Mattress toppers, also known as mattress pads, give the body additional support when sleeping. They also extend the life and comfort of a mattress, as well as change the feel of a mattress by softening or making it firmer. Like when buying a mattress, it is highly recommended that you research to determine which mattress topper is best for you.
There are many reasons why people buy mattress toppers.
- The mattress is too firm.
- You experience increasing discomfort with your mattress.
- The mattress is caving in on you as you sleep.
- The mattress feels too hot.
- The mattress is exacerbating your allergies.
- Your mattress requires a top layer.
Even though mattress toppers come in a variety of forms, the quality of each will depend on the material used to make it. Memory foam and latex are the two most popular and in-demand types of mattress topper materials. But which is better, latex or a memory foam mattress?
The popularity of both latex foam and memory foam toppers is not a coincidence. The two options contain a variety of components that promote a great night's sleep. With that in mind, the big question is less on which mattress topper is better, but rather on which mattress topper will be better for you. This post strives to help you understand the differences so that you can pick the better option for you.
What is a Memory Foam Mattress Topper?
Midway through the 1960s, aeronautical engineer Charles Yost created memory foam for NASA. The material is a polyurethane foam that has been created using various chemicals. The chemicals make the foam both energy-absorbing and denser. NASA used memory foam to protect their pilots during crashes. Today, memory foam has made it into homes.
Memory foam is preferred for its noticeably sluggish recovery. This means the foam won't immediately take on its original shape when you push a body into it and then lift it. This contributes to its stability and comfortability when it is added to upper mattress layers. Upon learning of the wonderful advantages this material can provide for persons suffering from back or joint problems, a majority of top mattress companies include some type of memory foam in their mattress toppers.
There are many types of memory foam. They include:
- Traditional memory foam, which is the most standard and the first type of memory foam ever created. It doesn’t come with additional innovations such as cooling.
- Gel memory foam contains gel microbeads which help keep the foam cool.
- Open cell memory foam has the same ingredients as traditional foam, with the key difference being its internal pockets. It offers more ventilation which helps with cooling.
What is a Latex Foam Mattress Topper?
The main difference between memory foam and latex foam mattress toppers is that memory foam is entirely synthetic. Latex, on the other hand, is made from the sap of rubber trees, making it completely natural. Consequently, individuals seeking a more sustainable and environmentally responsible option have found this topper to be a better option.
All in all, it is good to note that the purity of latex toppers varies depending on how they are produced. There are different types of latex that vary in sustainability and quality. Popular categories of latex are:
- Dunlop latex is a common form of natural latex foam that is used in mattress toppers. It is preferred for its density, support, and durability.
- Talalay latex is another form of natural latex only that undergoes more processing and filling. It has a softer, pillow-like feel. It is, however, not as durable and supportive as Dunlop mattress toppers.
- Blended latex is a mix of natural latex and synthetic additives. It is cheaper and lacks the purity, durability, and sustainability of Dunlop and Talalay.
Is Latex Similar to Memory Foam?
While they both serve roughly the same purpose, the latex foam mattress topper is different from the memory foam topper. This is evident in the above description of both. However, to give you a better understanding of the differences, here are some of the major ways these two mattress toppers differ from each other.
Price
Naturally, one of the first things most people consider when looking for a new mattress topper is the price. Latex mattress toppers typically cost more than memory foam ones. This is due to the perception of latex being a higher-quality substance. If you want a mattress that will last for many years, latex may be a better option because it is more resilient than memory foam.
Feel
For many people, how a mattress feels is very important. Latex beds frequently have a hard or springy feel. As a result, a latex mattress topper might be a fantastic choice if you want a mattress that will provide you with some resistance. On the other hand, memory foam mattresses frequently have a sinking or soft sensation. This is because when you lie down, memory foam adapts to the curve of your body. A memory foam mattress can be the best option if you're looking for a bed that would make you feel embraced.
Support
Mattresses made of latex or memory foam both offer sturdy support. So, is latex better than memory foam for back pain? The answer is yes. Since latex mattresses are firmer, they frequently provide superior body support. Modern latex mattresses are firmer, giving them a little more structure. This is advantageous for people who need more back support.
Although memory foam mattresses can support the body well, they might not be as helpful for persons who require more support. This is due to the fact that memory foam mattresses occasionally tend to be overly soft, which can cause the body to sink in too much and affect spine alignment.
Pressure Relief
When selecting a mattress, pressure alleviation is a vital consideration, particularly if your joints are achy. Although latex mattresses can reduce pressure, memory foam will be the superior choice for people looking for more advanced pressure relief. This is because memory foam tightly conforms to the body of the sleeper, creating a cradle. Because latex mattresses are springier than memory foam, they provide less pressure relief.
Lifespan and Durability
Which lasts longer latex or memory foam? The answer is latex. Mattresses made of latex are often more resilient than those made of memory foam. With careful care, certain latex beds can last up to 20 years. Memory foam only lasts about ten years. Since latex is a more resilient substance, it can recover from deformation quicker and is less likely to droop over time. Memory foam, in contrast, is more prone to damage. Over time, it could degrade, particularly if it is not adequately supported. As a result, memory foam mattresses require replacement more frequently than latex mattresses.
Sleeping Positions
Both latex and memory foam are comfortable for back sleepers, but memory foam offers better pressure relief on the shoulders. You need a bed that reduces pressure on your hips and shoulders if you like to sleep on your side. While latex mattresses are more supportive and might not offer as much pressure relief as memory foam mattresses, the former do a good job alleviating pressure. A mattress that will keep the spine in alignment is necessary for stomach sleepers. Mattresses made of latex or memory foam can both offer the essential support, although memory foam may be more likely to result in pain and sinkage in the middle. Latex is probably preferred by combination sleepers because the materials' greater bounce should make repositioning easier.
Temperature Regulation
The ability to effectively regulate temperature is one of the key advantages latex foam has over memory foam. Latex is a temperature-neutral substance. This makes it a potential improvement for hot sleepers. Memory foam has a propensity to absorb body heat, which can occasionally make sleepers feel uncomfortably warm at night.
Hypoallergenic
Another advantage of latex mattress toppers is they are more hypoallergenic. Dust mites, mold, and other allergies are repelled by natural latex foam. With memory foam mattresses, frequent cleaning will be needed because they are constructed of synthetic materials that can draw in and harbor allergens like dust mites. If you have allergies, a latex mattress might be a better choice for you.
Motion Isolation
Memory foam doesn’t permit motion transfer. It is ideal for couples who don’t want to feel their partners shifting positions at night. Latex foam doesn’t isolate motion well. You will definitely feel your partner tossing.
Final Verdict
Which foam is better for mattresses? The answer will depend on personal preferences. Each option has its fair share of pros and cons. However, to simplify decision-making, you should think about the type of sleeper you are, your health conditions, and how much the tossing and turning of a partner bothers you. Next, you need to find a reputable manufacturer of mattress toppers and only buy your topper from a reputable distributor or supplier. It is also important to never use cost as the main determining factor when going for either latex or memory foam.
One of the greatest places to go for a high-quality mattress is the Queensway Mattress Store. The team is committed to providing the best quality in various types of mattress toppers. You will also enjoy a 30-night return policy. Contact us today to find out more about our products and services.