How to Select a Natural Latex Mattress
There are many reasons to select a natural latex mattress. Natural latex has become very popular with people that want to avoid all of the problems that come along with traditional mattress materials. If you are in the market for a new mattress and you are considering natural latex, here is what you need to know before making the decision to purchase a natural latex mattress.
Why Natural Latex?
Natural latex has become a popular mattress material because of the fact that it does not attract dust mites, mildew, or mold. It is also hypo-allergenic and naturally flame retardant. Additionally, latex mattresses offer firm support that is also comfortable, ensuring that you will have a pain-free, full night’s rest. If you share a bed with a partner, then latex mattresses also provide the additional advantage of isolating the motion and will not transmitting one person’s sleep movements to the other. However, not all latex mattresses are equal and you need to exercise care in selecting the right one.
Opt for Natural
When looking at latex mattresses ensure that it is completely made of natural latex. Some mattresses have a spring core, are made of synthetic latex, or are made of blended latex. However, a mattress that uses only natural latex will provide the additional benefits of being mold-free and hypo allergenic.
Check the Manufacturing Procedures
Natural latex can be made using two different methods – Dunlop and Talalay. The Dunlop method provides latex that is firm and more supportive. It is also less expensive. The Talalay latex is softer and less supportive. A natural mattress with a core of Dunlop latex with an overlay of Talalay will ensure that you have the best of both worlds. You will have a supportive and firm mattress with a softer feel closer to you.
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Ensure Outer Covering is Breathable
The outer covering of your mattress should be breathable and made of all-natural fibers. You can choose from either cotton or wool. Wool is a natural flame retardant and it also helps provide temperature control. By opting for this type of outer covering, you will be able to minimize the presence of synthetic flame retardants in your bedroom.
Choose a Thinner Outer Covering
In order to benefit from the advantages that the latex mattress offers, make sure that the outer covering is not very thick. There is no need for a quilted covering, since it will only act as a barrier between you and the natural mattress that you plan to use. The cover should not be more than an inch thick.
Look for a Long Warranty
A reliable latex mattress manufacturer should be able to offer a long term warranty on the product. While there are differences of opinion on how long natural latex lasts, you should look for a mattress that comes with at least a 10 year warranty.
Select Unbonded Layers
When a latex mattress has multiple layers, you need to check whether they are bonded with glue or held together by the outer cover. If you are very particular about reducing chemicals in your bedroom, you should choose the unbounded mattress. Additionally, these mattresses are less expensive in the long term as you can easily replace only damaged layers or rearrange the layers depending on your firmness preferences.
Check the Indentation Load Deflection
The firmness or softness of a latex mattress is measured using the indentation load deflection (ILD). If you want a very firm mattress you should chose one with an ILD of over 40 while those looking for a soft latex mattress or plush one should go for those with ILD of 14 or slightly higher. A firm latex mattress will have an ILD of 32.
Ascertain Flame Retardant Use
Federal regulations ensure that all mattresses must meet the open flame retardant test. This means that natural latex mattresses also need to have some system of flame retardation. While natural latex is a flame retardant, this is not sufficient to meet the regulations. If you are looking for a natural latex mattress for its green and chemical free nature, ensure that the manufacturer has not used chemical flame retardants. Instead, obtain a mattress that uses wool barriers or has wool woven to certain specifications.
By selecting a natural latex mattress you can be assured that you have a chemical free, fire-resistant, easy to clean and maintain mattress that offers the best support for your back and joints. If you need further information or help to select the right latex mattress, contact us or leave a comment requesting assistance. Or check this page out for more details: http://www.viesso.com/eco-friendly/natural-latex-mattresses.html