Are you looking high and low for a mattress that is made from natural materials? The quest is over and gets down it already and buy yourself a latex mattress. Not only that latex is a natural material, but it’s also quite springy and comfortable too.
A quick look on the market is going to get you confused a bit as you can find both “natural” and “organic” latex mattresses. Without any further ado, let’s take a closer look at the whole matter.
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What is latex?
In order to truly understand the difference between natural and organic latex, one needs to make a clear idea about latex in the first place.
Let’s start by highlighting that latex is a natural product. It’s harvested from the sap of the rubber tree, looking pretty similar to a milky white liquid. It goes through various processes until it obtains the firmness and the shape intended. Most of the time, it’s going to be poured into a vessel and hardened into the desired shape. In order to obtain various levels of firmness, the latex goes through various methods of processing. This is the “natural latex” that we’re talking about.
What’s the difference between “organic” and “natural” latex?
If you’re looking for an all-natural latex mattress, it’s best that you seek one that is labeled “100% natural latex”. You may very well choose an organic latex mattress as it’s also natural.
Organic latex is, in fact, natural latex that has been grown in the most natural way, with no use of pesticides whatsoever. In a nutshell, any organic latex is also natural. However, not all-natural latex is organic.
The GOLS (Global Organic Latex Standard) is the label to look for in order to make sure that you’re getting an organic latex mattress. It’s not impossible to run into organic latex mattresses that aren’t certified as such. The only way to truly know is to have this specific certification.
Is organic latex better than the natural one?
When it comes to latex, we cannot talk about the difference in terms of “better” or “worse”. The performance of a 100% natural latex isn’t that different from the one of an organic latex mattress. It’s rather the personal preference and the features that make the difference.
If you fall into the category of eco-conscious customers, the organic latex mattress is the ideal option for you. The materials are organically grown and buying an organic latex mattress means that you’re also encouraging the rubber tree plantations with no use of chemicals. You’re practically sustaining the environmentally-responsible plantation methods. If this matches your values and principles, you should always go with an organic latex mattress.
Pure Green Natural Latex Mattress
If you’re not that eco-conscious, but you’re still avoiding any traces or herbicides or pesticides in your mattress, the organic latex mattress is the most obvious choice. Many new parents are looking for this type of mattress for their newborns.
For many, a 100% natural latex mattress is going to do it. If you’re sitting on the fence, keep in mind that you need to pay the extra buck for the organic latex mattress. The difference in terms of performance isn’t that obvious and the 100% natural latex mattress is typically cheaper than the organic type. Either way, you’re going to obtain a great mattress at the end of the day.
What is synthetic latex?
The name pretty much says it all and synthetic latex is an artificial form of latex. The polymerizing of monomer that is going to connect molecules for creating a polymer is the main process of obtaining synthetic latex. The polymer is going to be processed furthermore for turning into the latex that looks and works like natural latex. The latex from the rubber tree is known as natural latex (organic or not).
Most mattresses in stores are going to be made with 100% natural latex or a combination of the two. You’re not going to be able to find a mattress that is entirely synthetic.
Even though one may think that a combination of synthetic and natural latex isn’t ideal, it’s important to know that manufacturers are capable to control the mixture in order to obtain various levels of comfort and firmness, covering a wide range of needs.
What’s the story with the greenwashing?
Greenwashing happens when a product (mattresses included) is labeled so that it misleads the customer about its environmental value.
Some manufacturers are actually creating their very own eco-friendly looking label for their mattresses, without them matching any other independent “green” standard. It’s highly unethical so you should do due diligence about it when buying.
The use of nonsense terminology is another perfect example of greenwashing. Some may claim that a mattress cover is “eco-cotton” which is a complete mislead. We can only have ordinary or organic cotton and there is no such thing as eco-cotton.
It’s better that you stay on the safe side and start reading between the lines. Ask questions, look for the certifications of the mattress you’re planning to buy. If it’s legit, you’re going to get everything that you need.
One last thought before you make the final call
Truth be told, the latex mattress is going to provide an amazing sleeping experience. The performance, the long lifespan, the comfort that you’re going to obtain from a latex mattress are going to be the same no matter if you’re buying a natural or an organic latex mattress.
Always go with an organic latex mattress if you’re an eco-conscious customer or if you don’t want any traces of pesticides in your mattress. Make sure to get a latex topper of equal quality, if you use one.
If a natural mattress is going to work just fine with you, without being organic, a 100% natural latex mattress is a solid choice that doesn’t break the bank. It’s all about what counts for you the most and how much you’re willing to pay for a latex mattress.
No matter which way you decide to go, one thing is sure: you’re always going to enjoy the amazing and luxurious comfort that organic/natural latex mattress is capable to provide!
