All About Latex Mattresses

Latex technology has come a long way since its newfound popularity in the mid nineteenth century. Now, even Latex mattresses are made using advanced technological processes and techniques.

Latex mattresses are ideal for allergy-sufferers in that Latex mattresses are naturally dust mite, bed bug, bacteria, mildew and mold resistant. Standard innerspring mattresses can be covered using a mattress protector or mattress cover, but regular mattresses are the perfect habitat for dust mites. Latex and memory foam, however, are not.

One big difference between regular mattresses and Latex mattresses is that Latex mattresses get warmer than regular mattresses and are great for keeping warm on cool nights. When purchasing your new Latex (and Memory foam too) mattress keep in mind that homes in higher altitudes, and climates that vary drastically are subjected to varying Latex firmness. In high altitude, many Memory foam and Latex foam mattresses get very firm because their natural properties react to body heat in order to allow for complete conformability.

Many find that there is one major advantage of a Latex mattress over regular innerspring mattresses.

Latex mattresses offer pressure-relieving support in areas most mattresses cannot.

Latex mattresses conform to the curves in your body and disperse your weight evenly across the surface of the bed. If you are a sensitive sleeper, easily awakened by the movements of your partner, a Latex mattress can be an easy way to eliminate disruptive movements.

There are different types of Latex and different levels of firmness. You will find, in the mattress description, numbers that refer to firmness of Latex foam. Latex foam firmness, referred to as ILD, comes in four comfort levels. The higher the ILD rating, the firmer the foam will be. For example ILD 11 is considered very soft, Plush foam, whereas ILD 50 is a very Firm, supportive foam.

Latex mattresses can be made in different ways and from different types of Latex. Here are a few different types of Latex used in mattresses.

• Dunlop: The most common method of making Latex. Often cheaper than Talalay
• Talalay: Another common method of making Latex, offers less dense Latex. Considered a more Premium Latex
• Natural Latex: More expensive as it is harder to harvest.
• Blended Latex: Chemicals are added to promote a consistent feel.
• Synthetic Latex: A synthetic material that acts like Latex.

In comparison to Memory foam, Latex mattresses offer a springier, quick release for comfort. Also, a big difference is that Latex mattresses are not as sensitive to temperature change, whereas Memory Foam mattress rely on and retain body heat to remain soft and malleable.

To learn more, visit your neighborhood Sit ‘n Sleep mattress stores and speak with one of our expert Sleep Consultants.