What is latex?

Natural latex is an extremely soft, natural and elastic material coming from the sap of the rubber tree. Thanks to its elasticity, the mattress will conform pleasantly to your body shape, by 'firming up' as your body settles deeper, giving the body full support.

What type of latex mattress to choose? There are three things to consider.

• Natural latex mattress vs. synthetic-natural blended latex mattress

• All natural latex mattress vs mattress containing natural latex combined with other man made materials

• The two processes of making: Dunlop & Talalay processes.

If environment protection and sleeping on natural materials is important for you, the natural mattress is the best choice. However a synthetic-natural blended latex mattress is not necessarily a bad option. To make sure the latter mattress is equally elastic, breathable and durable as a natural one not containing any harmful substances, check if it has undergone stringent tests and has achieved certifications of international standards such as Oeko-Tex or Eurolatex.

While the all natural latex mattress has no smell, if other man-made materials are added, they may contain polyurethane foam that emits an unpleasant chemical smell.

The only major difference between the Dunlop and the Talalay processes, two alternative latex processing ways, is that the mattress made with the Talalay process is bouncier, but also more expensive due to the extra steps added in the manufacturing process.

Advantages of a natural latex mattress

• Very comfortable. You feel your body sinking slightly into the mattress and just caught and supported at the right moment.

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

• No chemicals. There are no chemicals added in a completely natural latex mattress.

• Hypoallergenic. Natural latex is naturally hypoallergenic and resistant to mould and dust mites.

• Keeps you cool. Thanks to its open cell structure air circulates through it freely. This helps your mattress breathe and keeps you cool.

• Durable. Latex mattress layers last longer than other mattresses.

Disadvantages of a natural latex mattress

• Cost. Because of the exceptional quality of the materials, latex mattresses can be more expensive than a regular mattress.

• Weight. The natural latex mattress is robust, thus is heavier than a regular mattress.

Milam mattress

The Milam mattress is a Dunlop latex mattress that contains GOLS certified organic latex, no synthetic latex and no other man made materials. It also contains 100% natural coir as its core for even greater support for the body. The cover is made of completely natural and organic materials too, GOTS certified organic cotton and wool.

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