Latex mattresses are the new memory foam (but healthier and more comfortable).
What does a true latex mattress entail? And what are the benefits associated with choosing latex over memory or polyurethane foam?
We’ve got all the answers below.
What is a latex mattress?
A latex mattress is made with pure natural latex, not a combination of latex and synthetic materials. Latex mattresses are designed to offer both support and pressure point relief and can be beneficial to all types of sleepers: back, side, and stomach.
How is latex manufactured?
Natural latex is made from rubber tree sap. The sap is whipped into a froth, poured into molds, covered, and baked like a cake! Talalay latex is vacuum-sealed and flash frozen before it is baked, giving it a more consistent cell structure and therefore, a more uniform feel than Dunlop. This also makes Talalay slightly more expensive.
Types of Latex
Dunlop
Dunlop latex is the denser of the two types. It’s ideal for those looking for firm and sturdy support. However, softer layers of Dunlop can offer cushioning.
Talalay
Talalay latex is known for being incredibly plush and luxurious. It’s perfect for side sleepers looking for pressure point relief since Talalay gently cradles the hips and shoulders.
Latex Content
The phrase “100% natural latex” is a tad misleading because curing agents must be added to the rubber sap in order for it to bake into cozy latex layers. This type of language isn’t totally accurate or transparent.
The highest quality natural latex is between 95-97% natural latex, with the remaining percentage being the curing agents. These additives are predominately sulfur and zinc oxide, with the former allowing the rubber sap to bake into a solid and the latter preventing early oxidation.
The Dunlop latex found in Savvy Rest organic mattresses meets the certification requirements of the Global Organic Latex Standard. One of the qualifications is that the rubber core is at least 95% natural latex.
Our Talalay latex is Cradle to Cradle Gold and FSC-certified and is about 97% natural latex.
Benefits of Sleeping on a Latex Mattress
- Won’t sleep hot since natural latex is breathable
- Relieves pressure points
- Offers sturdy support
- Customizable: choose the latex layers (type and density) in your Savvy Rest organic mattress
- No harsh chemicals or toxic off-gassing with a natural latex mattress
Latex vs Memory Foam
Memory foam is a synthetic, man-made product while the latex in our mattresses is pure and derived from rubber sap trees. One is chemical while the other is natural.
Memory foam is initially wonderful with pressure point relief–there’s no argument there. The key word, however, is “initially.”
Memory foam retains your body’s heat, allowing the mattress to move with you, hugging your pressure points. Not only will this cause you to sleep hot, but the memory foam will eventually have trouble bouncing back. Dips and sags are highly reported with memory foam mattresses.
Learn more about the benefits and drawbacks of memory foam.
The Final Verdict
It’s time to shop. Explore our latex mattress options. The perfect Savvy Rest mattress is waiting for you.
Explore our best-selling layered mattress options
The Tranquility is made just like the Serenity organic mattress, but with two 3″ layers of natural, organic latex.
The Unity Pillowtop has four 3″ layers: it is simply the 3-layer Serenity organic mattress with the Harmony latex topper on top.
Our flagship organic mattress. Customizable for any body type with personalized combinations of Soft, Medium and/or Firm.