Whether you have a handful of campers or several dozen at your camp, there are a lot of responsibilities you have to juggle as a camp owner. One of those responsibilities is creating a safe and comfortable place for people to sleep. Of course, this all starts with the beds and mattresses that campers will be sleeping on.
Keep reading to learn everything you need to know about buying and maintaining camp mattresses.
What Makes a Good Camp Mattress?
A lot of people don’t realize that the mattress you pick is just as important as the bed frame. A good-quality mattress will be able to withstand years of use without breaking down. But since you’ll be buying in bulk, it’s important that it doesn’t break the bank either.
Below are some important things to look for when buying camp mattresses.
Durable Construction
First and foremost, camp mattresses should be made from durable materials that won’t tear, crack, or warp over time. You should prioritize mattresses that have a resilient, high-density foam core. This material is lightweight, so it’s easy to move mattresses from one place to another, yet very durable and will keep its shape for several years.
Investing in high-quality, durable mattresses may cost you a little more upfront, but it will save you a ton of money in the long run since you won’t be replacing mattresses every few years.
Comfort
Comfort shouldn’t be confused with softness. Just because you want comfortable mattresses doesn’t mean you want the softest material. Mattresses that are filled with polyfill or low-density foam will become deflated and worn out in no time.
Surprisingly, durability and comfort tend to go hand in hand when it comes to camp mattresses. High-density foam is the most durable fill material for camp mattresses, and it’s also the most comfortable. Mattresses with a high-density foam core provide the ideal balance of give and support to keep campers comfortable all night long.
Waterproof and Bug Proof
Camp mattresses often fall victim to bed bug infestations and mold brought on by moisture buildup. To prevent this problem, look for mattresses that are waterproof and bug-proof. These mattresses are typically encased in a soft polyurethane cover that seals off the mattress itself from unwanted pests and moisture.
When it comes to how the mattresses are sealed off, always go with a reinforced zipper over any kind of velcro. Velcro cannot create the same kind of waterproof seal that a zipper can.
Easy to Clean
There’s not much better than a mattress that can be cleaned with minimal effort. Thankfully, most mattresses with a polyurethane cover can be wiped down in just a few seconds. But to make your weekly chores even easier, look for camp mattresses with machine-washable covers.
This also makes it super easy to quickly and discreetly handle nighttime accidents if and when they occur.
How to Maintain Camp Mattresses
Once you have your new mattresses, proper maintenance is crucial to making them last a lifetime. Some camp owners only wash their mattresses before campers arrive for the season, but they should be carefully maintained all year long.
Clean Them Regularly
You should make a habit of disinfecting camp mattresses at least once a week. If you choose waterproof polyurethane mattresses, this can be done by simply wiping them down with disinfecting wipes and letting them air dry. This kills any germs living on the surface of the mattress and prevents dust and dust mites from building up.
Prevent Moisture Accumulation
Moisture trapped within a mattress can lead to dangerous mold growth. Once mold takes hold, it’s very hard to get rid of and can create an unpleasant musty smell. That’s why it’s so important to make sure moisture doesn’t build up within the mattresses. This is easy to do if you go the waterproof route, but if your mattresses are not waterproof and your camp is in a very humid area, this might be difficult.
Pick the Right Vendor
When it comes to finding the right vendor for camp mattresses, it’s best to buy directly from the manufacturer rather than shady resellers. Resellers usually do not know the product as well and cannot provide the same level of support as the manufacturing team.
If you require mattresses in non-standard sizes, it’s also essential to find a manufacturer who will take custom orders. That way, you don’t have to compromise on what you need, and you know for sure that your needs will be met.
Be Prepared
Now that you know how to find the best mattresses for your camp or program, get ready for camping season by outfitting your cabins with beds that will last!
ESS Universal manufactures and supplies high-quality, cost-effective commercial grade beds, mattresses, and furniture to camps, hostels, shelters, dorms and more. View our entire line of furniture products including our popular waterproof foam mattress for institutional use, single metal bed frames, single over single bunk beds, single over double bunk beds, and triple bunk beds. Download our catalog for detailed information on our complete product line.
