When it comes to mattresses, chances are you're looking for many benefits, including durability, comfort, affordability, and health. Here, you'll learn about both latex and memory foam, and the differences between each, so you can make a decision which is best for you.
What Is Latex?
Latex mattresses have been around for a long time, much longer than memory foam was even recognized for being a viable product for making beds comfortable. Latex foam was invented by John Boyd Dunlop in the 1920s, and the first latex mattress was introduced in 1931, with the help of E.A. Murphy.
When it comes to latex mattresses, there are different types to consider.
Types of Latex Mattresses
You have synthetic latex options and natural latex options.
- Synthetic latex : Styrene-butadiene rubber (SBR), a man-made rubber, is used for crafting synthetic latex mattresses.
- Natural latex : This latex is made from rubber trees from a raw substance that's then handled naturally to form the mattress's foam layers.
Pure, natural latex lasts longer, and is more durable than synthetic latex.
Latex Processing Options
Along with that there are a couple ways latex mattresses can be made. These are through the Dunlop process, and the Talalay process.
- Dunlop latex process: Dunlop latex was made as a product that would be long-lasting, and have a more uniform feel. It was the first on the market. Through this manufacturing process, manufacturers pour the latex to fill the whole mold. There is then settling in the mold, resulting with the bottom having a denser foam that becomes softer on top. The Dunlop process can use synthetic or natural foams, or a blend, and generates a firmer mattress than does the Talalay process.
- Talalay latex process : With the manufacturing process, manufacturers only fill the mold partly with latex. The air is vacuumed in for expanding the latex and filling the entire mold. This process generates a latex that has a more uniform feel from bottom to top and is less dense. Using all natural latex won't achieve this process. The Talalay method can be used by using 100% synthetic or blending synthetic with natural.
What Is Memory Foam?
Memory foam is constructed with polyurethane and extra materials that generate viscoelastic properties. It's a man-made foam. Memory foam has origination ties to NASA, and has been around for 50 years.
When this foam has pressure applied to it, the mattress hugs and contours to those pressures. There are varying response times (the speed at which the mattress changes to pressure), based on the certain memory foam type, but generally, memory foam will respond slower than a lot of other foams.
Memory foam can take on various feels and firmness levels. Keep in mind, all memory foams are a polyurethane foam, however, not all polyurethane foam is memory foam.
What are the Differences Between Latex and Memory Foam?
There are various difference between memory foam and latex foam, including:
- Conformity
The biggest difference between latex and memory foam mattresses is the way they will conform to your body. Memory foam conforms to the exact shape of your body. Latex, on the other hand, compresses and bounces, and only conforms to the impressions your body makes. Both your sleep requirements and personal preference will determine which of these options you prefer.
- Allergies and Off-Gassing
Memory foam mattresses that are petroleum-based can release volatile organic compounds (VOCs). This is a byproduct of the creation process. VOCs produce off-gassing (unpleasant chemical smell).
Some common VOCs are:
- Toluene
- Formaldehyde
- Benzene
- Chlorofluorocarbons
- Perfluorocarbons
- Trichloroethane
Off-gassing doesn't occur with all mattress foams. Foams carrying the Certi-PUR label, for instance, are verified for being low-VOC, which means they meet the requirements for being low-emission for indoor air pollution. Not only do they lack off-gassing, but they're also guaranteed to be free of flame retardants and harmful chemicals.
As a plant-based material, natural latex doesn't produce off-gassing (although some individuals do report new mattresses have a slight vanilla smell). Latex is also naturally resistant to dust mites and mold, and hypoallergenic; therefore, it's a great choice for people suffering from chemical sensitivity or allergies.
- Motion Transfer
Another difference between a latex and memory foam mattress are their abilities to isolate motion. Memory foam doesn't allow for motion transfer. This means if your partner sleeps on the other side of the mattress, and moves often in the nighttime, it's likely you will barely feel it, if you do at all. This is why many couples prefer it.
Latex isolates motion as well. So, if your partner tosses and turns in a bed with a latex mattress, it’s unlikely you'll feel it.
Why Should You Order Your Latex Mattress from Latex For Less?
Latex For Less has devoted 10 years of experimentation and research to craft a bed that will suit all sizes, shapes, and sleep preferences. We have worked to decrease harmful additives and cost, providing you with a more comfortable, safer, and more affordable sleeping experience.
You'll love Latex For Less if you:
- Prefer enhanced versatility. Latex for Less mattresses are a double-sided product, allowing shoppers to decide between Firm and Medium levels of comfort to best suit their personal needs. Also available are two different heights (7 inches and 9 inches), which ensures the mattress will best fit the intended space. This should make it perfect for people or couples with various sleep preferences.
- Prefer some bounce. The mattress's latex should feel responsive and springy, which allows for quick reformation, and decent pushback when moving around, helping to make repositioning a cinch. Some liken this buoyancy to a cloud-like sensation.
- Prefer an affordable latex. Typically latex, while popular, can be costly. If you're looking for a more affordable latex option, Latex For Less is for you.
Latex For Less's mattress is customizable and versatile, bringing you a more affordable, and better latex sleeping experience. We also offer an 120-night sleep trial. Our emphasis on natural, organic, and chemical-free products will make this an ideal choice for the environmentally-minded shopper.
