Back to Bed: Crafting Healthier Sleep, Naturally

For the new owners of Back to Bed, the journey into mattress and bed manufacturing was driven by a desire to make a positive impact on people’s health and the environment.

After graduating with a Mathematics degree and working as a high school mathematics teacher, co owner Mani moved to New Zealand and spent a decade in the IT industry. Following a subsequent move to Australia, she and her family began looking for a business opportunity that aligned with their values.

“We wanted to do something that gives back to nature,” Mani explains. “We wanted our children to be proud of what we were building and know that we were doing something meaningful.”

That search led them to Back to Bed, a well established Bayswater business with more than 30 years of history. In July 2025, they purchased the business from its previous owner, who had operated it locally for three decades and was ready for retirement.

Today, Back to Bed continues its tradition of manufacturing quality Australian made beds and mattresses while placing a strong emphasis on natural, environmentally responsible materials.

A Focus on Health, Quality and Sustainability

Back to Bed specialises in products designed to promote healthier sleep. Rather than relying on synthetic materials and chemical treatments, the business focuses on natural components such as cotton, wool and latex, creating products free from toxic chemicals and unnecessary plastics.

“Our aim is to help people achieve better sleep naturally,” says Mani. “Many of our customers come to us because of back issues, discomfort, overheating during sleep or sensitivities to chemicals.”

Alongside its mattresses, Back to Bed manufactures bed bases, bed frames, sofa beds and day beds at its Bayswater factory. Crafted from solid Tasmanian Oak hardwood, with no plywood, MDF or veneer, the products reflect the business’s commitment to quality local manufacturing, including custom made bed frames tailored to customers’ needs.

Building a Skilled Local Workforce

Back to Bed currently employs a small team of three to five staff members, with a focus on hands on manufacturing and craftsmanship. While experience in carpentry and operating machinery is beneficial, the business places greater value on attitude and willingness to learn. “We provide training,” Mani says. “The most important thing is having the willingness to work, learn new skills and be part of the team.”

As the business continues to establish itself this year, plans are underway to expand its workforce, including the addition of sales and marketing capability to support future growth.

Local manufacturing sits at the heart of Back to Bed’s operations. “We believe local manufacturing benefits everyone,” says Mani. “It supports local employment, strengthens our community and helps keep important skills and knowledge here in Australia.” Mani also sees environmental benefits in manufacturing locally, reducing unnecessary transportation and lowering the carbon footprint associated with importing products from overseas.

New Products and Future Growth

The current focus is on strengthening the foundations of the business while modernising its product range.

Over the coming months, Back to Bed will introduce several new products, including a gas-lift bed design and redesigned bedside tables with a more contemporary aesthetic. Product development has been guided by customer feedback and extensive market research.

“This year is about establishing the business and ensuring we have the right products for the market,” Mani explains. “Next year, our focus will shift towards expansion.”

Importantly, the business remains committed to serving a niche market, prioritising quality, natural materials, local craftsmanship and personalised service rather than competing as a large scale commercial manufacturer.

Strong Connections Within the Precinct

Since taking over the business, the owners have actively sought to build relationships with fellow businesses in the Bayswater Business Precinct and source products locally wherever possible.

Mani highlights several local businesses that have supported their growth, including Allboard for board products, Sydney Tools for equipment and Matthews Timber for timber supplies.

“We’ve had a great experience working with local suppliers,” she says. “The customer service has been excellent, and we’d love to see even more opportunities for collaboration across the precinct.”

The team believes stronger local business networks can help manufacturers, suppliers and service providers support one another while strengthening the local economy.

Looking Ahead

As a new chapter begins for Back to Bed, the business remains focused on providing Australians with healthier, more sustainable sleep solutions while continuing the proud manufacturing tradition that has existed in Bayswater for more than 30 years. With a commitment to natural materials, Australian manufacturing and continuous innovation, Back to Bed is helping customers sleep better while supporting local jobs, local skills and a more sustainable future.

“At the end of the day, we’re not just making beds,” says Mani. “We’re helping people sleep well, improve their wellbeing and choose products that are better for their health and the environment.”

Back To Bed
Address: Unit 6/29 Jersey Rd, Bayswater VIC 3153
Phone: (03) 9720 0555
Website: https://backtobed.com.au/