Natural Latex Mattress vs Memory Foam Mattress: Why Sleep Experts Suggest the Former?
When I was purchasing my new mattress, I was highly confused between the latex mattress vs memory foam mattress argument. Everywhere, I saw both these mattress types ruling and competing with each other. I found it very difficult to understand the major differences along with the pros and cons. Now that I am well aware, I thought why not share it with others to make the confusion clear.
Natural Latex Mattress vs Memory Foam Mattress: Why This Comparison Though?
Before even digging deep into the advantages and disadvantages of each of these, we must talk about why these mattresses are often compared with each other. As far as I have understood the mattress industry, I guess marketing tactics ignite more heat between this comparison to outrank each other.
Both these mattresses are marketed to be highly supportive and good for back pain. Hence, people are always talking about natural latex mattress vs memory foam mattress. One of the biggest reasons people replace their existing mattresses is to get better support. Natural latex and memory foam are not only hyped but actually equally supportive.
But the main argument for latex mattress vs memory foam mattress happens because of the additional pros and cons each mattress comes with. In this article, I will help you understand what else you need to equally look after apart from “support” and “comfort” — and most importantly, which mattress out of the two is better in that regard.
What is a Natural Latex Mattress?
When talking about a latex mattress, please note that I am always addressing a 100% natural latex one, or else, it is not at all safe to sleep on. A natural latex mattress is made by using 100% natural latex — which is the white, milky sap, obtained by tapping the trunks of the Rubber trees. This substance is naturally very bouncy, safe, and durable. Such mattresses are generally medium-firm and do not trap body heat at all.
Pros of Natural Latex Mattresses
· Very springy and comfortable
· Highly supportive
· Eco-friendly
· Highly durable
· Excellent air circulation
· Proper cushioning of the body
· Improves the blood flow inside the body
· Sleeps cool
· Isolates motion transfer
· No noise
· No electromagnetic radiations amplification
· Hypoallergenic
· Even distribution of weight
Cons of Natural Latex Mattresses
· Expensive
· Bulky and heavy
What is a Memory Foam Mattress?
Memory foam mattresses are made using viscoelastic polyurethane — which is a man-made polymer. Although highly supportive and extremely soft, such mattresses are neither eco-friendly nor very breathable. Memory foam is denser than normal foam and makes a great material for mattresses, and also other furniture items such as sofas, car sets, etc.
Pros of Memory Foam Mattresses
· Highly supportive
· Very soft and comfortable
· Relieve pressure points
· Put a lesser strain on the spine as compared to other commonly sold mattresses
· Not too disturbing
· Hug the body curves while sleeping
· Less expensive
Cons of Memory Foam Mattresses
· Man-made
· Poor breathability
· Trap body heat
· Increase the risks of SIDS
Which One Between the Two is Better?
The biggest reason sleep experts suggest sleeping on a natural latex mattress over a memory foam mattress is its breathability. Natural latex mattresses do not trap body heat but instead allow you to sleep cool, even in hot weather. On the other hand, memory foam mattresses trap body heat and make you feel suffocated while sleeping.
This is one of the biggest reasons natural latex is considered highly safe, even for crib mattresses but memory foam is not because it increases the risks of SIDS. Furthermore, memory foam mattresses hug your body and acquire the shape of your curves. This might feel comfortable at first but scientifically, it is better to sleep on a mattress that is medium-firm and aligns your spine rightly.
Natural latex mattresses, instead of hugging your curves or letting you sink in, instantly push you upwards against the force of gravity to properly distribute your body weight and reduce the pressure across your body. Another bigger advantage of choosing natural latex over memory foam is because natural latex is highly nature friendly and doesn’t harm the environment in any way whereas the latter isn’t.
The Bottom Line
I hope I helped you understand the difference between natural latex mattress vs memory foam mattress. While the main decision lies with you, I recommend doing deep research and opting for a natural latex mattress but please ensure you choose a brand that offers a free trial. If you ask me what brand I went for, my answer is Morning Owl medium firm natural latex mattress. My mattress is super comfortable, sleeps cool, and is supportive.
Please make sure to check the certifications if you are purchasing a latex mattress. Your mattress should not even have 1% of synthetic or blended latex. It should be 100% natural and certified highly safe to sleep on. I recommend checking for OEKO-TEX Standard 100, eco-INSTITUT, ISO, and BRIT QUALIS certifications at least. Rest, the more, the merrier.
