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A new national survey by local sleep brand Sloom has revealed that 73% of South Africans regularly wake up exhausted, Mentioning a growing sleep health crisis across the country. Conducted between December 2024 and March 2025, the study gathered responses from over 2,000 participants across all provinces, shedding light on poor rest habits and outdated bedding choices.
WHAT HAPPENED
South Africa’s fastest-growing sleep innovation company, Sloom, has taken on the giants of the bedding industry with a mission to redefine rest. Founded by Rudo Kemp, Sloom’s approach centres on a modular, customisable mattress that allows sleepers to adjust firmness levels soft, medium, or firm on each side.
The company’s National Sleep Survey paints a stark picture:
- 73% of South Africans wake up tired at least three days a week
- 61% are sleeping on mattresses older than seven years
- 82% believe better sleep would improve their focus, mood, and energy
- Nearly half have never researched what kind of mattress they need
“These numbers show how little we invest in something that affects every part of our lives our sleep,” said Rudo Kemp, Sloom’s founder. “We’re here to change that by making sleep smarter, personal, and accessible.”
OFFICIAL RESPONSE
Kemp emphasized that Sloom’s mission goes beyond selling mattresses it’s about transforming the culture around rest in South Africa.
“For too long, the local mattress market focused on volume, not well-being,” Kemp noted. “Our goal is to help South Africans rest better, live better, and value the power of sleep.”
All Sloom products are locally manufactured using high-density premium foams and eco-friendly vacuum packaging, which reduces shipping volume by over 70%. The company also offers a 100-night risk-free trial and a 25-year warranty, reinforcing its confidence in quality and customer satisfaction.
COMMUNITY IMPACT
The findings have struck a chord with South Africans, sparking discussions about work-life balance, wellness, and the role of quality sleep in mental health.
Health advocates say the survey could serve as a wake-up call for employers and individuals alike to take sleep seriously. “Rest is not a luxury — it’s a necessity,” one wellness coach commented after the report’s release.
Sloom’s rise has also inspired other local brands to rethink their approach to consumer wellness, proving that innovation and local craftsmanship can thrive side by side.
FAQ
Q: What makes Sloom’s mattress unique?
A: It’s South Africa’s only modular mattress, allowing each side’s firmness to be customised at home without showroom guesswork.
Q: How can South Africans buy a Sloom mattress?
A: All products are available online with nationwide delivery in 2–5 days.
Q: Is Sloom’s packaging environmentally friendly?
A: Yes, Sloom uses vacuum-compressed packaging that reduces shipping volume by 70%, cutting emissions and waste.
