What is a latex mattress?
There are several types of latex mattresses, all of which offer distinct benefits when it comes to relieving back and joint pain, allergies, arthritis-related discomfort, and other common sleep disturbances. In broad terms, there is natural latex made from rubber trees, and synthetic latex that combines rubber latex with petroleum derivatives.
Marketing terms can be a little tricky, as only mattresses made from 100% pure rubber latex from the Hevea brasiliensis tree are truly free of chemical additives. Anyone who is looking for a green, eco-friendly sleep surface should consider an organic latex mattress, which is naturally hypoallergenic
Latex may either be used as a comfort layer on top of a coil base, or as a solid foundational slab. Since latex mattress jargon can be a tad confusing, here’s a brief explanation of the various types available.
Natural latex vs organic latex mattresses
Beds that are billed as “natural latex” have been manufactured with fewer chemical additives and must contain at least 80 percent natural botanical latex. Some manufacturers offer 100% natural latex mattresses that feature a solid latex core. These models are recommended for people with chemical sensitivities and allergies and who value eco-friendly products.
Just like natural latex, organic mattresses are made with the milky substance from the rubber tree. The difference is the oversight in the harvest and manufacturing processes, as all “organic” mattresses come with an official seal of approval that guarantees the bed is free of hazardous chemicals and man-made products. Some of the best organic mattresses available today are certified by Oeko-Tex and the Global Organic Latex Standard (GOLS).
Synthetic latex foam mattresses
Latex foam is a catch-all term that may refer to natural or synthetic rubber, or a blend of the two. Synthetic latex foam is manufactured with petroleum derivatives in such a way as to create a wide array of firmness options, enabling you to customize your sleep experience. A latex foam mattress, unlike traditional memory foam, has instant rebound properties and does not retain body heat.
Dunlop and Talalay latex
Dunlop and Talalay are the vulcanizing methods used to make a latex mattress, whether it is purely natural, synthetic or a combination of the two. Talalay is a slightly newer process that creates latex material of a slightly lower density and weight, preferable for those who desire a softer, more pillow-like sleeping surface. Alternatively, the Dunlop process creates a denser and more elastic latex ideal for maximum support and firmness. Because the Talalay process produces larger open cells, it is also linked to better ventilation.
