Advice
Choosing the right mattress can make a world of difference in your quality of sleep, and there are many styles of mattresses to choose from.
All mattresses have some type of foam in them, with many being made entirely out of foam.
With more foam options on the market than ever, where do you even begin to decide which is best for you?
This guide will compare the two biggest choices in the market, Latex vs. Memory foam.
What is a Latex Mattress?
A latex mattress is made from sap from the rubber tree. The process to make latex foam has some variations, but the result is a durable, bouncy, and natural foam that does a superior job delivering support and comfort.
Types of Latex Mattresses
Latex foam for mattresses is made either of all natural, or a blend of synthetic and natural materials.
We will cover the different types (and processes) to make latex foam.
- Dunlop Latex
- This process involves pouring the rubber sap mixutre into one large mold. Once cured, the foam is then cut into slabs for the mattress. This results in a denser foam, with some inconsistencies as the material settles. The bottom slab will feel firmer than the top slab.
- Talalay Latex
- This process fills a smaller mold partially, and then air is added via a vacuum to fill the mold and create the foam slab. This results in smaller slabs, but with the ability to better control how firm or soft each foam slab will be.
- Natural Latex
- If you are looking for a 100% natural or organic option, a Natural latex may be the best choice for you. Having no synthetic material will give you less of that ‘new mattress smell’ (off gassing), however the synthetic additions help stabilize the latex foam and increase feel consistency and durability.
Latex Mattress Advantages and Disadvantages
Advantages of Latex Mattresses
- Enhanced Durability and Longevity
- Eco-Friendly and Sustainable Options
- Superior Responsiveness and Support
- Natural Resistance to Dust Mites and Mold
- Excellent Breathability and Temperature Regulation
Disadvantages of Latex Mattresses
- Higher Cost Compared to Other Types
- Heavier Weight, Making Them Difficult to Move
- Potential for Latex Allergies in Some Individuals
- Limited Availability in Some Areas or Stores
- Initial Odor or Off-Gassing That May Be Unpleasant
What is a Memory Foam Mattress?
A memory foam mattress is also known as viscoelastic foam.
This means it offers a combination of viscosity and elasticity.
When you combine these two properties, you get a mattress that contours to the shape of your body and conforms to your curvature.
Types of Memory Foam Mattresses
There are a few different types of memory foam mattresses and thicknesses, which can make shopping for one really confusing.
You have your:
- Traditional Memory Foam:
- This is the first type introduced to the market. It molds to the contours of your body and envelops you in a hug while you sleep but also known to make people feel like they sleep hotter.
- Gel-Infused Memory Foam:
- Feels like traditional memory foam but this foam was created to help regulate your temperature while you sleep by using Gel in the foam which has natural cooling properties.
- Open Cell Memory Foam:
- Manufacturers developed this material to help people stay cool. The actual interior structure of the foam has pockets which allows more airflow. On the plus side, sleepers won’t get so hot.
- Plant-Based Memory Foam:
- Instead of using only petroleum-based chemicals to manufacture the foam, plant-based memory foam uses plant-based products which is generally Soy.
Memory Foam Mattress Advantages and Disadvantages
Overall, memory foam mattresses can be a good choice for people who want a contouring, supportive mattress that isolates motion. However, it is important to consider both the pros and cons before making a decision.
Advantages of Memory Foam Mattresses
- Suitable for All Sleeping Positions
- Exceptional Pressure Relief and Support
- Reduced Motion Transfer for Undisturbed Sleep
- Contours to Body Shape for Personalized Comfort
- Durable and Long-Lasting Material
Disadvantages of Memory Foam Mattresses
- Heat Retention Leading to Sleeping Hot
- Initial Off-Gassing and Chemical Odors
- Slower Response Time Can Lead to Feeling “Stuck”
- Potentially Heavy and Difficult to Move
- May Not Offer Adequate Support for Heavier People
Latex vs Memory Foam Mattress: What’s the Difference?
Here we’ll go over the key features offered between latex to memory foam!
| Latex | Memory Foam |
| Natural – Renewable – Eco Friendly | Generally, Petroleum based |
|
Has a more springy and soft feeling |
Body conforming – Responds to weight and heat |
| Offers Hypoallergenic – Anti-microbial – Anti-Bacterial – Dust-mite resistant properties | Offers unmatched blood circulation benefits – pressure relief – ideal for hospitals and medical conditions |
| Typically, more expensive | Easier on the wallet |
How to Choose the Right Mattress for You
Finding the right mattress for you may sound like a daunting task, but we are here to make it easier!
- Consider Your Sleeping Position
- Are you a back sleeper, side sleeper, stomach, or possibly a combo of each?
- Assess Your Weight and Body Type
- Some sleepers may need a firmer mattress to help support them during sleep, or softer if they tend to sleep on their sides.
- Think About Temperature Regulation Needs
- Are you a hot sleeper? Our models offer cooling properties that can help regulate your body temperature while you sleep to help keep you asleep for a full night’s rest.
- Determine Your Firmness Preference
- Do you prefer firm, medium, soft? Do you know? Try out our models in store or take our quiz to find out!
- Evaluate Potential Allergies
- Do you have any allergies that could disturb your sleep? Some models offer hypoallergenic and anti-microbial properties such as latex!
- Factor in Motion Isolation Needs
- Are you woken up by the motion in your mattress? Our memory foam models absorb motion so you can sleep peacefully.
- Consider Eco-Friendliness and Material Sustainability
- Are you looking for an eco-friendly product that offers more sustainable materials? Look at our latex models!
- Read Reviews and Testimonials
- Look at our customer testimonials to see how great sleep can be achieved!
- Understand the Warranty and Trial Period
- We offer a 120-night comfort guarantee in which you can see if that mattress is the best fit for your needs, if it isn’t, you can exchange it for one that is! The majority of our models also come with a 10-year limited manufacturer warranty.
Find the RIGHT Mattress at BedMart
Here at BedMart it is our primary goal to find you the best mattress for your needs!
There are many options to choose from, ranging from innerspring to latex to memory foam.
We have knowledgeable sleep experts in store and online to help you narrow down your mattress needs.
We even have our own Smart-Match quiz that can determine your sleep patterns to help guide you to what options may be best!
Latex vs Memory Foam FAQs
How Long Do Latex Mattresses Last?
The average span of a latex mattress is 10-20 years, but all mattresses depend on a few factors, such as environment, frequency of use, weight of the sleeper(s), and is the mattress rotated frequently?
How Long Do Memory Foam Mattresses Last?
The average span of a memory foam mattress is 10 years, but all mattresses depend on a few factors, such as environment, frequency of use, weight of the sleeper(s) and is the mattress rotated frequently?
Is Latex or Memory Foam Better for Back Pain?
At the end of the day, which is better? Everyone is built differently. We all have different needs for pressure relief and feel. But, to answer the question, head into one of our locations to try out our SmartMatch technology to know for sure which is best for you.