About Latex Mattresses

How the Foam Works

• Latex mattresses are made of either a synthetic latex or a combination of synthetic and a natural latex. One way to make the latex foam is by taking the liquid latex and pouring it into a mold, and heating the liquid until it vulcanizes and creates the foam. When used for a mattress, the foam will contain holes that allow air and pressure to be released when compressed. The function of a latex mattress is to provide a better night's sleep by relieving pressure throughout the body.

Comfort

• Latex foams, depending on your likeness, tend to be some of the most comfortable materials you can put into a mattress. Laying on a latex foam mattress is like laying on a cloud; instead of the mattress pushing against you to hold you up, the mattress takes in your body weight to give you a weightless feeling. A latex mattress will sleep a little cooler than most mattresses because of its ability to breathe better and not retain heat.

Durability

• Latex is the most durable material that can be placed in a mattress. Most latex mattresses, depending on the company, will give a 15- to 20-year warranty. Because of the extreme durability and the density of the foams, sagging should no longer be apparent in mattresses. Latex foams, when compressed, have a bounce-back motion, which helps the mattress not to sag.

Cost

• The cost of the mattress will depend on how much foam it contains. Most mattresses will start at about 1/2 inch of latex foam on the top. These beds, depending on coil count, will range from $500 to $800 in a queen. More latex will be added and will continue all the way to spring-free mattresses, which contain only latex foams. These are going to be in the higher end and can range anywhere from $2,000 to $5,000.

Where They Can Be Found

• Latex mattresses are the new wave of technology in the bedding industry. All larger mattress firms such as Restonic, Sealy, Serta, Comfort King, The Mattress Firm, etc., will carry these types of beds. Do some shopping and price-checking as these mattresses will differ slightly from store to store.