About Your Nectar
Published January 16, 2026
10 minInside Your Nectar Mattress Cover: The Materials That Keep You Cool All Night
Ever wonder about that quilted cover on your mattress? Here's why it matters more than you think
Table of contents
What Exactly Is a Mattress Cover?The Evolution of Nectar's Cooling Cover TechnologyBreaking Down Nectar's Mattress Cover MaterialsModel-Specific Cover TechnologiesWhy Cover Materials Matter More Than You ThinkThe Science Behind Cooling FibersWhat About Fabric Safety and Certifications?Caring for Your Nectar Mattress CoverCommon Questions About Nectar’s Mattress CoversHow Cover Technology Complements Overall Mattress DesignWhy Nectar's Cover Makes a Difference
Nectar mattress covers feature a poly-blend fabric with cooling fibers woven directly into the material. These engineered fibers actively pull heat away from your body and release it into the air, creating a cooler sleeping surface. The knitted construction enhances breathability while the durable fabric blend maintains softness and performance for years.When shopping for a new mattress, most of us focus on what's underneath: memory foam layers, coil systems, support cores. But there's another component that plays a surprisingly important role in your sleep quality: your mattress cover.Think of your mattress cover as the first point of contact between you and a great night's sleep. It's the fabric that touches your skin, regulates your temperature, and protects everything underneath. At Nectar, we've invested serious time and research into creating covers that do more than just look good — they actively work to improve your sleep experience.Let's dive into what makes Nectar mattress covers special, from innovative cooling materials to thoughtful construction that keeps you comfortable night after night.
What Exactly Is a Mattress Cover?
First, let's clear up a common point of confusion. A mattress cover (also called a mattress ticking) is the fabric layer that encases your mattress – it's built right into the mattress itself. This is different from a mattress protector or mattress pad, which are separate accessories you add on top of your mattress.Your mattress cover serves several important functions:- Temperature regulation: Keeping you cool (or warm) throughout the night
- Comfort: Providing a soft, pleasant sleeping surface
- Protection: Guarding the internal foam layers from damage
- Breathability: Allowing air to flow through the mattress
- Aesthetics: Helping your mattress look as good as it feels
The Evolution of Nectar's Cooling Cover Technology
When Nectar first launched, we knew that memory foam had one major reputation to overcome: heat retention. Traditional memory foam mattresses were notorious for sleeping hot, and we were determined to change that narrative.That's why we developed our cooling cover technology — a carefully engineered fabric blend designed to actively wick heat away from your body. Every Nectar mattress features cooling fibers woven directly into the cover, creating a sleep surface that feels noticeably cooler to the touch.The result? A mattress that delivers all the pressure-relieving benefits of memory foam without the uncomfortable heat buildup that plagued earlier generations of foam beds.Breaking Down Nectar's Mattress Cover Materials
Cooling Fiber Blend
The secret to Nectar's temperature regulation starts with the fabric itself. Our covers feature a specially designed poly-blend that incorporates cooling fibers engineered to dissipate heat. It’s not just marketing speak – our fabric is designed at a molecular level to pull heat away from your body and release it into the air.The cover typically consists of:- Polyester – Provides durability and a soft hand-feel
- Polyethylene – Contributes to the cooling properties
Knitted Construction
Look closely at a Nectar mattress cover and you'll notice it's knitted. It’s a feature that is often distinct across different mattress brands, but its purpose goes far beyond just aesthetics. Knitted covers serve several important purposes:Enhanced Comfort – The knitted design adds a subtle layer of cushioning that makes the mattress surface feel even more luxuriousImproved Airflow – Breathable fabric allows air to move more freely across the mattress surfacePressure Distribution – This construction helps distribute your weight more evenly across the top comfort layersKnitted construction is actually part of what makes Nectar mattresses feel so immediately comfortable when you first lie down – that perfect balance of soft contouring and supportive structure.Breathable Design
Beyond the cooling fibers themselves, Nectar covers are designed to maximize breathability. The fabric weave allows air to flow through easily, preventing heat and moisture from getting trapped against your skin.This is especially important for memory foam mattresses, which can sometimes restrict airflow due to their dense cellular structure. A breathable cover acts as a crucial interface, ensuring that even as the foam contours to your body, you're not creating a heat trap.Model-Specific Cover Technologies
While all Nectar mattresses feature cooling covers, different models incorporate additional advanced materials:Nectar Classic and Classic Hybrid
The Classic and Classic Hybrid feature our dual-action poly-blend cooling cover with heat-wicking properties. This foundation-level cooling technology provides excellent temperature regulation for most sleepers, combining comfort with performance at an accessible price point.Nectar Premier and Premier Hybrid
These mid-tier models step up the cooling game with enhanced gel-infused memory foam that works in tandem with the cooling cover. The cover features our advanced cooling fiber technology that delivers a cool-to-the-touch sensation the moment you lie down.Nectar Luxe and Luxe Hybrid
The Luxe series adds 1” more gel memory foam and a higher percentage of cooling yarns (when compared to the Nectar Premiers), keeping you even more contoured and comfortable throughout the night.Nectar Ultra and Ultra Hybrid
Our top-tier Ultra models feature the most advanced cover technology in the Nectar lineup. The covers include phase change material for active temperature regulation, working alongside the cooling fibers to maintain an optimal sleep temperature throughout the night. The Ultra models are specifically designed with enhanced lumbar support and cooling in mind, and the cover remains an essential part of the overall cooling strategy.Not sure which mattress fits you best? Find out now.
Why Cover Materials Matter More Than You Think
You might be wondering: does the mattress cover really make that big of a difference? The answer is absolutely yes—and here's why.Temperature Regulation Starts at the Surface
Your body's first point of contact with your mattress is its cover. If that surface feels hot or traps heat, you're going to feel uncomfortable no matter how advanced the cooling technology in the foam layers below. A quality cooling cover creates an immediate comfortable sensation and sets the stage for temperature-regulated sleep throughout the night.Moisture Management
We all perspire while we sleep—it's a natural part of how your body regulates temperature. A good mattress cover should manage this moisture effectively, wicking it away from your skin rather than letting it pool on the surface. Nectar's cooling fibers excel at moisture management, keeping you dry and comfortable throughout the night.Long-Term Durability
You spend roughly eight hours a night on your mattress. A third of your life! Your mattress cover needs to withstand years of use without pilling, tearing, or losing its softness. Our poly-blend construction is specifically engineered for durability, maintaining its performance and appearance through countless nights of sleep.Allergen Protection
While not technically a protector, a quality mattress cover does provide a barrier between you and the internal foam layers. This can help reduce allergen buildup and create a cleaner sleep environment overall.The Science Behind Cooling Fibers
Let's get a bit technical for a moment. How exactly do cooling fibers work?Traditional mattress fabrics are thermal insulators—they trap heat. Cooling fibers, on the other hand, are thermal conductors. They're designed to:- Quickly absorb heat from your body
- Transfer that heat through the fabric
- Disperse it into the surrounding air
What About Fabric Safety and Certifications?
At Nectar, we take the safety of our materials seriously. All our mattresses feature CertiPUR-US® certified foams, which means they're made without:- Ozone depleters
- PBDE flame retardants
- Mercury, lead, and other heavy metals
- Formaldehyde
- Phthalates
Caring for Your Nectar Mattress Cover
One important note: Nectar mattress covers are not designed to be removed and washed. It’s engineered as an integral part of the mattress system, and removing it can:- Void your warranty
- Damage the foam layers underneath
- Disrupt the carefully calibrated comfort and cooling systems
- Using a mattress protector – This adds a washable layer of protection against spills and stains
- Spot cleaning – For minor spills or stains, gently spot clean with mild soap and water
Common Questions About Nectar’s Mattress Covers
Do the cooling fibers actually work?Yes! Independent testing shows that Nectar’s cooling cover fabrics dissipate heat faster than those on average foam mattresses. Many sleepers report noticeable temperature differences, especially when upgrading from a traditional memory foam bed.Will the cover wear out over time?Like any fabric, the cover will show some normal wear over the years. However, our poly-blend is specifically chosen for durability. With proper care (using a protector and avoiding harsh chemicals), your Nectar cover should maintain its performance throughout the life of your mattress.Can I feel the quilting pattern?Most sleepers don't notice the quilting once they're lying down—it's designed to be subtle. What you will notice is the overall softness and the cooling effect of the fabric.Is the cover the same on both sides?Nectar mattresses are designed with a specific top and bottom. The quilted cooling cover is only on the sleeping surface. The bottom cover is designed for durability and grip to prevent the mattress from sliding on your foundation.How Cover Technology Complements Overall Mattress Design
Your mattress cover doesn't work in isolation. Rather, it's part of a carefully engineered system. Here's how it fits into the bigger picture:Memory Foam Models – The cooling cover compensates for foam's natural tendency to retain heat, while the knitted design ensures you get immediate comfort as soon as you lie down.Hybrid Models – The cover works with the coil system's natural breathability, creating a dual-layer cooling approach that's especially effective for hot sleepers.Premium Models with PCM – Phase change materials in the cover add active temperature regulation that adapts to your body temperature throughout the night.Each layer of a Nectar mattress is designed to complement the others, creating a sleep experience that's greater than the sum of its parts.Why Nectar's Cover Makes a Difference
When you invest in a Nectar mattress, you're not just getting quality foam or supportive coils. You're getting a thoughtfully designed sleep system where every component, including the cover, plays an important role.Our cooling covers deliver:- Immediate comfort with a soft, knitted surface
- Active temperature regulation through cooling fiber technology
- Moisture management to keep you dry throughout the night
- Long-lasting durability that maintains performance for years
- Clean, modern aesthetics that look great in any bedroom
