Photo: avocadogreenmattress.com
Latex mattresses offer numerous benefits that make them a popular choice. As a natural material, latex is more sustainably sourced than other options available, such as memory foam. A latex mattress offers a good amount of bounce and makes it easier to shift and change positions as you sleep. Like memory foam, a latex mattress can offer some contouring to the body. Latex mattresses are also more responsive and don’t retain heat like memory foam, which can help keep individuals cooler as they sleep.
If you’re looking to purchase the best latex mattress, you may feel overwhelmed by the number of options on the market. This guide may help you learn more about the various features to consider when shopping for the right latex mattress for your needs.
- BEST OVERALL: PlushBeds Organic Latex Botanical Bliss Mattress
- BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: DreamFoam Elements Latex Mattress
- BEST HYBRID: Eco Terra Hybrid Latex Mattress
- BEST FIRM: Latex for Less Latex Mattress
- BEST COOLING: Idle Latex Hybrid Mattress
- BEST ORGANIC: Avocado Green Mattress
- BEST LUXURY: Saatva Latex Hybrid Mattress
What to Consider When Choosing the Best Latex Mattress
Each latex mattress will be a bit different; some are made solely with latex, while others are a hybrid mattress with a latex layer. Latex mattresses also come in different sizes and have different levels of density, thickness, and firmness. And they offer different amounts of support and temperature regulation. Based on these factors, some are better suited for different sleeping positions. Keep reading to identify which features to prioritize to help you select the best latex mattress.
All-Latex vs. Hybrid
First, determine whether you prefer an all-latex mattress or a hybrid mattress with a latex layer. All-latex mattresses are made with either Dunlop or Talalay latex. The Dunlop manufacturing process involves placing whipped latex into a large mold that is then heated in an oven. This process creates a large, continuous piece of latex. However, during the heating process, more of the material settles on the bottom of the mold, which can result in a mattress with inconsistent firmness levels. However, Dunlop mattresses do offer a nice bounce and have a firmer feel.
When Talalay latex is manufactured, the mold is not filled completely, which allows the latex to expand more. Manufacturers remove the air from the latex, which gives it an open-cell layout. Because of this open-cell design, Talalay latex mattresses allow for more airflow and can be more cooling. However, since the latex for Talalay mattresses is cut and often glued back together, there may be more seams in a Talalay mattress. A Talalay latex mattress will have a softer feel than a Dunlop latex mattress.
The other option is a hybrid mattress. Hybrid mattresses feature a multilayer design. One main component found in hybrid mattresses is the pocketed coil layer. This layer gives the mattress more structure and edge support and can also offer enhanced air circulation. The top of a hybrid mattress is a comfort layer that is typically between 2 and 4 inches thick. On a latex hybrid mattress, this layer will be made of either Dunlop or Talalay latex to offer some of the benefits of latex along with the added support and airflow provided by the pocketed coils. Hybrid mattresses are often better at isolating motion to limit disturbances to one partner when the other moves on the bed.
Size
Mattress size is another important feature to consider when shopping for the best latex mattress. Whether you are purchasing a new mattress for an existing bed frame or upgrading to a larger mattress, measure to confirm you are purchasing the correct size. There are six main mattress sizes:
- Twin: 38 inches wide by 75 inches long
- Twin XL: 38 inches wide by 80 inches long
- Full: 54 inches wide by 75 inches long
- Queen: 60 inches wide by 80 inches long
- King: 76 inches wide by 80 inches long
- California King: 72 inches wide by 84 inches long
Density and Thickness
The density of a latex mattress refers to the weight of a 1-meter latex cube, reported in kilograms. Most latex mattresses will have a density somewhere between D60 and D90, or 60 kilograms per cubic meter to 90 kilograms per cubic meter. A latex mattress with a greater density offers a firmer feel, making it an optimal choice for most stomach or back sleepers. In most cases, denser mattresses will also last longer. Many latex mattresses feature multiple layers of latex with different densities. This allows a mattress to deliver a more balanced and comfortable feel for different sleep preferences.
The thickness or height of a mattress is also important to consider. A number of factors can impact which mattress thickness is right for you including your preferred sleep position, your weight, and mobility issues. In general, thicker mattresses (over 12 inches thick) are more durable and supportive than thinner mattresses. However, some individuals may find that it is harder to get in or out of bed if their mattress is too tall.
Firmness Level
The ideal firmness level for each individual is often closely related to the desired sleep position, with stomach and back sleepers preferring a firmer mattress than side sleepers. A mattress’s firmness level is measured on a scale from 1 to 10, with 1 being a very soft mattress and 10 being a very firm mattress.
The softer a mattress, the more give it has and the more it will allow the body to sink. An extra-soft mattress with a firmness rating between 1 and 2 is likely too soft for most sleepers, as it will allow for too much sinkage, causing the spine to go out of alignment. Individuals who prefer a softer sleep surface may consider a mattress with a firmness rating between 3 and 4. These mattresses are plush and generally allow for between 1.5 and 3 inches of sinkage, making them a good option for side sleepers.
Medium-firm mattresses, with a firmness rating between 5 and 6, offer a more balanced feel and are a popular choice for many users, especially partners sharing a bed. These firmness levels can accommodate all three sleep positions. A mattress with a firmness rating between 7 and 8 offers minimal sinkage and does not contour to the body as much as a soft mattress. Some back or stomach sleepers may find this mattress type comfortable, but most side sleepers will find that it is too hard. An extra-firm mattress, with a firmness rating between 9 and 10, has hardly any give and does not let the body sink at all. Most individuals find these mattresses too hard to be comfortable.
Sleeping Position
As you search for the right latex mattress, consider your sleeping position, as it can impact the type of mattress that will be most comfortable for you. Different sleep positions place pressure on different areas of the body, which requires different firmness levels to alleviate this pressure and keep the spine aligned.
- Side sleepers: The best mattress for a side sleeper is typically softer to cushion the joints at the hips and shoulders. Many side sleepers prefer a mattress with a firmness rating around 3 to 5 out of 10, as these mattresses will be more contouring to relieve pressure points.
- Back sleepers: Back sleepers tend to be more comfortable on a firmer mattress than most side sleepers would prefer. A mattress with a firmness rating between 6 and 7 out of 10 often offers enough support to keep the heavier parts of the body of a back sleeper from sinking too low into the mattress, which can knock the spine out of alignment.
- Stomach sleepers: Stomach sleepers need a firmer and more supportive mattress than side or back sleepers. If a mattress isn’t firm enough, a stomach sleeper’s hips will sink much lower than the head and neck, misaligning the spine. Most stomach sleepers prefer a mattress with a firmness rating between 8 and 10 out of 10.
Support and Spinal Alignment
Most people sleep comfortably when they find a mattress that offers the right amount of support to keep their spine in alignment. Finding the right balance of contouring properties with sufficient support to prevent the hips from sinking below the rest of the body is essential for keeping the spine aligned. If the spine gets knocked out of alignment as you sleep, it can lead to back or neck pain the following day.
Hybrid latex mattresses may be an ideal choice for individuals looking for a more supportive mattress or the best mattress for back pain. The pocketed coils in these mattresses can increase the support offered and help keep the spine aligned for more comfortable sleep.
Temperature Regulation
In general, latex mattresses are a good choice for those who would like a mattress with temperature-regulating capabilities. Temperature regulation refers to a mattress’s ability to prevent individuals from getting too hot or too cold as they sleep. Unlike memory foam, which traps in heat and can cause individuals to overheat as they sleep, latex mattresses are designed with small holes to ensure enough air can flow.
Latex hybrid mattresses allow for even more airflow. The coil design of these mattresses can help keep individuals even cooler and more comfortable as they sleep, making them an optimal choice for hot sleepers looking for a cooling mattress.
Our Top Picks
This list contains a mix of products including all-latex and hybrid latex mattresses featuring different firmness levels, contouring and support capabilities, and temperature-regulating properties to help each individual choose the right mattress to help them sleep soundly throughout the night.
Photo: plushbeds.com
The Botanical Bliss Mattress from PlushBeds features five layers of organic materials to help individuals enjoy a peaceful night’s sleep. The top layer of the mattress is a Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS)-certified organic knitted cotton cover. The knitted cover absorbs moisture and allows for sufficient airflow to ensure individuals stay cool and comfortable as they sleep. Beneath the organic cotton cover is a layer of GOTS-certified organic wool that is breathable and offers temperature regulating properties.
This mattress also features three layers of Global Organic Latex Standard (GOLS)-certified organic latex. The uppermost latex layer is the comfort layer of Talalay latex, while the lower layers are Dunlop latex. PlushBeds combined different firmness levels with each of these layers to create a soft yet supportive mattress. The latex layers work together to contour to the body to offer pressure point relief to help individuals feel more rested and experience less pain in the morning. As an organic choice, this mattress is also toxin-free, antimicrobial, and dust mite resistant. Individuals can customize the size, height, and firmness levels of this mattress to achieve optimal comfort. Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king, split queen, split king, and split California king sizes are available. The mattress can be purchased with a medium or firm feel and is available in a height of 9, 10, or 12 inches.
Photo: dreamfoambedding.com
This latex hybrid mattress from DreamFoam is an optimal choice for individuals who don’t want to pay the higher price associated with many latex mattresses. It features a 3-inch comfort layer of OEKO-TEX class 1-certified Talalay latex. This layer offers buoyancy to cradle each individual and reduce muscle tension to promote relaxation and comfort. A 1-inch quilted foam top covers the latex layer to allow the mattress to be more contouring to each body to relieve pressure points.
The choice of a 10-inch or 12-inch mattress is available. Each option features a high-density foam foundation to provide structure and durability. The base is 6 inches tall on the 10-inch mattress and 8 inches tall on the 12-inch mattress for added stability and support. Choose from a soft, medium, or firm mattress to match individual preferences and sleep position needs. The upgraded 12-inch mattress also includes a zippered cover, allowing individuals to change the firmness of the foam layer at a later date if their preference changes.
Photo: ecoterrabeds.com
Individuals looking for a latex hybrid mattress should consider this mattress from Eco Terra. Available with either a medium or medium-firm feel, the mattress is designed to be comfortable and responsive with just the right amount of bounce. Choose from twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, or California king sizes.
The mattress features a four-layer design. The top layer is a GOTS-certified organic cotton cover that wicks moisture away from the person as they sleep to keep them cooler. A layer of 100 percent Talalay latex sits beneath the cover to conform to each individual’s body to relieve pressure and keep the spine in alignment. Next is a layer of GOTS-certified organic wool that offers additional temperature regulating properties to keep individuals cool and dry as they sleep. The final layer features individually wrapped coils that offer support and limit motion transfer to help partners sleep without disturbing one another. Each coil is wrapped with a special polypropylene food-grade fabric that allows them to float independently of one another. This design helps ensure the spine stays in alignment while also enhancing airflow.
Photo: latexforless.com
The Latex for Less mattress features a unique design that allows the choice between two firmness options. One side of the mattress offers a firm feel, while the other side offers a medium feel. The design features six different layers. The top and bottom layers are an organic cotton cover made using a stretching process, instead of weaving, to create a soft and comfortable feel. The next innermost layers are made from 100 percent natural wool to provide a fire barrier for safety while also helping regulate an individual’s body temperature for cooler sleep.
The two middle layers of the mattress are made from 100 percent natural Talalay latex. One layer is the medium-firm layer designed to be a little softer to deliver a cradle-like feel around each body, while the other layer has a firmer feel to deliver more support. This mattress is available in 7 or 9 inches tall and comes in nine sizes: twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king, split queen, split king, and split California king.
Photo: idlesleep.com
Those looking for a cooling mattress should consider the Idle latex hybrid mattress. This mattress offers numerous features designed to ensure individuals stay cool when they sleep. One of these features is the special Idle Cooling Buoyancy Foam. This foam does not contain viscoelastic chemicals, which allows it to stay cooler than memory foam. The mattress also features an organic cotton cover that not only promotes healthier sleep but also offers better airflow than some other materials.
A 3-inch layer of Talalay latex is also included in the design of this mattress. The latex features an open-cell design for enhanced breathability, and it is antimicrobial and hypoallergenic to promote healthier sleep. This mattress also features 6-inch individually wrapped coils. These coils allow for additional airflow and also work to limit motion transfer. The mattress also features a flippable design that can reduce sagging over time. Individuals can choose from three firmness options: luxury firm, medium, or luxury firm on one side and medium on the other. Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king, and split king size options are available.
Photo: avocadogreenmattress.com
The Avocado Green hybrid mattress is constructed using safe and natural materials to ensure individuals stay healthy and sleep comfortably. It features a 100 percent GOTS-certified organic cotton cover that is breathable, soft, and moisture wicking. The mattress also offers a 100 percent GOTS-certified organic wool layer. This layer helps regulate temperatures by wicking away moisture. It is antimicrobial, resists dust mites, and also acts as a natural fire barrier to keep individuals safe as they sleep.
A 3-inch layer of GOLS-certified organic Dunlop latex is also integrated into the design of this mattress. The latex gives the mattress a medium-firm feel, with a firmness rating of 7 out of 10, making it an optimal choice for many back and stomach sleepers. The latex layer also offers support and contouring properties to relieve pressure points. Another component of this hybrid mattress is the individually pocketed coils. The coils come in three gauges and are arranged to create five different ergonomic zones. These zones help ensure an individual’s spine stays in alignment by evenly distributing their weight. This design also helps relieve pressure points and limit motion transfer. This mattress is available in six sizes: twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king.
Photo: saatva.com
This latex hybrid mattress from Saatva features a five-layer design to offer a luxuriously comfortable sleep experience. The mattress cover is made from hand-tufted GOTS-certified organic cotton. It offers a Eurotop design to provide sufficient edge support to assist individuals with getting in or out of bed easily. The cotton cover is also treated with an antimicrobial to promote healthier sleep. Beneath the cover is a layer of 100 percent GOTS-certified organic wool. This layer assists in regulating body temperature while also acting as a natural flame retardant.
The third layer of this mattress is 100 percent natural Talalay latex. The layer is segmented into five different zones to offer optimal support and pressure relief. The Talalay latex offers consistent firmness and is the most breathable latex available. In addition to the zoned latex layer, the mattress also offers a zoned pocketed coil layer, which contours to each body and responds to movement as individuals sleep. The pocketed coils also help reduce motion transfer and provide greater edge support. The base layer, made using a mix of 100 percent GOTS-certified organic wool and cotton, provides stability. Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king, and split king sizes are available.
FAQs About Latex Mattresses
Selecting the best latex mattress can feel overwhelming. The FAQs below are a good resource if you are looking for additional information before making a final decision.
Q. What are the benefits of a latex mattress?
There are many benefits associated with latex mattresses. They include temperature regulation, durability, bounce, and chemical-free construction.
Q. Does a latex mattress sag?
Latex mattresses are often more durable and longer lasting than other mattress types. However, even a latex mattress will sag after extended use.
Q. How do I clean my latex mattress?
Check with the manufacturer’s care instructions before cleaning a latex mattress, as directions may vary from brand to brand. If your latex mattress has a removable cover, take it off to wash it separately, either on a gentle cycle in the washing machine or by hand-washing.
If there are any stains on the mattress, rub baking soda on them, let it sit for 15 to 20 minutes, and brush the baking soda away. Then vacuum the mattress to remove the baking soda and any other dust or dirt that may be on the surface. Before placing the cover back on, allow the mattress to dry completely to prevent mold or mildew from growing.
Q. How long will my latex mattress last?
A latex mattress lasts an average of 10 to 20 years.
