Latex beds are becoming more and more popular. They alleviate some of the negative aspects of memory foam mattresses to provide the owner a more comfortable bed. Here is your personal guide for choosing your next latex bed.

First of all, you need to keep in mind that latex beds are going to be more expensive than some mattress and less expensive than others.
Latex mattresses are going to cost more than innerspring mattresses because they offer more comfort and support than an innerspring mattress does. You need to weigh carefully what is more important to you…the quality of the mattress or the cost. Latex mattresses are well worth their price.

Next, you need to think about size. What size mattress do you need? Are you going to be the only one sleeping on the bed? Or, is your husband or wife going to share the bed with you? Are you going to have to put the bed in a very small room? Or, is the room big enough to fit a King size bed comfortably? You don’t want to put a huge bed in a small room. Make sure that everyone who is going to be sleeping on the bed will fit on it and that it will fit in the room. In other words, if you and your husband are going to be sleeping on the bed, don’t get a twin size. If your room isn’t very big, don’t get a King size. Latex mattresses come in a variety of sizes so you can be sure to get the one that fits your needs.

You need to think about thickness next. The thickness of your mattress is a very important factor to consider. The thickness of your mattress relates directly to how comfortable you will be when you sleep. The thicker that mattress, the more support you will get. You will be more comfortable on a mattress that is completely supporting your body than you would be on a mattress that isn’t supporting you enough.

Lastly, you need to consider firmness. Do you want a firm mattress or a soft one? What does your spouse prefer? Make sure you get a mattress that is going to suit both of your needs. Getting a latex mattress isn’t going to do you any good if it isn’t comfortable. The firmness of the mattress relates also to the support to get. Get a mattress that is going to support you and be comfortable enough for you.

Choosing a latex bed may seem like a daunting task. Don’t let it be though. Make sure you know your price range. Think about size. Get the thickness right. Decide on the firmness. Take these four things into consideration when choosing your next latex mattress. You’ll end up with the perfect mattress for you.

Memory Foam Mattress Officially Evolves in the Latex Bed, and understanding what it means.

Latex mattresses are beginning to evolve into new memory foam mattresses. These mattresses have been popular in Europe for years. However, the new trend is beginning to sweep across America. Americans have chosen memory foam mattresses as their “mattress of choice” for years now. But, latex mattresses are beginning to take over the lead.

Latex mattresses come in many different sizes, styles, levels of quality and different prices. Generally, latex mattresses are very expensive. A good quality latex mattress can cost upwards of $2,000. People love latex because the new latex technology alleviates some of the disadvantages of memory foam mattresses. A common complaint of memory foam is that it retains heat, thus causing the sleeper to become uncomfortable while asleep. Latex mattresses don’t have this problem because the air pocket holes actually work to cool down the mattress in the summer months and keep it warmer during winter.

Latex mattresses have been specially designed to provide all-around support. Memory foam mattresses tend to have a supportive base and semi-supportive upper layer. Latex mattresses provide support throughout the entire mattress, rather than allowing the sleeper to “sink in” to the mattress core. Allergies have also been a problem for people who sleep on a memory foam mattress. Memory foam mattresses are not hypoallergenic and can cause problems for people who are sensitive to allergies. Latex foam technology works to resist dust mites, mold and mildew and is naturally hypoallergenic.

Lastly, people love latex mattresses because they are “green.” People everywhere have joined the “Green” movement and are looking to support products that are also green products. Latex mattresses are made from all-natural materials and are biodegradable. All in all, latex mattresses are completely “eco-friendly.”

Memory foam mattresses have been extremely popular in America for the last several years, and for good reason. They offer good comfort and support. However, there have been some complaints about the memory foam mattress. Because of these complaints, manufacturers have been working to create a mattress that provides the comfort and support of memory foam, but without the disadvantages. They have solved the problem with latex mattress. Latex mattress offer more support and comfort than memory foam mattresses do. They also are more temperature friendly, hypoallergenic and are green friendly. If you are in the market for a new mattress, try a latex mattress. They are quite expensive but you’ll soon find out why they are becoming so popular in America.

Here Are The Main Benefits Of A Natural Latex Mattress

Latex mattresses aren’t becoming hugely popular for no reason. Latex mattresses are made from the material that comes from a rubber tree. Latex is biodegradable and can provide a natural cushion and support. There are so many benefits for choosing a natural latex mattress. Here are the main benefits of a natural latex mattress.

1. Sensitive skin. There are so many mattresses out there that harm sensitive skin. People with sensitive skin have to be careful what touch their skin. Latex mattresses are the perfect mattress for people with sensitive skin. It won’t irritate sensitive skin. There aren’t any harmful chemicals either.

2. Hypoallergenic. People who suffer from allergies or asthma know that dangers from using a mattress that isn’t hypoallergenic. Mattresses that aren’t hypoallergenic are a breeding ground for dust mites, bed bugs, mold and mildew. Latex mattresses are completely hypoallergenic and completely resist dust mites, mold, mildew and bed bugs.

3. Breathable. Latex mattresses are completely breathable. This means that the mattress will help keep you cool in the summer and warm in the winter. Memory foam mattresses can make you warm in the summer and cool in the winter. Don’t let your mattress keep you from being the right temperature while you sleep.

4. Firmness. Some mattresses only give you one or two options of firmness. Not latex mattresses. Latex mattresses come in a variety of different firmness levels. You can be sure to get the right level of firmness for you and your spouse.

5. No toxins. Latex mattresses do not contain any harmful chemicals or toxins. You won’t get a mattress that has an undesirable odor and you can be sure it is safe to sleep on.

6. Good for the environment. Latex mattresses are good for the environment. Natural latex is biodegradable. Even the process that manufactures the mattresses is environmentally safe. There aren’t any toxins or chemicals released into the environment at any point during the entire process.

Here is a pictures of what the all natural latex looks like, so you can get a better idea:

There are so many benefits to sleeping on a natural latex mattress. In fact, there really aren’t any downsides to latex mattresses. If you want to sleep on a comfortable and supportive mattress that doesn’t have any disadvantages, get a latex mattress.

I am often asked to define (or explain) what each method of latex pouring is: ie the Dunlap vs. Talalay methods, so I want to explore this option a little more for the Rocky Mountain Mattress Blog readers.

Latex comes in two different forms. Natural latex is composed of 95% natural rubber. Synthetic rubber is made of chemicals that are processed to form rubber. There are also two forms of latex pouring. The Dunlap method is more traditional and cost effective. The Talalay method provides the benefits of natural latex with chemicals.

Natural latex is a milky white liquid made of tiny rubber particles. The liquid is whipped with air. This whipping action forms the foam. The liquid is then formed into a mold where it is then heated. It is heated until it becomes a spring like rubber material. This method is fairly straight forward and is cheaper than the Talalay method.

The Talalay method requires more steps than the Dunlop method. It produces a more resilient form of latex and also a finer product. Soap and other curing products are mixed with raw latex. Computers are used during this process to check the temperature and viscosity of the mixture to ensure uniformity. Once the mixture is cooled, it is then whipped with air, similar to the Dunlop method. It is whipped until the consistency becomes similar to soft-serve vanilla ice cream. Then, the liquid is poured into molds. Iron rugs are moved up and down throughout the liquid while it hardens to form the open-cell structure.

The next step in the Talalay process requires a vacuum. The vacuum is used to remove air bubbles and make sure the mixture is spread evenly throughout the mold. Next, the latex is frozen. This prevents anything from settling at the bottom and ensures each particle is evenly mixed. Heat is used next to again make sure that no air is left in the foam. Then, the foam is taken out of the molds and washed at least five times. This removes any soap residue or other chemical agents. The foam is then dried. The final step is impact testing. Uneven pieces are removed and the final latex foam is cut into slabs and stored.

The Dunlop method of latex pouring uses natural latex. This method is a shorter process and is more inexpensive. The Talalay method combines natural latex and synthetic latex to create an open cell structure. This is a longer process and is more expensive. Both methods produce a good quality latex product that can then be used in latex mattresses.

About a month ago I purchased all natural latex pillows for both my wife and daughter because they kept talking about how badly they wanted to try them after seeing our “new green product line” here at Rocky Mountain Mattress. My wife already has some nice down pillows we purchased for her about a year ago, but really was captured by the look and feel of the all natural latex pillow. Here is a picture to get a better idea what the pillow looks like:

Since giving them the pillows, I have had rave reviews from both my daughter and wife about how good their neck feels, and how soundly they sleep, and how fast they feel the pillow helps them fall asleep. They both agree that it is the most comfortable pillow they have ever laid their heads on. Normally my wife has to pile up two pillows to keep her neck where she wants it during the night, but with the latex pillow, it keeps her neck in a comfortable position, and it never loses its shape!

I am excited to be able offer the all natural latex pillow on Rocky Mountain Mattress as its an “eco-friendly” product, and is a great addition to our “green” product line.

When looking for a new mattress, many consumers find themselves face to face with a tough question:

“Should I go with a temperature-sensitive memory foam mattress, or an all-natural latex mattress?”

The decision is really one of personal preference, as high-quality mattresses are available in both materials. To help take away some of the mystery surrounding the debate, though, here is a side-by-side comparison of natural latex mattresses and memory foam mattresses on several key points.

Support & Design

Memory foam is temperature sensitive, and conforms to your unique shape as the foam reacts to your body temperature. With high quality memory foams like those available from Rocky Mountain Mattress, this leads to a supportive, conforming experience. With quality memory foam mattresses, expect little to no motion transfer.

Natural latex also offers quality support, although the material is not conforming and heat sensitive. Natural latex mattresses are often a bit more firm than memory foam, and while motion transfer is still minimal, you may experience slightly more movement on a natural latex mattress.

Durability

Memory foam mattresses are designed to weather numerous compressions and years of use without losing their original shape. As long as consumers stay with high-quality, American made memory foam mattresses, you can expect 10-15 years of quality use out of a memory foam mattress set.

Natural latex mattresses are similarly designed to offer years and years of use. In fact, in many cases a high quality latex mattress can offer support and quality sleeping experiences for two decades or more.

Natural Features

While memory foam itself is not inherently hypo-allergenic and anti-microbial, many owners choose to purchase a mattress cover that does bring these features to the memory foam sleep system.

Natural latex, though, is safe for allergy suffers and prevents the growth of fungus and mold through its naturally occurring features.

Customization

Memory foam sleep systems are among the most customizable options for individuals to use. Memory foam can be cut to virtually any size and shape, and layers of support foam, foundation foam, and toppers - all in varying densities and heights to meet the consumer’s desire - can be designed to order.

Because latex is also a “foam” it too can be customized in terms of layering - and size and shape can also be determined by the customer.

Latex foam offers a number of special features and benefits that have made it one of the most popular mattress materials over the past few years. Natural latex is environmentally friendly, hypoallergenic and anti-microbial, durable, and provides a superior sleeping experience when compared to traditional inner-spring mattresses.

Durability & Longevity

The purchase of a latex mattress or all natural latex mattress topper is a long-term investment. In fact, it’s not uncommon for latex beds to last up to three decades, as a result of the product’s durability.

Support & Luxury

Besides boasting a long life, latex products offer superior orthopedic support. Our latex mattress toppers work great for anyone, although, we specifically recommend latex over memory foam for individuals who weigh 250 pounds or more. Aside from being supportive the natural latex is also therapeutic, conforming naturally to body contours and weight.

Breathable & Moisture-Resistant

Part of the reason latex mattress products have such a long life is owed to its moisture resistance. This water resistant feature in simply not found in many other mattress products. Latex mattresses and mattress toppers are pinholed, which keeps them breathable, helping the mattress stay fresh, cool, and dry.

Anti-Microbial, Anti-Bacterial, & Dust Mite Resistant

Many mattresses are prone to the growth and spread of bacteria, fungi, and dust mites. Natural latex mattress toppers and mattresses provide natural prevention against these potentially obnoxious problems. Bacteria growth can lead to the spread of disease, while fungi, mold, and dust mites can lead to respiratory problems, asthma, and other related problems for allergy sufferers.

Environmentally Friendly

Natural latex is an eco-friendly alternative to many other mattress products. The serum used to make latex mattress products is taken directly from the rubber tree. The process used to manufacture latex mattress products does not emit CFCs or other harmful emissions, and no dangerous chemicals are used to produce our products.

All Natural Latex Mattress Toppers

Rocky Mountain Mattress offers two all-natural latex mattress toppers. These eco-friendly toppers provide additional support and comfort for any of our high-quality mattresses, and are available in two densities. Each mattress topper features perforated holes to promote air flow, leading to a fresher, drier, and more sound sleeping experience.

Our medium-firm natural latex mattress toppers have a density of 5.2 pounds offering superior support for those who prefer a firmer sleeping surface. The medium plush topper offers a density of 4.75 pounds, which provides for a more plush topper. Both latex mattress toppers are available in 1, 2, 3, and 4 inch profiles.

All Natural Latex Pillows

Rocky Mountain Mattress also offers an all natural latex pillow that (in my opinion) is the most comfortable pillow on the face of the earth!

When it comes to the production of latex mattresses, two main processes are used. The Dunlop process, which is the oldest form of latex production still used today, and the Talalay process, which is a newer process. Both processes offer advantages, and in many cases, the production method is simply a matter of personal preference for consumers.

At Rocky Mountain Mattress, we strive to make sure our customers have access to all of the high-quality products they seek. That’s why we offer latex mattress products made via the Dunlop process and those made using the Talalay process.

Overview of the Dunlop Process

The Dunlop process is the most common method of producing mattresses and other products made from natural latex. In this process, the serum is collected from rubber trees, then frothed in a centrifuge. The material is then poured into a mold and baked at a low temperature. As the latex bakes and begins to firm, particles and sediments tend to fall and settle at the bottom of the mold. Because of this, products made through the Dunlop process often have one side - the bottom - which is somewhat firmer.

Around the world, the Dunlop process is the most common method of latex production. Latex products made using the Dunlop process are typically more dense than those made using the Talalay process.

Overview of the Talalay Process

The Talalay process of latex production is a somewhat more modern means of production, though with the advanced method comes a higher cost of production. Once extracted and prepared, the latex compound is ready to be poured into the mold. Once the latex material has been poured into the mold, the mold is sealed off. Air is then vacuumed from the mold, which is designed to evenly distribute the foamy latex material inside the mold. This leads to an open-cell, consistent end product.

Once the air has been drawn from the material, the mold is flash frozen for stabilization and the lock the latex product in place.

Natural latex offers some differences in material and composition from synthetic latex materials, and it’s important to understand what it means to offer all-natural latex mattress toppers and other memory foam products.

What is natural latex?

Natural latex is just that - it is a naturally-occurring material that is derived from the rubber tree, and is a biodegradable material that provides natural cushioning and support.

What are the benefits of Natural Latex?

Natural latex is especially desirable for individuals with sensitive skin or with allergies, as natural latex is hypo-allergenic, anti-microbial, and dust mite resistant. That means natural latex will not irritate the skin of those with certain sensitivities or cause problems for allergy sufferers.

The material is also breathable by nature, which makes it possible to keep you warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer. During the production process, natural latex is manufactured in varying support levels ranging from medium to extra firm.

All-natural latex products do not contain any toxins, and are completely safe for the environment. Even the process used in the production of natural latex mattresses and mattress toppers is safe for the environment as no toxic gases are released during the process.

I’m allergic to latex gloves. Will natural latex mattress toppers cause problems for me?

Probably not! Latex gloves are made of a closed-cell structure, which traps the proteins that cause problems for some individuals who are allergic to latex. The all-natural latex used in mattress toppers and mattresses creates a foam with open cells. That allows these proteins to be washed out and released, which will greatly reduce the chance of having an allergic reaction, even if you know you are allergic to latex. Still, we advise our customers to test out the all-natural latex mattress toppers and mattresses just to be sure.