Are Latex Mattresses 100% Organic?

With a huge range of mattresses on the market, all with various benefits and price points, it can be difficult to narrow down your search – but latex mattresses are one of the most popular and eco-friendly options on the market. If sustainable comfort sounds like the perfect option for you, a natural latex mattress could be a good addition to your home. Read on to find out more about them! 

What is a latex mattress? 

Latex mattresses are some of the most advanced on the market. They are made up of two or more layers of latex foam, of which there are 3 different types: Synthetic latex which is artificial – it can be an affordable alternative to natural latex but can cause issues in people with respiratory problems. Blended latex contains fewer chemicals so could be a healthier choice and natural latex which is by far the most durable, supportive, and eco-friendly option to choose for a mattress. If you’re looking for a mattress that is going to last you a long time, keep its support and bounce that is also eco-friendly, a latex mattress is most definitely the best option. We’ll look at some of the different types of natural latex, as well as the benefits of these mattresses below. 

What are the benefits? 

There is a reason why latex mattresses are so popular, and that is because of the many benefits they can bring so you can get a restful sleep each night. Some of these advantages include: 

• Pain relief: A latex mattress can provide support, and cushioning to help with joint and back pain, so you can wake up pain-free and ready to take on the day. The latex cradles pressure points like shoulders and hips, and its natural elasticity means the back and neck are supported efficiently. 
• Hypoallergenic: Microorganisms can collect within your mattress over time, which can lead to mold and mildew. This can cause problems for those of us that suffer from allergies. Choosing a latex mattress means you can put an end to this problem, as it is naturally antimicrobial and repels harmful bacteria. 
• Durable: Generally, traditional mattresses last around 8-10 years before they must be changed. A latex mattress can last for 12 to 20 years, meaning that you’ll be getting the most from your money over a longer term. 

Types of latex

Latex makes it into a mattress after it has been refined from a rubber tree. And there are a couple of ways that latex can be collected – both methods produce a different type of latex that is then used. These types of natural latex are Dunlop latex, which is entirely natural and affordable. Any remaining debris is washed away, and this helps to prolong its elasticity. This is the most eco-friendly type of latex. The other type of natural latex is Talalay latex, which takes more energy and time to produce, and although it produces a bouncier latex than the Dunlop method, it is paired with synthetic foam to enhance its soft feel, and therefore is not 100% natural. 

Are they organic? 

If you’re keen on using sustainable materials, latex could be the best mattress for you, but it is important to note that not all latex is organic. When manufacturers refer to organic latex, they mean 100% natural latex that does not have fillers and is farmed without the use of various pesticides and can be verified by bodies that regulate and monitor this. Non-organic latex is still 100% natural but is produced under standard farming conditions. It can be confusing, but if you’re looking for an all-organic mattress, you should check for certification to confirm whether your mattress is organic. 

Certifications

There are certain certifications you should look out for with an organic mattress. GOLS (global organic latex standard) is the first company to monitor organic latex manufacturers. There are several ways that this company monitors latex production, considering areas like farming practices, fair trade, where manufacturing materials are sourced from, as well as the environmental impact. You should do your research to find a mattress that meets this organic certification standard so you can benefit from the highest quality, cleanest latex on the market. A good brand will have its certificates displayed clearly, but if you can’t find them, always ask. 

100% natural or organic? 

So which is best, 100% natural or organic? This simply comes down to a few personal choices, like price tag and sustainability. If you want the cleanest, top-of-the-range latex, which is not only great for your health but the health of the planet too, organic latex is best. If you’re still looking to be eco-friendly but you’re on a budget, a natural latex mattress without fillers is still a good option and is better than traditional foam. 

Foam Vs. Latex 

Foam and latex mattresses are both very supportive, and both contour to your body, but which is best? Generally, latex comes out on top as it is more durable than a memory foam mattress – these mattresses can sag and lose shape over time. As previously mentioned, latex mattresses are much more durable and can last years longer than foam. Latex mattresses may also be more suited to those of us that don’t enjoy the sinking feeling that comes with memory foam – latex tends to feel bouncier and more responsive. However, if you’re a sleeper that needs high-quality pressure relief, a memory foam mattress could be the best option as they provide a high level of body contouring. 

One of the most notable differences between these two mattresses is the price point. Latex is significantly more expensive than your average memory foam product however, you could consider your latex mattress to be an investment. The lifespan of your latex mattress is a lot longer than that of a memory foam mattress, so it may work out more affordable to purchase your perfect latex mattress than it would to keep replacing a foam model. You will be able to take advantage of your latex mattress for years to come! 

Featured Photo by bruce mars on Unsplash