Latex Overview

Although they have been available for many decades, latex mattresses are currently experiencing a resurgence in popularity, particularly in Europe. In general, latex shares many of the benefits of memory foam, particularly in terms of its exceptional support and durability. However, latex lacks the highly conforming nature and slow recovery time that characterize memory foam. For those who dislike these aspects of memory foam, whether due to the warmth of the mattress, difficulty in changing positions or otherwise, latex is a very compelling alternative. Fans of latex praise its well-balanced support, long lifespan (which in some cases can exceed 20 years) and allergen resistance.
 

Latex Mattress Construction

Like memory foam beds, latex beds tend to be relatively simple in their construction. Typically, a latex mattress consists of anywhere from 1 to 4 layers, with the bottom layer (known as the "core") being the firmest, and each layer above getting progressively softer. The core, which provides the underlying support for the mattress, tends to be about 5-6" thick and is typically made from either relatively dense latex (in high-quality latex mattresses) or polyurethane foam. The upper layers, also known as the "comfort" layers, are designed to give the bed a softer feel and are most often made from either softer latex or memory foam.

Latex typically contains numerous "pincore holes" — deep, cylindrical holes spread throughout the mattress to help soften its feel. Larger pincore holes create a softer feel. Some manufacturers place different-sized holes in different parts of the mattress in order to offer different zones of support and comfort for the various parts of the body.

Types of Latex

Latex mattresses can be made from either natural or synthetic latex, or (more typically) a blend thereof. Though all-natural latex mattresses are available, they are the least common and most expensive. Natural latex, produced from the rubber tree, is known for its softness and elasticity, as well as its biodegradability and inherent resistance to bacteria, mold and dust mites. That said, as a natural product, it is inherently subject to greater variations in quality. Synthetic latex, made through a chemical process using petroleum-based materials, shares many of the same physical properties as natural latex, but often has a slightly stiffer feel and is thought by some to better maintain its resiliency over a very long period of time. Blends of natural and synthetic latex generally aim to capture the advantages of both natural and synthetic latex and thus have become quite popular. Mattress manufacturers using blended latex often claim that it combines the elasticity of natural latex with the consistent quality and durability of synthetic latex.
 

What is Latex?

By definition, latex is a rubber particle suspended in water. There are 2 types; NR or natural rubber and SBR (styrene butadiene rubber) or man made latex. All latex is either a blend of the two or 100% natural latex.

Brazil provided the world with the rubber tree, hevea brasiliensis. In 1876 the British government exported seedlings to London for further development. From there seedlings were exported to Sri Lanka and Indonesia where they thrived and the tapping technique was discovered. Over the next several decades the British in Sri Lanka and the Dutch in Indonesia cleared vast amounts of rain forest to create the rubber tree plantations of today.   


What are the benefits of Latex?

No flipping. No tossing. Latex foam mattresses do a world of good for your back and spine in and out of bed. They provide years of comfortable sleep. And never need flipping. Latex foam will not break down and offers exceptional stability to eliminate sleep disruptive motion transfer. Latex is the most resilient sleep technology on the market virtually eliminating body impressions and the sagging center many consumers complain about.

Latex instantaneously conforms to every curve and contour of your body to keep your spine in a properly supported position throughout the night. Layering softer layers of latex near the surface  reduces pressure without sacrificing support. Latex mattresses offer you the ideal balance of comfort support. This unique, naturally derived material dynamically responds to your every curve and contour to provide outstanding, orthopedic support. It also alleviates sleep-disturbing areas of high pressure, so you sleep deeper and awake refreshed and ready for a new day.


Naturally healthy

• Anti-microbial and dust-mite resistant to alleviate allergies
• Optimal orthopedic support (naturally conforming to body contours)
• Luxurious resilience and feel
• Enhanced breathability.
• Resistance to moisture and heat.
• Superior pressure relief that helps bring oxygen and nutrients to muscles.
• Elimination of sleep disturbing motion transfers, so you rest easy even if your partner is restless
• Ease of choice, no more confusion over innersprings and coil counts.