Interesting Facts About Latex

For those who are not familiar with latex mattresses, even for those who are, there might be some facts that will surprise you. The first word that comes to mind when you hear latex or rubber is hard, but latex mattresses are like memory foam in their softness.

How Latex Mattresses are Made

Latex mattresses are made using all natural materials. The liquid used to create the mattress is derived from rubber trees. In the same way that maple syrup is tapped from Maple trees, rubber is tapped from the Hevea Brasiliensis tree.

There are two types of latex mattress. The first has been around for decades. The Dunlop method was developed in the 20s. Latex is added to a mould and whipped causing air bubbles. The mould is baked to preserve those pockets of air inside the mattress. The Talalay process added an extra step to the manufacturing. The mould is frozen to make sure that the bubbles are more uniform. This method allows more air pockets to be distributed evenly throughout the mould. The second method is higher priced but the mattresses are more durable and softer than the first method. The mattresses have more breath-ability too.

Benefits to the Sleeper

Sleeping on a latex mattress provides benefits to sleep patterns and breathing. During the summer months, it can be difficult to get comfortable while sleeping. Memory foam mattresses don't allow the sleeper's skin to breathe. They get hot and uncomfortable, which causes them to wake during the night. Latex mattresses have natural breathable air pockets that keep the sleeper cool.

The latex mattress naturally aligns the spine and reduce pressure points in the body. Unlike memory foam, there is no sinking or deep depressions in the mattress.

Benefits to the Environment

There are natural benefits to the environment when using a latex mattress. Most used mattresses end up in landfills. The latex mattress lasts between 25 and 30 years, and it can be recycled to be used in other products when it has reached the end of its life.

Not only are there benefits to the overall environment of the Earth, there are environmental benefits to the homeowner. The air surrounding the sleeper is not filled with chemicals that are usually present with coil mattresses. Latex is hypoallergenic. It's resistant to mould and mildews. This is important for people who have severe allergies. It is resistant to dust mites, which can be the cause of most allergic or asthmatic reactions.

Latex Allergies

Most people with latex allergies assume that they won't be able to use a latex mattress. In most latex allergies, people are allergic to the chemicals and proteins used in latex processing. Turning liquid tapped from the rubber tree into latex gloves or latex materials can require the use of chemicals. Latex mattresses are washed thoroughly and use no chemicals, so people with latex allergies might find that they will not have a problem with latex mattresses.