Does your mattress really affect your quality of sleep? According
to a study by Research
Triangle International and Drs. Andy Krystal and
Jack Edinger from Duke University, and a research of over 16,000 sleep nights
and 128 subjects, the answer is an affirmative yes. Even small differences in
mattress support (soft, medium, firm) correlated with changes in sleep and
pain. This is a clear indication that mattresses really do matter.
Now with the sheer variety of mattresses available in the market,
the choice may be overwhelming. Latex mattresses – though relatively new
entrants into the market, are known for their premium quality and have been
taking the market by storm. In fact global market research reports indicate
that India is
among the largest players in terms of latex mattress
demand currently. There are several aspects which require thorough
consideration before you make your choice of latex mattresses. Alphonse Reddy
Founder and CEO, Sunday Mattress provides you with a systematic approach to
choosing your latex mattress:
What is a True Latex Mattress?
Let’s clear the first level of confusion – a real latex mattress
is made up of just latex foam and has no springs and no other foams. The
support comes from the latex core that is built into the mattress during its
construction. This core is a firm base and is set between the 6-8 inches
thickness of the mattress. While some mattresses are made up of just the core,
others are constructed with several thinner layers of latex that are placed
above the core. These multiple layers can range from one to 6 or more inches in
terms of thickness. Your latex mattress may have an additional one-inch cover
that is cotton or wool-based.
Firmness of a Latex Mattress
Latex mattresses are often the choice for those with orthopaedic
or back related issues –for better support. In fact, WebMD
says that 2-10% of people who suffer from lower back ache end up
with chronic back aches in the long run. Latex mattresses have a system of
firmness for its core. This is called indentation load deflection (ILD). This
is a reference to the specific number of pounds or kilos required to compress
25% foam. Lower the numbers softer the foams and vice versa.
Latex mattress cores generally are in the firm to super firm
categories. The upper layers range from being very soft to firm resulting in
different feels. When making the choice, it is to take into consideration the
levels of softness of all layers and the resultant firmness.
Once you have determined this, choosing between a 6 inch or 8 inch
mattress, with or without memory foam will be easier.
Mattress Covers for Smart Maintenance
And the final aspect to consider is the cover material it comes
with. Its breathability, durability as well as its flexibility are things you
have to take into consideration. Cotton and wool are natural fibres and
therefore good at wicking or pulling moisture away from the body into the
mattress. The advantage here is the breathability of your mattress.
The mattress cover should also be of the kind that can stretch
along with the latex foam. This enhances the longevity of your latex mattresses
to more than 10 to 15 year. Owners of all latex mattresses have enjoyed their
mattress for an
average of 12-20 years! The cover materials you
need to look out for are cotton and wool. If you have the option of going in
for certified cotton or wool, nothing like it.
Now with this basic information, here is a checklist to work with:
- Determine the quality of the
latex. Look for certification.
- Look into the construction of the
mattress. Ask your sales person to walk you through.
- Determine the thickness best
suited to your needs. 6 and 8 inch options are standard.
- Figure out the firmness of the
mattress by trying it and check for which works best for you
- Determine
the mattress cover material that will be provided.
