subject: The Natural Latex Mattress [print this page] In the past few years the all natural latex mattress has become very popular. They have actually been manufactured since long before World War II, but they have only recently gained enormous popularity.
For you to be able to select the right latex foam mattress you should first know the difference between synthetic and natural latex foam. Basically there are two different methods for manufacturing latex foam and they are the Talalay and Dunlop which are the most popular models of natural latex mattresses.
Natural latex comes from the sap of rubber trees in the rainforests from all over the world. It is harvested from living trees, much the same as maple syrup is. For this reason, natural latex is a favorite of both sustainable advocates and environmentalists alike.
Synthetic latex is made from petroleum based chemicals. It is still used today but was originally invented during World War II. When seen under a microscope there is no discernable difference between synthetic and natural latex.
Although it is not universally accepted, there are some people who claim that they can feel the difference between synthetic and natural latex when they sleep.
The biggest differences between natural and synthetic latex mattresses are their prices and environmental impact. Natural latex is nontoxic and is the environmentally friendly option. But it is somewhat more expensive when all other factors are adjusted for.
There are two different methods that are used to make completely natural latex mattresses. They both work equally well, but some mattress experts vary in their opinions as to which method produces the best latex mattress.
The older method of making a latex foam mattress is known as the Dunlop method. Basically the rubber is filtered, infused with air bubbles and water, and then heated slowly it becomes a solid. The other method of making a latex foam mattress is called the Talalay method. Dunlop latex is somewhat firmer than Talalay latex. There may also be more internal imperfections in the latex.
Talalay latex starts out the same way as Dunlop latex does, but after the air bubbles and water are added to the liquid latex it is then flash frozen and then superheated until it forms a solid state. This results in the air bubbles being suspended in the latex and the overall mattress is somewhat softer.
Because many people purchase natural latex mattresses for their support, you have to decide if you prefer to have a softer or somewhat firmer mattress.
