall short in moisture management. Most filling materials – whether down, feathers, or synthetic fibers – inhibit the evaporation of sweat due to their structure. This disrupts the body’s natural cooling mechanism and leads to heat buildup, particularly on warm nights. Research clearly shows: not just temperature, but especially humidity in the bed cavity plays a key role in sleep comfort.
Softness Meets Function
Because traditional spacer fabrics were primarily used as mattress toppers, the research team had to work specifically on improving drapability and noise levels. Through textile-engineering modifications such as integrated joints and special yarns, the material was adapted for use as a soft, flexible duvet filling. This was complemented by a breathable mesh inlay that further supports moisture transport.
Lab Tests Confirm the Advantages
Technical tests in the textile lab at Hof University showed significantly improved “decay behavior” of heat and humidity compared to conventional duvets. Sleep medicine tests also confirmed the innovation’s performance: humidity in the bed cavity was significantly lower, and test subjects reported less sweating and greater sleep comfort. Especially among individuals who experience strong nighttime heat buildup, sleep quality and efficiency showed measurable improvements.
Sustainability and Hygiene Included
Beyond its functional benefits, the duvet also scores high in hygiene. The open structure of both spacer fabric and inlay dries quickly, counteracting mold and dust mites – ideal for allergy sufferers. The duvet is washable at 60 °C. Produced sustainably using recycled yarns and energy-efficient processes, it also meets modern ecological standards for home textiles.
Target Groups and Areas of Application
This duvet is particularly recommended for individuals who sweat heavily at night or have hormonally affected temperature regulation, such as during menopause, as well as for people with allergies or sensitive skin. Ideal use cases include hot summer nights or bedrooms with unfavorable indoor climates.
Conclusion: Innovation with Market Potential
Combining textile technology with sleep medicine expertise has resulted in a true product innovation: the new duvet with spacer fabric filling offers effective climate regulation, improves sleep quality, and meets the highest standards in hygiene and sustainability.
Dr. Heike Herfert
Hochschule für Angewandte Wissenschaften Hof
Forschungsbereich Maschentechnologie (mate)
Kulmbacherstr. 76
95213 Münchberg
T +49 9281 409-8622
heike.herfert[at]hof-university.de
Criteria of this press release:
Business and commerce, Journalists, Scientists and scholars, Students, Teachers and pupils, all interested persons
Economics / business administration, Materials sciences, Medicine, Nutrition / healthcare / nursing
transregional, national
Research results, Transfer of Science or Research
English
You can combine search terms with and, or and/or not, e.g. Philo not logy.
You can use brackets to separate combinations from each other, e.g. (Philo not logy) or (Psycho and logy).
Coherent groups of words will be located as complete phrases if you put them into quotation marks, e.g. “Federal Republic of Germany”.
You can also use the advanced search without entering search terms. It will then follow the criteria you have selected (e.g. country or subject area).
If you have not selected any criteria in a given category, the entire category will be searched (e.g. all subject areas or all countries).
