Latex mattresses are taking sleepers by storm. Even though latex mattresses have been around for a while now, this wonderful mattress material continues to gain in popularity. And for many good reasons!

Here are just a few advantages: Latex mattresses are incredibly durable; they provide excellent support for the body so that people wake up feeling well rested and good, not sore; they keep a sleeper’s movements isolated, making the mattresses an excellent option when two people share a bed; and they keep the people sleeping at a comfortable body temperature all night long.

Those aren’t the only benefits to latex mattresses though — they are also hypoallergenic. That means that they are are anti-microbial and resistant to things like mold and dust mites. So, for anyone who suffers from respiratory sensitivities or are prone to allergies, latex mattresses are an excellent investment in health.

However, not all latex mattresses are made the same, and this is where consumers should do some research. The two kinds of latex found on the market are natural and synthetic. And while they might seem similar on first glance, there are some important qualities that separate them.

Natural latex comes directly from the sap of a rubber tree and is then processed directly into latex mattresses. There is nothing added to the material, the latex is simply refined and turned into the mattresses you purchase from a store.

Synthetic latex, on the other hand, is man-made to mimic the qualities of natural latex. Synthetic latex was first made during the second world war because there was a shortage in supply natural latex was difficult to acquire. Synthetic latex uses industrial-grade petrochemicals to create the material, which is unappealing to some who is trying to reduce their impact on the environment.

One of a latex mattress’ most appealing qualities is that they are extremely durable and can last for decades. While natural latex holds up for many years, synthetic latex is prone to begin to crumble and change colour with time. Synthetic latex also tends to lose its buoyancy over time, meaning that consumers need to replace them more frequently.

Furthermore, as mentioned synthetic latex mattresses are not a “green product” and have a large ecological footprint because of the chemicals used in the manufacturing process. That is, their creation and the chemicals used are not good for the environment.

Another difference between synthetic and natural latex is the price, with natural latex costing more than synthetic. The cost difference is understandable when you consider the elements that go into creating the mattresses. For example, the cost of natural latex includes the cost of agricultural, the cost of labour needed to tap the rubber sap from the tree, the transportation cost and the process by which it becomes a mattress. Synthetic latex is made in a lab, so the cost is lower.

When comparing the cost of the two mattresses, it is important to consider that natural latex mattresses last a good deal longer than synthetic, which means they will need to be replaced less often. With that in mind and taken over time, the cost of natural latex is not necessarily more than synthetic.

Either way, to purchase a latex mattress is an investment in one’s health and well-being. A good mattress makes an enormous difference in one’s quality of sleep, and, ultimately, quality of life. Choosing the mattress that is right for you is a personal choice and different for everyone.

If you have any questions or would like to know more about the benefits of latex mattresses, stop by our showroom. Our excellent mattress-savvy staff is friendly and ready to help!