Latex Mattresses
Latex is a relatively new product used for mattresses. Made from either Natural or Synthetic latex, a latex core can virtually last forever and won’t lose its bounce. Natural latex is made from natural rubber taken from the rubber tree, and synthetic latex is made from a mix of chemical compounds.
Although synthetic latex is a human-made product, it feels virtually identical to a natural latex product. The only difference between them is the latex form in the manufacturing process.
There are typically two forms of latex manufacture: the Dunlop method and the Talalay method:
- The older, traditional Dunlop method involves whipping liquefied latex with air to make it into a foam. Then, it is poured into a mould and heated until it is vulcanized.
- The Talalay method involves pouring the liquid latex into a mould, placing a vacuum on the mould, which sucks out the air bubbles and pockets to create a more consistent structure, and then setting the mould by freezing the latex.
Different sized holes are cut into the latex called “pin core holes to get a different amount of firmness in the core.” These holes soften the latex and make it more comfortable. The larger the holes, the softer the latex.
Most latex mattresses will have one size hole running through the mattress, although different manufacturers may cut additional size holes in other places to create “comfort zones.” For example, a softer feel around the shoulders and feet but a firmer feel around the hips.
One of our best-selling latex mattresses combined with a divan bed is the Giltedge Beds latex cloud (pictured below). Two thousand pocket springs for a contoured, supportive feel, Natural latex layer, 28cm (11″) deep.
If you want to enjoy latex but can’t afford a complete latex core, then maybe you could look at other mattresses with latex in them. Whatever your budget, latex is a material that everybody can enjoy.