Latex Foam

Latex has been used in bedding for almost a century. Over recent years it has been somewhat eclipsed in the marketplace by memory foam, however some people think that latex is due for a resurgence. This might, ironically, be due to the interest in memory foam persuading people to be more "adventurous" in their bedding choices. Both have their advantages and disadvantages.

What is Latex?

Latex foam is based on rubber and was initially a purely natural product. It was created from the milky sap of the rubber tree, usually the Para tree Hevea brasiliensis.

Today you can buy both natural and synthetic latex (styrene butadiene rubber, SBR). Natural latex originally came from Brazilian rubber but today usually comes from Asia.

Natural latex usually costs more - is it better value for money than synthetic? Which is best? That depends on whether you are talking to a supplier of natural or synthetic product! Some items you can buy in the stores combine the two.

Unlike some other materials, latex is naturally resistant to mildew, dust mites and other problems. It is sometimes recommended for allergy sufferers - always talk to your doctor concerning an allergy or any other medical condition. As with any other product, some people are actually allergic to latex itself.

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