Zzz Magazine
Latex vs Memory Foam (A Complete Guide and Comparison)

Memory
foam and latex mattresses both deserve their solid reputations as great
alternatives to traditional beds.
They both earn their share of thumbs up and
positive comments across independent review sites, but it's not always easy to
understand the differences between these two mattresses.
For example, you might wonder why latex mattress materials are rated as more
eco-friendly than memory foam. You might be curious about which bed provides a
more romantic, couple-friendly sleeping experience.
Which is better? Do memory foam or latex mattresses offer everything you want
in a bed? How do you decide, and how do you choose the best of each mattress
type? These are just a few of the questions covered with this guide.
Latex vs Memory Foam: Latex Pros and Cons
When you consider the latex mattress vs memory foam debate, don't think of it as a battle between competing beds. Instead, see it in terms of differences between the two. Let's start with an overview of latex pros and cons.
Latex Pros
1. The Best Latex Is All-Natural
Of all the materials used to produce foam for mattresses, 100 percent natural
latex is the best of the best. If you have allergies or respiratory problems,
you breathe easier sleeping on an natural rubber mattress.
2. It Bounces Back
Natural latex mattress reviews often mention the wonderful responsiveness of a
pure latex mattress. The material has a firm bounce that provides a uniquely
comfortable sleep experience. Many people prefer the springy feel of latex over
the contouring qualities of memory foam.
3. The Support Is Solid
The responsiveness of a natural latex mattress comes from its density, and
that's a feature highly valued by back sleepers
as well as individuals with chronic back and neck pain. A quality latex bed
blends firm support and comfortable spinal alignment to ensure a healthy
night's sleep.
4. You Enjoy Cool Rest
Latex features a naturally open cell structure making it an ideal foam bedding
material. A latex mattress breathes, and that allows it to efficiently
dissipate body heat. You enjoy cool, comfortable slumber throughout the night.
5. Latex Holds Up for Years
Unlike traditional beds built with coils and fabric, latex never develops
sunken spots, lumpy areas or sagging edges. A latex mattress always keeps its
shape, smooth surface and overall firmness. A well-made latex bed holds up over
an average sleeping life of 15 to 20 years.
6. Body Weight Doesn't Matter
The density of a latex mattress makes it especially comfortable for people with
heavier frames. The material firmly and comfortably supports all body types and
sleeping styles. Natural latex is a favorite among large and tall individuals
because it easily supports weights in excess of 250 pounds.
Latex Cons
1. The Best Costs More
Compared to other foams, latex is more expensive. If you wonder why latex
mattress prices are higher than other foam beds, keep in mind that the best
latex mattresses are made entirely from natural materials. Manufacturing also
affects the cost because pure natural Talalay latex foam for example requires
400 percent more time to produce than other types of latex.
2. It's Heavier Too
Because of its natural density, latex is the heaviest of all bedding foams.
This can make moving a latex mattress more difficult than handling a memory
foam bed. However, a latex mattress doesn't need to be flipped or turned. Once
it's in place, a latex bed provides years of care-free service.
Q&A
Is Latex Right For You?
Before you invest in a mattress that's going to last for years, how can you be
sure latex is your best choice? Latex vs memory foam clearly offers a number of
advantages, but is it the right mattress for you? Yes, it is if:
You Prefer Sleeping On, Not In
Not everyone enjoys the sinking-in feel of a memory foam bed. A latex mattress
provides firm but comfortable support that gives you the feel of sleeping on
the mattress instead of sinking into it.
You're a Hot Sleeper
As you generate body heat
during a normal sleep cycle, you often become too warm and wake up
uncomfortable. A natural latex mattress solves the problem with materials that
breath. Latex doesn't retain moisture either.
You Want to Go Natural
If you're committed to making
eco-friendly
choices
whenever you can, a natural latex bed belongs in your home. You rest easier
with the peace of mind that comes from sleeping on a mattress made with
all-natural materials.
You Like Romance with Bounce
It's not unusual to read mattress reviews from couples who enjoy the way latex
foam responds to romantic fun in bed. If you're looking for an extra bounce in
your love life, a latex mattress can be a very sexy addition to the bedroom.
How Do You Choose a Quality Latex Mattress?
With so many different models, manufacturers and online mattress stores, the
options can seem overwhelming. Take your time, take a careful look at latex
mattress specifications, and keep these important points in mind.
Talalay Is the Best
When considering a latex mattress vs memory foam, you have a choice between different types of latex: natural Talalay latex is one of the best as it's very breathable and comfortable.
Made in the U.S.A. Matters
In general, latex made in the U.S.A. is a much better product than imported
latex. Higher manufacturing standards and rigorous processing result in a
mattress foam that's pure and natural. American-made Talalay latex is the
preferred foam for producing premium mattresses.
Mattress Reviews Count
When a product delivers, consumers share the good news. Take a look at natural
latex mattress reviews across independent sites, and make note of which beds
really stand out. For example, the
Nature's
Novel
mattress consistently receives five-star reviews from satisfied
sleepers.
Read more: Natural Latex Mattress {Advantages and Disadvantages}
Memory Foam vs Latex: Memory Foam Pros and Cons
Memory foam mattresses offer their own unique advantages and a few
disadvantages too. When you're shopping online for a bed in a box, this
mattress holds its own compared to latex beds. Consider these memory foam pros
and cons.
Memory Foam Pros
1. It Pampers Pressure Points
Memory foam contours to your body with supple support that comforts sensitive
pressure points. Different sleeping positions compress shoulder, back and hip
muscles, but a good memory foam mattress eases the discomfort. The material
pampers pressure points regardless of your
personal
sleeping style
.
2. Memory Foam Reduces Pain
When consumers rate the pros of memory foam vs latex, pain reduction tops the
list of memory foam advantages. In fact, it rates higher than all other bedding
materials for relieving neck, shoulder, back and hip pain.
3. Couples Enjoy Quiet Rest
Because it completely absorbs motion, memory foam ensures a good night's sleep
regardless of how much one partner might toss and turn. Even two restless
sleepers can enjoy sharing quiet nights and romantic evenings on a
couple-friendly memory foam mattress.
4. The Material Is Very Durable
A well-made memory foam mattress holds its shape and firmness for years. The
best come with lifetime warranties because the materials are especially
durable. Only latex beds last longer than premium memory foam mattresses.
Memory Foam Cons
1. It Sleeps Too Warm
This is the most common complaint about memory foam beds. The material doesn't
breathe, and that results in an uncomfortably warm sleeping environment.
2. Memory Foam Sinks In
The memory foam qualities that absorb motion can feel unresponsive to some
individuals. Not everyone likes the sense of sinking into a memory foam
mattress as it contours to body shape and weight. This feature also contributes
to the foam's tendency to trap heat.
3. The Material Is Synthetic
Most memory foam beds are produced from synthetic ingredients that off-gas even
after setup in your home.
Q&A
Is Memory Foam the Best Choice For You?
Memory foam has several advantages over latex including a lower price point.
It's easy to understand why memory foam beds are so popular, but is this
mattress model the best choice for your personal sleeping style? Yes, it is if:
You Need Pressure Point Relief
You're tired of waking up with sore shoulders or aching hips. Perhaps you deal
with chronic back pain, arthritis or bursitis. A quality memory foam mattress
relieves the discomfort of pressure points from neck to ankles.
You Miss Sound Sleep
If you share the bed with a partner who tosses and turns, peaceful nights can
turn into sleepless nights. Memory foam doesn't transfer motion, and it's also
noiseless. You enjoy a sound sleep while your partner rests easier too.
You Like to Snuggle
Many people prefer the contouring feel of memory foam vs latex because it's
very comforting. Memory foam mattresses are available with different levels of
firmness that provide deep, supportive cushioning.
You Appreciate Value
The best memory foams are produced with premium materials that feature real
durability. As long as you avoid cheap models, you can count on memory foam to
outlast traditional beds.
What Should You Look For in a Quality Memory Foam Mattress?
Shopping online for a memory foam mattress can quickly become a confusing
experience. With so many brands to choose from and so many sites offering
discounts, it's hard to sort through everything. As you look for a memory foam
bed that really fits your sleeping style, keep these guidelines in mind.
Density Makes a Difference
Take a look at the density specifications of
cheap
mattresses
.
Bargain beds are made with 1.8-pound density foam while the best mattresses
feature 4- and 5-pound foam. These beds are built with three times more foam
than the same-sized discounted models.
Certification Is Important
You want to sleep in a healthy environment every night, so make sure your
mattress choice meets the
highest
industry standards
.
Cheap memory foam production involves all-chemical processes, but a natural
memory foam mattress only uses certified healthy materials and plant-based
oils.
Made in the U.S.A. Really Matters
American-made memory foam mattresses are almost always better than imports.
Products from overseas are mass-produced, so you can't be sure about the
quality of materials. The best memory foam beds made here in the U.S.A. are
usually made to order.
Your Preferences Are the Ultimate Guide
Deciding on which is better, memory foam or latex, depends on your personal
preferences, but be careful. Balance what you want with what you need. By
making the right choice based on the way you sleep, you can enjoy the amenities
you love and the benefits you deserve.
Don't be tempted by sellers advertising cheap memory foam and latex mattresses
at prices too good to be true. Be cautious dealing with online mattress stores
that don't provide detailed product specifications, certifications and
warranties.
It's our goal to help you shop wisely and with confidence. We hope you'll shop
with us here at Sweet Zzz, but we know you can use our guide's information
wherever you decide to purchase your next mattress. It's always our pleasure to
be
at your service and help you find
your very best night's sleep.