The Difference Between Memory Foam and Latex

Often times, people ask what is the difference between memory foam and latex? This article is designed to explain the major differences so that you can make an informed decision before you make your next foam purchase.
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What are foam mattresses?

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Memory foam and latex are two different types of "foam mattresses," which take shape when pressure is applied on the surface. When pressure is removed, the surface conforms to its original shape.

What is a latex mattress?

A latex mattress is a type of foam mattress with core latex foam. Unlike innerspring mattresses, latex beds provide more support with a particular level of softness or firmness, depending on the model type.

More frequent and larger holes within latex foam's infrastructure generally provide a softer surface. In contrast, less frequent and smaller holders within the foam provide a firmer surface. In addition, wrapping materials around the core of the mattress also has an impact on the varying degrees of softness and firmness among different model types.

Latex foam facts and trends:

1. Most manufacturers provide at least a 20 year warranty on these products

2. Latex has been proven to be durable and long-lasting

3. Latex material is naturally hypoallergenic, meaning that is suitable for people with allergies

4. Latex material is antimicrobial and does not harbor fungi

5. Latex material does not attract dust mites

When researching and/or shopping, keep in mind the following attributes for quality latex mattresses: good company reputation, where it was produced, softness/firmness, natural materials over synthetic or blended, a long warranty, and/or trial period.

What is a memory foam mattress?

Another type of foam mattress is memory foam, which is also known as visco-elastic polyurethane foam. Memory foam mattresses are designed to contour and conform to your body shape with pressure, then return to original shape upon removing pressure. Similarly to latex, there are varying degrees of viscosity and density depending on the model type. However, they are generally divided between "high density" and "low density." Higher-density reacts more to your body temperature upon pressure, whereas low-density reacts more quickly as it is more pressure-sensitive.

Memory foam facts and trends:

1. Originally developed by NASA

2. Quality of the mattress is proportional to the density

3. Firmness can be measured by the indentation force deflection (IFD) rating in combination with the density level

4. Most manufacturers provide at least a 20 year warranty on these products

5. Used commonly for medical use, such as chronic back pain

6. Memory foam can be durable and long lasting, depending on the model and manufacturer. Generally, latex foam products are more durable than memory foam, but this is not always the case.

7. Some memory foam is hypoallergenic, antimicrobial, and can prevent dust mites and mildew, although this varies among model types as well

8. A common concern about memory foam is that it can omit a distinct odor, but this depends on the quality of the manufacturer. 24 hour "airing" before use can often alleviate this problem.

9. In 2010, State and Federal US Laws

When researching and/or shopping, keep in mind the following attributes for quality memory foam mattresses: good company reputation, where it was produced, density (the higher the density, typically the better), softness/firmness, thickness/layers, a long warranty, and/or trial period.

What are the primary differences between latex and memory foam?

In a nutshell, the most basic difference between latex and memory foam is the material. Latex is made up of natural or synthetic latex, whereas memory foam is made up of visco-elastic substance.

Generally, memory foam is softer than latex mattresses, although this can vary by model. Latex beds are firmer than the majority of memory foam mattresses, however the degrees of firmness and softness are subject to the varying model types and manufacturers.

Although many people used to prefer latex simply because it was all natural material, some manufacturers have recently introduced new memory foam products that are made of natural and plant-based materials.

Regardless of the mattress you choose, you should always consider these 5 factors:

1. Check the company reputation: Chances are if you are scouting through Ebay or Amazon, you've seen some unbelievable options out there. You may want to go directly to the provider's website. Always buy from a reputable company that has a legitimate presence online (such as an e-commerce website) or brick and mortar store.

2. Check out where the mattress is being produced: Typically, mattresses produced in the United States are better quality than in Asian countries. Many factories in foreign areas use clay particles and other substances that can jeopardize the value and longevity of the product

3. Use a mattress protector: a mattress protector that can keep foreign substances and intruders out, while permitting the mattress to "breathe" so that heat can never be trapped, is the optimal choice.

4. Mattress warranty: what type of warranty comes with the product? A warranty in excess of 20 years is usually a quality product.

5. Mattress trial: if you're planning on buying a mattress online, make sure that the company you are going with has a trial period. In the event that you're not satisfied with your purchase, you may want to return it.

Ultimately, it's up to one's own personal preference to determine which type of foam mattress is the better option.

The Difference Between Memory Foam and Latex
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