Memory Foam vs. Latex Foam

Latex foam has been on the mattress market for a number of years. It has similar qualities to the much newer memory foam technology, but has not become as popular – despite its longer existence – mostly due to significantly steeper costs.

But latex has always been regarded as a high quality, durable alternative to traditional internal spring mattresses. And that warrants a comparison to the new kid on the block: memory foam.

 

What NOT to get

First, it is important to understand the differences all foam mattresses have with their antiquated counterpart innerspring mattresses. Mattresses with internal metal springs for support where virtually the only bedding options available on a mass scale over most of the past century. The main drawback to innerspring mattresses is that they create pressure points where the body makes contact with the internal springs. These pressure points can become sore, even painful, and limit proper blood circulation.

 

What are the alternatives?

Foam mattresses are solid structures with no internal springs to cause discomfort. All foam mattresses share this quality. The result is a more comfortable sleep with better support to ensure therapeutic value is maximized. With foam mattresses you will sleep longer and better every single time.

 

What’s the difference between a Memory foam and Latex mattress

While mattresses made of latex foam and memory foam do share some similarities that are also differences that set them apart. Here are some of the top differences between the two major foam mattress versions:

  • Latex foam – which can be synthetic or derived naturally from the rubber tree – is generally considered to be a more healthy option than memory foam which has mostly been manufactured from a polyurethane-based mixture that is responsible for off-gassing that bothers some people initially. However, because some latex is synthetic or a blend, the health value of the latex may vary In addition, several manufacturers and retailers are offering high quality “green” memory foam that uses a vegetable-based blend. All of this means, the overall health benefit of a memory foam or latex foam mattress will depend on particular manufacturing details.
  • The body contouring effect of foam is diminished somewhat with latex, which tends to be a more rigid texture than memory foam. For this reason also, latex foam mattresses do not possess the much-valued quality of resistance to motion transfer. Memory foam is renowned for this quality that ensures sleep partners will be less likely to disturb each other by moving, especially if restless.
  • Natural latex foam and memory foam each have significant life spans; however, latex is generally considered the most durable option available since rubber takes a very long time to break down. In general, no other bed type outlasts latex, but you’ll pay for it.
  • Cost is a significant issue to most people these days and it is a divider in the analysis of latex and memory foam mattress options. In general, latex foam mattresses are the most expensive on the market – especially if mostly or all natural in construction. Memory foam is generally considered to be a much more economical bed choice.

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