Latex mattresses are becoming more popular among sleepers who want a comfortable, durable, and eco-friendly option. Latex is a natural material derived from the sap of rubber trees, which can be processed into different types of foam. Latex mattresses offer many benefits, such as pressure relief, temperature regulation, bounce, and hypoallergenic properties. However, they also have some drawbacks, such as high cost, heavy weight, and potential odor.
In this post, we will review the best latex mattresses of 2023 based on our in-depth research and testing. We will also explain what to look for when shopping for a latex mattress and answer some frequently asked questions.
Introduction
What is a latex mattress and how is it made?
A latex mattress is a type of mattress that uses latex foam as the main component of its comfort layer and sometimes also its support core. Latex foam is made by whipping liquid latex into a frothy mixture and then baking it in a mold. Depending on the method of production, there are two main types of latex foam: Dunlop and Talalay. Dunlop latex is denser and firmer, while Talalay latex is lighter and softer. Both types can be natural, synthetic, or blended.
Natural latex is derived from the sap of rubber trees, which are harvested sustainably without harming the trees. Natural latex is biodegradable and has antimicrobial and dust mite resistant properties. Synthetic latex is made from petroleum-based chemicals that mimic the properties of natural latex. Synthetic latex is cheaper and more consistent than natural latex, but it may have a stronger odor and lower durability. Blended latex is a mixture of natural and synthetic latex, usually with a higher percentage of synthetic latex.
What are the pros and cons of latex mattresses?
Latex mattresses have many advantages over other types of mattresses, such as:
- Pressure relief: Latex foam conforms to the body’s curves and distributes the weight evenly, reducing pressure points and improving blood circulation.
- Temperature regulation: Latex foam has an open-cell structure that allows air to flow through it, preventing heat buildup and keeping the sleeper cool.
- Bounce: Latex foam has a natural elasticity that gives it a responsive feel and makes it easy to move on the mattress.
- Hypoallergenic: Natural latex is resistant to bacteria, mold, mildew, and dust mites, making it ideal for allergy sufferers.
- Durability: Latex foam is resilient and does not sag or lose its shape over time, unlike some other foams.
However, latex mattresses also have some disadvantages, such as:
- High cost: Latex mattresses are usually more expensive than other types of mattresses, especially if they are made from natural or organic latex.
- Heavy weight: Latex mattresses are heavier than most other mattresses, making them difficult to move or rotate.
- Potential odor: Some latex mattresses may emit a slight rubbery smell when new, which may bother some people. However, this odor usually dissipates within a few days or weeks.
Best Latex Mattresses of 2023
We have selected the best latex mattresses of 2023 based on our criteria of quality, performance, customer satisfaction, and value. Here are our top picks:
Best Overall: WinkBeds EcoCloud
Why we like it: The WinkBeds EcoCloud is a hybrid mattress that combines natural Talalay latex with pocketed coils for a balanced feel of comfort and support. The EcoCloud has a medium firmness level that suits most sleepers and sleeping positions. The EcoCloud also has a breathable organic cotton cover and a wool fire barrier that add to its eco-friendliness and comfort.
Who it’s best for:
- Sleepers who want a hybrid mattress that offers both pressure relief and edge support
- Sleepers who prefer a medium firmness level that is neither too soft nor too hard
- Sleepers who value eco-friendly materials and certifications
Details:
- Type: Hybrid (latex + coils)
- Firmness: Medium (5/10)
- Thickness: 13 inches
- Price: $1,799 (Queen)
- Warranty: Lifetime
- Trial: 120 nights
- Certifications: OEKO-TEX Standard 100, eco-INSTITUT
Best for Back Pain: PlushBeds Botanical Bliss
Why we like it: The PlushBeds Botanical Bliss is an all-latex mattress that offers excellent spinal alignment and pressure relief for back pain sufferers. The Botanical Bliss has three layers of organic Dunlop latex that can be customized to different firmness levels by rearranging the layers. The Botanical Bliss also has an organic cotton cover and an organic wool layer that provide breathability and moisture-wicking.
Who it’s best for:
- Sleepers who suffer from back pain and need a mattress that supports their spine
- Sleepers who want to adjust the firmness level of their mattress according to their preference
- Sleepers who are looking for an all-natural and organic latex mattress
Details:
- Type: All-latex
- Firmness: Soft (3.5/10), Medium (5.5/10), Medium-Firm (6.5/10), or Firm (7.5/10)
- Thickness: 9, 10, or 12 inches
- Price: $2,199 (Queen, 10 inches)
- Warranty: 25 years
- Trial: 100 nights
- Certifications: GOLS, USDA Organic, GreenGuard Gold, OEKO-TEX Standard 100
Best for Side Sleepers: Avocado Green
Why we like it: The Avocado Green is a hybrid mattress that combines organic Dunlop latex with pocketed coils for a medium-firm feel that is ideal for side sleepers. The Avocado Green has a zoned coil system that provides targeted support and pressure relief for the hips and shoulders. The Avocado Green also has an organic cotton cover and an organic wool layer that enhance its breathability and comfort. For extra plushness, the Avocado Green can be ordered with an optional pillow-top layer.
Who it’s best for:
- Side sleepers who need a mattress that cushions their pressure points and aligns their spine
- Sleepers who want a hybrid mattress that offers both bounce and contouring
- Sleepers who care about environmental and social responsibility
Details:
- Type: Hybrid (latex + coils)
- Firmness: Medium-Firm (6.5/10) or Medium (5.5/10) with pillow-top
- Thickness: 11 or 13 inches with pillow-top
- Price: $1,499 (Queen) or $1,899 (Queen with pillow-top)
- Warranty: 25 years
- Trial: 365 nights
- Certifications: GOLS, GOTS, GreenGuard Gold, MADE SAFE, Climate Neutral
Best Value: Eco Terra Hybrid Latex Mattress
Why we like it: The Eco Terra Hybrid Latex Mattress is a hybrid mattress that offers a great value for money. The Eco Terra has a layer of natural Talalay latex that conforms to the body and relieves pressure points. The Eco Terra also has a layer of pocketed coils that provide support and durability. The Eco Terra has a cotton cover and a wool fire barrier that add to its comfort and safety.
Who it’s best for:
- Budget-conscious shoppers who want a high-quality latex mattress at an affordable price
- Sleepers who like a hybrid mattress that combines the benefits of latex and coils
- Sleepers who want to choose between two firmness options: Medium or Medium-Firm
Details:
- Type: Hybrid (latex + coils)
- Firmness: Medium (5/10) or Medium-Firm (6.5/10)
- Thickness: 11 inches
- Price: $999 (Queen)
- Warranty: 15 years
- Trial: 90 nights
- Certifications: OEKO-TEX Standard 100
Best Luxury: Zenhaven
Why we like it: The Zenhaven is an all-latex mattress that offers a luxurious sleeping experience. The Zenhaven has four layers of natural Talalay latex that are aerated and zoned for optimal comfort and support. The Zenhaven also has a flippable design that allows the sleeper to choose between two firmness levels: Gentle Firm or Luxury Plush. The Zenhaven has an organic cotton cover and an organic wool layer that provide softness and breathability.
Who it’s best for:
- Sleepers who want a premium latex mattress that is comfortable, supportive, and durable
- Sleepers who appreciate a flippable mattress that offers two firmness options in one
- Sleepers who are willing to pay more for a luxury product
Details:
- Type: All-latex
- Firmness: Gentle Firm (7/10) or Luxury Plush (4/10)
- Thickness: 10 inches
- Price: $2,399 (Queen)
- Warranty: 20 years
- Trial: 180 nights
- Certifications: OEKO-TEX Standard 100
How to Choose a Latex Mattress
When shopping for a latex mattress, there are several factors to consider, such as:
Types of latex foam: Dunlop vs Talalay vs synthetic vs blended
As mentioned earlier, there are two main types of latex foam based on the production method: Dunlop and Talalay. Dunlop latex is denser and firmer, while Talalay latex is lighter and softer. Both types can be natural, synthetic, or blended.
Natural latex is derived from the sap of rubber trees, which are harvested sustainably without harming the trees. Natural latex is biodegradable and has antimicrobial and dust mite resistant properties. Synthetic latex is made from petroleum-based chemicals that mimic the properties of natural latex. Synthetic latex is cheaper and more consistent than natural latex, but it may have a stronger odor and lower durability. Blended latex is a mixture of natural and synthetic latex, usually with a higher percentage of synthetic latex.
The type of latex foam affects the feel, performance, and eco-friendliness of the mattress. Generally, natural latex is more comfortable, supportive, and durable than synthetic or blended latex. However, natural latex is also more expensive and may have some variations in firmness and density. Synthetic or blended latex may be more suitable for people who are allergic to natural latex or who prefer a more uniform and affordable product.
Firmness and comfort preferences
The firmness of a latex mattress refers to how hard or soft it feels when you lie on it. The firmness level can range from very soft to very firm, depending on the type and density of the latex foam. The firmness level can also be adjusted by adding or removing layers of latex foam in some mattresses.
The comfort of a latex mattress depends on your personal preference and sleeping style. Some people may prefer a softer mattress that hugs their body and relieves pressure points, while others may prefer a firmer mattress that supports their spine and keeps them from sinking too much. The comfort of a latex mattress can also be influenced by factors such as temperature, humidity, body weight, and sleeping position.
Sleeping position and body weight
Your sleeping position and body weight can affect how comfortable and supportive a latex mattress is for you. Different sleeping positions require different levels of pressure relief and spinal alignment, while different body weights require different levels of firmness and support.
- Back sleepers: Back sleepers need a mattress that supports their lower back and keeps their spine in a neutral position. A medium-firm to firm latex mattress can provide enough support and prevent sagging in the lumbar region. A softer latex mattress may cause back sleepers to sink too much and create pressure points in the hips and shoulders.
- Side sleepers: Side sleepers need a mattress that cushions their hips and shoulders and aligns their spine. A medium to medium-soft latex mattress can provide enough contouring and pressure relief for side sleepers. A firmer latex mattress may cause side sleepers to feel too much pressure in their joints and create misalignment in their spine.
- Stomach sleepers: Stomach sleepers need a mattress that prevents their hips from sinking too much and creating an arch in their spine. A firm to medium-firm latex mattress can provide enough support and keep their spine in a straight line. A softer latex mattress may cause stomach sleepers to sink too much and create strain in their neck and back.
- Lightweight sleepers: Lightweight sleepers (less than 130 pounds) need a mattress that conforms to their body and relieves pressure points without making them feel stuck. A soft to medium-soft latex mattress can provide enough comfort and contouring for lightweight sleepers. A firmer latex mattress may feel too hard and uncomfortable for lightweight sleepers.
- Average-weight sleepers: Average-weight sleepers (130 to 230 pounds) need a mattress that balances comfort and support for their body type and sleeping position. A medium to medium-firm latex mattress can provide enough comfort and support for average-weight sleepers. A softer or firmer latex mattress may not suit their needs as well as a medium one.
- Heavyweight sleepers: Heavyweight sleepers (more than 230 pounds) need a mattress that supports their body weight and prevents sagging or sinking. A firm to medium-firm latex mattress can provide enough support and durability for heavyweight sleepers. A softer latex mattress may not be able to support their weight adequately and may wear out faster.
Budget and value
The price of a latex mattress can vary depending on the type, quality, size, brand, and features of the product. Generally, natural or organic latex mattresses are more expensive than synthetic or blended ones, as they use more premium materials and have higher certifications. Hybrid mattresses are usually more expensive than all-latex ones, as they have more components and offer more benefits. The price of a latex mattress can also depend on the thickness, firmness, customization options, warranty, trial period, shipping costs, and customer service of the product.
The value of a latex mattress is determined by how well it meets your needs and expectations in terms of comfort, support, durability, eco-friendliness, customer satisfaction, and overall quality. The value of a latex mattress is not necessarily proportional to its price, as some products may offer more features or benefits than others at similar or lower prices. The value of a latex mattress can also vary depending on your personal preference, sleeping style, budget, and lifestyle.
Certifications and eco-friendliness
Certifications are labels or seals that indicate that a product meets certain standards or criteria for quality, safety, performance, or environmental impact. Certifications can help you verify the claims and credibility of a product and its manufacturer. Certifications can also help you compare different products and choose the one that best suits your needs and values.
Some of the common certifications for latex mattresses are:
- GOLS (Global Organic Latex Standard): This certification ensures that the latex foam is made from at least 95% organic raw materials and meets the requirements for organic farming, processing, social responsibility, and environmental protection.
- GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard): This certification ensures that the textile materials (such as cotton or wool) are made from at least 95% organic fibers and meet the requirements for organic farming, processing, social responsibility, and environmental protection.
- GreenGuard Gold: This certification ensures that the product emits low levels of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and other harmful chemicals and meets the standards for indoor air quality and health.
- OEKO-TEX Standard 100: This certification ensures that the product does not contain any harmful substances or allergens that may pose a risk to human health or the environment.
- MADE SAFE: This certification ensures that the product is made from safe ingredients that do not harm human health or the environment.
- Climate Neutral: This certification ensures that the product is carbon neutral, meaning that it has zero net greenhouse gas emissions from its production, transportation, and use.
Eco-friendliness is a measure of how environmentally friendly a product is in terms of its materials, production, transportation, use, and disposal. Eco-friendliness can also reflect the social and ethical practices of the product’s manufacturer and suppliers. Eco-friendliness can help you reduce your environmental impact and support sustainable development.
Some of the factors that affect the eco-friendliness of a latex mattress are:
- The source and type of latex: Natural latex is more eco-friendly than synthetic or blended latex, as it comes from renewable resources and is biodegradable. Organic latex is more eco-friendly than conventional latex, as it follows organic farming practices that avoid the use of pesticides, fertilizers, or genetically modified organisms (GMOs).
- The production process: The production process of latex foam can affect its environmental impact in terms of energy consumption, water usage, waste generation, and emissions. Dunlop latex is more eco-friendly than Talalay latex, as it uses less energy and water and produces less waste and emissions. Talalay latex is more eco-friendly than synthetic or blended latex, as it uses natural ingredients and avoids harmful chemicals.
- The other materials: The other materials used in a latex mattress, such as the cover, the fire barrier, or the coil system, can also affect its eco-friendliness. Organic cotton or wool are more eco-friendly than conventional or synthetic fabrics, as they are made from natural fibers that are grown organically and processed without harsh chemicals. Natural fire barriers, such as wool or cotton treated with baking soda, are more eco-friendly than chemical fire retardants, as they are safer for human health and the environment. Pocketed coils are more eco-friendly than continuous coils, as they use less metal and reduce motion transfer.
- The packaging and shipping: The packaging and shipping of a latex mattress can affect its environmental impact in terms of material usage, transportation mode, distance traveled, and carbon footprint. Minimal packaging is more eco-friendly than excessive packaging, as it reduces waste and saves resources. Eco-friendly packaging materials, such as recycled cardboard or biodegradable plastic, are more eco-friendly than non-recyclable or non-biodegradable ones, as they reduce landfill and pollution. Shipping by ground or sea is more eco-friendly than shipping by air, as it consumes less fuel and emits less greenhouse gases. Shipping locally or regionally is more eco-friendly than shipping internationally or cross-country, as it reduces travel distance and time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some of the frequently asked questions about latex mattresses:
How long does a latex mattress last?
A latex mattress can last for 10 to 15 years or longer, depending on the quality, type, and care of the product. Natural latex is more durable than synthetic or blended latex, as it resists sagging and indentation better. Dunlop latex is more durable than Talalay latex.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some of the frequently asked questions about latex mattresses:
How long does a latex mattress last?
A latex mattress can last for 10 to 15 years or longer, depending on the quality, type, and care of the product. Natural latex is more durable than synthetic or blended latex, as it resists sagging and indentation better. Dunlop latex is more durable than Talalay latex, as it has a higher density and firmness. However, Talalay latex is more resilient and consistent than Dunlop latex, as it has a more uniform cell structure and elasticity. To extend the lifespan of a latex mattress, it is recommended to rotate it regularly, use a mattress protector, and avoid exposure to direct sunlight, heat, or moisture.
How do I care for a latex mattress?
A latex mattress requires minimal maintenance, as it is naturally resistant to dust mites, mold, and mildew. However, it is still advisable to follow some basic care tips to keep it clean and fresh. Some of the care tips are:
- Vacuum the mattress: Vacuuming the mattress once a month can help remove dust, dirt, and debris from the surface and prevent them from accumulating in the foam. Use a soft brush attachment and avoid using a rotating brush or a beater bar, as they may damage the foam.
- Spot clean the mattress: Spot cleaning the mattress can help remove stains or spills from the cover or the foam. Use a mild detergent or vinegar diluted with water and a soft cloth or sponge to gently blot the affected area. Avoid rubbing or scrubbing the foam, as it may cause damage or discoloration. Avoid using bleach, ammonia, or harsh chemicals, as they may damage the foam or the cover. Let the mattress air dry completely before putting on any bedding.
- Air out the mattress: Airing out the mattress once in a while can help eliminate any odors or moisture that may have accumulated in the foam. Place the mattress in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight, heat, or moisture for a few hours or days. Avoid exposing the mattress to extreme temperatures or humidity, as they may cause warping or cracking of the foam.
- Flip or rotate the mattress: Flipping or rotating the mattress every three to six months can help even out the wear and tear of the foam and prevent sagging or indentation. Some latex mattresses are flippable, meaning that they have two different firmness levels on each side. Flipping these mattresses can also help you change the feel of your mattress according to your preference. Some latex mattresses are not flippable, but they can be rotated 180 degrees to switch the head and foot ends.
Is latex mattress good for allergies?
Latex mattress is generally good for allergies, as it is naturally hypoallergenic and antimicrobial. Natural latex is resistant to bacteria, mold, mildew, and dust mites, which are common allergens that can trigger symptoms such as sneezing, itching, coughing, or asthma. Natural latex also does not contain any harmful substances or allergens that may pose a risk to human health or the environment.
However, some people may be allergic to natural latex itself, which is a rare but serious condition that can cause anaphylactic shock. Symptoms of latex allergy include skin rash, hives, itching, swelling, difficulty breathing, nausea, vomiting, or fainting. If you suspect that you have a latex allergy, you should consult your doctor before buying a latex mattress.
Synthetic or blended latex may also contain some chemicals or additives that may cause allergic reactions or sensitivities in some people. These chemicals may include sulfur, ammonia, formaldehyde