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Last Updated August 30, 2024
We spend around a third of our lives sleeping, so it is important to choose the right mattress. There are different types of mattresses on the market, but two of the most popular are gel mattresses and latex mattresses. Both have their own unique benefits and drawbacks, so it can be tough to decide which one is right for you.
In this post, we'll take a closer look at the key differences between gel mattresses and latex mattresses, so you can figure out which one is best suited for your needs. This discussion can also apply to latex mattress toppers vs. gel mattress toppers.
Gel is a material that has thermally conductive properties and has been found to efficiently move body heat away from you. A gel mattress is similar to a traditional memory foam mattress but comes with added gel or gel beads, also known as cooling materials.
The gel can be introduced into the mattress foam layer in several different ways. Usually, manufacturers inject gel microbeads into the memory foam to improve breathability.
Also, some manufacturers use the method of swirling the gel into the liquid foam even before it solidifies. Adding a gel layer over the foam is another way to increase mattress coolness.
The gel beads form pockets just like those of an open-cell mattress. But instead of letting the air filter through the mattress, the gel beads absorb and release heat from the sleeper's body.
The gel helps you sleep cool, whereas the memory foam conforms to your body, giving you the best night's sleep.
A latex mattress uses two to four layers of latex foam. There are different types of latex used in beds. These days, you can find many certified organic mattresses on the market that are purer and more environmentally friendly than their non-organic counterparts.
Synthetic latex, made from petroleum-based compounds, is an inferior type of latex. The main difference between synthetic latex and the natural option is that synthetic latex has less bounce and contains potentially harmful chemicals. Blended latex is produced with a combination of synthetic latex and a negligible amount of natural latex.
As we said initially, both mattresses have their pros and cons, so deciding which one is best for you can be tricky. Here are the major differences between gel memory foam and latex.
Gel memory foam mattresses feel close to regular memory foam mattresses, except they're more cooling. Like traditional memory foam, a gel memory foam mattress is known for its ability to conform and is the most contouring material on the market. However, it takes a few extra seconds to sink back into your position. The gel infusions don't impact the foam's ability to mold itself to your shape.
Latex foam has natural cooling properties. Unlike gel memory foam, natural latex is highly responsive. It instantly springs back to its original shape and is amazing for sleepers who toss and turn all night.
Due to its body-hugging feel, gel memory foam has slightly better motion isolation than a latex mattress. However, both these materials do a pretty great job of reducing motion transfer.
Latex mattresses tackle heat buildup very well and are cooler than most traditional mattresses. They have an open cell structure that allows free airflow.
Unlike traditional memory foam mattresses, gel memory foam uses gel-infused beads or a layer of gel that helps dissipate heat from your body. This results in a cooler and more comfortable sleep surface.
Gel mattresses are kind of stuck in the middle when it comes to durability. They tend to lose their shape and comfort much faster than other mattresses.
High-quality gel memory foam mattresses can last around 7 to 10 years. Meanwhile, the life expectancy of a natural latex mattress is 20 years. It retains its springiness throughout its lifespan. Also, they have far longer warranties than gel memory foam, as they're expected to have a longer lifetime.
If you prefer all-natural materials when it comes to mattresses, gel memory foam isn't for you!
Gel memory foam is made of high-density polyurethane, which comes from petroleum as a byproduct. They also contain toxic chemicals, including benzene, formaldehyde, and naphthalene, which are unfit for human use as well as the environment. Also, the gel infusions present in these mattresses are typically artificial. That means almost every ingredient present in a gel memory foam mattress is synthetic.
Organic and natural latex mattresses are made from the rubber sap of the rubber tree. They are the purest mattress options out there.
Both gel memory foam and latex mattresses do a great job of keeping the spine aligned and supporting the sleeper's body.
Latex and gel memory foam contour to your body and reduce pressure points. Since both are sufficiently supportive, different body parts can sink in without pushing the spine out of alignment. This reduces pain in heavier body parts like hips, back, and shoulders.
However, latex typically outperforms gel memory foam when it comes to offering the perfect support in the long run. This is due to latex's superior durability and responsiveness.
After a couple of years of use, gel memory foam mattresses are prone to sagging, thus reducing support. But natural latex mattresses retain their shape and remain highly supportive throughout the mattress's lifespan.
When it comes to environmental impact, latex is the winner.
Latex mattresses are made using natural materials and are manufactured in an environmentally conscious way. On the other hand, gel memory foam is made using synthetic materials and produces lots of toxic waste.
While natural latex is biodegradable, gel memory foam is not. That means the latter is not earth-friendly and could spend thousands of years in a landfill.
So, what's the verdict? Gel mattresses or latex mattresses? The answer: it depends. Both have their own unique benefits that may appeal to different people.
If you really want our opinion (and we know you do), we would choose a latex mattress every time. They are natural, breathable, durable, safe, and healthy for both you and the planet—not to mention, they just feel darn good.
But don't take our word for it! Go to a store, try out a few different mattresses, and see which one feels best to you.
Related blog posts:
1. How Can You Check If a Latex Mattress is Natural or Not?
2. Organic Latex Mattress Brands
3. Latex Vs. Memory Foam Mattress
4. Top 10 Benefits of a Latex Mattress
Disclaimer: What is said in this article has been referenced from multiple sources and is intended only for educational and informational purposes. Please note that no content in this article is a substitute for professional advice from a qualified doctor or healthcare provider. Always consult an experienced doctor with any concerns you may have regarding a health condition or treatment, and never disregard any medical suggestions or delay in seeking treatment because of something you read here.
