When you’re researching different types of mattresses and trying to understand the options and features they offer, latex mattresses are among the most complicated and difficult to get a handle on. Owners tend to be highly satisfied with them if they’ve managed to buy an appropriate one, and latex mattresses are generally popular with consumers. In fact, according to our own research into mattress surveys and reviews, latex mattresses rate second overall when it comes to customer satisfaction.

Before going ahead and making a major purchase of this kind, you would do well to familiarize yourself with all of your options, to understand how they are manufactured, and to know what warranties are available, which mattresses last longest, etc. This buyer’s guide to finding the right latex mattress for you will give you the information you need to ask sales reps the right questions, or to shop confidently online. After you read this guide, you will have a grasp of the essential points without being overwhelmed by jargon and irrelevant information.

Latex Mattresses Defined

In their most basic form, latex mattresses consist of foam made from the sap of the rubber tree, rather than using springs or air. Many people feel that they are the best beds for sufferers of back pain, as well as being healthy, natural and highly durable. The organic material used is hypoallergenic, making latex a popular choice for people with allergies. Latex mattresses are also the most environmentally friendly option available.

Different Latex Types

The inside core of a latex mattress is made from one of three types of latex. Each type has certain things in common, like firmness and springiness, but there is a big difference in quality, durability and price between the three types.

Organic or Natural

This type is made from the processed serum or sap of the rubber tree, a milky sticky liquid. The trees are “tapped” by cutting incisions into the bark and collecting the liquid that runs out, which is later processed and refined. You won’t usually find 100-percent natural latex mattresses in showrooms because the manufacturing and extraction process makes them comparatively expensive. If you are really interested in getting a completely natural latex mattress, you are more likely to find what you’re looking for online, where you’ll see better selection and better prices.

Man-Made or Synthetic

To produce synthetic latex, manufacturers polymerize a monomer like styrene after emulsifying it with surfactants. The end result is a synthetic material that looks and feels much like natural or organic latex. Synthetic latex is much cheaper and more widely available than the natural kind, but it is also less firm and it won’t last as long.

Blended or Combined

Some latex mattresses use a blend of natural and synthetic materials; generally in a proportion of 20 percent natural and 80 percent man made. You may be able to find a 50 percent blend (half natural and half synthetic), but most companies cut their costs by using a higher percentage of synthetic materials. Don’t buy a blended mattress if the percentage of organic latex isn’t quoted in the specifications; there’s probably very little natural latex in there. Blended latex mattresses are widely available, reasonably priced, and offer a good compromise between durability, quality and affordability.

Different Mattress Types

Mattresses come in three main types or categories, each with its own structure and design and each one performing a little differently than the others. Here are some details about each type:

All Latex

These mattresses are completely made of latex from bottom to top and from one edge to the other. The latex used may be completely natural, synthetic or blended, talalay or dunlop. This latex may come in different layers but what distinguishes this type is that there are no non-latex layers except a cover that is flame retardant. This type of mattress can be harder to find, and it often costs more too. The advantage of this type is that it doesn’t transfer motion and there are no issues with off-gassing such as you often find with memory foam. These are also exceptional when it comes to orthopedic support, making them the hands-down best choice for relieving back pain.

Latex Over Foam

This is just like it sounds: a mulit-layered mattress features a thick foam base (most often visco memory foam) covered with a top thinner layer of latex. This type of mattress is easier to find than the all latex type, but the price varies according to the relative thicknesses of the different layers. They cost less than all-latex, but still perform well when it comes to isolating motion and relieving back and joint pain.

Foam Over Latex

Not surprisingly, this is like the reverse of the above type, with a thick latex base layer overlayed with a thinner top layer of visco memory foam. In a design with more layers, you’ll often find a thin layer between a base platform and top foam layer as well. This layer may be as thin as 2 inches.

Methods of Processing

Recently you might have read the words talalay or dunlop. These terms refer to different processing methods used to form the inner core out of extracted latex, and not to different types of latex as many people think. Here are how these different methods work:

Dunlop

This process is the most traditional one, and has been in use since the 20s. The extracted rubber tree sap is heated inside a mold until it “bakes” into a solid shape. The mass is cooled gradually and unmolded to become the dunlop latex core of the mattress. These cores can often be inconsistent with an accumulation of sediments in the bottom, creating an overall softer top and a bottom side that gradually hardens over time.

Talalay

This process adds a couple of steps to the dunlop process. The mold is sealed once the sap is inside it, and manufacturers create a vacuum , dispersing the serum evenly within the mold. They flash-freeze the serum before baking it into a solid shape. The mass is cooled and unmolded leaving you with a talalay latex mattress that is then used as the base for a finished mattress.

Dunlop vs Talalay

The extra steps used in making the talalay mattress make a big difference to the final product, which costs more accordingly. Talalay mattresses take twice as much time to manufacture versus dunlop, making it a more expensive process and increasing the price of the finished product. Dunlop produces a firmer, denser latex, so it is often used as a base layer (see the review of the LUCID 16″ below), while talalay latex is better for making plush or soft top layers (as in the DreamFoam Ultimate Dreams 10″). Both processes have their pros and cons; as in so many other cases it comes down to individual needs, budget and preference.

Top 5 Comparison Table

Reviews of Latex Mattresses

DreamFoam: Ultimate Dreams Total

Based in Brooklyn, DreamFoam Bedding has been around for many years – long enough to be experts in producing top-quality beds as well as knowing the importance of prioritizing customers’ needs above all else. Their 10-inch talalay latex mattress resists dust mites, is naturally free of allergens and can be customized to your desired level of firmness. Once you’ve made your purchase, they will contact you to determine the exact level of firmness you want. If you’re not satisfied with the result, you can trade the comfort layer for one better suited to you just by contacting customer service. A 100 percent organic mattress and great customer service is a winning combination!

Sleep EZ: Roma

This mattress offers great value for money, and comes from an all-American well established family business. This double-sided mattress is a 100-percent bottom-to-top and edge to edge dunlop mattress. The two sides have two different firmness ratings, so by flipping it you can switch it from firm to plush-firm. You’re not likely to find a completely natural latex mattress at this price from other manufacturers; so this is a great product that earns five stars for support, quality, comfort, and value overall. Verified customers recommend it highly, and we couldn’t agree more.

LUCID 16″

This huge mattress is packed full of luxurious layers that cooperate to give you the best possible support for your spine and a comfortable night’s sleep. This mattresses contains four layers in all: a one-inch bamboo charcoal quilted foam topper, a three-inch plush layer of visco foam, a two-inch comfort layer of dunlop latex, and ten inches of high-density foam for a base. By combining traditional memory foam with latex, this mattress is able to provide the best pressure relief and orthopedic support to cut down on back, shoulder and neck pain. That’s great value for money!

DreamFoam: Ultimate Dreams 10″

DreamFoam has succeeded again with this best selling and very popular mattress. Just as with the Ultimate Dreams Total discussed above, this 10-inch mattress offers customization options before and after purchase, but the construction of this one (a 3-inch comfort layer of talalay latex over foam) makes it a little more affordable. This layering construction means that the hypoallergenic material is in closest contact with the sleeper, but the high-density lower layer also offers the best possible back support. Excellent value at an affordable price has made this model an increasingly popular choice with consumers. We recommend it highly.

LUCID 10″

It’s unusual for us to review two models from the same company, but we could not resist including this model. It’s one of the most highly rated mattresses available. LUCID is known for its expertise in combining different materials, and you can see that expertise in this model. This 10-inch mattress consists of a high density 7-inch base layer of visco memory foam for support, topped with a 3-inch comfort layer of natural latex. The response time of the surface is instantaneous when you move, providing immediate relief of pressure points and pain-free sleeping, so you can wake up feeling refreshed every morning. We have found that LUCID always gets high ratings on our customer satisfaction surveys and mattress reviews, and this mattress is no exception.

Conclusion

As you can see, latex sounds like a simple material but it can be used in a wide variety of ways to make mattresses. It can be used as a platform or base layer, or as a top layer, usually combined with man-made materials like gel foam or viscoelastic foam. When different materials are combined in this way, the resulting mattress is a hybrid rather than the all-natural product which is one of the main selling points of latex. Hybrids are fine if they meet your needs, but natural latex mattresses have several advantages over hybrids. That’s why we concluded that the Ultimate Dreams Total was the best of the top five latex mattresses we reviewed. This is why:

Brooklyn Bedding, the company that manufactures and supplies these mattresses, allows customers to choose their preferred comfort level when they place their order. Even after you get the mattress home, you can contact customer service if you have any reason to be unhappy with the mattress. They will be happy to change the comfort layer and customize a new density to make the mattress softer or firmer as needed.

Great customer service and customization options before and after purchase are not the only reasons for choosing this as the best out of the 5 top mattresses. The bed contains a core of all natural 100 percent talalay latex, which you can swap for dunlop latex if you prefer when you order the bed. It also contains organic wool, a great option for allergy sufferers. This American-made mattress complies with stringent regulations, so you can feel confident about its safety. All of these factors, plus the high rate of satisfaction on surveys of verified owners, combine to make this our top pick of latex mattresses for 2023.

Falling asleep at night sounds like the easiest thing in the world, but sadly that’s not the case for many of us. No matter how tired you are, sometimes you just can’t drift off, or if you do you can’t stay asleep. Insomnia can have a negative impact on your health, as well as interfering with your work performance, concentration and hormone balance. And worrying about not sleeping just adds more stress to the situation, making everything worse. If you occasionally have trouble sleeping, here are some possible causes and easy suggestions to get your sleep pattern on track again.

Top Ten Causes of Sleepless Nights (and what to do about them)

When you’re having trouble sleeping, take a look at your habits, routine and home environment to try to pinpoint what is interfering with your sleep. You need to make rest and sleep a priority because it can affect all other aspects of your daily life, such as physical and mental health, and even safety. You probably already know that lying in bed fretting about not being able to sleep is the opposite of helpful, and just makes you more anxious (not to mention exhausted the following day!) Here are some common culprits and easy tricks you can use to overcome them and start getting a better night’s sleep.

Note: If you’ve been having trouble sleeping for more than a month, or if you think you may have a condition such as GERD or sleep apnea, see a doctor! This article is not meant as a substitute for medical advice.

Eating Late

If you eat a big meal late in the evening, it can seriously interfere with your sleep, especially if you consume spicy foods, high fat or high protein. All of these ingredients can keep you awake as your body works hard at digesting them. These foods can also be responsible for acid reflux (as can acidic foods). When you’ve got indigestion or even if you just feel too full, it can be uncomfortable to lie down and try to sleep. Caffeine in tea, coffee and soft drinks can contribute to insomnia if you drink them in the evening or even the afternoon. Alcohol might make you feel sleepy at first, but it can also make you wake up during the night.

Suggestion: Have your dinner a minimum of three hours before you go to bed. Don’t drink caffeine within 6 hours of your bedtime. If you get hungry, WebMD suggests a small, carb-rich snack. A piece of fruit, some crackers and cheese, a slice of toast, a small serving of cereal or oatmeal, or some nuts are all good evening snacks.

Not Enough or Too Much Light

Your circadian rhythms and melatonin production respond naturally to light. Phones, tablets, laptops and TVs can all interfere with your ability to get sleepy. Even the tiny lights from chargers, your alarm clock or street lamps can be enough to throw off your sleep cycle.

Suggestion: Use dimmer lighting in the evenings. Switch off the television and other electronics before you go to bed. Use good blinds or heavy drapes to keep out street lighting. You can use tape to cover little lights, or if necessary (when traveling for example) wear an eye mask.

Too much light causes problems for some people, but the opposite can also be true. Many people fear the dark (although they might never admit it). If a too-dark room makes you uneasy, you will have trouble sleeping.

Suggestion: Use a small night light, or leave a door ajar to a room with some dim lighting. This can help you relax without disturbing your circadian rhythm.

Too Noisy or Too Quiet

For some of us, it’s impossible to get to sleep unless the environment is silent. Even the smallest sounds can keep some people awake. Outdoor sounds, and noise caused by heating and plumbing systems or even partners can be a problem.

Suggestion: Often you have little or no control over noise. In this case, try using noise cancelling headphones, earplugs, or even a sound conditioner. Some curtains can also help to muffle outdoor sounds.

Most people see noise as something that interferes with sleep, but paradoxically a too-silent room may also cause sleep problems. When there’s no background noise to filter sounds, even the slightest bump or rustle can disturb you.

Suggestion: Soft music, a white noise generator, or a fan will make it easier to sleep if a too-quiet room has you on edge.

Too Hot or Too Cold

The temperature of your room can make it hard for you both to drift off and to sleep through the night. Most of us sleep best in a room that is between 60 and 67 degrees Fahrenheit, although babies and the elderly may prefer it a bit warmer. Lower than 54 degrees or higher than 75 degrees is probably going to cause problems. When you’re cold, you use energy to maintain your body temperature, disrupting your sleep cycle. When you’re too hot, often you’ll wake up sweaty, or keep tossing and turning to try to find a cool spot.

Suggestion: Change the thermostat setting. If you get too warm, make sure your pajamas and bedding are moisture-wicking and breathable natural fabrics (cotton, silk or wool). If it’s too cold, add some blankets and switch to warmer pajamas. Cooling or heating pads (such as ChiliPad) or heated blankets can help you adjust the temperature of your sleep environment if resetting the thermostat isn’t enough.

Cold Hands and Feet

Your extremities may be too cold even when the rest of you is comfortable at a cool room temperature. Hands and feet lose heat faster than the rest of your body, and this can make it hard for you to relax and go to sleep.

Suggestion: Use a heating pad or hot water bottle near your feet to help keep them warm. If you like sleeping in a cool room, wear warm cozy socks and keep your hands under the blankets.

Changing Seasons

The lunar cycle and changing seasons are a bigger cause of sleep problems than many people realize. Maybe it’s the additional light of the full moon, or maybe something more mysterious, but many people find it harder to fall asleep, stay asleep and feel rested when the moon is full. The lengthening days of summer, and the longer hours of darkness in the winter can also affect sleep patterns. Also, staying indoors more in the winter can reduce your activity level overall and limit your sun exposure.

Suggestion: Again, window coverings and shades that block light can help with full moons and early sunrises. In the winter, make a point of spending time outside in the sunlight as much as you can to maintain your natural circadian rhythms. Light exercise and staying in a routine also ensure that when it’s time to go to bed, you’re tired enough to sleep.

Erratic Schedule

If you sleep late on the weekend you may feel rested in the short term, but you’re wreaking havoc with your body clock. It’s almost like giving yourself jet lag, because your circadian rhythm is unbalanced and disrupted, making it hard to return to the sleep schedule of your work week. A scientific study with young women found a link between erratic sleep schedules and increased body weight, which is another good reason to stay on a regular schedule.

Suggestion: Find a schedule that allows you a minimum of seven hours of sleep every night, and stick reasonably close to it even on your days off.

Sleep Disturbances

Many of us love to cuddle up with our partner or even with a pet when we sleep. Both human and animal companions in your bed can move around or snore at night. Even if you don’t wake up fully, your mind still registers these little disturbances and you don’t feel as rested. By some accounts, couples who share a bed can experience 50 percent more disturbances in sleep than if they sleep alone, which is one reason why many couples sleep in separate beds. Day in and day out, having your sleep disturbed by your partner can leave you exhausted and resentful.

Suggestion: Buy your pets beds of their own. If you sleep with a partner, try using separate blankets so you can each move around and cocoon as much as you like. Make sure that you’re sleeping on a mattress that is comfortable for both of you. Pocketed coil spring mattresses, latex foam and memory foam are all designed not to transfer motion between partners. If you have a partner that snores excessively or sounds like their breathing stops at times, tell them so that they can see a doctor about it.

Stress

There are so many possible sources of stress in life – relationships, children, work, health, finances and current events, to name just a few. You may be exhausted by the stresses in your life by the day’s end, but when you go to bed you stare at the ceiling unable to fall asleep. Exhaustion does not always make it easy to sleep. You might have body pain and stiffness, and your mind might be racing a mile a minute, keeping you awake and only adding to your exhaustion. Stress can be among the biggest causes of sleep problems, so it’s worthwhile learning some relaxation techniques.

Suggestion: If possible, talk through any interpersonal issues long before it’s time to go to bed. Write in a journal so you can unburden yourself of disruptive thoughts and clear your head before sleeping. When your responsibilities are keeping you awake, make a list of all the things you have to do, as well as a plan for time management. Otherwise you may lie in bed turning all of these things over and over in your mind. Hot baths, mindful breathing practices, relaxing music, and gentle yoga can all be helpful in lowering your stress level before bedtime.

An Uncomfortable Mattress

When you’re constantly moving around in bed, trying to get comfortable or ease painful pressure points, it might be because of a bad mattress. If you wake up every morning with a sore back, maybe your mattress is just not supportive enough anymore. If you’ve got a new bed and still feel pain, maybe the mattress is too soft (lacking support), too firm (causing pressure points), or you’re just still adjusting yourself to it. This adjustment period can be as long as a month, particularly if you’ve changed your mattress type.

Suggestion: The average mattress will last for 7 to 10 years, varying according to quality and materials. If your mattress is more than 10 years old, or if it’s sagging noticeably, it’s probably time to replace it. More than 1 inch of sagging is likely to cause you an increase in pain. If you have a mattress that’s in good shape but it feels too hard, add a mattress topper to relieve some of your pressure points. You can also walk on a firm mattress to break it in a bit when it’s new. If you have an overly soft bed, try a firmer latex topper or a firm foundation to give you more support.

Getting to sleep and sleeping through the night are often problematic for many people. If you know some of the causes of sleep problems and how to address them, you can get a better night’s sleep. Getting enough rest is crucial to our everyday lives, affecting our school, family and work (to name just a few). Try not to stress about it if you’re not sleeping as well as you’d like. There are often easy solutions and good sleep hygiene habits that will help you get back to a normal, restful sleep schedule in next to no time. If you have trouble getting to sleep, take a look at your diet, stress level, lifestyle, environment and even the seasons to see if you know what might be causing your problem. Make some adjustments and chances are you’ll be getting a good night’s sleep again soon.

Studies have recently shown that upgrading to a new mattress can have much greater health benefits than you probably know. Research proves that a better bed can improve the quality of your sleep as well as helping with stress reduction. If you’re trying to decide whether to spring for a new bed or not, keep reading and you’ll see that going ahead and making that purchase can be the best decision you can make.

New Mattress Benefits (According to Research)

A recent study, “Back Pain, Sleep Quality and Perceived Stress Following Introduction of New Bedding Systems,” from Oklahoma State University, is the one we’re referencing here. This study demonstrated the health benefits of a mattress upgrade for 59 healthy adult subjects. Each participant had been using a mattress which was 5 or more years old, with an average mattress age of 9 ½ years. In the month preceding the study, the subjects reported discomfort associated with their existing mattress. When the participants started using new mattresses, researchers saw astounding results. Just by switching the mattresses, they managed to reduce back pain by 48 percent and improve sleep quality by 55 percent.

What This Means to You

What message should you, the average shopper, take from this? First of all, if you’re experiencing fatigue in the mornings, if you wake up in pain, or if you toss, turn and fidget throughout the night, take a hard look at the bed you’re currently using. Also, if you find that you get a better night’s sleep in a hotel than in your own home, your mattress may be to blame.

Most experts in the industry say you should replace your mattress every 6 to 10 years depending what type you have, but many people put off buying a new mattress for much more than 10 years. Maybe you don’t want the hassle of making a major purchase if you think your bed is still more or less okay. Some people mistake the intent of a 10 to 25 year warranty. These warranties are intended to protect against defects in workmanship, not ordinary wear and tear. Your old mattress may look okay at a glance, but that doesn’t mean it’s giving you the support you need. Inspect it to see if it’s lumpy in places, has a major sag anywhere, or if the springs are too easy to feel. All of these are symptoms of a bed that is past its prime and needs to be replaced. If you’re sleeping poorly and waking up sore, your old mattress could be the culprit.

The study from OSU shows that you can get a better quality of sleep with less stress and pain just by getting a new mattress when you need one. In that study the beds were more than 9 years old on average, which exceeds the life expectancy of most mattresses. Here is a guide to the lifespan of the most common types of mattress:

• Inner spring – 6 years
• Low density memory foam – 4 years
• Medium/high density memory foam – 10 years
• Waterbed – 8 years
• All latex – 10 years
• Latex over foam mattress – 6 years

Options for New Mattresses

Once you know that you need to buy a new mattress, you should consider all the different types of beds that are currently on the market. Think about your own specific needs and what will improve the quality of your life. The traditional inner spring mattress still is the best seller and the option that most people are familiar with. But memory and latex foam are increasingly becoming popular choices, as they get better reviews by owners and tend to last several years longer than spring mattresses. Manufacturers are now combining various materials and making hybrid mattresses too. Adjustable mattress bases that allow you to change the bed angle are becoming more popular, and might be good for you depending on what you need. Do some research on the Internet to find out more about all of the benefits and options that are available before you buy. Here are some articles that explain the differences between the various types of beds on the market to help you get going.

• Which Memory Foam Mattress Performs Best?
• Best Mattresses for Back Pain
• Is an Adjustable Bed Right for You?
• Guide to Understanding Different Mattress Types

It may be tempting to keep putting off buying a new mattress indefinitely. But the study we cited shows you just how important it can be to replace your mattress in a timely fashion. Why would you want to put off something that can make you feel so much better? And these days, you can even shop for your new mattress as you lounge on your current bed and browse the online resources and shops. If your bed is too old and worn out to give you the support and comfort you need, you should seriously consider replacing it with a new one sooner rather than later.

Read about what each of the most popular types of mattress has to offer

How can you know which type of mattress will work best for you? Now that there are so many different options out there, more and more people are wondering how to choose. Many people just continue buying the same kind of mattress every time they replace an old one, because they are afraid of making a mistake that will cost them a lot of money. It takes time to research all of your options and many of us just don’t have that kind of time. This guide will give you a place to start by sharing the research we’ve done into the various different types of mattresses available. First, we’ll compare the four most popular mattress types out there to help you get a better handle on what bed will best suit your needs.

Coil, Innerspring, Pillowtop

History

Most of us are very familiar with mattresses of these types. Coil mattresses have been with us since Victorian times. Even now that there are so many other options, you’re still likely to find coil and spring mattresses in the majority of American homes.

Structure

Spring mattresses are comprised of several parts: a box spring base; the springs inside the mattress; and layers of padding. All of the types listed here use metal coils as a support system. Different systems for using springs include independent pocket springs and Bonnell connected coils. The gauge of the mattress and the number of springs it contains gives you an idea of its quality. A high-gauge mattress (14 gauge for example) has more give in its coils and is considered higher quality. Generally speaking, more coils mean better support and contouring, though coil counts may be somewhat arbitrary. The manufacturers include layers of stuffing, padding or foam over the coils to make the bed comfortable to sleep on. You can find everything from simple quilting to several inches of latex or memory foam.

Advantages

Spring mattresses are readily available anywhere that beds are sold. Often they are easier on the budget than other mattress types too, at least if you’re just getting a basic model. This type of bed allows for easy movement while sleeping, and you’re less likely to feel hot than on a foam mattress.

Disadvantages

These beds are very common, but they also get the lowest ratings when it comes to customer satisfaction. Only 60 to 65 percent of individuals with this kind of mattress are satisfied with their purchase. The biggest issues are with comfort and longevity. Spring mattresses wear out sooner than other kinds of beds, because the padding gets compressed and springs lose their support. Most innerspring mattresses will need to be replaced after just 5 to 7 years. There is also an issue with motion transfer – if one partner moves, the other partner is likely to be disturbed. And you don’t always get what you pay for with these beds, especially with the top brands. Even some of the most expensive innerspring beds may be lower in quality than a cheaper mattress of a different type.

Availability

This type of mattress is available at countless bed stores throughout the nation. Some of the big brands are Serta, Simmons and Sealy, all of which manufacture multiple different lines of innerspring mattresses. Customers tend to rate all of these brands at about the same level, with Sealy getting a slightly higher satisfaction rating. You can also buy spring mattresses from online retailers, and there are smaller regional companies that manufacture them.

Memory Foam

History

These mattresses began to appear under the name Tempur-Pedic early in the 1990s. Viso-elastic foam was developed by NASA to cushion astronauts from G forces during takeoffs, but they soon realized that this material would have better applications in consumer products. Memory foam shapes itself to the contours of a sleeper, evenly distributing the weight across its surface and eliminating pressure points around heavy areas such as the shoulders and hips.

Structure

The inner structure of a memory foam mattress is pretty simple, and doesn’t differ much from manufacturer to manufacturer. The top layer is made of memory foam, which is somewhere between 2 and 8 inches deep. Under this layer is a denser base foam which is not a memory foam (to prevent the sleeper from simply sinking to the mattress bottom). Some designs use several different layers, each with different qualities, and some mattresses include air channels to prevent overheating. A true memory foam bed does not have a support core containing springs.

The biggest distinctions between different memory foam mattresses are in the foam type and density. The optimal range for density is from 4.0 to 5.3 pounds per square inch. A lower density is prone to breaking down and may not offer enough support, while a higher density will feel too firm or viscous for the comfort of most sleepers. There are also a number of formulations available. You can get the standard visco foam, which is slow responding and temperature sensitive; gel-infused, which is said to be cooler; or plant-based, which is made from natural oils and is faster responding and more breathable.

Advantages

People rate memory foam mattresses the highest overall when it comes to owner satisfaction: Between 80 and 83 percent of people report being satisfied with their purchase. If you have back problems or other types of body pain, memory foam is likely to be the best mattress for you. It doesn’t put more pressure on your body and allows for natural alignment while sleeping. Memory foam mattresses are also longer-lasting (10 to 20 years if you buy a high quality one) and they are good at preventing motion transfer.

Disadvantages

There are a few drawbacks to these mattresses, despite the positive ratings. Traditional memory foam mattresses have been criticized heavily for being manufactured using toxic components, and many of these beds (especially if they are imported) still contain a host of chemicals. Certain brands have a strong odor right after you buy them, and some people complain that the foam traps body heat, making it hard to sleep. More recent innovations like plant based and gel memory foams are addressing these issues. People tend to think that memory foam beds are expensive, though these days many have a similar price tag to a high quality spring mattress.

Availability

Mattresses made of memory foam continue to grow in popularity and you can now find them throughout the country. The most recognized brand is still Tempur-Pedic, and these beds are sold by many retailers. Serta and Sealy also feature lines that include gel memory foam beds, so these are readily available now too. It can still be hard to find plant-based memory foam mattresses though, especially if you are shopping locally. But the good news is that Amerisleep.com will ship their plant-based foam beds anywhere in the nation.

Latex Foam

History

Natural latex comes from a tree called hevea brasiliensis. In the early 20th century, latex foam mattresses appeared on the market after the Dunlop process allowed latex foam to be produced in a commercially viable fashion. Later the Talalay process was also used, and later still, organic latex and synthetic latex joined the ranks. Modern manufacturing techniques have brought down the price of latex foam, which used to be prohibitively expensive.

Structure

These are probably the most structurally simple of all mattresses. A real latex foam mattress contains latex foam only both for structural support in the core and for the comfort layer. The foam is cured after manufacturing, and then cut to size and arranged in layers to form a mattress. Sometimes (but not always) these layers are glued together. The mattress is then covered in wool, cotton, or some other material.

Latex foam mattresses differ from each other in the kind of latex used as well as in how they are manufactured. The original Dunlop process creates a durable mattress that is usually firm. The more controlled Talalay process gives more consistent results and usually costs more, although both types get equally positive reviews based on their performance. The foam is made from a liquid that may be 100 percent natural, a chemically-derived synthetic or a combination of the two. Experts usually prefer the natural latex because it is hypoallergenic, environmentally friendly, and more durable than the synthetic.

Advantages

100 percent natural latex mattresses receive the second-highest satisfaction rating from owners, at about 79 to 81 percent of people being happy with their purchase. These highly durable mattresses can last for more than 15 years. Like memory foam, latex foam offers natural contouring and support without pressure. The advantage is that latex doesn’t retain as much heat, off-gas unpleasant chemicals or respond slowly.

Disadvantages

Latex foam beds usually cost a bit more than the other types of mattresses because they use more expensive materials. It can also be difficult to find a local dealer, because there are few big brands that offer a 100 percent natural latex mattress.

Availability

The best way to find a natural latex bed is to shop for it online, where you can find a number of retailers offering different features and types. When you’re shopping around online, make sure you read the specifications and don’t buy a mattress unless it’s returnable, particularly if you’ve never tried a latex mattress before. Astrabeds is one online retailer that will ship anywhere in the country. They sell 100 percent natural latex mattresses that are made of certified organic ingredients. This retailer offers a 90-day trial period, free shipping, and their beds get good reviews.

Water Beds

These are nothing new, but the vinyl water beds that you’re familiar with became available in the ’60s. You can find several variations today, including hardside wooden-framed beds and softside beds that you can use with any furniture. The mattress itself may be free-flow, with nothing restricting the movement of the water (not good for couples) or waveless, where baffles or fiber restrict the flow. There is a steady group of die-hard water bed fans out there who continue to prefer these beds in spite of maintenance hassles and the potential for a big mess. Waterbeds get an approval rating of about 75 percent. It’s hard to find a retailer who sells water beds these days, though you can buy them online and in some specialty shops.

With so many different models, styles, technologies and brands of mattresses available these days, shopping for one can be overwhelming. Being aware of your options and doing your homework in terms of research will help you choose the mattress that’s best for you. No two people define comfort in exactly the same way, but ratings and reviews will give you somewhere to start if you want a change or if it’s been a long time since you’ve shopped for a new mattress. According to the ratings, memory and latex mattresses are your best bet, as more than 80 percent of owners are satisfied with these beds after purchasing them. A lot of people still buy innerspring beds simply because they are easier to find, but with online shopping it’s now much easier to find exactly what you want, at a good price, no matter where you live. We hope that this introduction to the world of mattresses is useful to you. Please feel free to ask us any questions that we didn’t cover here!

Beds with adjustable bases have recently grown in popularity as they’ve become easier to purchase online, and the prices are becoming more affordable all the time. An adjustable bed base allows you use simple controls to change your position, something that can help a broad range of people. You may associate adjustable beds with hospitals, but these days such beds are designed fit in with ordinary home décor. Even if you’ve got no health problems at all, an adjustable bed can offer you plenty of benefits. This article will familiarize you with some basic information about adjustable beds, and help you decide if you should be considering one for your own home.

Adjustable beds are nothing new – there’s even evidence of a simple prototype being used as far back as the 1500s! The 3-part adjustable bed bases of today, which allow you to change the height of each section, were invented by a Dr. Willis Gatch during the early years of the 20th century. This Gatch Bed allowed patients to be raised into various positions that increased oxygen levels and circulation after a surgery, thereby promoting healing. It was nothing short of a revolution in health care. If you’ve ever had to spend a long time on bed rest, you know how much more comfortable you are when you can sit up with the help of an adjustable bed.

In the middle of the last century, manufacturers began to market these beds for consumers by creating versions for use in the home. Brands such as Leggett & Platt or Craftmatic popularized adjustable beds, especially for elderly customers. Along with adjustable height, these bed bases also have comfort features such as massage, and they are designed to look good with your home décor. Today’s adjustable beds are intended for a broad range of people, from young couples to baby boomers. If you understand the benefits these beds have to offer, you can make a good decision about whether you not they would be a good choice for you.

Health Benefits of Adjustable Bed Bases

• Relieves swelling
• Promotes circulation
• Helps breathing
• Eases acid reflux
• Promotes healing after surgery
• Relieves back pain

Because these beds were designed originally for therapeutic purposes, they are appropriate for a wide range of health issues. Bad circulation can cause edema (swelling) in the feet and legs, which you can relieve by raising the feet above heart level. After childbirth and certain surgeries, some medical practitioners may prescribe the Fowler’s position (elevating the upper body between 45 and 60 degrees), which promotes healing and makes it easier to breathe. Acid reflux, also known as GERD, causes serious symptoms of heartburn when stomach acid rises to the esophagus. Sleeping with the head and chest elevated can reduce or eliminate this reflux, and it’s much more comfortable to use an adjustable bed than to prop yourself upon a pile of pillows. A position known as “zero gravity” in which you elevate the feet above heart level and slightly raise the head can alleviate back pain and improve circulation for some people too. Beyond these specific uses, people can use an adjustable base to customize their bed to
suit their own individual needs and preferences.

Benefits of Adjustable Bed Bases for Comfort

• More comfortable for relaxing in bed
• Massage
• Convenience/luxury
• Customizable for partners

Even if you have none of the health issues mentioned above, you may enjoy the comfort of an adjustable bed. If you like to watch TV or read in bed you may find yourself using a lot of pillows to try and prop yourself up, and you may feel discomfort in your arms and back. Instead, you can use an adjustable base to position yourself for watching movies, reading a book, or even eating your breakfast! You can also elevate your knees slightly to move into a lounging position.

Some beds also include additional features such as alarms, massage and even an anti-snoring function. The massage feature is a strong vibration that aids in relaxation of muscles and encourages circulation. Different models offer different additional features to enhance the luxury and comfort in your bedroom.

If you sleep with a partner, you’ll be glad to know that you can get split adjustable bed models. Several brands include a split queen and a split king in their line, with independent controls for each half of the bed. If you and your partner have different preferences or needs, you can still sleep comfortably in the same bed.

More Considerations

Now that you know about the benefits of this type of bed, here are some other things you should think about when making your decision.

• Can you afford one on your budget? Adjustable bases for the home start at about 1000 dollars. Insurance usually doesn’t cover them, although some policies may include them under durable medical equipment. They are a fairly big-ticket item, but they will usually last for 10 to 20 years. Also, the price is similar to that of a medium-range mattress.
• What kind of furnishings does your bedroom have? Adjustable beds are now designed to work with most headboards and bed frames. A platform bed, however, might not work if the legs of the base don’t reach the floor, and the platform itself may not be sturdy enough for the combined weight of the mattress and the base. If you want to use the base within your existing furniture, look for Wallhugger design.
• Can you use your current mattress? Most spring mattresses will not work on an adjustable base. A flexible mattress such as latex or memory foam is best; otherwise you may impair the base’s function or damage the mattress. Latex and memory foam are durable and will conform to the shape of the base.
• Can you do the setup yourself? Some assembly is required with an adjustable base, and they weigh quite a bit. If your mobility is limited and you can’t get the base to the bedroom from the front door, try to buy from a retail who offers a “white glove” delivery service. This service includes delivery right to the bedroom as well as setup.

Choosing the Best Adjustable Bed for You

• According to a Burke Research study commissioned by Leggett & Platt, 90 percent of customers are satisfied with their adjustable beds
• • Another report by SleepLikeTheDead.com states that 84 percent of people are satisfied with their adjustable beds.

These studies show that by and large most people who buy adjustable bases are satisfied with their purchase. If you take the time to research the product and the features it offers, as well as checking reviews by owners, you will likely be happy with your own decision too.

You should decide what features are important for you, figure out what size you require, and think about your budget. It’s also crucial to look into what kind of warranty is offered by the manufacturer. A good company will offer a limited warranty covering about 20 years, with full warranty coverage from 0 to 5 years. Some warranties may not cover such critical parts as the motor, so be wary.

It may be difficult for you to find a good adjustable bed in a local store, but don’t give up. It’s much easier to find good quality affordable options online. Looking online also makes it easier to do thorough research and comparison shopping. Of course, it can be expensive and difficult to return an adjustable base, but the same is true even if you buy in a local brick-and-mortar shop because of this product’s nature.

Previously on this site we’ve looked at some of the leading brands of adjustable beds, and compared them in terms of durability, warranty, price and reviews by owners. The two most outstanding models were the Ergo Invincible from Amerisleep and the Prodigy base from Leggett & Pratt. The Amerisleep model retails starting at 1299 dollars. It includes a zero-gravity setting, massage, wireless controls, and it’s able to produce an upright angle of 70 degrees. The Leggett & Platt bed costs 1699 or more and includes wifi remotes, sleep timers, wave massage and an upright angle of up to 63 degrees. Both beds have high rates of owner satisfaction – more than 90 percent – so either model is a safe bet.

When not in use, your adjustable bed looks exactly like any other mattress, but when in use it has its own unique profile, pampering you with exquisite comfort. No longer do these beds look like they belong in a hospital setting. With their quiet motors, sleek lines and hidden machinery, today’s adjustable beds look right at home in any bedroom. These beds offer great health benefits as well as comfort features that make them appealing to a broad range of people. Take a look at your own preferences and the features that adjustable beds have to offer, and you will be able to decide if one of these beds is the right choice for you.

What mattresses are best for back pain?

Back pain is something that plagues a lot of people, so it’s important to know what kind of mattress will reduce back pain, or possibly even get rid of it altogether. Memory foam and latex mattresses are proven to be the best choices for back pain sufferers. If you understand the causes of back pain and the effect that spring mattresses have on your body, you will better understand why memory foam and latex mattresses are the clear choice for alleviating back pain.

Causes of Back Pain

Of course it’s good to know what beds work best if you have back pain, but first it’s important to understand what back pain is and what causes it. Bad posture is one common cause. Walking and sitting with a good upright posture will help you avoid aches and pains in your back. Tension can be another cause. If stress is causing you to unconsciously constrict your muscles, back pain is a common result. Muscle pulls and herniated discs can also result in back pain. These conditions (especially herniated discs) require medical intervention, but you will still benefit from having the best possible mattress while you are recovering.

Why are Memory Foam and Latex Mattresses Best for Back Pain?

Each of these types of mattress has its own benefits to offer someone who is dealing with back pain. Let’s talk about some of these benefits in more detail:

Best Beds for Support and Durability

Latex is known for being a durable and long-lasting material. Even though it has been available for many years, it still performs as well as (or even better than) some of its more modern competitors. Latex mattresses are usually firmer than other beds, but are also less likely to sag with long use. If you currently suffer from back pain, the support offered by a latex mattress may reduce the pain you’re feeling, and in time the pain may disappear completely. Latex is able to conform to your body shape somewhat as well. This characteristic also helps alleviate back pain and prevent it from happening down the road.

Memory foam, too, is considered one of your best options if you have back pain. Even more than latex, memory foam conforms to the contours of your body to provide the best possible support while you sleep. With memory foam you are unlikely to wake up with a sore back. Lack of proper support is what often causes muscle stiffness and joint pain. With memory foam, you get the support you need exactly where you need it whatever your weight and height. This makes memory foam a good choice regardless of your body type.

How springs can make your back pain worse

Now that we’ve talked about the benefits of memory foam and latex, it’s also important to understand which beds to avoid, and why. Innerspring mattresses are widely used and available everywhere, but they can cause back pain or at least make it worse. Spring mattresses do not last as long as latex or memory foam, and are much more likely to sag than other types of mattresses. A spring mattress may feel comfortable at first, but this comfort can be short-lived. Sagging, protruding springs, and padding that compresses over time all contribute to discomfort, back pain and a lower quality of sleep.

Conclusion

At the end of the day, it all comes down to personal choice and preference. Be sure to choose a mattress that gives you enough support and that will last for a long time. More and more people are looking for a bed that will help them avoid back pain and improve their sleep and overall well-being. Memory foam and latex mattresses are demonstrably the best choices for alleviating back pain because they give good, long-lasting support.