Latex Mattress Vs. Memory Foam

Memory foam pros

• Memory foam mattresses are solid blocks of foam that do not contain the traditional innerspring. Memory foam conforms to the sleeper's body and does not transfer motion when sharing the bed. Memory foam also is able to manage weight so it is more evenly distributed across the mattress.

Memory foam cons

• There are several common concerns to consider when purchasing a memory foam mattress. Critics often argue that the material holds heat, is not very supportive, and does not provide varying levels of firmness. Memory foam mattresses also are very heavy.

Latex mattress pros

• Latex mattresses are made with a foam material that is resistant to body compressions, providing a rapid rebound when the sleeper rolls over on the mattress. Latex mattresses are made through two processes: the Dunlop process or the Talalay process. The Dunlop process whips rubber particles, water and soap until it is a consistency of heavy cream and is then set. The Talalay process sets the foam, extracts the air, and flash freezes the foam to prevent the particles from settling.

Latex mattress cons

• Critics of latex foam often point to the funny smell when beds are first produced (this smell usually takes about a month to go away). Like memory foam mattresses, latex mattresses are very heavy and difficult to move.

Comparison

• Beginning costs for both mattresses will be around $1,000. Latex mattresses tend to be a little more expensive than memory foam. Both mattresses will carry a 10- to 20-year warranty. Both mattresses will improve circulation and reduce pressure points while sleeping.

  If you are a person who is often hot while sleeping, latex is probably the better mattress for you. If you are a person who tosses and turns a lot in the night, check out latex mattresses.

  If you are looking for better spine alignment or your limbs often fall asleep while you are sleeping, head toward memory foam.

  The bottom line is, when purchasing any mattress, the most important thing you can do is comfort test each type of mattress to find out what feels the best for you. Then purchase the mattress from a store that has a comfort guarantee policy -- that way, if you pick incorrectly, you can always exchange it for something else.