Nobody wants their mattress to sag. By nature's design, 100% certified natural latex is a durable, springy material that recovers its shape very quickly after weight is lifted. A typical latex mattress can last two decades or more, and it won’t sag after a few years like most other mattress types.
Read your mattress label carefully before you buy, because companies sometimes use the words "natural latex" while marketing synthetic blends that contain industrial additives and filler.
Double-check that the mattress you buy has independent 3rd party certifications to back up its claims of “natural” latex. Some latex mattresses contain additives and industrial filler that make the mattress less expensive but also much shorter lived. The only way to be certain that your “latex” mattress doesn’t contain other ingredients is to buy from a mattress maker who holds an independent, respected certification, like Oeko-Tex Standard 100.
If the mattress really is made of 100% certified natural latex, not only does this mean that your mattress will last for decades, but it also means it will be free from acetone, formaldehyde, and a wide variety of potentially harmful materials. Research the manufacturer of your mattress to find out which certifications they currently hold. A certified 100% natural latex mattress can last for decades without sagging.
To learn more about chemicals, volatile organic compounds, and the dangers of off-gassing in mattresses, see our article on Mattress Off-Gassing.
To summarize the article above:
When buying a mattress, always factor in how long different materials are likely to last. Only then will you know whether your mattress is a smart investment that will hold its support for decades.
If you are looking for an affordable solution that meets the aforementioned standards, check Latex for Less non-toxic mattresses .