We developed the Due Diligence Testing Programme to strengthen our Code of Practice after conducting a pilot exercise in early 2018. We have continued to purchase a selection of mattresses, bases and headboards annually on the open market and put them through their paces against the criteria of the NBF Code of Practice.
Products are subject to flammability tests, then cut open, and specifications are checked against marketing claims. We look for textile composition labelling information and make enquiries about chemicals and other featured treatments to ensure compliance with REACH and Biocides regulations.
Although there will be a proportion of purely randomly selected products, some will be purchased for Due Diligence testing as a result of credible ‘tip-offs’ or concerns expressed. Please get in touch if you have any concerns: simon@bedfed.org.uk.
We share test results with all companies, both members and non-members. More serious findings could be reported to trading standards. We issue reports periodically, but companies and products aren’t specifically identified – unless the results are sufficiently serious, which may lead to informing trading standards, and, in the case of NBF members, to suspension or expulsion.
Of 2023 Due Diligence Testing Results
All along, the NBF Code of Practice has been about reassuring customers that what they’re buying from NBF members is safe, clean and honest. They can’t look inside a mattress to see what’s there, so they have to take on trust what they’re told it contains. With our random testing programme we now go a step further towards exposing the dishonesty that so frustrates reputable traders. We want to make people think twice about what they’re buying, especially if it looks like a ‘great bargain’. We hope it gives customers even further reassurance that buying a product made by an Approved NBF Member is worth it.
Be assured that the beds you and your customers buy are everything they say they are.
All our manufacturer members are audited; it is not a requirement for our suppliers to be audited.
Be part of our award-winning trade association for the UK & Ireland's bed industry
