Latex is an amazing substance that is processed into rubber that is tear resistant, resilient and flexible in cold temperatures. Although natural latex is considered better over synthetic, the mechanical properties are very close in nature. Over 20 million tons of rubber is consumed worldwide each year and this number keeps growing. It has only been in the past 30 years that a perfected system of making mattress cores from latex has proven to be superior to other models. Only time will tell how much further this product will go.
Natural Latex
Natural latex comes from the Hevea Brasiliensis, otherwise known as the rubber tree. Countries that export commercial natural rubber are Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia and Sri Lanka. Brazil is credited for having natural rubber trees and providing seeds to other parts of the world to create rubber tree plantations. Latex is not like sap that is found inside the core of a tree truck but is located just under the bark within the latex ducts. It takes much skill to make the proper cut without harming the tree. A cup is then placed directly beneath the vein and the latex is collected.
photo credit: place light – flying not physicallySynthetic Latex
The US found it necessary to create a synthetic rubber when war began to cause shortages of natural latex. In 1924, chemist Joseph Patrick stumbled upon a mixture of ethylene dichloride and polysulfate. After this, everyone was searching for a better and cheaper formula. Dupont, Goodyear and ExxonMobil were a few of the companies that honed synthetic latex into the product used today. Through research and development, many types of synthetic rubbers were discovered and manufacturing began. Since the early 1940s, synthetic latex has become a way of life and new uses abound each day.
Hypoallergenic
By using natural or synthetic latex in mattresses, several benefits are realized. Because bacteria, mold and mildew are not able to live in latex, it creates a hypoallergenic quality. Although not totally resistant to dust mites, tests prove that latex is up to 3 times more able to deter these tiny insects. Because latex is breathable, it gives a cooler comfort in summer and warmer during winter. There are no chemicals in latex foam that can be harmful to the body’s membranes and the environment. The most valuable benefit, however, is the support that it gives by conforming to your body and the ability to relieve pressure from sore muscles and joints.
Talaly Process
Layers of latex make up the core of each latex mattress and a natural organic cover of wool, cotton or other breathable type of fabric protects the core. There are two separate processes that determine soft from firm. The Talaly process creates a lighter, softer type of latex while the Dunlop is heavier and has a dense cell structure. The perfect choice is both. By using the Dunlop method as the main core and the natural Talalay as a top layer, you receive less sagging for longer life and a soft layer that is better for relieving pressure.
Blended Latex Mattresses
Because you cannot see what is inside of a mattress, it is difficult to know exactly how much and what type of latex you are getting in your new mattress. A salesperson can tell you that a mattress is produced with 100% latex and not be lying but very misleading. Most quality latex mattresses are a combination of natural and synthetic latex or that is called blended latex. If you shop around for latex mattresses, try out a pure 100% natural latex mattress and compare to a 100% blended latex mattress. Most people can tell the difference in the elasticity and higher conforming that the natural latex provides. You may like the feel of the blended latex mattress just as well. It is a personal choice that only you can make.
Make Sure To Get Your Money’s Worth
Beware of the price that natural and synthetic latex mattresses carry. They are considered the best by many and for good reason but also more expensive to manufacture. The warranty is usually much better than other models with anywhere from 10 to 20 years of protection. Always ask about the construction, how much latex and what type is included in a latex mattress. If you are not provided with a pamphlet on the manufacturer and the construction, do your own research on the Internet. You are paying for quality so make sure you receive it.
