What is Latex Mattress? Advantages and Disadvantages of Latex Mattress

Published On:

Want to know why latex mattresses are all the rage? You won’t be alone in this! Nothing beats a restful night’s sleep.

Traditional memory foam mattresses typically have a lifespan of 7 to 10 years. Natural latex mattresses can last up to 25 years without losing support!

If you’re trying to decide whether latex mattresses are a good investment, the pros and cons are an excellent place to start. Due to the lack of time in today’s society, and the overwhelming number of possibilities, we have created this article to help you make a well-informed decision.

Here we will also give you an overview of the different types of latex mattresses, how to choose a mattress that is right for you, and compare latex foams with memory foams to make your decision easier.

Want more? We will also discuss some commonly asked questions!

 

Types Of Latex Mattress

A latex mattress can be classified into three types of latex foam based on the latex used:

1. Natural

The milk-like sap of rubber trees is harvested and refined to produce natural latex. It is entirely organic! After the liquid is collected, it is processed into Dunlop or Talalay foam. As the process of collecting tree sap is expensive, a natural latex mattress tends to be on the higher end of the price scale.

 

2. Synthetic

Synthetic latex mattresses are made by using a rubber-like plastic chemical known as styrene-butadiene rubber (SBR). Latex mattresses with SBR are a safe and cost-effective alternative to natural latex, but they are not nearly as long-lasting.

 

3. Blended

Want the best of both worlds? These beds are made up of 30% natural latex and 70% synthetic latex. Blended mattresses are less expensive than natural latex mattresses and contain fewer toxic chemicals than synthetic latex mattresses. Additionally, a blended mattress is more durable than synthetic latex but not as durable as natural latex.

 

Advantages Of Latex Mattress

Unless you know the significant pros and cons of latex beds in general, choosing the right mattress for your body type and sleep preferences will be a challenge. You might end up buying the wrong one, and it will be a waste of time and money.

As an orthopaedic mattress, it is bound to be suitable for spine alignment and pain relief. Thus, let us explore seven unique benefits of latex mattresses on your sleep and health.

1. Comfort

Comfortable Mattress

Is your neck stiff after waking up? When you lie on a rigid surface, your shoulders and hips are generally under strain.

The effect of different mattresses on body pressure was evaluated in a 2016 study. Latex mattresses, instead of polyurethane mattresses, reduced peak body pressure and provided a more even distribution of pressure in different sleeping postures.

 

2. Eco-Friendly

Eco friendly

We are all aware of the carbon footprint and the environmental impact of greenhouse gases. As the world shifts toward using environmentally friendly products, this could be your first step.

When you buy a 100% pure latex mattress made from rubber sap, you are helping to support the rubber plantation. Because the trees in these plantations remove carbon dioxide from the air, purchasing a latex mattress helps the environment. Isn’t that incredible?

Organic latex mattresses are made entirely of natural latex that has been grown without the use of pesticides. You will be a member of an environmentally conscious family!

Rubber is a natural product; hence it is biodegradable- another boon to mother earth.

 

3. Breathable

Breathable And Breezy

Most people complain that orthopaedic mattresses tend to retain body heat. Even if you’re not a hot sleeper by nature, you’ll appreciate breathable bedding. Generally, all latex mattresses have a natural open cell structure that quickly dissipates body heat for a restful sleep.

Better airflow can accomplish two things. Firstly, you will not overheat while you sleep since the cooling net prevents heat from collecting around you. Additionally, it keeps you dry and cool throughout the night by allowing cool air to flow through.

 

4. Safe

Yes, you read that correctly. It is regarded as a secure mattress. Why? Because every other product on the market makes use of petrochemicals. Natural Latex Mattress are free from all these toxic chemicals.

These chemicals are hazardous to one’s health because they are frequently associated with neurological disorders, kidney and liver damage, respiratory issues, etc.

Also, some latex mattresses are fire-resistant. In addition, some latex mattresses are fire-resistant. It may surprise you, but mattress fires can cause unimaginable damage to human life and property.

 

5. Dust Mite Free

Dust Free Mattress

Organic latex breathes naturally and does not retain water. It means that there is no moisture within the mattress for dust mites to feed on and thrive.

Despite the lack of scientific evidence, many manufacturers claim that latex is naturally resistant to dust mites.

As a result, latex is an excellent choice for creating a naturally hygienic and healthy sleeping environment.

 

6. Hypoallergic

Hypoallergic Mattress

Because these mattresses cannot retain water, microorganisms and fungi cannot grow. Usually, it is these tiny creatures that cause allergies. So this is good news for people who suffer from allergies all year round.

 

7. Long-Lasting 

Long-Lasting

The best part about this mattress is that it is more long-lasting than any other mattress. According to some top mattress manufacturers, a latex mattress can last for up to 25 years. It’s not bad as an investment, is it?

 

Disadvantages Of Latex Mattress

The purpose of this article is to examine both the benefits and drawbacks of latex mattresses. Let us look at the drawbacks of latex mattresses.

1. Firmness

Mattress Firmness

The firmness of a natural latex mattress contributes to its outstanding support, but some people are concerned that it will be too firm for them in the long run.

Before deciding on the best latex mattress, consumers should research and understand Impression Load Deflection (ILD) data.

The firmer the mattress, the higher the ILD, and the softer the mattress, the lower the ILD. Most people find comfort between ILDs of 23 and 35.

 

2. Bouncy

A latex mattress will conform to the general impressions formed by the body. Because it is more resistant than memory foam, it will feel bouncier overall. Isn’t that an advantage?

That does not appeal to everyone.

 

3. High Price Tag

High Price Tag

The cost may be a significant barrier that prevents consumers from purchasing this type of mattress.

Natural latex production is a time-consuming and expensive process. As a result, natural latex mattresses are very costly. However, you can choose a synthetic mattress if you are looking for a cost-effective mattress.

 

4. Increased Weight

Heavy mattress

Latex mattresses are often thick and hefty, making them difficult to transport. Since latex is a dense material, naturally, the mattress will be heavy.

 

5. Off-Gassing

It is usually a complaint with synthetic latex mattresses. Off-gassing is the process of releasing volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from products into the atmosphere.

A recent article published in Amerisleep explains how off-gassing can cause difficulty breathing, headaches, eye irritation, etc.

 

Picking The Right Product For Your Needs (Latex vs Memory Foam)

Let us understand the characteristic differences between memory foam and latex foam. Latex is naturally cooling, while memory foam mattresses sometimes retain heat. Another significant difference is that memory foam mattresses are more cradling, and latex mattresses are more lifting.

The following table should help you decide if latex mattresses are the best choice for you.

Characteristic Memory Foam Latex Foam
Motion Transfer Reduction Excellent Good
Material Synthetic Natural or Blended
Durability Fair Excellent
Allergen friendly Good Excellent
Cost-Effective Yes Expensive
Pain Relief Excellent Excellent
Customizable No Yes

 

FAQs

Time for some FAQs! Getting complete knowledge is crucial, Isn’t it! Let’s discuss some commonly asked questions regarding Latex Mattresses.

What if the firmness preferences of the partners differ?

One of the advantages of owning a latex mattress is that it is custom-made. That means you can have one side firmer than the other.

 

Can someone who is allergic to latex sleep on a latex mattress?

Natural latex mattresses are considered safe for people who are allergic to latex. However, consult your doctor before investing in one.

 

Will a latex mattress soften with time?

One of the best features is how long they last because the material retains its natural shape and density. However, as with any mattress, it will soften over time, but a latex mattress has a lifespan of 15 to 25 years.

 

You May Also Like To Read:

What Is Coir Mattress?

Best Hybrid Mattresses

Best Spring Mattresses

 

Summary

After consulting various academic articles and reviewing thousands of consumer reviews, we selected latex’s top benefits and drawbacks.

If you, like so many other people, can’t seem to get a good night’s sleep, it may be time to invest in a new mattress. Latex mattresses are ideally suited and customised according to your health and sleep needs.

Latex mattresses include several drawbacks as well as benefits. However, the benefits outweigh the disadvantages.

If you consider latex mattresses for their organic nature, check for labels that prove the mattress is eco-friendly or go for all-natural latex beds.

Let us know if you purchased one, and tell us about your experience in the comments section below.

Leave a Comment