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Last Updated October 4, 2024
Ever wake up feeling groggy, achy, and just plain tired, even after a full night's sleep? Your mattress could be the reason, especially if it’s made from synthetic latex. The difference between synthetic and natural latex might be what’s standing between you and a truly restful night.
Natural latex mattresses are known for their comfort and support, unlike synthetic ones, which can be full of harsh chemicals and uneven support. But here's the catch—not everything labeled "natural" is the real deal. So, what’s the difference, and why does it matter? Let’s dive in and find out how your choice of mattress can make or break your sleep.
Latex is the natural liquid sap harvested from the rubber tree (Hevea brasiliensis). This sap is the raw form of rubber, which is then processed in factories to create rubber and various rubber-based products.
While one use of latex is making rubber and rubber products from it, latex is also used to make foam. There are a couple of processes (Dunlop vs Talalay) by which latex is turned into foam. This foam was once widely used in beds before the Second World War. That changed when the world was introduced to synthetic foam. With growing consumer awareness and the rising preference for sustainable products, the demand for natural latex is growing.
Synthetic latex is made from petrochemicals like Styrene and Butadiene to create Styrene-Butadiene rubber. This latex has a close resemblance to the plastic family, but with specific chemical processes during manufacturing, it receives certain latex-like features. The most significant advantage it has over natural latex is the cost factor. There are only so many rubber trees globally, but a lot of crude is used to derive petrochemicals. This has been a leading reason for the rise in the adoption of synthetic latex in bedding globally.
There is a reason why we prefer natural ingredients over artificial ones – quality and resilience. The same applies to latex foam as well. Synthetic latex, albeit cheap, does not last the duration of natural latex. Moreover, it degrades a lot faster, and there is a risk of being exposed to carcinogens due to prolonged usage. Even though you procure bedding made of synthetic latex at a substantially low price, it will make you pay over time.
Foam degradation results in body aches; the toxic smell and vapors can expose you to cancer risk. Lacking a good night's sleep will cost you more in chronic health issues, not to mention the impending mental exhaustion. Synthetic latex also traps heat into it, resulting in hot periods of sleep. This can be a significant challenge if you tend to live in warm or hot regions.
Natural latex is the best solution for you. Not only does it come from natural sources, but it is also very comfortable and long-lasting for a good night's sleep for years at a stretch. It is soft, comfortable to sleep on, and provides good air circulation for a cool and calming rest. It also offers better support to your body as it adjusts to your body contours with ease. This is similar to memory foam, just that memory foam takes time to return to its original form, affecting its life. Natural latex returns quickly to its original condition and maintains its shape and support for a longer duration.
You will find many sources quoting that a mattress must be changed every 6–8 years. This is true in the case of synthetic latex mattress since it degrades much past its life until then. Natural latex, on the other hand, can last for over a decade. Its degradation process is slower, and the overall comfort it provides is substantially higher than that of synthetic latex mattresses.
Read more about the incredible benefits of sleeping on a natural latex mattress.
The only downside to natural latex is the possibility of an allergy. A small percentage of the population is allergic to the residual proteins in latex. It is not much of an issue since there is always a cover of bedspreads, protectors, etc. One might seldom come in contact with the latex for an allergic reaction to trigger. If that is a reason for worry, then look for the latex foam made from the Talalay process. It removes all proteins from the latex foam, giving it an anti-allergic property.
Read more about latex allergy.
When you go shopping for a latex mattress, you will encounter multiple options which claim to be natural latex. The trick is to not fall for the marketing jargon with fancy words and technical information, which can be confusing.
Check for yourself about the authenticity of the natural latex foam mattress through a series of tests. This can help you drill down to the real natural latex from the plethora of synthetic latex or a blend of natural and synthetic latex.
The best way to determine if you are getting natural latex is to check for certifications. Some popular certifications to look for on natural latex are OEKO-TEX, eco-INSTITUT, GREENGUARD, and GOLS (Global Organic Latex Standard).
Natural latex varies from synthetic latex in terms of cost as well. It is considerably higher in price. The salespeople might talk you into purchasing a blended mix for cost savings but be warned that it does not provide any benefit over a fully synthetic latex version. It has to be either natural latex or nothing.
Do latex mattresses smell? To determine that, you can try out the smell test. Natural latex mattresses will have a mild vanilla-like, earthen, or rubbery scent to it. Synthetic latex will often give off a stronger, more distinct chemical scent.
Reliable manufacturers will provide information about the composition of their latex. They should be able to confirm if their latex is natural and explain their sourcing and production processes.
Need more information on whether or not you are getting a natural latex mattress? Read our in-depth guide on "How Can You Check if a Latex Mattress Is Natural or Not?".
Sleep has a direct impact on one's health, so it's always best not to compromise on it. In a matter of saving a few dollars, you might end up hurting yourself and your loved ones. If you plan on buying a mattress, always ensure that it is natural latex, which is certified.
Opting for synthetic latex can cause you harm in the long run. Be wary of the marketing jargon and get to know the difference between synthetic latex and natural latex. Enjoy and cherish your good night's sleep!
Related blog posts:
1. Organic Latex Mattress Brands
3. Do Latex Mattresses Sleep Hot?
4. Latex Mattress Factory - The Manufacturing Process
5. How to Care for Your 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.
