The answer to what is latex foam mattress is, from the name itself, latex. It’s a mattress that is naturally sourced from the rubber tree. However, manufacturers nowadays also have latex mattresses sourced synthetically.
We’ll also talk about the advantages of using a latex bed and how it compares to memory foam. And if you happen to get persuaded, here is where to buy a latex mattress.
Everything You Need To Know About Latex Foam Mattresses
What is a latex mattress?
A latex foam mattress is a mattress made from the sap of the rubber tree. The sap will become latex foam by undergoing the Dunlop or Talalay process. However, manufacturers nowadays also make synthetic latex or blend natural and synthetic materials.
It’s best to clarify the characteristics and composition of your bed if you want to get genuine natural latex foam. If it is cheaper, it’s probably made from petrochemicals. Nonetheless, a natural and synthetic latex foam mattress feels quite the same, but the former will be more durable at the drawback of costing more.
What are the types of latex mattress?
Natural latex
Natural latex is the original and genuine latex foam mattress. The latex from rubber trees is manufactured into foam layers to create an organic bed comparable to memory foam without the off-gassing and synthetic chemicals. You can also assume that the lifespan of a latex mattress will be longer if it is genuinely sourced from natural materials.
Synthetic latex
Not all latex mattresses can be considered organic beds. Some manufacturers use synthetic materials like styrene-butadiene rubber to mimic the feel of a naturally sourced latex foam mattress. However, the bed wouldn’t feel as bouncy, and there is a decline in durability.
Dunlop latex
You can also classify latex mattresses based on how they are manufactured. For example, the denser latex foam bed is usually Dunlop latex. The bottom part is dense, while the top is relatively soft because it is poured once into a mold during manufacturing.
Talalay latex
Compared to Dunlop latex, Talalay latex feels less dense because it is not poured once in the mold. Instead, the manufacturer fills the mold partially and then expands the mattress with air. Because it is less dense, Talalay latex has a more consistent feel when you lie on it, but it might also be less durable than Dunlop latex.
How is a latex mattress made?
A latex foam mattress is made by collecting sap from the rubber tree. The rubber tree sap will then be turned into a froth and poured into a mold. The manufacturing process for a natural latex mattress will differ into Dunlop and Talalay latex foams according to how they are poured, but Talalay is also vacuum sealed and frozen before being baked as well.
Are Latex Foam Mattresses Good?
Latex foam mattresses are good, especially if you want a bouncy and responsive bed. You won’t feel like you’re sinking deep into the bed, but the latex mattress will respond with you as you switch positions throughout sleep. Furthermore, a latex foam bed is the best choice if you only want to use organic items in the house, and some are even labeled hypoallergenic.
What Are The Benefits Of A Latex Mattress?
Eco-friendly
Perhaps the most significant benefit of a latex mattress is its eco-friendly, especially with the original organic latex foam bed. Since natural latex is sourced from trees, you’ll feel at ease knowing you’re not exposing yourself to chemicals. People sensitive to chemicals will also enjoy sleeping on a latex bed, especially those with hypoallergenic labels.
Provides good support
If you know how to select mattress firmness, and you found out that you will do best in a firm bed, consider a latex mattress. You won’t risk a sagging sleeping surface that might affect your sleeping posture. Latex also responds to movements well so that you can switch sleeping positions without the risk of body pain.
Is Latex Foam Mattress Good For Back Pain?
A latex foam bed will be ideal if you suffer from back pain because of its firmness. You will maintain a neutral spine to alleviate the discomfort or prevent the worsening of the strain on the back. Furthermore, a latex mattress also has some contouring characteristics similar to memory foam so that you can relieve pressure on the back.
Do you have other painful conditions like fibromyalgia? Here are the best beds for people with fibromyalgia to help you know what to look for.
Are Latex Mattresses Hot To Sleep On?
Latex mattresses are suitable for hot sleepers because no additives can contribute to the bed’s heat retention. Foam beds are notorious for feeling hot compared to innerspring mattresses, so it would help select a material like latex foam to avoid trapping heat. If you’re a very hot sleeper, consider getting a latex hybrid mattress because it has the best air circulation.
Conclusion
And that’s it! We just answered what is latex foam mattress, which is essentially a natural bed made from rubber tree sap. However, remember that there is also synthetic latex foam that has a similar feel to natural latex.
Do you remember the two manufacturing processes for latex foam as well? Reread our comparison with Dunlop and Talalay latex if needed. And if you’re interested, here is where to buy latex mattress toppers.