N906 Hybrid Cotton-Blend 3D Spacer Mesh Fabric for Mattress & Pillow Applications
In the competitive landscape of global home textiles, sourcing the best fabric for pillow cases and mattress surfaces requires a balance between comfort, durability, and engineering precision. The N906 Model is a specialized 3D air mesh fabric for mattress & pillow surface applications, meticulously knitted on Karl Mayer RD6 double-needle bar machines. Unlike standard polyester meshes, the N906 integrates a 42% Cotton and 58% Polyester blend, delivering the mechanical resilience of a spacer mesh with the natural, hypoallergenic touch of cotton. This page serves as a comprehensive technical guide for brands, OEMs, and wholesalers seeking high-performance knitted mattress fabric.
Industry Background: From Traditional Ticking to Functional Sleep Engineering
The global bedding industry is undergoing a paradigm shift. Traditionally, mattress fabric and pillow covers relied heavily on flat woven cottons or basic jacquard knits. While aesthetically pleasing, these legacy materials suffer from critical pain points: significant heat retention, poor moisture management, and a lack of inherent structural support.
As consumer demand shifts toward “Sleep Engineering”—where every layer of the bedding system contributes to recovery—manufacturers are abandoning passive fabrics in favor of active, functional textiles. Spacer mesh (or 3D air mesh) has emerged as the frontrunner. However, the market is flooded with harsh, industrial-feeling 100% polyester meshes. The industry trend is now moving toward “Hybrid Spacers”—materials like the N906 that combine the airflow of 3D structures with the soft, hydrophilic properties of cotton mattress fabric. This evolution solves the “hot sleep” problem while maintaining the luxury feel required for OEKO-TEX certified bedding.
What is N906 Spacer Mesh?
From an engineering perspective, the N906 is not merely a fabric; it is a three-dimensional micro-climate system. Produced on the advanced Karl Mayer RD6 warp knitting machine, it utilizes a distinct sandwich structure:
The Face Layer (Skin Contact): Composed primarily of the cotton-blend yarn. This layer is designed with a hydrophilic mesh pattern to wick moisture away from the sleeper’s skin immediately.
The Connection Layer (The “Spacer”): Millions of resilient polyester monofilaments vertically connect the top and bottom faces. These filaments act as micro-springs, providing compression resistance and creating a permanent air chamber.
The Back Layer (Base): A stabilized polyester flat knit structure that ensures dimensional stability and ease of lamination or sewing during the OEM manufacturing process.
Unlike 2D fabrics, the N906 allows air to flow laterally through the fabric layer itself, actively dissipating heat and humidity.
Complete Functional Parameter Table (Model N906)
The following technical specifications define the N906’s performance in home textile applications.
| Parameter Name | Specification Value | Engineering Impact on Application |
| Model | N906 | Optimized for bedding surfaces. |
| Composition | 42% Cotton + 58% Polyester | Cotton: Provides natural soft touch & moisture absorption.<br>Poly: Ensures durability & structural rebound. |
| Weight (GSM) | 380-390 gsm | High density for premium feel; prevents “bottoming out” on foam. |
| Width | 152 cm (Customizable) | Standard width for pillow covers and single mattress toppers. |
| Structure | 3D Warp Knitted Spacer | Creates a micro-climate for breathability and pressure relief. |
| Machine Type | Karl Mayer RD6 | Ensures precise loop geometry and zero-defect consistency. |
| Thickness | Approx. 3-5mm (Variable) | Adds a cushioning layer without bulk. |
| Certifications | GRS / OEKO-TEX Standard 100 | Guarantees safety for direct skin contact (free from harmful substances). |
| Air Permeability | > 800 mm/s | Superior airflow to prevent heat accumulation. |
Tech Tip: If your current fabric for pillows lacks structure or your cotton mattress fabric pills easily, the polyester backbone of the N906 resolves these lifecycle issues.
How Core Performance is Achieved Through Structure
Why does N906 outperform traditional textiles? The logic follows a strict “Structure → Performance → Experience” chain:
Structure: The X-90 degree arrangement of the spacer yarns creates a non-collapsing void volume between the cotton face and the back.
Performance:
Breathability: Even under the weight of a sleeper, the N906 hold the airway open.
Pressure Distribution: The 3D structure functions as a “mini-mattress” atop the actual mattress, distributing point loads (like shoulders or hips) more evenly than flat fabric.
Experience: The user experiences a “floating” sensation with a dry, cool surface temperature. The 42% cotton content specifically addresses the plastic-like feel of competitor products, offering a “Natural Touch” that end-users prefer in fabric pillows.
Real-World Application Scenarios in Home Textiles
1. Ergonomic Memory Foam Pillow Covers
Memory foam retains heat. Wrapping a memory foam core in standard knit fabric traps that heat.
Application: N906 is used as the outer shell.
Benefit: The spacer layer acts as a thermal break, allowing the foam to contour to the neck while the fabric dissipates the generated heat. The cotton surface ensures the pillow feels soft against the face, making it the best fabric for pillow cases in the orthopedic segment.
2. Premium Mattress Toppers & Surfaces
Application: The top panel of hybrid or foam mattresses.
Benefit: At 380-390gsm, the N906 is substantial enough to hide the texture of inner foam layers (masking effect) while adding a layer of localized pressure relief. It is particularly effective for “Cooling Series” mattresses where airflow is the primary selling point.
N906 vs. Traditional Bedding Materials
Buyers often compare spacer mesh with knits or wovens. Here is the data-driven comparison:
| Feature | N906 (Cotton-Blend Spacer) | Traditional Jacquard Knit | Standard Woven Cotton | 100% Poly Mesh |
| Breathability | ★★★★★ (Active Airflow) | ★★☆☆☆ (Low) | ★★★☆☆ (Moderate) | ★★★★★ (High) |
| Skin Touch | Soft / Natural | Soft / Synthetic Feel | Crisp / Natural | Harsh / Plastic |
| Pressure Relief | Excellent (3D Support) | Poor (Flat) | None | Good |
| Moisture Wicking | High (Cotton + Capillary) | Moderate | High (Absorbs but stays wet) | Low (Hydrophobic) |
| Durability | High (Abrasion Resistant) | Moderate (Prone to snagging) | High | Very High |
Decision Logic: If you need the airflow of a mesh but the market demands the luxury feel of cotton, N906 is the only viable bridge between these two requirements.
Certifications, Testing & E-E-A-T Compliance
In the B2B sector, trust is built on verification. The N906 is backed by rigorous standards essential for global export:
OEKO-TEX Standard 100 (Class I/II): This is non-negotiable for fabric pillows and bedding. It certifies that the N906 is free from formaldehyde, pentachlorophenol, cadmium, and nickel. For brands selling in the EU or US, this certification mitigates compliance risk.
GRS (Global Recycled Standard): Upon request, we can produce the polyester portion of N906 using recycled PET, supporting your brand’s sustainability narrative.
Physical Testing:
Martindale Abrasion: Tested > 30,000 rubs, ensuring the mattress surface doesn’t pill or tear after years of movement.
Dimensional Stability: Shrinkage controlled within ±3% ensures your cut-and-sew operations remain precise.
Production Process & Quality Control Points
Our facility operates with a strict “Process Control” methodology to ensure knitted mattress fabric consistency:
Yarn Preparation: We only source combed cotton to reduce impurities and high-tenacity polyester monofilaments for consistent rebound.
Knitting (Karl Mayer RD6): The RD6 double-needle bar technology allows for precise control of the distance between layers (pile height). We monitor tension sensors in real-time to prevent “barre” marks.
Heat Setting (Critical Step): The fabric is stentered at precise temperatures. This locks the 3D structure. If the temp is too low, the mesh collapses; too high, the cotton degrades. Our 20 years of experience ensures the “Sweet Spot” is hit every batch.
Inspection: 100% visual inspection using the 4-point system before rolling.
OEM Projects vs. Aftermarket: Understanding Your Needs
We understand the differing needs of our client base:
For OEM (Mattress/Pillow Brands): You require long-term stability. The N906 formulation is locked. We guarantee that the hand-feel and whiteness level of the fabric delivered in December matches the batch from January.
For Wholesalers/Aftermarket: You need competitive pricing and speed. We maintain greige stock of N906 that can be dyed and finished rapidly, supporting lower MOQs and faster turnover for home textile fabrics manufacturers sourcing tre
Engineering a new sleep product?
Don’t guess the performance. [Check the N906 Technical Data Sheet] to see the exact figures.
Why Global Buyers Choose Us as Their Spacer Mesh Supplier
With 20 years of focus on functional textiles, we are not just a factory; we are material consultants.
Vertical Integration: From warping to knitting and finishing, we control the cost and timeline.
R&D Capability: We can modify N906 to change the “firmness” of the fabric based on your mattress spec.
Communication: Our team speaks “Engineering” and “Trade.” We understand test standards (ASTM/ISO) and shipping terms (DDP/FOB).
Sample Request, Bulk Support & Lead Times
We aim to lower the barrier for you to test the N906.
MOQ (Minimum Order Quantity):
Samples: A4 swatches and hanger samples are Free of Charge. Yardage for prototyping is available at a nominal cost.
Lead Time:
Lab Dips: 3-5 days.
Production: 15-20 days after deposit.
Export Experience: We actively export to North America, Europe, and Southeast Asia, handling all documentation for customs clearance.
Conclusion: The Future of Bedding is "Hybrid"
The era of choosing between “Natural Comfort” and “Synthetic Performance” is over. The N906 Spacer Mesh Fabric represents the future of mattress fabric and pillow covers—a hybrid solution that delivers the best of both worlds. Whether you are a brand looking to upgrade your “Cooling Pillow” line or a factory seeking a robust, OEKO-TEX certified bedding material, N906 is the engineered choice.
Ready to upgrade your product line?
[Contact Us Today] for a quote on Model N906. Let us help you create the next best-selling sleep product.
Ask us about: Custom Widths | Anti-bacterial Finishes | Drop-ship Samples