What is a Latex Mattress? Uncovering This Mattress Type

What is a Latex Mattress? Uncovering This Mattress Type

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Last Updated on Jul 12, 2022

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    What is a Latex Mattress?

    Latex Mattress: Latex foam is an inherently natural, allergy-free product sought-after by environmentally-conscious consumers. Apart from its natural and allergy-free characteristics, latex foam is known as one of the most resilient materials on the market.

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    What are the Types of Latex?

    The first form of latex manufacturing called the Dunlop process, introduced latex foam to the market.

    Although, latex foam takes on a new image when the Talalay brothers implemented a much more modern and improved production method. Talalay latex process starts with vacuum-sealing and flash-freezing the materials before baking. It gives a more stable cell structure and thus a more cohesive feel than Dunlop.

    When are they Best Used?

    Latex is an entirely natural material used to produce durable and long-lasting mattresses. It makes latex mattresses eco-friendly and is strongly recommended for those who are mindful of the material in their sleeping surface. Latex mattresses are the best choice for children, pregnant women, senior citizens, or those who are sensitive to other materials.

    You should go for a latex mattress if you are:

    • Opting for organic, non-synthetic materials in your house
    • Inclined to a 100% natural and biodegradable, environmentally-friendly alternative
    • In need of a naturally well-ventilated and cool sleeping pad
    • Looking for enough body support, long lifespan, and soft feel. Latex scores are high for resiliency and durability as a material.

    When was Latex Mattress First Introduced?

    During 1920, a Scottish man named John Boyd Dunlop patented the use of latex for mattresses. Because of their privilege and wealth, the British Royal family has been said to be the first one to use latex mattresses.

    With continuous innovation, the three brothers, namely Leon, Joseph, and Ansil Talalay, refined the latex production process and developed a system that is more stable and robust. The overall process, in a gist, is vacuuming the air out of the latex mold and freezing it to preserve the cellular structure.

    Where to Buy Latex Mattress?

    Sadly, pure natural latex beds are mostly available online, and it can be hard to find them in local stores. However, it’s much easier to find blended beds or hybrid beds – those with latex over foam. These hybrid beds are found both in stores as well as through online retailers.

    When buying online, you may differentiate the retailers depending on the availability of certified organic latex, a range of comfort options, organic cotton covers, natural wool barrier, and reasonable prices. Also, you can find brands based on online reviews from real customers.

    How to Use it?

    It is important to flip other mattresses. However, this is not the same with hybrid mattresses that have coil technology. Your mattress manufacturer would often have a detailed guide on their specific mattress care.

    A mattress protector is a must have with any kind of mattress and a latex mattress is no different. You can then protect your latex mattress from moisture damage and stains.

    Water does not damage natural latex, but you have to keep in mind that you should avoid using strong chemicals while cleaning it. You can dilute mild detergents or isopropyl alcohol with small quantities of cold water to spot clean your mattress. A word of caution – never use bleach!

    If you can still feel dampness, you can leave it and let it dry. Place the natural latex outside in a completely covered area and not exposed to direct light. Direct exposure to sunlight may cause the latex to break down. If you’re thinking of using a cool blow dryer, go ahead!

    What is the Cost of a Latex Mattress?

    Although natural and blended latex shows apparent variations in their characteristics, the differences reflect on the prices. The average pure natural latex mattress price is about $2500, while the hybrid ones are priced around $1500 or more. You can get a natural, hybrid queen size mattress from Awara Sleep as low as $1199.

    Lifespan of the Latex Mattress

    Lifespan depends on the type of latex bed. Usually, all-natural latex mattresses last for about 12 to 20 years, although some have a lifespan of 40 years or more. Mixed latex mattresses commonly last around 6-10 years.

    Pros and Cons

    Pros

    Offers Delightful Comfort – Latex is a type of thick mattress that preserves its form, and hugs your body to support your back while you’re in deep sleep.

    Made from Natural Materials – Latex mattresses are known for their organic and eco-friendly characteristics.

    No Off-Gassing – While they may release off a latex rubber scent, all-natural latex mattresses have no chemical off-gassing.

    Doesn’t Trap Much Heat – Thanks to its construction, latex material holds less heat than other forms of mattresses.

    Longer Warranties – Since natural latex has high durability, these types of mattresses tend to have more extended warranties, which is around 20 years.

    Cons

    Not Too Effective for relieving Pressure Points – While durable and strong, latex mattresses are not as effective in alleviating stress as other substitutes, such as memory foam.

    More Bouncy – Unfortunately, latex is not as good as memory foam when it comes to absorbing movement from one side of the bed to the other.

    Expensive – Latex is among the most expensive materials to insert into a mattress.

    This article is for informational purposes and should not replace advice from your doctor or other medical professional.
    {"faq":[{"_id":"94dcbb4","title":"Is latex mattress the best choice?\n","content":"\u003Cp\u003EThere is no right answer to what type of mattress is the best choice. However, if you have very specific needs, then it is easy to find the right mattress based on those. Check out the\u00a0\u003Ca href=\"https:\/\/www.awarasleep.com\/products\/mattress\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"\u003Efeatures and benefits of a latex mattress\u003C\/a\u003E\u00a0here.\u003C\/p\u003E"},{"_id":"46a5575","title":"How long will a latex mattress last?","content":"\u003Cdiv id=\"faq-question-5fbe1e5893c39\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\"\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"rank-math-answer \"\u003E\u003Cp\u003ELatex mattresses are known to have a longer lifespan than their counterparts owing to their durable materials.\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv id=\"faq-question-5fbe1e5893c3a\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\"\u003E\u00a0\u003C\/div\u003E"},{"_id":"d40fc29","title":"How thick should a latex mattress be?","content":"\u003Cp\u003EThe thickness of any mattress is determined by the build and features offered by different brands. It could be anywhere from 6\u2033 to 15\u2033, depending on the price and layers. 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