You’re looking to buy a new mattress, but with so many options available, you’re feeling a bit overwhelmed… And we totally get it! However, choosing a mattress that perfectly suits your needs is no easy task, and to do so, it’s important to understand the characteristics of the different types of mattresses. In this article, we’ll explain the properties of natural latex mattresses and memory foam mattresses. We hope you’ll have a clearer picture by the end of this article. Enjoy the read.
WHAT IS A NATURAL LATEX MATTRESS?
Latex is a plant-based material extracted from a tree called Hevea brasiliensis. To make a mattress, natural latex can be used on its own or blended with other materials.
A. Natural latex
As explained earlier, latex comes from a tree called Hevea brasiliensis; it is the tree’s sap that is extracted in a harmless process to make latex. To transform this liquid material into a “block” of latex, it must be mixed with vulcanizing agents. Thus, a natural latex mattress is composed of up to 97% of this material, with the remaining 3% consisting of vulcanizing agents ( primarily potassium and zinc). However, it is important to pay attention to the different names used for natural latex mattresses, as their compositions vary.
- Some mattresses are labeled“100% natural latex”; this label requires that the mattress be made of at least 85% natural latex. This means that the rest of the composition may consist of synthetic or chemical materials. We recommend taking a closer look at the compositionof productslabeled“100% natural latex”to avoid any unpleasant surprises. When vulcanizing agents are factored in, a 100% natural latex mattress can contain up to 12% synthetic materials.
- If mattresses are labeled“100% latex,”it means they are made entirely of synthetic latex. This material consists of a small amount of natural latex and synthetic materials (>85%) (see section below).The Kipli natural latex mattress, for example, contains 0% synthetic latex or other synthetic materials. To solidify, the liquid latex is mixed with 3% vulcanizing agents, as explained earlier. To ensure a healthy and natural mattress, it contains no chemicals or toxic substances.
B. Synthetic latex
In your search for the perfect mattress, you’ll find a wide variety of synthetic latex mattresses. These types of mattresses are made from synthetic latex and a small amount of natural latex (about 15%). Synthetic latex is a material produced using chemical foams derived from petrochemicals.
WHAT IS A MEMORY FOAM MATTRESS?
A. Viscoelastic foam
Viscoelastic foam, also known as memory foam, is derived from petrochemicals and chemically treated. This foam is designed to allow the mattressto conform to the body’s shape and absorb movement.The minimum density for a memory foam mattress is 60 kg/m², but for comfort reasons, we recommend choosing a minimum density of 80 kg/m² for a person weighing between 70 and 100 kg.
Memory foam mattresses provide proper support and promote good spinal alignment. However, these types of mattresses do not handle temperature changes well: when it’s cold, the material becomes firmer, and when it’s warmer, the mattress absorbs moisture.The lifespan of viscoelastic foam is estimated to be between 7 and 10 years. Depending on the quality of the materials used and the composition, the price varies and can accommodate different budgets.
B. Polyurethane foam
Memory foam mattresses also contain other types of foam (the memory foam layer is often quite thin and located on the surface of the mattress). It is primarily combined with polyurethane foam. Polyurethane foam is a petrochemical-based material that undergoes chemical processing. Some mattresses are made entirely of this material. It is characterized as a relatively lightweight foam due to its density, which ranges from 28 to 35 kg/m³. In terms of comfort, it provides a medium level of support that can vary depending on the density.The lifespan of polyurethane foam mattresses is similar to that of viscoelastic foams and is relatively short, estimated at between 7 and 10 years. Often of low quality, they are generally considered entry-level mattresses suitable for those on a tight budget.
HOW TO CHOOSE A MATTRESS?
After reading this first section, you now know more about the composition of latex mattresses and memory foam mattresses. However, to choose the right mattress, you also need to understand theirproperties. By considering your needs and the properties ofthese mattresses , you’ll find it easier to make your choice.To summarize the characteristics of the different mattresses, here is a summary table to help you see things more clearly.
A. How do you choose the ideal firmness level?
Depending on the type of mattress you choose, you won't experience the same level of comfort or firmness. Our support needs vary depending on our weight. Here is a chart to help you determine which level of firmness is right for you.
The comfort of a memory foam mattress depends on its density. The higher the mattress density—measured in kg/m³—the firmer it will be. For proper support, we recommend choosing a memory foam mattress with a density of at least 60 kg/m³. When it comes to memory foam mattresses, you’ll find different comfort levels depending on the types of foam used. For natural latex mattresses, density also affects the level of comfort. For example, if you prefer a soft feel, we recommend choosing a mattress with a density of about 65 kg/m³. For a slightly firmer feel, opt for a density of 80 kg/m³ or higher.You can also choose reversible mattresses with two firmness levels to best suit your preferences. For example, the Kipli 100% natural latex mattress has two sides with different densities (65 and 85 kg/m³). If you’d like to learn more about mattress density, we recommend reading the article “Latex Mattress Density: Why Does It Matter?.”
B. How important is comfort?
- Separate Sleeping Zones: We all dream of getting a good night’s sleep and waking up feeling refreshed! So what could be more unpleasant than being woken up in the middle of the night by your partner’s movements? To avoid this kind of problem (and surely arguments), we recommend choosing a mattress with good sleep independence.Memory foam is designed to conform to the body’s shape and absorb movement. Memory foam mattresses thus offer good sleep independence. Polyurethane foam, on the other hand, has less sleep independence.Natural latex is known for its elasticity. This material also provides good sleep independence, ensuring you won’t be disturbed by your partner’s movements.
- Breathability: Memory foam mattresses are made of viscoelastic foam, which is sometimes blended with polyurethane foams. However, these foams are derived from petrochemicals and are not known for being highly breathable. In fact, they trap heat and can cause discomfort at night. This type of mattress is not recommended if you sweat easily at night.Natural latex has the advantage of being a naturally breathable material. Its cellular structure and natural properties prevent heat buildup. With a natural latex mattress, your concerns about night sweats will be minimal.
C. How are the different types of mattresses treated?
To keep pests—such as bacteria or dust mites—at bay, memory foam mattresses are often treated because these foams lack natural properties. These treatments are generally chemical in nature and can be harmful to health, as they release VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds), which are partly responsible for indoor air pollution.Flame-retardant treatments are alsooften discouraged, as their composition is frequently the subject of controversy. As for natural latex mattresses, the breathability of this material creates an environment that is not conducive to the growth of these pests. Natural latex is therefore a material that is naturally anti-mite and antibacterial without the need for chemical treatments.
D. What is the lifespan of memory foam and natural latex mattresses?
When you’re looking to buy a mattress, you quickly realize that prices vary widely. However, a mattress is an investment, and choosing a discounted mattress doesn’t necessarily mean it will be cost-effective in the long run. In fact, these low-quality mattresses wear out quickly and force you to replace your bedding sooner. That’s certainly not the best solution… As mentioned earlier, memory foam mattresses have an estimated lifespan of 7 to 10 years. However, natural latex mattresses are more durable thanks to the quality of the material. For example, the Kipli natural latex mattress is LGA-testedcertification, which guarantees that the products have been tested and meet rigorous standards. A 100% natural latex mattress therefore has a longer lifespan, which can be up to 15 years.
Another factor that affects a mattress’s lifespan is its breathability. In fact, the less breathable a mattress is, the more moisture it will trap, making it easier for mold to grow. Finally, if you choose a low-end mattress made with poor-quality materials, it will sag quickly, thereby shortening its lifespan. If you’d like to learn more about a mattress’s lifespan, here’s an article that can help: How Long Does a Mattress Last?
E. The Environmental Impact
Today, we can no longer ignore what is happening in the world and the environmental impact of our consumption habits. This is a recurring topic, and buying a mattress must also take this ecological factor into account. Viscoelastic and polyurethane foams are derived from the petrochemical industry, which is highly polluting. These synthetic, chemically treated mattresses emit VOCs (volatile organic compounds), which contribute to indoor air pollution. Furthermore, at the end of their life cycle, these mattresses are rarely recycled, which once again has a significant environmental impact. To make an environmentally friendly purchase, we recommend choosing natural mattresses . Their composition and manufacturing processes ensure respect for nature. If you opt for a natural latex mattress, keep in mind that it is completely biodegradable at the end of its life.
Conclusion
We hope this article has helped you learn more about memory foam mattresses and latex mattresses. You now have everything you need to choose the right mattress for you.
Please feel free to contact us if you have any questions by phone at +33 (0)1 76 42 11 or by email at help@kipli.com.
Of course,
The Kipli Team.