Latex mattresses are notorious for being eco-friendly but also provide superior health benefits, comfort, and durability.
These advantages primarily surround natural latex mattresses constructed from the milk-like sap of Hevea brasiliensis, or rubber trees.
Sleeping on a natural latex mattress has countless more benefits, but there are five that make investing in one most convincing.
Organic
Synthetic or blended latex mattresses cannot be organic. Hence the reason natural latex is preferable.
To ensure a 100% organic latex mattress, look for a Global Organic Latex Standard (GOLS) certification. A GOLS certification guarantees the following
- Latex harvested from a USDA National Organic Program certified plantation
- Minimal use of polymers and fillers, even in non-latex pieces on the mattress
- From harvesting to distribution, employees have safe working conditions and fair pay
- Each step of the process is environmentally friendly with limited pollution
Eco-friendly
When manufactured responsibly, latex mattresses are impressively eco-friendly.
Harvesters can safely tap Hevea brasiliensis for up to 30 years, encouraging the trees’ maintenance and growth. Rather than taking away from the environment, natural latex contributes to it.
Natural, organic latex is also biodegradable, ensuring it returns from where it came, causing little to no damage.
Pain relief
Natural latex makes for a naturally firm mattress. Therefore, latex mattresses are excellent for people with back or joint pain. The elastic material lightly lifts heavy body parts to relieve pressure from the back.
However, latex is still firm enough to support the spine’s natural arch, eliminating morning back pain.
Latex effortlessly responds to motion, as well. When you switch sleeping positions, the material quickly releases and readjusts. It also isolates your partner’s movement to one side of the bed, ensuring a sound sleep.
On the contrary, memory foam mattresses dramatically surround the body. They require time to adjust to a new sleeping position, reducing support.
Durable
Latex’s elasticity doesn’t only reduce pain, but it also makes for a long-lasting mattress.
Natural latex mattresses can last for over 20 years, while most other mattresses have a maximum lifespan of ten years.
Despite the high level of comfort it provides, natural latex is buoyant. It bounces back into shape as soon as pressure ceases. Therefore, premature dips and sagging edges are rare in natural latex mattresses.
Hypoallergenic
Natural latex mattresses are microbial and resistant to mold, dust mites, pet dander, dead skin cells, and bacteria that settle into beds over time and worsen allergies.
In addition to being hypoallergenic mattresses, latex mattresses are also low maintenance and hygienic. While they still require occasional cleaning, they do not call for tedious bi-annual maintenance like other mattresses.
Organic natural latex mattresses are also ideal for anyone sensitive to synthetic materials as they’re free from harsh chemicals.
Before you go
There’s a variety of latex mattresses on the market fit to meet the needs of diverse sleep preferences.
However, natural latex mattresses are most practical for eco-conscious consumers, anyone seeking a durable but comfortable bed, or people with specific pain points and allergies.