Choosing the right mattress can sometimes be a challenge. Many customers ask themselves whether a latex or foam mattress is the better choice to achieve a peaceful and restful sleep.
How a latex mattress differs from a foam mattress and which one suits you better, you can read in our comparison.
The foam mattress – production and properties
Probably the best known foam mattress is the mattress made of cold foam. It does not get its name from its temperature, but from its manufacturing process.
Cold foam is produced by a chemical reaction of the two main components isocyanate and polyol, which results in a foam. This foam hardens at low temperatures and for this reason it is called “cold foam”.
After the production process of the foam, it consists of up to 90% closed pores. By subsequently compressing the block foam, an irregular open porosity is obtained, which makes the material very elastic.
By gluing several layers of foam together, between which air chambers are incorporated, the air can circulate sufficiently and humidity can be regulated.
Cold foam mattresses are characterized above all by their point elasticity and dimensional stability, which enable a stable lying position with a medium soft to medium firm lying sensation.
They are also suitable for allergy sufferers as they are breathable and, in the case of a washable cover, easy to care for. A major disadvantage of cold foam mattresses is that there are no uniform standards regarding the hardness of the mattresses.
This lack of standard specifications makes it difficult for customers to choose from the almost unmanageable product range. A sufficient test before purchase, preferably in the form of an extensive test sleep, is therefore essential.
In addition, the mattress can emit unpleasant odors over time due to the chemical manufacturing process. A further risk within the manufacturing process is the renunciation of fire-retardant additives, which creates a fire risk. However, this can be counteracted by using flame-retardant covers.
The latex mattress and its natural properties
The advantages of the latex mattress are numerous. During production, a distinction is made between latex mattresses and natural latex mattresses, depending on the natural latex content.
Probably the biggest advantage of latex mattresses is the point elasticity. As a result, a latex mattress has been tested to have a particularly high degree of good habit of sleeping adaptability to the body and offers an optimal lying sensation.
Back pain is prevented by supporting and thus relaxing the spine. A natural latex mattress, which consists of 100% natural latex foam, has even higher point elasticity.
The latex mattress is also suitable for restless sleepers, as it has very good springing and restoring properties and is noise-free. Due to its naturally breathable and antibacterial characteristics, it is also suitable for allergy sufferers. Last but not least it is known for its robustness and durability.
The only disadvantage is probably a higher price. However, if you look at the longevity in this context, which is up to 10 years and in the case of natural latex mattresses even up to 12 years, this seems to be of secondary importance.
Cold foam vs latex mattress: Summary
In direct comparison, both have a high point elasticity and therefore offer a high level of sleeping comfort. Both also show extraordinarily good properties in the areas of hygiene and breath ability.
However, if you attach great importance to natural properties, the latex mattress is the first choice. Its non-chemical production, its natural, antibacterial properties and its high durability are decisive factors.
Due to the standardization into different degrees of hardness, a purchase according to individual preferences is easily possible and even restless sleepers benefit from a particularly pleasantly springy and quiet sleep on a latex mattress.
