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Shopping for a Quality Latex Mattress

Mon, 17 Nov 2008 12:16:00 -0600

Many informed consumers have begun seeking mattresses free from chemical off-gassing and possible toxic fire-retardants, now in use as a result of the new open-flame federal fire codes, which went into effect in July, 2007. Not only have mattress manufacturers continued to use a variety of fire-retardant chemicals, many of which are banned in Europe due to toxic side-effects, but the concentrations of topically applied chemicals to fire-proof mattresses have increased substantially. For example, it is not uncommon to find as much as one and half pounds of chemicals saturating the mattress ticking in a conventional queen sized mattress.

Many consumers, after careful research on the internet, reach the conclusion that the healthiest mattress solution is the purchase of a latex mattress. However, for many, the cost of a latex mattress can be a budget buster, particularly when considering all natural latex mattresses. A natural latex mattress is generally created by using at least 2 layers of all natural latex, covered in organic cotton with organic wool batting, which is a natural fire-retardant. Mattresses constructed with these components will typically cost as much as 2 to 3 thousand dollars for a queen sized mattress.

However, the benefits of latex are certainly available in more affordable all latex mattresses, which can be priced below a thousand dollars for a queen sized mattress. Substituting blended latex, with high natural content, and a cover that avoids the use of topically applied chemical fire-retardants, can create a significant cost advantage in all latex mattresses. In addition to lowering cost, mattress manufacturers using blended latex often feel that it adds a plus by combining the elasticity of natural latex with the consistent quality and durability of synthetic latex.

Off-gassing, which is generally the result of accelerators and curing agents used in the creation of polyurethane foam, is not a problem with either all natural or blended latex. For example, blended latex, made in the USA by Latex International, has been certified to contain no harmful substances and has passed Europe's stringent Okeo-Tex standards. In addition, latex is hypo-allergenic, anti-microbial and resistant to mild, mildew and dust mites.

When considering latex used for a mattress, become familiar with the manufacturer to avoid latex of inferior quality, which is generally the result of fillers added to the latex. "Fillers," tiny particles of clay or other materials that are mixed into the foam, make the resulting latex less costly, but also stiffer and less durable. The term "pure latex" typically refers to latex that does not include fillers, and can be applied to either synthetic or natural latex. Most higher-quality latex mattresses use pure latex.

The same consideration for materials used in the choice of latex for your mattress should also be applied when considering mattress covers. Mattress covers that are fire-retardant as a result of fire-resistant fibers are far superior to covers with topically applied fire-retardants, which often use toxic chemicals. An added advantage, when considering a latex mattress, is that it is not necessary to add any fire-retardant to the latex itself, while many conventional mattresses have topical fire-retardant applied directly to the mattress ticking.

The use of more affordable materials allows quality mattress manufacturers to offer latex mattresses, with all the benefits of pure latex, at a more affordable price than "natural" latex mattresses. While all natural latex, with an organic wool cover, assures the consumer of the most "natural" mattress possible, quality latex, with a non-toxic mattress cover, continues to offers the tremendous benefits of latex to the consumer, at a more affordable price point.

A quality latex mattress, constructed without the added expense of a natural wool cover and all natural latex, is a very wise mattress choice. Latex mattresses with more affordable components offer the durability, unsurpassed sleeping comfort and hypo-allergenic qualities only available with all latex mattresses, and are a superior choice to the traditional inner-spring mattress. In the effort to find a safe sleeping surface for you and your family, remember that quality latex mattresses stand alone as incorporating the best in non-toxic mattress construction, regardless of the use of all natural components.

Safe Sleep on a Natural Latex Crib Mattress

Mon, 03 Nov 2008 11:20:00 -0600

With the steady rise in children's health problems such as autism, asthma, allergies, and other respiratory problems, it certainly best to limit exposure to any possible sources of contact with toxic chemicals or their off-gassing. There is no better place to start than your infants crib mattresses which, unfortunately, are often passed down in our families. Infants are developing so rapidly and spend so much time on their crib mattresses, that it is imperative that we keep their crib as safe as possible. The safest of all materials for crib mattresses is all natural latex.

Research into toxic crib mattresses will turn up several very significant concerns. Many current fire-retardants, saturating mattresses to pass the open-flame standards, contain boric acid and antimony. Antimony is a heavy metal which even the CPSC acknowledges will be absorbed over time and will bioaccumulate in our body. Antimony has been banned in Europe due to concerns that it contributes to SIDS. Many crib mattresses are made from polyurethane foam, which tends to off-gas formaldehyde as it breaks down. The dangers of this chemical are well documented, and they have significant negative impact on developing respiratory systems.

Older crib mattresses often contain PBDEs, an inexpensive fire-proofing chemical banned in Europe because of high concentrations in the milk of nursing mothers. All of these chemicals are know to leach through the vinyl covering of the standard crib mattress. Because of the warm moist environment on a crib mattress, it is a natural breeding ground for mold, mildew and fungus. When mold and fungus break down polyurethane foam it can form highly toxic off-gases, which may also be a significant source of SIDS.

Consider an all natural latex crib mattress and its benefits. Latex is the most comfortable of all mattress surfaces, gently conforming to your babies sleeping position. Latex resists mold, mildew and fungus and is naturally hypo-allergenic, anti-microbial and resists dust mites. Latex absorbs very little moisture and when protected with a natural wool moisture barrier helps keep the crib dry, clean and free from bacteria. When the health of your newborn or children is concerned, a latex mattress will assure you that they are in nature's safest sleeping environment.

It would not be difficult, utilizing current research into the many methods of fire-proofing mattresses, to set off a general cry of alarm about the long-term consequences of exposure to the various chemical which saturate mattresses. However, a far simpler approach is provided by a natural latex mattress, covered with wool. Wool is a natural fire-retardant and is particularly effective in transporting moisture. Mother Nature really does know best! Your children are a precious gift, as is much of what is provided in the nature. By using natural materials, a latex mattress not only provides unsurpassed comfort, but also creates peace of mind, knowing that your children are not spending hours at a time in direct contact with "chemical beds".

With so much at stake, isn't it much better to error on the side of caution when your newborn or children are concerned. In no other situation will your children be in such close proximity or direct contact with any surface. Infants are developing their respiratory system so rapidly that you want their little lungs to be breathing only the purest possible air. There is not a question if certain mattresses off-gas, even the CPSC has documented how much of specific chemicals we absorb. As adults, we've developed completely and built up our immune systems, but this is not the case for children as they develop. Chemical exposure to your developing child can be very dangerous. Keep your children safe on a natural latex crib mattress.

Sustainable Natural Latex Mattresses

Tue, 16 Sep 2008 12:11:00 -0500

Natural latex mattresses not only provide an unsurpassed sleep surface, they replace conventional inner-spring mattresses, which generally end up in the landfill, with a sustainable resource. Natural latex mattresses use rubber harvested from the milky sap of the rubber tree (hevea brasilienises), with a small percentage of natural fillers. Latex was originally harvested from rubber trees that grew in the wild in Brazil and had been used by indigenous people for centuries. The rubber trees were widely dispersed, with a natural tendency to grow far from each other, making harvesting extremely inefficient. As demand for rubber grew, seeds were eventually transplanted in what is present day Malaysia with great success.

In an era when we are surrounded by synthetic materials which greatly tax our environment and resources, natural latex represents the best that Mother Nature has to offer. Anyone who has slept on a latex mattress can attest to the incomparable comfort from the natural ability of latex to distribute body weight and relieve pressure points. In addition latex is a very durable material, creating mattresses that regularly last for 20 or more years, without any significant changes in the support or feel of the mattress. Rubber trees are now grown on plantations in Indonesia, Sri Lanka, South Asia, Africa and South America, providing jobs for numerous indigenous workers. Latex is very efficiently harvested and trees that have reached the end of their productive cycle are replaced and the lumber is used for furniture and in construction.

It is not only refreshing to sleep on a natural latex mattress, but also to know that it's a bio-degradable resource that is easily replenished. Conventional inner-spring mattresses carry with them a variety of hazards. The new federal open-flame fire standards for mattresses have added more than a pound and a half of possible toxic chemicals in the ticking of the average queen mattress. These chemicals can create toxic off-gases that are released into our home environment and then the chemicals are dumped along with the mattresses into land fills, with components that will not bio-degrade. Simply put, once a conventional mattress has outlived its usefulness, generally 2- 7 years, they become a nuisance to our environment.

As with many products, consumers are rethinking traditional purchases and looking for green alternatives that are toxin-free and environmentally friendly. Articles that stress the need for safer materials and chemical for use in the home abound and many of these express concerns about "toxic mattresses." A little research will find extensive discussions about the dangers of toxic fire-retardant chemicals in mattresses. When newborns and infants are involved, the purchase of a green mattress is one of the most important decisions a parent can make, as certain fire-retardants are banned in Europe and have been linked to SIDS.

Much of the latex used in mattresses is a blend of synthetic and natural latex to lower the cost and, perhaps, to add some durability. However, it is the natural properties of latex which set it apart. Only natural latex is anti-microbial, hyper-allergenic and a sustainable resource. In addition, it is the natural latex that creates the feel that has made latex mattresses so popular. Synthetic latex would feel just like polyurethane foam without the addition of natural latex.

Do your body a favor and investigate the feel of an all natural latex mattress. Much of what Mother Nature has supplied cannot be duplicated by artificial means, and natural latex is no exception. A natural latex mattress will last for 20 or more years, has an unsurpassed feel, the wonderful qualities of remaining free from dust mites, mold and allergens and is created from a resource that is green and sustainable. Going green has never felt better!

Stay Free of Dust Mites With a Latex Mattress

Tue, 09 Sep 2008 12:54:00 -0500

Research shows that the household dust mite, in particular its feces, is the most common cause of bronchial asthma and other chronic sinus or respiratory conditions. The periodic replacement of a mattress is one of the primary methods to control allergy causing dust mites, according to Duncan Bain, a leading researcher. Bain has been involved in the development of British, European and international standards for the evaluation of mattresses and cushions and states that "the number of people effected is rising throughout Europe (and indeed world wide), now impairing the health and quality of life of a substantial proportions of children, as well as many adults."

Mattresses, particularly inner-spring mattresses, provide the ideal environment for dust mites as a result of the moisture our bodies give off and the dead skin that we slough off, while we are sleeping. In general, the older the mattress the larger is the dust mite concentration, which will continue to grows for years, until the mattress reaches maximum colonization. Even when the maximum density of dust mites is reached, the dead bodies and feces continue to build up over a longer period, and it's primarily the dust mite's feces that contribute to allergic reactions.

While it's unlikely that dust mites can be completely eliminated from your household, there are control measures that can be effective. Moisture is a primary environment for dust mites, and can be controlled with a dehumidifier and ventilation system. However, our bodies give off moisture while we sleep and, as a result, the highest concentrations of dust mites eventually end up in our mattresses. Dust mite barriers that are constructed of fabric, rather than plastic, can be an effective method of control, particularly when combined with mattress replacement at reasonable intervals.

A natural latex mattress is the most effective solution for allergic reactions to dust mites and their feces. Latex naturally resists dust mites and is hypo-allergenic, anti-microbial and resistant to mold, mildew and fungus. When a latex mattress is combined with a natural wool cover, also naturally resistant to dust mites, the environment for dust mite colonization is almost null. A natural wool cover, or an organic wool mattress pad, that can be removed and aired out for six hours or more on a sunny day will completely eliminate the possibility of dust mite colonization. Of course, the fact that natural latex is the most comfortable and durable of all sleeping surfaces, gives you a feeling for the finest choice available in a quality mattress.

Consider a Natural Foam Mattress

Tue, 02 Sep 2008 15:46:00 -0500

As petroleum based product, synthetic foam directly reflects the rise in oil prices, having increased in cost rapidly over the last year. Polyurethane foam and memory foam have been popular components of high end mattresses, including Tempur-Pedic, for many years now. The current rise in prices of synthetic foam has made it possible for consumers to consider the alternative of natural and sustainable latex foam. A quality latex mattress will currently have a similar price to high-end inner-spring mattresses and should be less than a Tempur-Pedic or similar memory foam mattress.

This can be a very advantageous shift in perspective, as a quality latex mattress will out last 2 or 3 quality inner-spring mattresses and is more durable than the best memory foam. Latex exhibits additional qualities that many prefer when compared to memory foam. Natural latex is a sustainable resource, harvested from the rubber tree, and many consider it to have the finest feel of any sleeping surface. In addition latex creates a mattress that is hypo-allergenic, anti-microbial and resistant to mold mildew and dust mites. Latex is available in a variety of firmness levels, allowing mattress manufacturers to fine tune the firmness for individual sleeping preferences.

Foam mattresses, particularly those using natural or blended latex, have recently created a significant buzz in the mattress industry, with major manufacturers beginning to offer models featuring some latex components. However, latex avails itself to a very simple mattress solution, and experienced latex mattress manufacturers offer models that use only layers of latex and simple covers, often organic cotton and wool. The sleeping comfort of latex does not need to be modified or incorporated into a more complex mattress configuration. Just a couple of layers of latex, usually about 8", are all that is necessary to provide nature's finest sleeping surface, with a simple cover, so that the feel of latex is experienced directly.

The natural qualities of latex are perfect for what many have begun to call an "organic mattress". In this sense "organic" expresses the desire that many consumers have for mattresses using only natural materials to avoid any possible chemical contamination in their sleeping products. These concerns are particularly prevalent as a result of the widespread use of toxic chemical fire-retardants in mattresses and bedding products. While the concept of an "organic mattress" is a misnomer, certainly a natural mattress, using only natural latex, organic cotton and wool, has many benefits to offer the savvy consumer. It's no surprise that there has been an incredible increase in the sales of natural latex mattresses.

When considering the purchase of a foam mattress, either polyurethane or latex, one quality offered by both materials is enhanced comfort and durability. A conventional inner-spring mattress begins to break down and sag, and should be replaced every 5-7 years. However, quality foam mattresses maintain their shape and breakdown much more slowly than inner-spring mattresses, and also distribute weight much more evenly and comfortably, relieving pressure points. A latex mattress presents the optimum in value, durability and comfort. It's time to begin sleeping on nature's finest sleeping surface, an all natural latex mattress.

Create Revitalizing Sleep with a Latex Mattress

Mon, 25 Aug 2008 13:52:00 -0500

No single component of our lives is more important than creating a safe refuge for healthy, revitalizing sleep. We spend a third of our lives in bed and the quality of our sleep is directly related to the comfort of our sleeping products. Today the emphasis is clearly on creating a chemical-free bedroom. It's a simple truth that our indoor air is 3-5 times more polluted than the air outside. The use of harsh chemical cleaners has contributed to indoor pollution, and many are not aware of toxic off-gassing from the wide variety of chemicals used in furniture, bedding and, particularly, mattresses.

A soothing environment in the bedroom creates a relaxing space away from the hustle and bustle of our day to day lives. Bring a little as possible of your busy life into the bedroom and, if you feel the need for a TV in the bedroom, make sure you can hide it from view and don't use it to help fall asleep. Some simple routines for relaxation before bed, while you are stretched out on the bed can be very helpful. Couples can try a variety of massage techniques, which are great for relieving stress and bring a new sense of intimacy into the bedroom. Lighting that can be dimmed and soothing music enhance the feeling of a safe refuge for both singles and partners. Creating the right environment gives you the opportunity to reward yourself, and everyone in your family, for the efforts of a busy day.

Once you have set a soothing mood in your bedroom, the next step is the comfort of your mattress. There are two primary considerations in the comfort and safety of your mattress choices. First, there are very real concerns about toxic fire-retardant chemicals in most conventional mattresses, which can affect your health when they are absorbed by your body......and they will be absorbed. Educate yourself about these changes in the composition of your mattresses to protect yourself and, particularly, your growing children. The concerns are real, and natural, chemical-free mattresses have seen a tremendous increase in popularity as a result. The second consideration is the significant improvements in comfort and durability that are offered by foam mattresses in comparison to conventional inner-spring mattresses.

Foam mattresses are available using two different types of foam, polyurethane and latex. These two types of foam have some similarities and yet are very different in their qualities and benefits. Both mattresses are superior to inner-springs in their ability to comfortably distribute body weight, relieve pressure points and their durability, often out lasting 2 or 3 conventional inner-spring mattresses. However, the similarities end there. Natural latex, a sustainable resource, has become the most popular material for all natural mattresses and is unsurpassed in comfort and durability. A latex mattress, covered in organic cotton and wool, will free you from concerns over toxic off-gassing from your mattress and is the ultimate is creating soothing and restful sleep.

Get the rest and relaxation your and your family deserve, no other area of your life can contribute so much to your health and sense of well-being. When you start a new day rested and full of energy, so much more can be accomplished in your work, play and relationships. Foster your intimate relationship by surrounding yourself in comfort, using the finest material nature has provided, natural latex. A latex mattress can last for 20 years or more, all the time supporting you on the most comfortable possible sleeping surface. Make certain that the many years you will spend sleeping contribute in every possible way to relaxing and revitalizing your life by spending your nights on a natural latex mattress.

Sleep Tight on a Natural Foam Mattress

Tue, 05 Aug 2008 15:59:00 -0500

A petroleum based product, synthetic foam directly reflects the rise in oil prices and has increased rapidly in cost over the last year. Polyurethane foam and memory foam have been popular components of high end mattresses, including Tempur-Pedic, for many years now. The current rise in prices of synthetic foam has made it possible for consumers to consider the alternative of natural and sustainable latex foam. A quality latex mattress will currently have a similar price to high-end inner-spring mattresses and should be less than a Tempur-Pedic or similar memory foam mattress.

Foam mattresses, particularly those using natural or blended latex, have recently created a significant buzz in the mattress industry, with major manufacturers beginning to offer models featuring some latex components. However, latex avails itself to a very simple mattress solution, and experienced latex mattress manufacturers offer models that use only layers of latex and simple covers, often organic cotton and wool. The sleeping comfort of latex does not need to be modified or incorporated into a more complex mattress configuration. Just a couple of layers of latex, usually about 8”, are all that is necessary to provide nature’s finest sleeping surface, with a simple cover, so that the feel of latex is experienced directly.

The natural qualities of latex are perfect for what many have begun to call an “organic mattress”. In this sense “organic” expresses the desire that many consumers have for mattresses using only natural materials to avoid any possible chemical contamination in their sleeping products. These concerns are particularly prevalent as a result of the widespread use of toxic chemical fire-retardants in mattresses and bedding products. While the concept of an “organic mattress” is a misnomer, certainly a natural mattress, using only natural latex, organic cotton and wool, has many benefits to offer the savvy consumer. It’s no surprise that there has been an incredible increase in the sales of natural latex mattresses.

When considering the purchase of a foam mattress, either polyurethane or latex, one quality offered by both materials is enhanced comfort and durability. A conventional inner-spring mattress begins to break down and sag, and should be replaced every 5-7 years. However, quality foam mattresses maintain their shape and breakdown much more slowly than inner-spring mattresses, and also distribute weight much more evenly and comfortably, relieving pressure points. A latex mattress presents the optimum in value, durability and comfort. It’s time to begin sleeping on nature’s finest sleeping surface, an all natural latex mattress.

Latex Toppers – Safe & Affordable Comfort

Tue, 29 Jul 2008 10:19:00 -0500

Many consumers are aware that latex mattresses offer unsurpassed comfort and many additional health benefits in today’s mattress market. Natural latex is a sustainable resource, harvested from the rubber tree and then molded into “buns” which are used to manufacture latex mattresses. Two processes are used to create latex cores and toppers, the Dunlop process and the newer Talalay process, which adds two extra steps to more evenly distribute the latex. Quality latex, particularly all natural Talalay latex, can become somewhat expensive when used to create an 8” and 10” thick latex mattress. Because latex is an incredibly durable material, it compensates for the up front cost of a latex mattress by creating mattresses that often carry warranties of up to 20 years.

A wonderful alternative to get all the benefits of latex on a budget is the latex “topper”. A topper is a 2” or 3” thick layer of latex to place on top of your existing mattress. It is important that the topper isn’t used in an attempt to compensate for a mattress that has lost its support or has begun to sag. The best mattress surface for a topper allows the layer of latex to act as a pillowtop, with the mattress supplying the support and firmness for your body. Latex distributes weight and relieves pressure points as well or better than the best memory foam and provides additional qualities not found in memory foam. Latex is a more durable material and, because the buns are manufactured with a pincushion construction which runs clear through the latex, it is much cooler than memory foam.

Because latex naturally resists mold and mildew and absorbs very little moisture, a layer of latex is wonderful for cribs or infant beds. Latex is also hypo-allergenic, antimicrobial and resists dust mites, simply nature’s finest sleeping surface. The clearest benefit of a latex topper, given the current concerns over toxic fire-retardants in conventional mattresses, is that it provides a layer of safety from toxic off-gassing. However, it’s the feel of latex that sets it apart from all other sleeping surfaces. Latex gently conforms to your bodies nuances as it seems to float you with very little feel for contacting the surface of the mattress.

Because it is so durable, a latex topper can last for many years of use and will out live even the finest high-end conventional inner-spring mattress. It is not unusual for customers to investigate the use an existing topper as a component for use in building a full latex mattress. Remember that latex is a very different material than anything else that is used in mattress construction and can literally be considered as an investment in your long term sleeping comfort. Sears introduced a line of rubber (latex) mattresses called Harvest House in the late 1940s and it is not unusual to find families that have had these mattresses for decades. While the continuous use of a mattress over such a long time period might not be advisable, it certainly points to the durability of latex.

The concept behind a latex topper is very simple, to place 2” or 3” inches of comfortable, safe, non-toxic material between yourself and your existing mattress. A little research on the internet into the current publicity concerning toxic fire-retardant chemicals, used to pass the either the new federal open-flame mattress standards or the previous fire codes, will certainly encourage the use of a topper on your mattress that uses no fire-retardants. Even the Consumer Products Safety Commission (CPSC) has clearly documented the amounts of these toxic fire-retardants that are absorbed nightly by our bodies through off-gassing or direct contact.

The use of a natural latex topper for your newborns and infants will protect their developing nervous systems, lungs and immune systems from any chemical contact and will reduce exposure to toxic off-gassing. A wonderful crib mattress is easily created by use a 3” or 4” latex toppers by itself, covered with a quality wool moisture pad. Remember, with a latex topper your children will experience the unsurpassed comfort and weight distribution that make latex nature’s finest sleep surface.

Keep Your Children Off Chemical Mattresses

Wed, 23 Jul 2008 13:53:00 -0500

Many conventional mattresses have become “chemical mattresses.” The increase of the use of chemical fire-retardants in many conventional inner-spring mattresses is a result of compliance with the new federal open-flame mattresses standards. Mattresses must now be able to resist an open-flame applied directly to the top and side for 70 seconds. Mark Strobel, director the People For Clean Beds organization, says “that treating these mattresses to pass the blowtorch, open-flame test would require that mattresses be treated with known acutely toxic and cancer-causing chemicals—particularly boric acid, also known as roach killer, as well as antimony, which is a heavy metal almost identical to arsenic.”

Antimony has been banned as a fire-retardant in Europe where research has shown that it leaches through the vinyl on crib mattresses, and linked this to Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). Crib and youth mattresses must also be flameproof under the new federal standards. Unfortunately, the chemical fire-retardants widely used prior to the new standards were often PBDEs before they were recently banned. PBDEs have been also banned in Europe were research has shown they bioaccumulate in the body, in women’s breast milk, and have been linked to cancer. PDBEs are used because they are the simplest and cheapest way to conform to United States mattress fire resistance codes and have been used extensively as a fire-retardant in petroleum-based foam mattresses, including youth and crib mattresses.

In order to pass the open-flame test, fire-retardant chemicals must saturate the mattress ticking in high concentrations, with over a pound and a half of chemicals in the ticking of the average queen inner-spring mattress. Research has proven that these chemicals leach out of the mattress and are absorbed by our bodies in measurable quantities that are far over the safe numbers determined by the EPA. TV stations on CBS, NBC, ABC and FOX, newspapers and magazines have done news stories on toxic beds, and more will certainly follow.

Fortunately there are solutions that allow you to avoid exposing yourself or your children to “chemical mattresses.” There has been a tremendous increase in popularity of all natural mattresses utilizing organic cotton and wool batting in a variety of configurations. Wool is naturally fire retardant and meets all US fire code requirements. While wool ticking can be used in a conventional inner-spring mattress to create a natural mattress with no chemical fire-retardants, wool batting is most often used with organic cotton as a cover for natural latex mattresses.

A natural latex mattress, with an organic cotton and wool cover, combines all of the finest materials from which to build a luxurious natural mattress. Natural wool batting is unsurpassed in its ability to transport moisture and regulate body temperature, while remaining anti-microbial and resisting dust mites and odors. When natural wool is placed over all natural latex, you have what many consider to be the finest possible sleep surface, known for its durability and hypo-allergenic qualities. A latex mattress distributes body weight and relieves pressure points as well or better than memory foam, without any concerns about toxic off-gassing from polyurethane foam.

Latex, a sustainable resource that is harvested from the rubber tree, has been widely used for mattresses in Europe for many years. Europe has a much more cautious approach to concerns for the long term accumulation and chemical absorption resulting from the use of chemical fire-retardants, and has led the way in banning toxic chemicals. A latex mattress provides the ideal solution to avoiding “chemical mattresses” and the toxic off-gassing that should be a very real concern for us all.

Of special concern should be crib or youth mattresses, which are often made with polyurethane foam. These mattresses are often saturated with PBDEs as a fire-retardant, and will break down over time into a toxic dust and into the air in the form of formaldehyde gas, which is a by-product of the foam breakdown. Foam crib mattresses will also breakdown as a result of mold or fungus created by moisture working its way into the foam. If the crib mattress has conventional ticking, it could be saturated with boric acid and antimony, which resembles arsenic, of which the Consumer Products Safety Commission (CPSC) admits “The cancer effects are cumulative. Every exposure contributes to the overall lifetime risk of developing cancer.”

Infants are developing very rapidly, particularly their lungs and entire respiratory system. With research verifying significant levels of chemical absorption from toxic off-gassing, error on the side of caution for your crib mattress, as your infants will spend up to half their early life on that mattress. A latex mattress, which a natural wool mattress pad, provides the perfect toxin-free and moisture proof surface for your child to develop free from contact with a “chemical mattress.”

Consider the Benefits of Latex and Memory Foam

Mon, 07 Jul 2008 13:14:00 -0500

Consumers looking for a more comfortable sleeping surface have been considering the benefits of both memory foam and latex mattresses for quite sometime now. Both materials are known for their ability to distribute body weight and relieve pressure points. As the baby boomer generation ages, they have begun to look for more comfort than is generally offered by conventional inner-spring mattresses. It is very common to see both latex and memory foam utilized as plush toppers by many of the major mattresses manufacturers, and some have even begun to produce full foam or latex mattresses, without inner-springs.

Tempur-Pedic mattresses have led the way in introducing consumers to mattresses that replace inner-springs in the core of the mattress with foam. This configuration creates a mattress that is much more effective in distributing your body weight smoothly over the surface area of the mattress. Add to that the pressure relieving qualities of a layer of memory foam and you have a mattress that is much easier on our aging joints. However, memory foam is not without some drawbacks that can influence the purchasing decisions of some consumers.

The single biggest concern about memory foam mattresses is that they sleep hot. The fact that your body sinks into the mattress surface makes it harder for air to circulate and the compressed memory foam absorbs body heat. Memory foam also depends on the ambient air temperature to be warm enough for it to respond effectively. In a cold bedroom, memory foam can be very firm and will take longer to respond to body weight and heat. That being said, the popularity of memory foam mattresses is no surprise, as they will gently cradle your body and relieve pressure points, an experience that is hard to achieve in conventional inner-spring mattresses.

A latex mattress has much the same quality as memory foam when it comes to distributing body weight and relieving pressure points. The similarities end here, as latex has some distinct advantages over memory foam. All natural latex is a sustainable resource harvested from the sap of the rubber tree. Natural latex is anti-microbial, resists dust mites, mold and mildew and is the most durable of all sleeping surfaces. Latex is available in a variety of firmness levels, rated by an ILD number, making it easy to fine tune firmness levels for different body weights and sleeping positions. With the current concerns about toxic chemicals used as fire-retardants in mattresses, an all natural latex mattress, covered only with cotton and wool, is the perfect solution for chemical-free safe sleep.

Coil inner-spring mattresses first became popular around the turn of the century and have been refined many times in an effort to provide body support that also conforms to body shape. Pillowtops are widely used to provide an additional conforming layer to add to the comfort of conventional inner-spring mattresses. The motion transfer associated with inner-springs is good indications that it’s much more difficult for these mattresses to individually conform to body weight and sleep position. Foam mattresses, either a latex mattress or memory foam mattress, have very little motion transfer, for the simple reason that they are much more effective in isolating their response to individual weight and sleep position. It goes without saying that an individual response creates much more comfort, whether you’re a couple or sleeping alone.

There is a very distinct difference in the feel of the core of a conventional inner-spring mattress and the feel of a “plush” or “pillowtop” created as a conforming layer for that mattress. More and more manufacturers use foam, either memory foam or latex, in their pillowtop layer due to the high level of comfort provided by these materials. Pillowtops are not necessary with either a latex mattress or a memory foam mattress, which provide the best choices in modern mattress materials, maintaining the same firmness levels for the life of the mattress, unlike inner-spring mattresses, which begin to breakdown and lose their firmness over time.

In a latex mattress the core uses the same material as the conforming layer, making the entire mattress more effective in evenly distributing body weight and gently conforming to body shape and sleep position. Usually a core of about 6 inches is comprised of firmer latex, while a softer layer of about 2 inches is sufficient for a plush feel on the surface. Rather than having two distinctly separate layers, composed of different materials, the two layers of latex both work in harmony to create a unified feel to the latex mattress. A quality latex mattress is unmatched in durability, followed closely by memory foam, and both mattresses can have warranties of up to 20 years.