When you’re searching for a new mattress, you only want the best quality plush bed made of natural materials with zero emissions. A good mattress should come with comfort layers to give you a good night’s sleep, yet be firm enough (everyone needs different firmness levels, from medium-firm to extra firm) to support your body. It should also fit side sleepers, back sleepers, stomach sleepers, and every sleeper in between. But more than this, it should be organic, free of harmful chemicals, and eco-friendly. 

There is a type of mattress that meets all the above criteria: an organic latex mattress. When you see the words “latex mattress” you might be skeptical. After all, we’ve been led to believe by the media that latex is a toxic chemical, and far from eco-friendly. But that couldn’t be further from the truth. 

What Is Latex, And Why Do You Need A Natural Latex Mattress? 

Latex, believe it or not, is a natural material found in nature. It is harvested from mature rubber trees and processed into a rubbery material. This material can then be used in products like latex mattresses to create elasticity. The latex foam present in natural latex mattress contains a springy, breathable quality that doesn’t quickly break down, meaning it will bend to the natural contours of your body but spring right back into its original place when you move. This also helps ease pressure points and provides pressure relief in the human body. They’re comparable to memory foam mattresses, but latex mattresses are more durable.

Latex mattresses are also hypoallergenic and repel dust mites, and are free from harmful materials like VOCs (volatile organic compounds) and flame retardants. They also provide high breathability and airflow because of their aerated latex layers and other materials like organic wool and organic cotton in the top layer. This can help lower your body temperature and keep you cool while you sleep. Finally, their durability level is also high due to their natural makeup.

Organic Latex VS Synthetic

There are two main types of latex: organic and synthetic. Synthetic latex is made from a manufacturing process that melds together different chemicals. It can have some natural latex in it along with a boatload of fillers, or but it is never all latex. It can also contain harmful chemicals like polyurethane. When synthetic latex foam is used in a latex bed, you might be ingesting or absorbing toxic chemicals while you’re trying to get a healthy night’s sleep. That’s why it’s important to choose an organic latex mattress that is certified organic as opposed to a hybrid mattress. 

Dunlop Latex Mattresses

There are also Dunlop latex mattresses and natural Talalay latex mattresses. The difference between the two is not in whether they are organic or synthetic, but in how they are processed. They are two different manufacturing processes. The result is that the Dunlop latex bed is springier and denser, and generally more comfortable.

How To Tell If A Latex Mattress Is Certified Organic 

The best latex mattresses are ones that are certified organic in the USA. One such certification is GOLS or Global Organic Latex Standard. In order for a mattress to be GOLS certified organic, it must contain 95% organic latex. The remaining 5% must meet stringent standards. 

If a latex bed is not GOLS certified organic, then you can’t be certain that it is nearly 100% organic latex. Other certifications, such as Oeko-Tex Standard 100, do not look for latex mattresses made out of mostly organic materials. They do check for the presence of toxic chemicals, such as VOCs, pesticides, and flame retardants. So if you find a latex bed certified Oeko-Tex Standard 100, you can be assured that it is free of harmful chemicals and safe for use.

Switch To An Organic Latex Mattress

Organic latex mattresses are memory foam mattresses that contain comfort layers and are supportive for side sleepers, stomach sleepers, back sleepers, and every sleeper in between. They come in all firmness levels, including medium firm and extra firm. They are hypoallergenic, breathable, and reduce back pain. If they are GOLS certified organic, then you can get a good night’s sleep with the knowledge that you are not ingesting or absorbing any toxic chemicals. An organic Dunlop bed is a natural, safe and luxurious alternative to spring mattresses, with high quality, high sustainability, and high durability. It may also contain other materials like organic wool and organic cotton in the topper, which aid with body temperature regulation.

But don’t take our word for it: you can order a sleep trial and try out a latex mattress yourself. Companies like Birch Living offer a free return policy if you’re not satisfied after the end of the sleep trial. They also offer a year warranty in case you decide after you buy it that it’s not for you. Find the company that offers the best price point for your budget and a star rating, and try a latex bed today.