Top 12 Best Latex Mattresses Reviewed in 2020​

Knowledge is power when it comes making any purchase. You need to know the product as well as you possibly can before deciding if it’s worth a financial investment on your part.

Those sentiments ring particularly true if you are shopping for a new mattress. The mattress you have can impact your quality of life in so many ways. A good mattress will help you get more out of your relaxation hours while a bad one will deprive you of much needed rest.

In this article, you will be able to learn more about a specific type of mattress – the latex variant. You will be able to learn more about how latex mattresses are made, how they can benefit you, and how they stack up to the other options on the market.

Without further ado, it’s time to answer some important questions about the latex mattress. 

1. What should I look for when shopping for a latex mattress?

The first and most important consideration when shopping for a latex mattress is its material composition. As much as possible, you need to find a mattress made out of either natural latex or graphite latex.

Natural latex mattresses are valued for their durability and breathability. Graphite latex mattresses are great because they excel at keeping you cool even during warm nights.

You may encounter synthetic latex mattresses as you’re shopping. Synthetic latex mattresses are often more affordable, but they aren’t quite as durable as other variants.

Along with material composition, be sure to factor firmness into your decision-making process. There is no right or wrong option when it comes to mattress firmness. Simply go with the one that works best for you.

Whether or not the layers of the latex mattress can be adjusted is also something worth considering. If you find that your sleeping preferences vary quite frequently, being able to adjust the firmness level of the mattress will prove very valuable to you.

Other factors such as the impression load deflection (ILD) rating, certifications, and even how the mattress itself is made need to be considered as well. We will discuss those topics in-depth later in this article. 

2. How are latex mattresses made?

As one would expect, the process of making a latex mattress starts with the extraction of the key material itself. Workers are tasked to locate rubber trees and cut into them a bit. Wooden bowls are then positioned directly underneath the hole carved into the rubber tree.

The wooden bowl is left to collect the sap that runs down the trunk of the rubber tree. This part of the process takes plenty of time mainly because the sap doesn’t exactly pour out rapidly. According to Heal’s, a rubber tree is only expected to produce around 27 ml (0.91 oz.) of sap per day.

Once enough latex has been harvested, the material is processed with the aid of an industrial mixer. The processed latex is then injected into a vacuum-sealed aluminum pin-core mold.

Those are just the earliest steps of making latex mattresses. The creation methods can vary depending on whether the manufacturers will use the Dunlop or Talalay method. We’ll discuss how those methods vary in a bit. 

3. What are the different types of latex mattresses?

We already touched on it earlier, but it is worth mentioning again that there are different types of latex mattresses available.

The natural latex mattress is the first variant and this is probably your best bet if you want something that can last for a very long time in your bedroom. Natural latex mattresses typically consist of 90 percent natural latex. The remaining 10 percent are reserved for additives that will create a denser mattress.

Synthetic latex mattresses do a pretty good job of replicating the real thing, although you will be able to detect the textural difference if you use natural latex mattresses often. On the plus side, you should be able to get synthetic latex mattresses at more affordable prices.

Graphite latex mattresses often feature a slightly grayer appearance. They are good if you feel that the natural latex mattresses run too warm.

Last up are hybrid latex mattresses and these usually only feature the latex as an external layer. Inside the mattress, you’ll find springs and/or coils. 

4. How do the Dunlop and Talalay mattress-making methods differ?

Let’s pick up the topic of making latex mattresses again and focus more now on the differences between the Dunlop and Talalay methods.

Both methods involve latex being poured into molds, but the manner in which that is done varies.

For the Dunlop method, the latex is mixed together with air, different kinds of soap, and even a gelation agent. The latex mixture is then poured into the mold.

The mold is filled completely with the latex mixture if the Dunlop method is being followed. The mixture is then baked in an oven and rinsed off afterwards. After the wash, the material is oven-dried once more prior to being cut to the appropriate sizes.

For the Talalay method, the latex is poured into the mold, but it is only partially filled. The mold is then vacuum sealed to remove the air. With no air present in the mold, the latex is allowed to expand and fill in the gaps.

Next up, the latex is frozen. That is then followed by CO2 gas being blown into the mold to stiffen up the mixture further. With all of that out of the way, the latex is baked to complete the Dunlop method. 

5. How does it feel to sleep on a latex FOAM mattress?

The great thing about sleeping on a latex mattress is that your body will always feel properly supported. Other mattress variants can be too soft to the point where your body weight cannot be properly supported and that can cause plenty of discomfort especially if you don’t move around a lot while sleeping.

Latex mattresses are remarkably firm and they should maintain their form no matter where on its surface you end up falling asleep. The one downside that does exist with latex mattresses, especially the natural ones, is that they can feel warm.

Because of that, enterprising latex mattress manufacturers have gone ahead and used graphite together with latex. The result of combining those two materials is a mattress that can be comfortable, firm, and reasonably cool even during warm summer nights. You don’t have to worry about sweating through your sheets if you use that type of mattress. 

6. Do these latex made mattresses smell?

Odors are generally unavoidable when it comes to mattresses. Your face is typically positioned very close to the mattress and you will likely be able to smell at least a little something.

The concern many folks have with latex mattresses though is based on the belief that the main material used for this material is quite pungent. After all, rubber balls, shoes, and various other products fashioned out of that material tend to have a distinctive odor as well.

It’s true that latex made mattresses do possess a certain odor, but if you have a natural latex mattress, the smell will be quite mild. Given the amount of washing involved in the manufacturing process, it’s no surprise that natural latex mattresses don’t feature a very prominent smell.

Things are different for synthetic and hybrid mattresses. The supplemental materials used to make those other variants of latex mattresses contribute to a stronger odor.

If you want to avoid latex mattresses that feature an unpleasant smell, stick to the natural variants. 

7. Can latex FOAM mattresses trigger allergies?

For the vast majority of people, using a latex mattress should prove not to be a problem. However, there are folks out there who are allergic to latex.

According to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, less than one percent of people in the United States are allergic to latex. Crucially, latex allergies are not known right away and that could put kids at risk.

If your child has a condition known as spina bifida or has previously gone through plenty of surgeries and medical treatments, it may be a good idea to consult with his/her doctor first before getting a latex mattress.

For adults who already know that they are allergic to latex, it’s still your call if you want to use a latex mattress.

Many of the latex mattresses produced today are covered by different materials, so your body may never even come into direct contact with the latex used. Latex mattresses made using the Talalay method are also less likely to trigger allergies.

Still, if you know you are allergic to latex, it’s best to talk to your doctor before purchasing a latex mattress. 

8. Are latex mattresses good for back pain?

One of the common questions posed to anyone buying a mattress is whether they prefer a softer or firmer mattress? Preferences obviously factor into a person’s answer to that particular question, but there are also times when there is no choice to be made.

For people suffering from back pain, getting a mattress that is way too soft is simply not an option. With that said, can the latex mattress be considered a good option for the folks who do have to deal with back pain on a regular basis?

The great thing about the latex mattress is that it does two important things that address back pain.

First off, latex mattresses are firm but cushioned. Don’t expect to feel as though you’re floating on a cloud when you’re using a latex mattress, but it won’t feel like a sheet of rock either. It manages to strike that balance between being firm yet comfortable quite well.

The other great thing about latex mattresses is that they can consistently maintain their form. You don’t want a mattress that will give way to your body weight too much. Latex mattresses do not present that kind of issue.

Going back to the question above, the answer is yes, latex mattresses are good for people who are experiencing back pain. 

9. Who should consider purchasing latex FOAM mattresses?

The market for latex mattresses is pretty big. As long as you don’t have an allergy to latex, there’s really no reason to shy away from buying this type of mattress.

People who place a great deal of value on having a consistently firm sleeping surface will find this type of mattress to be very appealing.

You should also strongly consider getting a latex mattress if you experience joint and back pain regularly. The firm surface offered by this mattress is going to provide ample support for the aching parts of your body.

Latex mattresses also make plenty of sense for people who want to spend their money on something that can actually hold up for quite some time. These mattresses are known for their durability.

Also, people living in areas with a colder climate may like latex mattresses. They can offer a cozy sleeping surface for those cold winter nights. 

10. What is impression load deflection (ILD)?

Over the course of shopping for a latex mattress, you will encounter some unfamiliar terms. One of those terms is ILD.

ILD stands for impression load deflection and that hints strongly at what it refers to. Basically, ILD is the measure of the softness or firmness of a foam mattress.

In order to figure out the ILD rating of a specific latex mattress, the person tasked with measuring that metric will make use of a 12-inch disk on a 4-inch segment of the foam. The disk is allowed to stay on the foam until it sinks about an inch into the mattress.

So, why does the ILD rating of a latex mattress matter? The ILD rating matters because it will tell you how soft or how firm or how soft a mattress is.

Mattresses with an ILD rating of 19-21 are considered soft while those with a score that ranges from 24 to 26 are deemed to present a medium level of firmness. Medium-firm mattresses have an ILD rating that goes from 29 to 31 and the firm mattresses have ILD scores that range from 34 to 36.

You’ll notice that there are ratings that are unaccounted for. Mattresses that have tweener textures are given those ratings. 

11. What is the GOLS certification and are there other certifications that matter for mattresses?

You may also notice that latex mattresses are given different types of certifications.

The first one of great importance is the GOLS or Global Organic Latex Standard certification. The GOLS certification is a good indicator of the quality of latex used in the mattress.

GOLS-certified “organic” latex mattresses have to contain at least 95 percent natural latex rubber. The rest must be made up of materials such as fatty acid soaps, sulfur, and zinc oxide.

The GOLS certification is also only handed down to products made by people who are thriving under good working conditions.

You may also see the GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard) certification on certain mattresses. This certification indicates that the mattress features at least 70 percent organic fibers.

It’s also smart to look for the CertiPUR-US, Greenguard, Made Safe, and UL Validated certifications on latex mattresses. 

12. What are the benefits of a latex mattress?

Let’s run down the different benefits and advantages of using a latex mattress long-term.

The first one is that these mattresses really can last for an exceptionally long time. You’re simply not getting the kind of longevity latex mattresses offer from those items that are made out of different materials.

The firmness level of the latex mattress can also be hugely beneficial. You may have previously experienced how frustrating it can be to lie down on a mattress that is way too soft. Being soft is fine, but it’s not that fun if you’re not getting a lot of support for your body.

You should also think about purchasing a latex mattress if you’re someone who tends to roll around while sleeping. Latex mattresses hold their shape very well. Your bed won’t be excessively messy when you wake up because it’s built on a latex mattress. 

13. What are the downsides of using a latex mattress?

The number one downside to using a latex mattress is that it can trigger an allergic reaction.

Many of the symptoms of an allergic reaction are quite annoying but still manageable. According to the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology, latex allergies can cause itchiness, hives, and a runny nose.

If you’re allergy to latex is stronger, you may experience difficulty breathing.

Once again, it is best to consult with your doctor before purchasing this kind of mattress if you do have a latex allergy.

Another downside to latex mattresses is that they tend to be quite heavy. That could be an issue if you live in an apartment complex and will have to move the mattress up several flights of stairs.

Latex mattresses are also not the most affordable items on the market, but they can offer a good return on your investment due to their longevity so this disadvantage is balanced out. 

14. How long can you expect a latex mattress to last?

Throughout this article, I’ve alluded to latex mattresses offering impressive longevity. It’s now time to provide a more defined lifespan for this specific product.

You can count on your latex mattress remaining comfortable and usable for around 15 to 20 years as long as you take proper care of it.

If you’re curious about what proper care means for latex mattresses, this accounts for the correct arrangement of the mattress and even which items you should use on it.

Avoid exposing the latex mattress to direct sunlight. You can still keep the mattress in a spot where there is sunlight, but you have to always place a cover on top of it.

You should also make a conscious effort to keep the latex mattress away from any other heat sources inside your bedroom. Remember not to leave heating blankets on top of the latex mattress as well.

It’s important to do all of those things because the latex inside those mattresses can dry up when exposed to excessive amounts of heat. Latex mattresses won’t last long if the main material they feature has dried out. 

15. How much do latex mattresses cost?

Cost is indeed a concern when it comes to buying latex mattresses. You will find a bunch of similarly-sized memory foam mattresses that are significantly more affordable than their latex counterparts.

However, you should know that latex mattresses are not the most expensive options on the market. Hybrid and airbed mattresses are usually more expensive on average than the latex mattresses.

If you’re looking for a more defined price point, the average queen-sized latex mattress is priced at $1,971.

Organic latex mattresses are also quite pricey. Even the cheaper versions of those mattresses are priced somewhere around $1,000 to $1,200. You’re getting great value out of a quality latex mattress, but there’s no denying that they can be costly initially.

For those looking for some more affordable options, synthetic latex mattresses may be the better options. You can get a synthetic latex mattress for about $700 to $800. 

16. Are latex mattresses good for bed bugs?

It’s impossible to talk about mattresses for any extended period of time without discussing the topic of bed bugs.

Most bed bug bites cause only some itchiness and inflammation, but there are also instances when they can become very serious. According to Healthline, bed bug bites that become infected can cause the accumulation of pus and the dimpling of skin. You may also get a fever from an infected bed bug bite.

In serious cases, you may experience difficulty breathing and vomiting.

There’s no such thing as a bed bug-proof mattress, but the latex mattresses do resist them pretty well. Latex is a material that is resistant to dust mites, bacteria, and bed bugs. Bed bugs are not quite as open to residing in latex mattresses as they are to other options.

You should still take the precautions necessary to protect your home from bed bugs, but it is good to know that latex mattresses will help against them.

Hopefully, the details provided above have answered many, if not all, of your questions related to latex mattresses. If you’re looking for a good addition to your bedroom, the latex mattress will do.

17. How heavy is a latex mattress?

There are many things that I enjoy about a latex mattress. They have many benefits, including providing support to a sleeper's body without the lumpiness, being durable, and providing many years of use.

Unlike some other kinds of mattresses, the latex version is made with non-toxic materials, easing concerns for people, such as myself, who suffer from allergies. They have a long life-span, which saves money, and they provide for a more refreshing sleep.

However, one thing about latex mattresses is that they are heavier than standard mattresses. How heavy? It depends on the size. A standard twin version could weigh approximately 45 pounds. However, a latex twin version could weigh anywhere from 60 pounds to 100 pounds.

What about the other sizes of latex? A full version could range from 95 pounds to 145 pounds. A queen version could range from 105 pounds to 170 pounds, and a king version could range from 130 pounds to 195 pounds.

18. Are latex mattresses hot to sleep on?

Some mattresses can get pretty warm as you sleep on them, particularly when you're sleeping in the warmer months, such as in the summer months. There's nothing more uncomfortable than sleeping on a mattress that is too warm.

So are latex mattresses hot to sleep on? Many people think that sleeping on a latex mattress would feel warm. But in fact, it's the opposite.

Latex is not like memory foam. A memory foam mattress has a structure that is considered "closed cell." This kind of structure limits air flow and can feel hot.

The kind of foam that makes up latex has an "open cell" structure. This format allows air to circulate better than other types of materials used in mattresses.

As a result, you can get a cool night's sleep on a latex mattress, because it allows you to benefit from its ventilation.

19. Are latex mattresses good for side sleepers?

Are you a side sleeper? I am. In fact, 74 percent of us are. I don't feel comfortable sleeping in another position. So it's important that me, and other side sleepers, sleep on mattresses that are comfortable for people who prefer to sleep on their sides.

So are latex mattresses good for side sleepers? Yes. Sleeping on your side is a healthy option because of the way it contributes to blood circulation; the way it alleviates heartburn, and the ability to get improved air circulation.

A latex mattress provides not only support but also contouring for the body. This helps to keep the spine aligned.

When buying a latex mattress, you can purchase them in various firmness levels. Generally, medium firm latex mattress (not too hard and not too soft) is best for side sleepers. However, it will depend on your body weight and what is comfortable for you.

20. Do latex mattresses need to be turned or flipped?

Do you flip your mattress? I used to, but now that I have a latex mattress, I don't.

So do latex mattresses need to be turned/flipped? The answer is no. The latex foam layers of this kind of mattress bounce right back to their original shape.

Of course, you can flip your latex mattress if you want to. For instance, if you feel the mattress is subjected to unusual pressure.

For example, if too heavily obese people are sleeping on a queen latex mattress, they may feel that the mattress needs to be flipped on occasion. If you flip a latex, be sure that you turn it with someone helping you.

Specifically, you stand on one side of the mattress with the other person standing on the other side. These mattresses are weighty, and you don't want to risk straining or hurting a muscle.