The latex mattress is usually termed as the most popular mattresses sold today. It is argued that these type of mattresses rates the top of the chart when it comes to customer satisfaction.But many people have a lot of misconceptions about latex mattress. Some believe that latex is a chemical and is hence harmful to the body. In fact, latex is a natural material. But there are two other types which are not completely natural too.
What Are the Types of Latex Used for Making Latex Mattresses?
There are three different types of latex which are used to make mattresses. Each of them has different properties which make them useful in different scenarios
Natural Latex
This is a completely natural material made from the sap of the rubber tree (Hevea brasiliensis). The antimicrobial qualities make the material very suitable for making a mattress. As they are 100% natural, they are much costly compared to other types
Synthetic Latex
These are man-made latex which uses chemicals. It is not as good as all natural latex because of its lower resilience and durability. Also, the chemicals used in them can be harmful to the body.
Blended Latex
This type is a combination of natural and synthetic latex. Many brands use blended latex instead of all natural ones because they are less costly and exhibits most of the properties of natural latex.
How Is Rubber Sap Converted to Latex?
There are two methods by which rubber sap is converted into latex. They are
Talalay Process
The latex foam produced by this method is very soft. Hence they are used for making soft-feeling mattress foams. Some synthetic material has to be added to the natural sap to achieve this softness. The Talalay foams are thus blended foams. In some cases, it can be 100% synthetic too.
Dunlop Process
The latex produced by Dunlop process is much firmer compared to that by Talalay process. Producers prefer this process if they want a firm mattress.
When Are Latex Mattresses Best Used?
Latex mattresses are very popular because they are very soft and does not have the problem of producing harmful gasses like memory foam. You can go for latex mattresses if you prefer natural materials in your bed at the same time want to enjoy the comfort of using memory foam.
How Much Does a Latex Mattress Cost in India?
As it is a natural product, the cost of a latex mattress is pretty high compared to other types of mattresses available in India. Low-end latex foam mattresses cost around Rs 10,000. But the cost for a decent mattress is above Rs. 25,000.
How to Ensure That the Latex Mattress Is 100% Natural?
The truth is that the cost of 100% natural latex is very high. So most manufacturers use blended latex to make the mattress. Nevertheless, there are some brands available in the market that makes natural latex mattresses. You can check the percentage of composition before buying the bed to make sure you are getting what you want.
Where Can I Buy Latex Mattress in India?
India is one of the largest producers of rubber in the world. So latex mattresses are ubiquitously available in India. Most stores sell Dunlop type mattresses. They are very firm. Even though they are not as common, you can also get softer Talalay type latex mattress.
Many online stores can give you considerable discounts on latex mattresses. Be sure to check them out before buying from your local store.
What Are the Pros of Latex Mattresses?
Latex mattresses enjoy so much popularity because of the many advantages of this type of beds. They are listed below
Comfortable
The latex mattresses are extremely comfortable. The comfort level of latex mattress obtained after the Talalay process can be compared to that of a memory foam mattress. It has almost the same body contouring and responsiveness. This makes it one of the most sought after beds in the world.The sinking experience is also eliminated as the bed provides good support to the sleeper.
Health Benefits
Because of the comfort and cushioning effect of the latex mattress, it is recommended by health care professionals. They say that sleeping in these mattresses can reduce joint pains and backaches. Also, good cushioning and body contouring avoids pressure point pains.
Better support given by the latex mattress aligns the spine in a neutral and natural position. This prevents strain on the backbone and thus provides a comfortable sleep for those suffering from acute backache.
Resistance to Dust Mites and Mold
Most mattresses have the problem of mold and dust mites growing in it. They are very difficult to get rid of. But latex is a material with natural resistance to mold and mites. They do not have to be chemically treated once in a while like other beds. This is a great boon in the warm and humid climate of India which aids the growth of molds. Latex mattresses hence is a very good choice for healthy and hygienic sleep.
Ventilation
Unlike other mattresses, latex mattresses does not trap body heat. Natural latex because of their open cell structure is porous and allows air circulation. This is much needed in the warm climate in India to provide a cool sleep. Moreover, air circulation promotes health and hygiene as the bed does not absorb your sweat and become damp.
Low Motion Transfer
The wave created by your sleeping partner while tossing in the bed is not transmitted to you by a latex mattress. Unlike spring mattresses which bounces you off when your partner turns, these mattress types absorb the energy. This is particularly advantageous for light sleepers.
Durable
Latex mattresses are highly durable. They can last for 15 years or more. There is no problem of sagging as latex is a naturally elastic material and its plasticity is not easily lost. So the money spent on a latex mattress is worth.
Fewer chemicals
Latex mattresses are made of natural materials. This avoids health problems like those caused by synthetic mattresses like off-gassing from the memory foam. Benzene, which is considered as a carcinogen, is released by memory foam. Though researchers have not yet got any conclusive evidence, these chemicals can be harmful to the body.
However, 100% natural latex is rarely available in the market. Most mattresses are made by Talalay process which blends chemicals to the latex. Hence care should be taken to make sure that the mattress you buy is natural.
What Are the Cons of a Latex Mattress?
The cons of a latex mattress are listed below
Cost
Latex mattresses are very costly compared to other types of mattresses available in Indian. This high cost makes them unaffordable to common people. Spending such a high amount on a bed does not appear to be viable for them.
Nevertheless, because of its high durability, ventilation and comfort, mattress makers argue that the high cost of the mattress can be justified.
Weight
Latex mattresses are much heavier than many other types. It may need two or three people to help you move the mattress. This makes it not portable. Dusting and cleaning can also be difficult.
