Everything You Need To Know About Latex Foam Mattresses

What is a latex mattress?

Mattresses with a latex foam layer are constructed from rubber tree sap. Dunlop or Talalay processes will transform the sap into latex foam. Synthetic latex and hybrids of natural and synthetic materials are also produced by manufacturers today.

If you’re looking for genuine natural latex foam, it’s best to specify the bed’s specific features and materials. It is more likely to be made from petrochemicals if it is less expensive. Both natural and synthetic latex foam mattresses feel very similar, but the natural one will last longer and be more expensive.

What are the types of latex mattress?

Natural latex 

The only true and authentic latex foam mattress is made from natural latex. Rubber tree latex is processed into foam layers to make a mattress that is chemical- and off-gassing-free yet functionally equivalent to memory foam. If a latex mattress is truly made from natural materials, you can expect it to last longer.

Synthetic latex

Unfortunately, not all latex mattresses qualify as “organic.” There are imitation latex foam mattresses on the market that are made with synthetic materials like styrene-butadiene rubber. The bed would lose its springiness and its longevity would suffer as a result.

Dunlop latex

The process of producing a latex mattress can also be used to categorize them. For instance, Dunlop latex is typically used for the denser latex foam mattress. Because it is poured into a mold only once, the bottom is dense while the top is relatively soft.

Talalay latex

Talalay latex is not poured all at once in the mold, so it is less dense than Dunlop latex. Instead, the manufacturer only fills the mold halfway, leaving room for the air to expand the mattress. Talalay latex has a more consistent feel when you lie on it because it is less dense than Dunlop latex, but it may be less durable.

How is a latex mattress made?

Rubber tree sap is harvested for use in the production of latex foam mattresses. The sap from the rubber tree will be whipped into a foam and then poured into a mold. Dunlop and Talalay latex foams are created in different ways during the manufacturing process of a natural latex mattress; Talalay is also vacuum sealed and frozen before being baked.

Are Latex Foam Mattresses Good?

If you’re looking for a bed with some bounce and responsiveness, a latex foam mattress is a good option. The latex mattress will respond to your shifting weight and position as you sleep, without making you feel like you’re sinking to the bottom. Some latex foam mattresses are even hypoallergenic, making them a good option for people who prefer to avoid using anything but natural materials in their homes.

What Are The Benefits Of A Latex Mattress?

Eco-friendly

The original organic latex foam bed’s eco-friendliness is perhaps the most notable perk of a latex mattress. Natural latex gives you peace of mind because it is derived from trees and not chemicals. Those who are chemically sensitive will also find a latex mattress to be comfortable.

Provides good support

If you’ve done your research and found that you sleep best on a firm mattress, latex may be a good option for you. You won’t have to worry about your sleeping position being disrupted because of a sagging mattress. You can easily switch sleeping positions without waking up in pain thanks to latex’s responsiveness to movement.

Is Latex Foam Mattress Good For Back Pain?

If you experience back pain, a latex foam mattress may be the solution. To ease the pain or prevent it from getting worse, you’ll make sure to keep your spine in a neutral position. A latex mattress, like memory foam, has some contouring qualities that can help relieve back pressure.

Do you suffer from fibromyalgia or any other painful conditions? If you suffer from fibromyalgia, we’ve compiled a list of the top beds for you to consider.

Are Latex Mattresses Hot To Sleep On?

Because latex has no synthetic materials added to it, it does not retain heat like other mattresses. Selecting a material like latex foam would be helpful because foam beds are known for feeling hotter than innerspring mattresses. If you tend to get hot during the night, a latex hybrid mattress may be the best option for you.

Best Latex Mattress Reviews

Saatva Latex Hybrid Mattress

The Saatva Latex Hybrid is a high-end pressure-relieving mattress made from a combination of organic and eco-friendly materials. Back and stomach sleepers, as well as some combination sleepers who spend very little time on their sides, will find this mattress to be comfortable. People weighing more than 250 pounds will find it to be sufficiently supportive. The latex layer should help keep stomach sleepers’ hips and shoulders in line, reducing the risk of back pain.

Pros

• You can expect to make use of the entire sleeping surface on the Saatva Latex Hybrid, as it features excellent edge support.
• This bed is built to last, thanks to its sturdy construction and high-quality materials. For married people, this is a nice bonus.
• White-glove service is provided at no cost to you when you buy a mattress from Saatva. This means that a team from Saatva will come and set up your bed in a box for you. Your old mattress will be removed at no cost to you as well.

Cons

• Since it is a firmer mattress, it will not provide the hip and shoulder contouring and pressure relief required by side sleepers.
• This mattress is not great if you share your bed with a partner who moves around a lot during the night (or a particularly active pet).

Have you heard about Saatva’s latex model? To learn more, check out our in-depth review of the Saatva Latex Hybrid.

WinkBeds EcoCloud Mattress

The WinkBeds EcoCloud is an excellent option to think about if you’re trying to find a natural mattress. It has the traditional feel of a medium-firm mattress and is made from soft latex. Comfort in a variety of sleeping positions is ensured by a mattress with a medium-firm feel. The EcoCloud is an excellent choice for combination sleepers due to its buoyant latex texture and its low profile.

Pros

• If you’re looking for a mattress that won’t hurt the environment, look no further than the WinkBeds EcoCloud. The components are 100% organic and natural.
• A breathable organic cotton and wool cover, four inches of naturally cooling Talalay latex, and recycled steel coils that promote airflow all work together to keep the EcoCloud at a comfortable temperature all night long.
• This mattress is built to last, thanks to its sturdy construction and excellent edge support.

Cons

• Because of the EcoCloud’s lackluster motion isolation, you might be disturbed by your sleeping partner’s tossing and turning.
• A firmer mattress is recommended for stomach sleepers so that their hips are elevated while they sleep.

EcoSleep Hybrid Mattress

One reason latex mattresses are so popular is their inherent ability to keep sleepers cool. The EcoSleep by Brooklyn Bedding improves upon the natural cooling properties of latex by adding a layer of coils that promote air circulation and ventilation. The EcoSleep from Brooklyn Bedding is designed to keep even the warmest sleepers comfortable. Those in search of an organic bed will be pleased to learn that the EcoSleep is made entirely from natural products.

Pros

• Because of the remarkable motion isolation, you won’t be disturbed by your partner’s nighttime movements. The EcoSleep’s great cooling capabilities and this feature make it a fantastic option for couples.
• Those who sleep in a variety of positions throughout the night will appreciate the EcoSleep’s adaptability.
• The medium-firm and firm sides of the Brooklyn Bedding EcoSleep allow you to choose the optimal feel for your body regardless of how you sleep.

Cons

• Even if the bed can be flipped over, those who sleep exclusively on their sides may benefit from a softer surface.
• Light sleepers who share a bed with someone else should look elsewhere, as there is a fair amount of motion transfer in this mattress.

Dreamfoam Elements Latex Mattress

The firmness of the Dreamfoam Elements Latex mattress makes it a good choice for stomach sleepers. These sleepers benefit greatly from the high-density foam in this latex mattress, which keeps their hips elevated and in proper alignment with their spine. The inside is stuffed with the long-lasting Talalay latex.

Pros

• The Elements Latex mattress comes in two different thicknesses, 10 and 12 inches.
• For those who prefer to sleep on their backs, this is a great option because the latex foam provides adequate support to maintain proper spinal alignment.
• This bed does a good job of reducing motion transfer, which is unusual for a latex mattress. It has excellent edge support as well, making it a fantastic option for couples.

Cons

• A softer mattress will provide more sinkage and contouring for side sleepers, relieving pressure on the body’s pressure points.
• The Dreamfoam Elements Latex Hybrid model’s coils will help promote airflow, so hot sleepers may want to consider making the switch.

Nolah Natural Mattress

In addition to its high-quality organic (and recycled) materials, the Nolah Natural is a great choice for those who prefer to sleep on their backs. It’s a plush, medium-firm mattress that will give back sleepers just enough lumbar support without compromising on the comfort of their hips.

Pros

• Many side sleepers, thanks to the latex layer, should also find this mattress to their liking. Additionally, combination sleepers will benefit from the bounce that latex provides.
• This mattress’s natural materials and pocketed coils are great for hot sleepers, but the latter is especially advantageous.
• The combination of resilient Talalay latex and sturdy steel makes for a long-lasting mattress.

Cons

• The mattress is too soft for those who must sleep on their stomachs.
• This bed does not have the slow sinkage typical of memory foam, making it a poor choice for sleepers who seek that sensation.

Birch Mattress

Many sleepers find that mattresses with a medium level of firmness provide just the right combination of softness and support. The Birch (designed by Helix) has a combination of contouring and durability that should please both back and stomach sleepers, in our opinion. The Birch should also be comfortable for those who prefer to sleep in a combination of positions. The Talalay latex construction provides the springiness desired by combo sleepers.

Pros

• The Birch’s medium firmness may help those who sleep on their backs avoid lumbar pain by encouraging good spinal alignment.
• The Birch’s construction features some organic materials. This natural mattress is made with high-quality materials like organic cotton, wool fibers, and natural Talalay latex.
• People who sleep hot will appreciate this mattress’s cooling features.

Cons

• The Birch has a pleasant but brief off-gassing smell that disappears after being exposed to the air for a few days after unboxing. This is standard procedure, but it could be an issue if you can’t give the mattress at least 48 to 72 hours to air out.
• A mattress with more padding and contouring will be more comfortable for side sleepers.

Awara Mattress

There are a few ways in which the Aware is similar to the other models on this list, but there are also several key ways in which it differs. To be specific, it offers fantastically firm support. This is encouraging news for anyone, but especially those who are trying to avoid back pain and sleep on their back or stomach. To ensure correct spinal alignment, the sturdy Dunlop latex and coils in this product keep the hips from sinking in.

Pros

• The Awara is distinguished by its reasonably priced, high-quality bed. You can usually find a queen for under $1,000 with sales and discounts.
• It has a soft, pillow-top feel thanks to the four inches of Dunlop latex.
• Those who sleep on their backs and suffer from hip pain should also enjoy this mattress.

Cons

• Fans of memory foam may prefer a mattress that allows them to sink in more completely.
• Mattresses with a higher level of firmness and support are recommended for heavy sleepers and side sleepers.

Zenhaven Mattress

The Zenhaven is unique among the mattresses on this list because it is made entirely of latex rather than latex and coils. The Zenhaven can also be flipped because it has a firm and a soft side. The softer side, which I rated at around a 6 out of 10, should be ideal for side sleepers. Those who sleep on their sides won’t have to worry about getting stuck in painful knots at the shoulders and hips thanks to the excellent pressure relief provided by this side. The full latex construction also provides excellent bounce and mobility, so sleepers won’t feel trapped.

Pros

• Talalay latex, cotton, and wool are just some of the all-natural components of the Zenhaven.
• The exceptional bounce and breathability come courtesy of the full-latex core.
• The Zenhaven’s all-natural latex construction is strong and long-lasting.

Cons

• If you prefer to sink into your bed when sleeping on memory foam, you may be disappointed by the “on top of” feel of this mattress.
• A restless partner may be more noticeable on this bed due to its springy nature.

Brentwood Home Hybrid Latex Mattress

These days, hybrid latex mattresses are the most common type available. The Brentwood Home is, as its name suggests, an excellent hybrid latex model, featuring pocketed coils and a latex layer that strikes an excellent balance between comfort and support. This is a great mattress for those who sleep on their backs, sides, or even on their stomachs and their sides together.

Pros

• The coil base of this mattress allows for even more airflow than the latex itself does, making it a great choice for hot sleepers.
• The Brentwood Home Hybrid Latex mattress is a great option for couples who want to buy a natural bed because it effectively reduces the transfer of motion between partners.
• The three distinct firmness zones in the comfort layer are a unique feature of this hybrid latex mattress, and they work together to support correct spinal alignment.

Cons

• The foam ridges at the shoulders are a real feature of the zoned support layer. Our reviewers weren’t bothered by this, but if you apply pressure, you’ll definitely feel the ridges.
• Those who sleep on their bellies will benefit from a more supportive design.

Avocado Green Mattress

The Avocado is yet another latex hybrid bed-in-a-box option. Dunlop latex, a slightly denser form of the material, is used instead of Talalay latex. The extra firmness of the Avocado’s support also sets it apart from the other options here. The latex should help keep hips elevated and healthy spinal alignment for both stomach and back sleepers thanks to the pocketed coils underneath. As the latex foam molded to their lower backs, our guinea pigs reported a significant reduction in pressure. Those experiencing lower back pain will also benefit from the Avocado’s zoned support system.

Pros

• Shoulder pain from sleeping on your stomach, back, or a combination of the two? Try the Avocado. If you sleep on your back and suffer from hip pain, this mattress is a good option.
• You won’t feel trapped on this mattress thanks to its excellent bounce and flexibility. Those who sleep in a variety of positions throughout the night will likely find this comfortable.
• The 25-year guarantee backs up Avocado’s claim of exceptional durability.

Cons

• This mattress may be too firm for side sleepers to get the contouring and pressure relief they need, even with the addition of the pillow top.
• This mattress has average motion isolation, which isn’t great for sharing.

Things to Consider When Buying a Latex Mattress

If you’re on a tight budget, you might want to look elsewhere because latex beds can be quite pricey.

It’s also important to consider your sleeping posture when shopping for a mattress. Those who sleep on their sides prefer a more plush mattress, those who sleep on their backs a medium to firm one, and those who sleep on their stomachs a firm or extra-firm one. Many of these manufacturers have offered their own takes on the latex mattress, so you shouldn’t have too much trouble finding the one that’s just right for you.

Average-sized people tend to have a positive sleeping experience on most mattresses. But the construction of the layers in a mattress can make it feel either firmer or softer to lighter sleepers. However, heavier people typically prefer more dense mattresses, so it’s best to look for ones that are specifically designed for them. Check out our compilation of the best mattresses for heavy people for more ideas.

The firmness of a bed is a good indicator of how well it will accommodate various body types, sleeping positions, and pain points. Knowing your own preferences and requirements will help you select the optimal level of firmness. As was previously mentioned, side sleepers require the plushest mattress, stomach sleepers the firmest, and back sleepers the middle ground.

The ability of a mattress to relieve pressure at key pressure points is what we mean when we talk about pressure relief. The hips, shoulders, and lower back are common locations for such discomfort. Those suffering from hip or shoulder pain, for instance, would benefit more from a softer bed. The pressure-relieving effectiveness of a bed may also vary greatly from one sleeping position to the next. If you suffer from back pain and sleep on your back, a firm bed will help keep your spine in alignment while you sleep. If you sleep on your side, however, you’ll need a softer bed so that your hips and shoulders can sink in and your spine can remain in its natural position while you sleep.

Fortunately, latex is a heat-transfer/temperature-regulating material. For all you warm sleepers out there, this is a fantastic choice.

Because latex mattresses are typically responsive and bouncy, they cause a great deal of motion transfer and isolation. For married people, this may be a warning sign. It’s possible that your bed partner’s tossing and turning at night could wake you up if you’re a light sleeper.

While latex itself keeps you cool while you sleep, other mattresses, like the EcoSleep, offer even more ventilation thanks to the space between their coils.

Although latex allergies are relatively rare, they can have serious consequences for people who are more likely to be exposed to them.

Off-gassing is a standard procedure for most mattresses. This is the amount of time needed for your mattress to recover from being compressed or otherwise packaged, allowing the “new mattress smell” to dissipate. The intensity and variety may also be affected by the components of your mattress and the date it was manufactured. There is less off-gassing from latex mattresses than there is from synthetic foam ones.

The majority of modern mattress companies provide “sleep trials.” This allows for a trial period with the bed and allows for returns or exchanges if necessary. You need only prioritize this feature’s importance among your other needs.

Warranty: Warranties are typically longer and more inclusive than sleep trials. In contrast to a sleep trial, where you have the option of returning a seemingly flawless product, the company has more say in how they handle complaints about your mattress. I would look for a guarantee of at least ten years, as latex mattresses are known to last a long time.

Who Should Buy a Latex Mattress

You shouldn’t buy a latex mattress just because you like to use latex balloons for your parties. Do you think you have what it takes to sleep in a latex suit? Learn more about it below.

Sleepers who use multiple sleeping positions throughout the night will benefit greatly from the latex mattress’ typical combination of pressure relief and bounce.

Green-minded: 100% natural Dunlop latex or organic Talalay latex materials are commonly present in latex mattresses; both are harvested from trees in the same way that maple syrup is.

Any product will wear out over time, but if you want something that will last the longest, latex may be a good choice. This is especially true when contrasted with its foam rivals, most of which offer significantly shorter guarantees.

Who Shouldn’t Buy a Latex Mattress

There is no such thing as a perfect mattress. Let’s discuss some of the major issues with latex mattresses as well as some of the things that people tend to dislike about memory foam and hybrid beds.

Even though latex allergies are uncommon, they do occur. Those who are allergic to natural latex should consider alternatives made from synthetic materials. You should still investigate the chemicals that may be present in a synthetic latex mattress.

Transportability: Latex mattresses may not be the best choice if you’re looking for something that can be easily moved on your own. Natural latex is extremely long-lasting, but it is also quite heavy due to its density.

Latex vs Other Types of Mattress

We must now “lay down” the cold, hard truth. Which substance do you prefer to have on your side? Which side will you support, or do you hope to find a middle ground?

Latex Mattress vs Memory Foam Mattress

• A 100% latex bed is likely to be a little more porous and help you sleep cooler than a memory foam mattress, which is dense and tends to retain heat.
• Memory foam is entirely synthetic, while there are both natural and synthetic varieties of latex.
• Check out our extensive Latex vs. Memory Foam mattress guide for more on the debate between latex and memory foam.

Latex Mattress vs Hybrid Mattress

• Some, but not all, hybrid mattresses feature a latex layer. The typical hybrid mattress has multiple layers, including foam, coils, and sometimes even other materials.
• Hybrid mattresses combine the advantages of foam and coil designs to provide comfortable support for a wider range of sleepers.
• The Birch is one of our top-selling hybrid mattresses.

Latex Mattress vs Innerspring Mattress

• The cooling, support, and springiness of both mattresses are exceptional.
• The Birch is a latex and innerspring mattress.
• Foam layers, typically latex foam, sit atop the coils in most innerspring mattresses. Memory foam may also be used.

What Makes a Latex Mattress Environmentally Friendly

Let’s talk about the procedure itself before we get into the environmental impact of the final product. Like maple syrup, latex is carefully drained from rubber trees. Natural latex is produced by parts of these trees that are just below the surface. This makes it easy to peel back the bark and harvest the product without causing any harm to the tree. Additionally, extraction never continues beyond a predetermined time frame from any given location. When a region reaches the six-year mark, extraction stops there and moves to a new location so that the affected area can recover.

Natural and synthetic forms of latex exist. Synthetic latex may contain harmful chemicals or carcinogens, but natural latex does not. Doing your homework on the specific latex mattress you’re considering is always a good idea. If you care about the health of the planet and your own body, you should stick with natural latex.

These materials can be certified to meet a variety of environmental standards, including those listed below.

GOTS stands for the Global Organic Textile Standards. The Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) establishes criteria for certified organic textiles with a focus on social and environmental responsibility. Both manufacturers and customers can have faith in GOTS-certified textiles.

The Global Organic Latex Standards (GOLS) are the most crucial because they validate the authenticity of organic latex. To guarantee an entirely organic process, these guidelines extend from the actions of the farmer to those of the manufacturer.

If a product bears the OEKO-TEX Standard 100 label, you can rest assured that it has undergone extensive testing to ensure that it is free of any potentially harmful substances. They contribute to increased sales and a more secure product for consumers.

Conclusion

Finally, the end! What is a latex foam mattress? It’s a bed made from the sap of the rubber tree, and now you know the answer. However, keep in mind that in addition to natural latex, there is synthetic latex foam that provides a similar experience.

Do you also recall the two methods used to create latex foam? If you need a refresher, please read our analysis of Dunlop and Talalay latex. Here is where to get a latex mattress topper if you’re interested.