If you are hesitating between a latex mattress and an innerspring mattress, keep in mind that they are two very different types of mattresses with different properties. Latex is superior to the traditional innerspring in many ways.

What is a latex mattress and what does it feel like?

A latex mattress does not have any springs or coils in it. Unlike an innerspring mattress, a natural latex mattress is made out of latex. Coir may or may not be added as a supporting layer. You may be wondering what exactly latex and coir are.

Latex is a natural product coming from the sap of the rubber tree. This milky sap is processed into mattress blocks with a natural springiness offering excellent spinal support with no need for springs or coils. Due to its natural open cell structure and additional pinholes in the layers, latex is highly breathable. As a result, the foam remains dry, fluffy and regains its original shape after being compressed. It provides strong and evenly distributed support for the body.

Coir – also known as coco fibre – comes from the coconut tree. This material is the hairy husk of coconuts. The fibre is extremely tough, elastic and strong, and it hardly deteriorates over time. It provides excellent temperature management and does not retain moisture.

Lying on a latex mattress, you will first experience a soft sinking feeling followed by a feeling of firm yet comfortable support. People suffering from chronic back pain, find that the comfort of a latex mattress helps alleviate the pain. Medical professionals such as osteopaths and physical therapists recommend latex mattresses to help the body and spine align properly and comfortably.

Advantages of a latex/latex-coir mattress

• Very comfortable – you will feel yourself sinking into the mattress a little but also feeling incredibly supported.

• Excellent support for optimum spine alignment. The mattress will support your body evenly, with no sagging.

• Latex and coir are completely natural and we don’t use any chemicals when creating your mattress.

• Latex and coir are naturally hypoallergenic and resistant to mould and dust mites.

• Latex has an open cell structure, which means that air is circulated through it efficiently. This helps your mattress breathe and keeps you cool. The mattress will also have pin holes in it, to make it even more breathable. Coir is also extremely breathable and does not retain moisture.

• These mattresses are incredibly durable and they last longer than other mattresses. Best of all, they don’t sag, meaning that your back is protected for longer.

• Limited motion transfer – when one person moves, the other will not feel it.

Disadvantages of a latex/latex-coir mattress

• Cost – because the components are all natural, latex/latex-coir mattresses can be more expensive than innerspring mattresses.

• Heavier – these mattresses weigh more compared to most innerspring mattresses.

What is an innerspring mattress and what does it feel like?

An innerspring, also known as spring coil mattress is made up of many metal coils surrounded by foam. The coils give some bounciness to the mattress, while the foam insures comfort. Although the number of coils can affect comfort, there are many other factors determining how comfortable an innerspring mattress feels, such as the size and the material of the coils or the thickness of the foam padding.

Advantages of innerspring mattress

• Low price – the price of innerspring mattresses varies from low to very high depending on the quality.

• Wide range of firmness levels.

• Widely available – innerspring mattresses are one of the most popular types of mattress.

• Relatively lightweight – innerspring mattresses tend to be moderately light and therefore easy to turn.

Disadvantages of innerspring mattress

• Relatively short lifetime - the top comfort layer on the springs can wear down rather quickly and over time, the innerspring mattress starts sagging, causing sleep discomfort.

• Noise from the springs – an innerspring mattress may make noise in response to movement.

• Limited motion isolation – when one person moves the other will feel it.

• 'Antenna risk'– the metal of the coils is said to be able to act as an antenna, amplifying ambient electromagnetic radiation.

The verdict

When it comes to buying a great mattress, the latex or latex-coir mattress is definitely the better choice. Although the cost is higher, it is more durable than an innerspring mattress. Latex and coir clearly offer more in terms of comfort, deliver additional benefits such as natural mould resistance and excellent airflow. Not surprisingly, these mattresses boast a very high owner satisfaction rating.

When you lie on an innerspring mattress, you feel your body is gently supported, but you won't experience the soft sinking yet supportive feeling that a latex or latex-coir mattress delivers.

When lying down on a good quality innerspring mattress you should not feel the springs. But with time the foam layers on top of the coils break down, making the mattress uncomfortable.

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