What is a Latex Mattress and How It Can Benefit You
Picking out the right mattress is one of the most important things you can do to get a good night’s rest. When it comes to comfort and support, memory foam mattresses get all the hype, but what other options are out there? Though they’re still not as well-known as memory foam, latex mattresses are the latest in mattress technology and they’re gaining popularity fast. Latex mattresses are made of rubber tree sap, and have similar contouring abilities to memory foam, but with a few added bonuses. They come in both natural and synthetic varieties, and depending on what you’re looking for in a mattress, either can be a great choice for your bedroom. Here are just a few things that set latex mattresses apart.
Healthy Choice
Natural latex beds can be better for your health and for the environment compared to other mattress varieties. Memory foam beds can release potentially harmful gases into the air in the form of “volatile organic compounds” (or VOCs), but latex mattresses keep the air clean with much lower VOC levels. Latex mattress manufacturers often use environmentally friendly materials as well, opting for organic wools and cottons. Natural latex mattresses are also hypoallergenic and resistant to mold and dust mites, making them a great option for people with allergies or other health concerns.
Comfort and Support
Latex is great for sleepers who like the posture support and pressure point relief of memory foam but struggle to get comfortable in its deep contours. Latex mattresses have more bounce and a quicker response time than memory foam, while still being comfortable and supportive. Active sleepers often prefer latex to memory foam, as it contours the body without the sensation of being “stuck” in the foam. Latex also tends to be firmer, which can provide effective relief for people with chronic back and neck pain.
Cooling Action
One of the biggest problems with memory foam is heat retention. Many people who use memory foam report sleeping hot, making for a less comfortable night’s sleep. Latex is one of the most cooling mattress types, making it a great choice for people living in warm climates or who prefer keeping cool at night. Latex mattresses are more breathable than memory foam, and often come with tiny holes and built-in air pockets to improve air circulation and keep sleepers cool.
Long Lasting
A latex mattress is a friend for life. Unlike memory foam or spring mattresses, which typically last less than 10 years before they start to break down, latex mattresses can withstand decades of wear and tear. Most have a lifespan of at least 15 years, with some providing optimal comfort and support for up to three decades. They don’t sag or lose support over time, and many brands offer warrantees up to 25 years.
Choice and Variety
When it comes to latex, there are plenty of options to find the perfect fit. Natural, synthetic, and hybrid latex all have different characteristics while maintaining similar high quality. Natural latex is more environmentally friendly and is typically firmer, with higher levels of elasticity, while synthetic latex tends to be softer and more affordable. Hybrid mattresses offer a balance of both. Many latex mattresses also have replaceable layers, so that parts of the bed can be repaired and exchanged without getting rid of the whole mattress. This can help affordably and effectively increase the lifespan of the mattress.