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Discover whether a latex mattress is right for you in our helpful buying guide.
No matter how many times you've done it in the past, buying a new mattress can be a tricky task at the best of times. Even if you know what sorts of mattresses you’ve used before, there are so many options out there to choose from that you may be wondering if you should be changing your usual set-up.
With that in mind, if you often sleep on pocket-sprung mattresses or memory foam mattresses, but want a change of surface that still delivers a great night’s sleep, then a latex mattress might be for you.
But what is a latex mattress? And why should you choose one over a more traditional mattress design? Well, keep reading to learn the ins and outs of latex mattresses in our guide, which includes a list of the benefits of a latex mattress and a comparison of latex vs memory foam beds.
A latex mattress is a design that blends a combination of latex foam and springs within its outer material. This latex layer sits on top of the springs, creating a comfortable and durable sleeping surface that moulds to your body while still providing support to your body.
Better yet, latex is a completely natural product, making it a great option for those looking for a natural mattress with hypoallergenic properties that won’t trigger any allergies or allergic reactions you may have experienced using other mattress types.
Latex is specifically produced using rubber trees and is harvested in a similar way to tapping maple syrup from maple trees. Each tree can produce liquid for up to 20 years, making them an incredibly sustainable material source, and once the latex is harvested, there are two methods used to create latex foam for a mattress:
In this method, the latex is partially poured into a mould and allowed to expand using a vacuum, mixing with air. This creates a less dense foam with a consistent feel the whole way through, maximising comfort with a soft springy feel and enhanced airflow. From here, the mattresses can then be produced in a variety of firmness levels.
Talalay latex is generally rarer than regular latex and used in high-end, luxury mattresses as it's more timely and costly to make.
Alternatively, mattresses made using the Dunlop method have latex poured into a mould using one complete pour, making for a very simple construction method that is easier for the manufacturer.
As a result, the latex foam created in this method is firmer at the bottom and softer towards the top of the mattress, providing good support from the base of the mattress upwards.
As with selecting any mattress, the process of buying a latex mattress will include several considerations.
For example, your sleeping position may sway your decision. If you’re a side sleeper, a medium-soft latex mattress can offer good pressure relief, whereas back sleepers may find that a medium-firm option gives the best orthopaedic support for their back. For stomach sleepers, a firm mattress can help to keep your hips aligned while you sleep on your front.
As for budget, natural latex is eco-friendly and durable but often comes at a premium price due to the high-quality fabrics. If you’re looking for something more affordable, synthetic and hybrid options can work too.
A latex mattress offers an array of benefits, all of which can combine together for a great night’s sleep. These include:
As we’ve already mentioned, one of the best aspects of latex mattresses is their hypoallergenic nature. Being naturally anti-microbial, they make a great choice for allergy sufferers seeking better sleep all year round.
This type of mattress is also naturally resistant to mould and dust mites thanks to their density, which can stop dust mites from getting deep into the mattress's fabric and triggering allergies.
On top of its natural properties, latex is also a highly durable mattress material, meaning it will maintain its shape for a long time and be resistant to potential cuts and scratches made by eager pets.
In fact, a latex mattress will usually last longer than any other type of mattress, with some models proving to last well over ten years. So, if durability is your top priority, you should definitely opt for a dense latex mattress.
Most latex mattresses are single-sided, meaning you never have to flip them. Instead, you simply need to rotate your mattress every six months to keep it healthy. This makes it an ideal choice for those looking for a low-maintenance mattress.
As latex is a natural product, this type of mattress is more eco-friendly than mattresses with a synthetic filling. And 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 on the market.
Finally, as we’ve mentioned, a latex mattress is also extremely durable. This is another point for eco-friendliness as it won't need to be replaced as often as a synthetic mattress, meaning 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.
As latex has elastic properties, this type of mattress can rapidly respond to your weight and movement, and the cushioning properties of latex specifically 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 even help with both upper and lower back pain by keeping your spine in a natural position.
Now that we’ve covered all the benefits associated with this type of mattress, how do you know what the best latex mattress is? Check out our 5 favourite latex mattresses below:
From one of the most famous creators of latex mattresses, this Dunlopillo mattress boats up to 1,050 pocket springs, a quilted cover, and reinforced edges. With a medium-firm tension, it offers orthopaedic support perfect for back pain sufferers, and features anti-roll technology so you and your partner can sleep uninterupted. The thick layer of latex in this mattress gently contours your curves for personalised pressure relief all night long.
Another from the world's most famous latex mattress brand, the Dunlopillo Kareena mattress features up to 1,500 pocket springs, individually placed to provide tailored support to your body. With a medium feel, this mattress is perfect for any sleeping position, and features enhanced air circulation for a fresher night's sleep. Three rows of side-stitching maintain the structure of the mattress to enhance its stability and durability.
One of the UK’s most popular sleep brands, Silentnight is well-known for making excellent mattresses, and this model is no exception. Combining a latex filling with up to 1,200 pocket springs, this medium mattress is a fantastic budget option for anyone looking to upgrade their old mattress or update their guest bedroom.
Made using Sealy’s signature PostureTech CS Springs, the Sealy Advantage Emeral Latex mattress has everything you could want in a latex mattress design. Their patented internal spring system responds to your body's every movement while you sleep, targeting the areas that need the most support, while its reinforced edges give you and your partner maximum sleeping space. The generous latex layer provides breathable full-body support.
Available in either soft or medium firm, this latex mattress from Silentnight features an EcoMemory Fibre™ layer to promote airflow, as well as an Intense™ sleep surface that has been scientifically proven to help your body relax. Pocket springs work alongside the deep latex layer, both providing personalised support and full-body cushioning.
Memory foam and latex mattresses are very similar, but with some distinguishing properties that may swing your decision. Like a memory foam mattress, a latex mattress offers support that can help with back and joint pain.
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 gives 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 surface of choice for those who favour organic products.
Due to coming from the rubber tree, people often worry that a latex mattress will smell. It’s an understandable worry, as rubber does have a very distinctive scent. However, on the whole, latex mattresses do not smell after a bit of use.
All new products have a smell that goes with time, and what goes into the mattress will affect the smell. But a fully natural latex mattress will have little or no smell when you first purchase it, and 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 anyone after a bed with flexibility. They’re durable, eco-friendly, and great for those with allergies, but they’re also suitable for just about every sleeper.
Of course, if you have decided that a latex mattress is right for you, then why not browse our range to see what we have on offer? You can also get in touch to ask more about our free and next-day delivery options, as well as visit Snooze News blog or Buying Guide section for more helpful advice.
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