Written by Nectarsleep editorial team
Last Updated on Jun 14, 2022
You might have come across many manufacturers and salespeople throwing various options such as memory foam, foam, innerspring, and latex. We will evaluate two of the most significant players in the mattress market: Latex vs Memory foam. Both are extremely popular in the mattress world but come with different features and are available in standard mattress sizes. Our detailed blog will help you understand the difference between latex and memory foam mattresses.
Memory foam first got recognition when NASA developed this material to help shield their astronauts in space. Memory foam is a synthetic foam composed of polyurethane and added elements that create viscoelastic features.
In simple terms, when under pressure this type of foam contours to the shape of the object.
Compared to latex foam, memory foam takes some time to go back to its original shape. You can see the impression even when you have removed yourself from the bed. This sinking feeling makes this type of mattress foam comfortable for side or stomach sleepers.
Latex is extracted from rubber trees and offers more elasticity and a faster recovery time to return to its original shape. Latex mattresses are firmer than memory foam mattresses and have noticeable bounciness. Latex material comes in three types; Natural, synthetic and blended foams:
Natural latex foam is produced from natural rubber tree sap and processed to create foam layers. It is a good pick if you are looking for a natural mattress and are allergic to other materials.
Synthetic latex foam comes from various artificial materials that are often composed of styrene-butadiene rubber or SBR. It has a lesser bounce than natural latex foam.
Depending on the manufacturing process, there are two different types:
It is a latex poured into the mold in one continuous pour. It results in a denser foam at the bottom while the top is softer.
It refers to latex that is poured into a mold but is only partially filled. Air is then introduced to the mold by a vacuum that expands the latex to produce the complete form. It results in latex that is less dense and gives a consistent feel from top to bottom.
Take a look at some key differences between a latex vs memory foam mattress to help you make the right decision.
Memory foam is a synthetic foam composed of high-density polyurethane foam, which softens in the presence of pressure and heat. Natural Latex, on the other hand, comes from the rubber tree sap. It is either baked or frozen with many latex layers that help you with the bounce and firmness that you need.
Memory foam mattresses conform to the sleeper as it softens under pressure, while latex mattress provides the necessary firmness to the sleeper. Both memory foam and latex foam mattresses are great for sleepers with back pain. However, a latex foam mattress comes with less odor which a memory foam mattress does not have. When it comes to comfort, memory foam holds a slight edge over latex mattresses.
Latex mattresses completely outclass other mattresses in terms of durability as they last very long. However, high-class memory foam mattresses are not far behind and can last up to a decade with proper care.
A latex mattress comes with plenty of benefits but the price is considerably higher than a memory foam mattress. Memory foam, on the other hand, is more affordable and can cost close to $900 for a queen size.
Memory foam is one of the most popular mattresses but has a few cons at the same time. Let’s run through them.
Both these types of mattresses serve different purposes and are a good fit for specific kinds of sleepers.
You want a firm and bouncy mattress- Latex foam mattresses are bouncier than memory foam, which prevents that sinking feeling. It is one of the best mattresses if you want to experience intimacy with your loved one. Check out our guide on the best mattress for sex.
You want a faster response time- If you are a fidgety sleeper, you might love a latex foam mattress since it compliments your moves in the bed.
You want a natural feel- Latex foam mattresses are the most natural and organic mattresses and are best for the environment.
You are a back sleeper- If you are a back sleeper, you want a mattress that provides sufficient spinal and neck bone alignment. Memory foam mattresses serve the purpose.
You are a side sleeper- Just like back sleepers, a latex foam mattress aligns your spine and neck bone to give you maximum comfort. It also comforts your hip joints.
You face allergy issues- Memory foam mattress is one of the most hyperallergic options available in the market.
You want a slow response time and pressure point relief- You may like a mattress with a slower response time if you maintain one position through the night. Memory foam mattress allows you to sink in and experience pressure point relief.
A comparative analysis shows that both latex and memory foam can be comforting and enjoyable for different sleepers. Based on your requirements you can decide which is the right one for you.
If you prefer to sleep on an energy-absorbing bed and sleep on your back or your side or are concerned with spine and back alignment, then going for a memory foam might be the deal for you.
If you want to pick a natural bed and you are trying to find the perfect balance between a cozy night’s sleep with good support then going for a Latex foam is a no-brainer
{"faq":[{"_id":"94dcbb4","title":"Latex or memory foam- which is better for back pain?","content":"\u003Cp\u003EBoth latex and memory foam provide excellent pain relief by conforming to the shape of the sleeper. However, sleepers with memory foam mattresses report higher pain relief.\u003C\/p\u003E"},{"_id":"46a5575","title":"How thick should a latex mattress be?","content":"\u003Cp\u003EThe thickness of the latex mattress, which is rubberised foam, should be in the range of 6 to 13 inches.\u003C\/p\u003E"},{"_id":"dc8e01d","title":"What thickness of memory foam mattress is best?","content":"\u003Cp\u003EThe most comfortable thickness of the memory foam layer ranges from 4 to 5 inches, including a density of at least 5 pounds per cubic foot.\u003C\/p\u003E"},{"_id":"f23cdd5","title":"Are latex mattresses worth the money?","content":"\u003Cp\u003ELatex mattresses provide unparalleled support and come in a natural material that is odorless. They give a bouncy feel and are hypoallergic. These benefits make them worth their price.\u003C\/p\u003E"},{"_id":"583804e","title":"Why is memory foam so expensive?","content":"\u003Cp\u003EFoam mattresses are expensive due to the costs involved in the production and the quality of the product. The price of memory foam also depends on the density of the polyurethane foam used. Usually, a memory foam material with a density rating of 1.5 to 1.8 tends to be of higher quality and cost more. Check out\u00a0\u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/www.nectarsleep.com\/mattress\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"\u003ENectar\u2019s memory foam mattress\u003C\/a\u003E\u00a0that comes with all the benefits of a memory foam mattress at an affordable 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