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Buying a new mattress can be difficult; there are so many options out there to choose from. It can be hard to know which type of mattress is best for you
In this guide, we’ll go through latex mattresses. You’ll find out their benefits and be able to decide if a latex mattress is right for you
What Is A Latex Mattress?
A latex mattress is a combination of latex foam and springs. A latex layer sits on top of the springs, creating a comfortable and durable sleeping surface.
Latex is a completely natural product, making it a great option for those looking for a natural mattress.
How Is A Latex Mattress Made?
Latex is produced using rubber trees. This product is then harvested in a similar way to tapping maple syrup from maple trees. Each tree can produce liquid for up to 20 years.
Once the latex is harvested, there are two methods to creating latex foam for a mattress:
- Talalay: In this method the latex is partially poured into a mould and allowed to expand using is vacuum. This creates a less dense foam with a consistent feel. Available is a variety of firmness levels, it has a contouring effect. This type of construction also involves a five-step washing cycle, making it one of the most hypoallergenic foams.
- Dunlop: Using the Dunlop method, latex is poured into a mould, using one complete pour. Latex foam created in this method is firmer at the bottom and softer towards the top of the mattress. This is the original process for making latex foam for a mattress.
What Are the Benefits of a Latex Mattress?
A latex mattress offers an array of benefits, all of which combine for a great night’s sleep:
Hypoallergenic and Anti-Microbial
A latex mattress is both hypoallergenic and anti-microbial, making it a great choice for allergy sufferers.
This type of mattress is also naturally resistant to mould and dust mites. The density makes a latex mattress especially resilient against dust mites. Therefore this is a great choice for a naturally hygienic sleeping environment.
Durable
Latex is naturally durable, and so a latex mattress will maintain its shape. In fact, a latex mattress will usually last longer than any other type of mattress, it can even last over ten years.
If durability is your top priority, opt for a dense latex mattress.
Easy to Maintain
A latex mattress is single sided. Therefore, you do not have to flip the mattress. All that is required for maintenance is to rotate your mattress every six months. This makes it an ideal choice for those looking for a low maintenance mattress.
Environmentally Friendly
As latex is a natural product, this type of mattress is more eco-friendly than mattresses with a synthetic filling. If you choose a fully natural latex mattress, this can be recycled at the end of its life-span, as it is biodegradable.
Also, as the rubber trees are not cut down, but tapped, the harvesting of latex does not damage the environment. As rubber trees convert carbon dioxide, having these trees for harvesting makes a latex mattress one of the most environmentally friendly options
As previously mentioned, a latex mattress is also extremely durable. This is another point for eco-friendliness. As it does not need to be replaced as often as a synthetic mattress, you create less waste.
For an eco-conscious mind, a latex mattress is a great option. You can rest your head in peace, knowing that your mattress choice has not harmed the environment.
Pressure Relief
As latex has elastic properties, this type of mattress can rapidly respond to your weight and movement. The cushioning properties of latex help to relieve pressure in joints and the back.
Known to relieve pressure points and aid in aligning the spine, you can opt for a latex mattress for back pain. Heavier parts of your body sink into the mattress, whereas lighter parts are supported, which aligns the spine. A latex mattress can help with both upper and lower back pain by keeping your spine in a natural position.
Latex Mattresses Vs Memory Foam Mattresses
Like a memory foam mattress, a latex mattress offers support that can help with back and joint pain. However, there are some differences that could swing you towards this type of mattress.
The key difference between the two mattress types lies in how closely they contour to the shape of your body. Unlike memory foam, a natural latex foam mattress doesn’t require heat when moulding to the body.
Latex mattresses respond to body shape and weight, zeroing in on pressure points on a sleep-by-sleep basis, rather than becoming accustomed to a consistent shape. This is called bounce back rate, the quicker rate of latex mattresses give it a lighter feel and it will seem bouncier.
As mentioned, latex is also kinder to the planet. The most eco-friendly mattress of the two, natural latex derives from the sap of a rubber tree, whereas mattresses made from memory foam are constructed from polyurethane. Sustainable latex mattresses are the sleeping service of choice for those who favour organic products.
Do Latex Mattresses Smell?
Due to coming from the rubber tree, people often worry if a latex mattress will smell. It’s an understandable worry, as rubber does have a very distinctive scent.
On the whole, latex mattresses do not smell after a bit of use. All new products have a smell that goes with time. What goes into the mattress will affect the smell. A fully natural latex mattress will have little or no smell when you first purchase it. People have even commented that it is more like vanilla than rubber.
However, if you opt for a blended latex mattress it will likely have a stronger scent. This is called off-gassing, as the chemicals used to make the mattress are being released into the air. If you are sensitive to smells you can easily combat this. Simply let your new mattress air out before using it.
Overall, latex mattresses are a great option for many people. They are durable, eco-friendly and great for those with allergies. If you have decided that a latex mattress is right for you, why not browse our range.
