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Let The Sleep Doctor Help You Find the Best Latex Mattress for Your Sleep Needs

October 07, 2020

While latex is still a newcomer to the mattress scene, latex beds have quickly become one of the most sought-after mattress types. The best latex mattresses offer pressure relief, spine alignment, and gentle contouring for a comfortable night’s rest—plus eco-friendly benefits you can feel good about. But how exactly do you decide which latex mattress in a box is the right pick for you?

Michael Breus, Ph.D, board-certified sleep specialist known as The Sleep Doctor has partnered with the team at Mattress Advisor to round up some of the top options you should consider based on testing conducted in the Mattress Advisor lab in North Carolina. 

Here are 7 of the best latex beds, plus helpful guidelines for how to pick the best mattress to suit your sleeping position, comfort preferences, and budget.

Best Overall:

Honorable Mentions:

Why Choose a Latex Mattress?

Latex offers a number of unique benefits that can boost your overall health and sleep quality. Start with its environmental friendliness: a recent study found that sleeping on a latex mattress can protect you from toxins found in more conventional mattresses. Latex also provides lasting comfort and higher durability than other mattress materials, as a latex mattress is expected to last upwards of 25 years. And no matter which position you sleep in, latex significantly relieves pressure point pain along areas of tension. 

“Latex is an excellent choice for a sleep surface, due to its responsiveness, adaptability, support, and temperature regulation,” says Dr. Breus.

What to Consider When Shopping for the Best Latex Mattress 

As you search for the best mattress that meets your sleep style and budget, there are a number of shopping considerations to account for. 

Sleep Position

Everyone has a natural sleep position; maybe you sleep on your side, your stomach, or your back. Then again, you may be a combination sleeper, alternating between different positions throughout the night. The sleep position you choose can have a significant impact on your overall health, but keep in mind  that there isn’t one perfect sleep position. Each position has its pros and cons, so it’s important to sleep in the posture that feels right to you.

Side Sleepers

One of the big risks of side sleeping is the strain it places on the shoulders and hips, which is where most of your weight collects when lying on your side. Side sleepers typically need a pressure relieving mattress that will prevent their joints from this level of burden. 

This is an area in which latex mattresses usually shine. It’s a naturally pressure-relieving material, which means it helps side sleepers to evenly distribute their body weight and relieve their most sensitive areas. A good latex mattress may help side sleepers wake up refreshed with no aches or pains.

“Generally speaking, side sleepers seem to love latex, since it forms to their bodies, while still providing support and pressure relief,” says Dr. Breus.

Back Sleepers

For back sleepers, one of the main areas of concern is finding a mattress that will help them maintain the natural curvature of the spine. Latex typically offers just the right amount of “give” to support this curvature, while also offering enough firmness to prevent back sleepers from sinking into their bedding and losing that healthy posture. Latex beds mimic innerspring mattresses with their inherently bouncy feel, which offers enough pushback to keep back sleepers propped up for optimal spine alignment. Spine alignment can help to relieve back pain, by keeping your spine in a neutral posture, limiting the amount of pressure placed on your back.

Stomach Sleepers

Stomach sleepers need a mattress that keeps their hips propped up, as this sleeping position runs the greatest risk of spine misalignment. This usually requires a mattress that’s on the medium-firm or firm end of the spectrum. Latex can certainly fit this description, though The Sleep Doctor recommends double-checking that you’re not selecting a mattress that’s too plush.

Multi-positional or Combination Sleepers

Multi-positional or combination sleepers change positions during the night, and therefore need a mattress that can adapt and adjust accordingly. Most latex mattresses work well in this regard; in fact, their natural springiness makes latex beds highly responsive and ideally suited for combination sleepers.

Types of Latex

As you start shopping around for a latex mattress, you may be curious about the different types of latex commonly used. Each offers its own unique feel, so keep that in mind when deciding the latex mattress that’s best for you.

What does The Sleep Doctor think?

“I have worked with many types of latex on various projects throughout my career. It’s a material that makes sense when you think about sleep, since it molds so nicely to the surface of the body, while still providing excellent support. I find that Talalay works well in a comfort layer, while Dunlop may be better for support,” says Dr. Breus

Talalay Latex vs. Dunlop Latex

Both Talalay and Dunlop latex are natural latex types, made from rubber trees. The difference between the two lies in their individual manufacturing methods. When making Talalay latex, you pour the latex into the mold, but only partially, so that the latex can then be expanded by vacuum to fill up the mold. This gives it a slightly softer, smoother feel than Dunlop. Dunlop latex is made by pouring all of the latex into the mold, then vulcanizing the substance. This creates a firmer feel than Talalay, although the difference isn’t super noticeable.

Synthetic Latex

Synthetic latex is derived from a chemical process and uses materials like polyurethane foam to make a less expensive option than natural latex. Synthetic latex does not differ much in feel from natural latex, but synthetic latex is slightly less durable, and can sometimes produce off-gassing when initially unboxed due to the chemicals used. For this reason, natural latex is usually preferred.

Latex Foam

Latex foam is exactly what it sounds like: foam mixed with latex, designed to give you an ultra-cushy mattress experience. The exact feel will depend on the type of latex foam it is, as there are synthetic and blended varieties.

Our Top Picks for the Best Latex Mattress 

1. Best Luxury Latex Mattress: Saatva Hybrid Latex Mattress

Saatva Latex Hybrid mattress

Known as a mattress brand that prioritizes high-end materials and top-notch service, Saatva’s done it again with its newest addition: the Saatva Latex Hybrid. The Saatva Hybrid combines natural Talalay latex with an innerspring support system to bring sleepers a one-of-a-kind, luxurious sleep experience. Here’s a good place to note that the Talalay manufacturing process is generally considered to be the gold standard, noteworthy for both its low emissions level as well as its consistently strong pressure relief and overall support. 

Well-regarded for its attention to comfort, quality, and durability, the Saatva Hybrid uses its responsive Talalay Latex layer and coil core to provide long lasting comfort and durable support. In fact, the Saatva Latex Hybrid’s coil layer is composed of three different types of individually wrapped coils, designed for solid edge support and minimal motion transfer. Plus, this mattress comes wrapped in a soft organic cover that’s infused with a botanical antimicrobial treatment, which protects against bacteria and mold, for clean, healthy sleep. 

  • Mattress Type: Hybrid
  • Customer Rating: Coming soon (October 2020)
  • Firmness: Medium
  • Warranty: 15-year 

Buy it, Saatva Latex Hybrid, $1,799 (Queen), saatva.com

2. Best Organic Latex Mattress: Awara

Awara mattress

While most latex mattresses are eco-friendly, Awara earns the title “best organic latex mattress” because it incorporates organic materials into every inch of its design. Four inches of GOLS-certified Dunlop latex make up the top layer of this mattress, providing a bouncy feel that offers enough pushback to keep your spine aligned (it earned a 8.5/10 in spine alignment!). And the nine-inch pocket coil system that follows ensures solid responsiveness (8.25/10) and excellent motion transfer (9/10) and durability in Mattress Advisor’s testing. Both of these layers are wrapped in an organic quilted cotton cover that features sustainably-sourced New Zealand wool, adding a plush, cushy feel.

Besides meeting the most rigorous ethical and emissions standards, Rainforest Alliance-certified, Awara also has a social mission that will make you feel extra good about your purchase. For every mattress purchase, Awara plants 10 fruit trees in areas that need it the most.

  • Mattress Type: Hybrid
  • Customer Rating: 4.8/5
  • Firmness: Medium-firm
  • Warranty: Lifetime

Buy it, Awara, $1,499 (Queen), awarasleep.com

3. Best Hybrid Latex Mattress: Birch

Birch mattress

The basic idea behind a hybrid mattress is that it combines the best of various mattress types to deliver a premium sleep experience. The Birch latex mattress does just that by taking wool sourced from New Zealand and Talalay latex, and meshing the two with individually-wrapped coils. The result is a soft, cushy sleep surface with a supportive base. Earning an 8.5/10 in spine alignment and a 9/10 in motion transfer, the Birch mattress is decent for back sleepers and excellent for couples (or even people who sleep with pets!) that don’t want to be disturbed by their tossing and turning partner or furry friend. 

Also note that Birch mattresses are actually assembled by hand and made with rigorous attention to detail. The 25-year warranty confirms that Birch puts a lot of faith in the craftsmanship of their products.

  • Mattress Type: Hybrid
  • Customer Rating: 4.7/5
  • Firmness: Medium-firm
  • Warranty: 25-year

Buy it, Birch, $1,499 (Queen), birchliving.com

4. Best for Back Sleepers: Avocado

Avocado Green mattress

Back sleepers would be hard pressed to find a mattress that offers better lumbar support than the Avocado Green. Earning an almost perfect spine alignment score (a 9.5/10), the Avocado Green uses a number of materials like Dunlop latex and recycled steel coils to provide a supportive night’s rest. Over 1,000 pocketed coils make up the core of this mattress, and the natural latex layer gives the bed a springy, yet responsive feel. Avocado also falls at a 7/10 on the firmness scale, so it has just the right amount of give while still being supportive enough to benefit stomach and back sleepers who require more pushback from a mattress.

Bonus: You have the option at checkout to add a plush pillowtop to your Avocado bed. The pillow top is constructed from natural latex and is the perfect addition to the mattress for anyone who enjoys a softer surface. 

  • Mattress Type: Natural Latex and Innerspring
  • Customer Rating: 4.6/5
  • Firmness: Medium-firm
  • Warranty: 25-year

Buy it, Avocado, $1,799 (Queen w/ pillow top), avocadogreenmattress.com

5. Best Flippable Latex Mattress: ZenHaven

ZenHaven mattress

The ZenHaven is another Saatva product, which means it comes with many of the same bells and whistles, plus a flippable mattress design. There’s a firm side and a soft side, allowing you to experiment with each and determine which version best suits your sleeping position. The ‘luxury plush’ side falls at a 4/10 on the firmness scale, so it’s perfect for people who like the feeling of sinking into their mattress just enough for that coveted pressure relief.  The ‘gentle firm’ side is a 6.5/10 firmness-wise, meaning it’s medium-firm, suiting back and stomach sleepers nicely. 

The ZenHaven is constructed almost entirely from all-natural Talalay latex, topped with organic wool and cotton. The latex gives the mattress subtle contouring and excellent responsiveness, scoring a 9/10 in the Mattress Advisor test. The best part? Saatva will send someone to flip your mattress for you, a helpful perk given that this mattress is on the heavy side. 

  • Mattress Type: All-natural Latex
  • Customer Rating: 4.9/5
  • Firmness: Dual-sided
  • Warranty: 20-year

Buy it, ZenHaven, $2,399 (Queen), saatva.com

6. Best for Pressure Relief: Brooklyn Bloom Hybrid

Brooklyn Bloom Hybrid mattress

Side sleeping is a common position, but can sometimes cause you to wake up with aches and pains if you’re not resting on the right mattress. The Bloom Hybrid mattress is a good option for side sleepers who need pressure point relief, scoring a 9/10 in Mattress Advisor’s test. It was even featured as the best organic mattress for side sleepers in The Sleep Doctor + Mattress Advisor’s round-up. It’s available in three firmness levels, and either the soft or firm option would suit side sleeping nicely. 

A layer of Talalay latex and 1,200 steel coils ensure neutral spine alignment (it earned an 8.5/10 in spine alignment!) and full support. Plus, the latex and wool and cotton top give you the feeling of being hugged to sleep at night. The Bloom Hybrid also earned high marks in cooling and durability, scoring a 9/10 in both, ensuring comfortable, breezy sleep for many years to come.

  • Mattress Type: Hybrid
  • Customer Rating: 5/5
  • Firmness: Available in plush, medium, and firm
  • Warranty: 10-year Limited

Buy it, Bloom Hybrid, $1,799 (Queen), brooklynbedding.com

7. Best Latex Foam Mattress: GhostBed

What about sleepers who just love the classic, cushioning feel of foam? The GhostBed provides that feeling, along with all the benefits of latex. It’s made with a gel-infused latex foam that earned a 8.5/10 in cooling, which is pretty good for hot sleepers considering it’s a foam bed. A top layer of synthetic latex absorbs pressure, while two dense layers of memory foam follow for added support and comfortability. 

The combination of latex and foam adapt to your movements with ease, noted by its 8.5/10 responsiveness score. The use of high-quality materials ensures long-lasting durability, something bolstered by the 20-year warranty and the medium-firmness gives the mattress a soft, yet supportive feel. Finally, the latex foam’s natural bounce gives the GhostBed lots of give, which means it earns a special recommendation for combination sleepers.

  • Mattress Type: Latex foam
  • Customer Rating: 4.7/5
  • Firmness: Medium-firm
  • Warranty: 20-year

Buy it, GhostBed, $1,095 (Queen), ghostbed.com

Final Thoughts on How to Choose the Right Latex Mattress for You

Latex isn’t without its downsides. The main drawbacks are that it tends to be more expensive than other mattress materials, and it’s also very heavy. For many sleepers, however, latex offers a compelling blend of support, pressure relief, and eco-friendliness. Use this mattress review to help you locate a new mattress that matches your health and wellness needs.

Sources for this Article:

Foam Source. 2020. “Keep VOCs Out of Your Sleeping Environment.” https://foamsource.com/information/Keep-VOCs-Out-Your-Sleeping-Environment 

Ismali, Mohammad. 2009. “Durability Performance of Rubber Latex Modified.” https://www.researchgate.net/publication/228507880_Durability_Performance_of_Natural_Rubber_Latex_Modified_Concrete 

John Hopkins Medicine. 2020. “Choosing the Best Sleep Position.” Health Wellness and Prevention (blog). https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/choosing-the-best-sleep-position

Journal of Chiropractic Medicine. 2009. “Changes in back pain, sleep quality, and perceived stress after introduction of new bedding systems.” Journal of Chiropractic Medicine (Vol. 8, Issue 1), March 8, 2009. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2697581/#:~:text=Jacobson%20et%20al%2C29%20in,efficiency%20with%20medium%2Dfirm%20bedding

Journal of Chiropractic Medicine. 2017. “Effects of Mattress Material on Body Pressure Profiles in Different Sleeping Postures.” Journal of Chiropractic Medicine (Vol. 16, 1), October, 21, 2017. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5310954/

KTT Enterprises. 2017. “Eco-friendly Talalay Latex.” https://kttenterprises.com/eco-friendly.html  

USDA. 2020. “Latex.” https://www.fs.fed.us/wildflowers/ethnobotany/latex.shtml

The post Let The Sleep Doctor Help You Find the Best Latex Mattress for Your Sleep Needs appeared first on Your Guide to Better Sleep.



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