What is a Latex Mattress?
The latex mattress is one of the newer types of mattresses on the market. They are manufactured as full latex mattresses or as toppers that are placed directly on top of existing spring mattresses. The popularity of latex mattresses is growing fast for many reasons. They are “green,” meaning they are environmentally friendly and made from all natural ingredients.
Advantages of a Latex Mattress
Being green the natural latex mattress has several advantages over chemically-produced mattresses including their hypoallergenic qualities, no off gassing, and being made from totally sustainable materials. A natural latex mattress is also naturally resistant to dust mites and bacteria. There are other substances, such as cotton and wool, that have many of these same green qualities, but they can become packed down over time which can make them overly firm for some people.
You can find latex mattresses that are either organic or synthetic. An organic latex mattress is made from rubber tree sap and is 100% natural. It is hypoallergenic, antimicrobial, and anti-dust mites. For individuals with allergies or asthma this type of substance is ideal as a mattress. It is also highly resistant to many other things such as fire, mold, mildew, and miscellaneous pests. Plus, a latex mattress can last for 30 years or more, making it a money saver over the long term.
The Synthetic Latex Mattress
Synthetic latex beds are made from chemicals, making it similar to memory foam. It is not environmentally friendly, cannot be recycled like organic latex mattresses, and can cause allergic reactions in some people. The benefit to a synthetic latex mattress is its lower cost as it is much cheaper than organic.
Although there are many benefits of a latex mattress, the main reason for its popularity is due to the comfort. Latex is naturally very dense and firm, but it is also very yielding, and can conform to the shape of an individual’s body. Due to these qualities it offers unparalleled support and comfort. Some mattresses will provide one or the other, but latex can provide both.
A latex mattress has a lot of spring and bounce to it, but also offers excellent support. The amount of bounciness depends on the size and number of small holes that are drilled into the mattress. Each latex mattress has holes drilled into it to provide different levels of firmness from soft to extra firm.
Memory foam mattresses are also popular, but are made from chemicals, off gas, are allergenic, and are not made from sustainable materials. In addition to these negatives, memory foam sleeps hot. The foam retains body heat which can become very uncomfortable for many people. However, the latex mattress does not sleep hot which makes it much more comfortable for most individuals.
The only advantage to synthetic latex mattresses is the cost. Organic and natural latex beats synthetic in every way except price. However, since synthetic will not last as long as organic, there really won’t be a huge difference in price when examined over the long term. Organic latex can last decades while inferior mattresses will not, making it necessary to buy new mattresses more often.
When shopping for latex mattresses you want to be sure to get 100% natural latex and not synthetic or blended beds. There are different methods used to produce these mattresses and it is usually best to have the base foam made using the Dunlop process and the top layer made from the Talalay process.
It’s also necessary to buy a latex topper or mattress cover that is breathable and that contains no fire retardant chemicals. Make sure you get a warranty that will cover full replacement for at least several years. High quality latex will last a long time and a 10-year warranty will not be hard to find. And last but not least, be sure you get a trial period of at least 60 days. If for some reason the latex doesn’t agree with you, is too firm or too soft, or is uncomfortable, you want to be able to return it. They can be rather expensive and you don’t want to be stuck with an uncomfortable mattress for 30 years. Before rushing out to buy the first mattress that appeals to you, it is usually best to read some latex mattress reviews about top-selling brands. This will help you narrow down your possible choices and make your search for the ideal mattress much easier and quicker. And chances are, once you’ve given it some thought, a latex mattress may be just what you’re looking for.