Date: 09/11/2019

The market is flooded with different types of information on mattresses and what are the innovations that are entering the sector to help consumers get better sleep. Amongst this plethora of information, which one is more likely to suit your preferences and body type. In order to make sales, terms like latex and memory foam are often thrown around but without any proper information.

These two types of mattresses are the most commonly used mattresses. One is latex and the other one is memory foam, each with its own unique set of advantages and disadvantages.

The main difference between the latex and memory foam mattresses is the latter’s ability to conform to your body shape slowly but steadily. This creates a sung space for your body and also support at every point.

We will discuss the benefits of each mattress and how each can be advantageous to your lifestyle or not.

What is a Latex Mattress?

In stark contrast to the memory foam mattress, the latex mattress is the one to recover fast upon applying pressure. If you press your palm against the mattresses’ surface, it will immediately bounce back o its original shape.

Latex mattress is divided into two different types, i.e. the natural latex and synthetic latex.

Natural Latex is the one that comes from the sap of rubber trees and is the purest version. It is very economical and the perfect option for those who would like to go au naturel.

The other option is of synthetic latex. As the name suggests, it is chemically made to mimic natural latex but has its own distinct and visible properties. Firstly, it is synthetically made and secondly, it does not have enough bounce as the natural version of pure latex. This feels more like memory foam.

Latex is further divided into two categories:

• Talalay Latex
• Dunlop Latex

Talalay Latex mattress is typically light in weight. This makes it most preferred by those who are always moving as its transportation is comparatively easier. Not to mention, it allows air circulation which ensures that the mattress remains aerated and cool. This one is for those who are more comfortable with a cooler sleep at night.

Dunlop Mattress, on the other hand, tends to be preferred in comparison to Talalay because of its longer shelf life and ability to maintain shape. Since the density of this mattress is more, it more long-lasting.

What is a Memory Foam Mattress?

The memory foam mattress was first used by NASA in the 1960s to protect their pilots in case of any crashes. In simple words, it is a polyurethane which is a cocktail of different chemicals that led to the formation of material which is energy-absorbing, soft and immensely dense. This is what makes it take the shape of the body.

You will notice that if you apply pressure memory foam mattress, the impression stays for a long time and then eventually lifts slowly on its own accord. The material won’t bounce back immediately and this is what leads to it conforming to the body’s shape.

This type of mattress is perfect for those suffering from back and joint pains as the material caves in to cradle the body.

Difference Between Memory Foam and Latex Mattress

The major differences between memory foam and latex mattress are:

Motion Transfer: Each mattress has its own degree of isolating motion, i.e., if you and your partner, are sleeping on a mattress and he/she moves a bit during the night, that movement might or might not be transferred to your side. Memory foam does not allow this motion transfer while the latex mattress does have some degree of motion transfer. This is why memory foam mattresses are preferred by couples.

Conformity: As discussed above, the memory foam is more inclined towards conformity as it takes the shape of the body that is being pressed against it. On the other hand, a latex mattress is not an ideal example for conformity as it regains its shape immediately after the removal of pressure.

Mattress Most Suitable For You

Since the memory foam mattress and latex mattress are unique in their own ways, different audience prefers them for several different reasons.

Let us first discuss the memory foam

By shaping up against the contours of your body, it allows support to the most critical of regions, the neck, and the spine. It also allows an optimal level of alignment to keep the sleep free of disruption.

Peaceful Sleep: Since the mattress does not allow motion transfer, it is the perfect choice for couples. Therefore, if you and your partner are affected by each other’s movement on the bed, this is the go-to mattress for uninterrupted and restful sleep.

Provides Support: Since the memory foam mattress has a huge scope for conformity, it is the first choice for those looking for support and comfort during the entire duration of their sleep. Even so, sleeping with a partner will shape the mattress separately, as per your body shape respectively.

Provides Pressure Point Relief: For many who are unable to get out of bed or are sick, this type of mattress is a perfect choice as it allows air circulation which negates the impact on the skin being constantly brushed against the skin due to continuous contact. These painful sores can be alleviated by the conformity of the memory foam mattress.

Perfect for Side Sleepers: Side sleepers are usually impacting their hip joints as the entire body weight rests on them throughout the night. Akin to its ability to provide support to the spine, it is helpful in supporting the hip joint as well, making it the go-to choice for side sleepers.

Hypoallergenic; This type of mattress is known for its hypoallergenic properties and is a suitable option for those suffering from allergies. The material of the mattress also deters dust mites from encroaching the surface.