The 10 Best Latex Beds You Can Buy – 2023 Reviews & Ratings

A latex mattress is a bed that incorporates latex foam in its construction. Latex foam is derived from the sap of rubber trees. After being harvested from the trees, the sap is processed and molded so that it sets into a cushy block or layer, perfect for adding airiness, bounce, and support to a mattress.

Latex mattresses are often marketed as an alternative to memory foam and traditional innerspring mattresses. Some sleepers prefer latex due to how it performs compared to these other materials. For example, it typically retains less heat than memory foam.

Latex can also be used in conjunction with other foams and springs in a single mattress, so sleepers can benefit from the unique strengths of each material.

All of the latex inside of mattresses comes from the sap of rubber trees, but you’ll encounter two types of latex as you shop: Talalay and Dunlop. These two kinds of latex differ in a few key ways, starting with how they’re manufactured.

To make Dunlop latex, liquid sap is harvested from tapped rubber trees. The collected material is then whipped up, poured into a mold until the mold is filled completely, and heated in a vulcanization oven. The vulcanization process is crucial because firms up the rubber and gives it that bouncy, elastic feeling.

The transformed material is then cleaned and dried at high heat, which eradicates moisture from the foam.

The Talalay latex manufacturing process is a bit different. When the liquid latex is poured into the mold, it doesn’t fill the mold to the brim. A vacuum is then applied to the sealed mold, which allows the latex to expand inside it. The expanded latex is flash-frozen, then vulcanized, washed, and dried.

Because Talalay latex pieces must be made individually and with less initial material, the resulting layers of foam are often glued together.

Dunlop and Talalay latex are made via different methods, which results in a few subtle differences in appearance and performance.

• Talalay can have seams, Dunlop usually doesn’t. Talalay latex layers often have visible seams where the individual pieces of foam were glued together.
• Dunlop is a denser latex foam than Talalay. The expansion process renders Talalay as an “airer” foam in its final form. This distinction means that Talalay is better at promoting cooling, and Dunlop is often used as a support layer (rather than a comfort layer) due to its density. However, it’s important to remember that “denser” doesn’t necessarily mean “firmer”—both types of latex foam can feel soft or firm, depending on how they're utilized in a mattress.
• Talalay is evenly distributed, Dunlop is “bottom heavy.” The Dunlop manufacturing process causes some of the latex material to pool at the bottom of the mold. Talalay expands evenly when a vacuum is applied to the mold, giving it a more consistent feel throughout.
• Talalay has more bounce to it than Dunlop. Both kinds of latex foam are naturally springy, but Talalay tends to have a more pronounced responsiveness to it.
• Dunlop is simpler and more affordable to make. There are fewer steps involved in the production of Dunlop latex, and therefore it’s typically priced a bit lower than Talalay.

Neither type of latex foam is innately better than the other, and the differences between them can even go largely unnoticed by some sleepers. Both Talalay and Dunlop are durable, comfortable latex foams. As with many choices, it pays to experience both options and see for yourself how you feel about them.

Latex density and Indentation Load-Deflection (ILD) can help determine a bed's durability, feel, and performance.

Latex’s density tells you how heavy and compact the material is. The density is typically measured by weighing a latex cube measuring 1 meter by 1 meter. The density is reported in kilograms per cubic meter with the letter D before it. For example, most latex beds are D60 to D95. Dense latex has a firm feel and is more long-lasting, although most brands use layers of latex with different densities to create an overall durable and comfortable mattress.

The ILD explains how easily latex compresses. ILD is measured by seeing how much force you must apply before the latex indents. A higher ILD means more force is required, which indicates a firm material. Most brands use latex with an ILD of 15 to 25 for a softer bed, 25 to 35 for a medium, and over 35 for a firm. However, you should note that these numbers are a general guideline since most labs test the ILD differently.

While latex has some impressive benefits, it’s also helpful to see how these beds compare to other popular models.

You have probably heard of memory foam mattresses and you have very likely seen advertisements for them.

The material has great promise for many, but it does not have the same bounce and responsiveness that you can experience with latex.

One of memory foam's top benefits is that it can conform well to your body. However, it conforms so well that it just does not spring back as fast as many would like.

Natural latex also won’t produce off-gassing as a memory foam bed will. As a result, organic latex can be a great option for sleepers sensitive to and bothered by strong aromas.

Read Our Full Comparison: Memory Foam vs. Latex

An innerspring mattress usually contains a support layer of interconnected coils and a thin comfort layer on top. Like innerspring beds, latex is good for bounce, cooling, and support. However, latex is a natural material, so it’s more suitable for eco-conscious shoppers. You should also keep in mind that some innerspring mattresses include latex in the layer above coils.

Innerspring mattresses are more affordable than latex because manufacturing them isn’t as costly, making them the better choice for budget shoppers. However, you won’t get as much pressure relief from a traditional innerspring model as you would a latex mattress.

Both innerspring and latex beds are breathable and good for hot sleepers, but latex is a better option for allergy-prone people and those interested in an all-natural mattress.

A hybrid mattress is a bed made with individually-wrapped coils and multiple foam layers. Some hybrids use latex for their comfort layers while others may have memory and poly foams.

Hybrid beds are excellent if you’re interested in getting access to the benefits of both foam and coils. These beds are suitable for a range of sleepers but may not be the best for allergy-prone folks unless you opt for a latex hybrid.

Hybrids are also known to be a more costly option, and they get even more expensive if they feature latex.

When choosing a new bed, you’ll always have to balance its advantages against any potential disadvantages. Latex is an exciting and cutting-edge addition to the mattress scene, but like any other material, it’s not for everyone.

• Comfort: Latex is available in a variety of firmnesses, so you can probably find a latex mattress that feels cozy to you.
• Responsiveness: Moreso than other foams, latex retains a springiness that makes it easy to change positions throughout the night. Some latex layers play up this bouncy feel, and are perfect for sleepers who prefer a responsive mattress.
• Cooling: Latex is a more breathable foam than poly foams, and it doesn’t hold onto heat as much.
• Hypoallergenic Properties: Latex is relatively inhospitable to dust mites, mildew, and mold. If you have an allergy sufferer in the family, it can help them breathe easier and get a better night’s sleep—as long as they don't have a latex allergy.
• Sourced from Nature: If having natural products in your mattress is important to you, then natural or organic latex could be a great match. Latex comes from the sap of rubber trees, and although the final foam layers often contain additives, certain brands prioritize keeping their latex as “green” as possible.
• Durability: Latex mattresses have an especially long lifespan—up to 20 years in some cases—if treated with care.

• Cost: Latex mattresses are often more expensive than other mattress types. Their longevity helps with the cost in the long-term, but they can still be a substantial investment to make upfront.
• Particular Feel: Some people don’t enjoy the innate springiness of latex foam. If you want your bed to notably compress and “hug” you like certain memory foams, latex may not be the right choice.

Latex mattresses are excellent for hot sleepers and those who live in a warm and humid climate. The material is cooler than memory foam, making it easier for hot sleepers to fall and stay asleep.

Latex is also a good option for those who struggle with pressure build-up. The material doesn’t hug the body like memory foam, but it still relieves pressure and prevents it from building up.

Latex is also excellent for those who need to be able to easily move about on their bed, such as people with limited mobility and combination sleepers. The quick response allows them to not feel stuck in the mattress. Latex is bouncy, contouring, and long-lasting, making it a worthy investment for those who want to get a lot of value from their bed.

How you sleep should tell you what kind of mattress would be the best for your needs. Latex is good for combination sleepers, but different firmness level fits various sleeping positions. Firmer latex beds don’t allow the body to sink as much, which should fit stomach and back sleepers. Softer latex mattresses are more suitable for side sleepers needing pressure relief and more contouring.

Firmness is another critical factor you should consider when buying a mattress. Latex comes in various firmness levels, so it’s easy to find the right product that fits your needs. However, it’s also important to remember that some latex mattresses are flippable. This means the mattress has different firmness levels on each side, making it more versatile and long-lasting.

Memory foam is known to overheat often, making it difficult for hot sleepers to fall and stay asleep. Luckily, this is rarely an issue with latex because the material is temperature-neutral. Latex doesn’t retain heat. Instead, it has natural cooling properties to help create a more comfortable sleeping environment.

Latex mattresses are typically made with a strong focus on quality materials. The most important is the quality of the latex itself as it determines how durable and comfortable the bed will be. Most brands use organic or natural latex, but you should also pay attention to other materials used. Latex beds usually have one or more natural and organic materials, making them a good option for eco-conscious shoppers.

Your body weight should tell you if a mattress will be compatible or not. Most people fall in the medium and medium-firm range, but if you’re significantly heavier, firmer beds are helpful for support and body alignment. Conversely, lightweight people prefer softer beds. Latex beds are typically on the firmer side, although softer versions are available. Most latex beds are the best for people weighing at least 130 pounds. However, softer versions may work for some lightweight sleepers.

Explore our top picks for the best mattresses for heavy people.

Although latex beds may feel firmer than other types, they still offer plenty of contouring that helps relieve pressure in the shoulders, hips, and lower back. Pressure build-up can be a serious issue depending on your preferred sleeping position, so why not get a bed that can help prevent it? Softer latex mattresses are the best for people struggling with pressure build-up, especially those who love sleeping on their side.

Couples usually pay attention to motion isolation, since this can help eliminate the problem of disturbing your partner if you move around. The downside here is that latex isn’t the best option for motion isolation. The material is naturally bouncy, meaning it may transfer a fair amount of movement from one side to the other. Going for a firmer latex mattress may help a bit, but don’t expect it to excel.

Check out our picks for the best mattresses for couples.

Latex mattresses are high-quality, but this also means you can expect a slightly higher price tag. While the upfront cost may be higher, their durability means they should last longer than lower-quality beds, ultimately saving you money since you won’t have to buy a new bed as soon. To help reduce costs, consider buying online and look for coupons and promotions that many brands offer throughout the year. Many brands also offer deals around holidays like Labor Day, President’s Day, and the Fourth of July.

One of the most important certifications to look for is GOLS, which certifies organic latex and ensures the entire manufacturing process from the farmer to the factory is organic. You may also come across GOTS, which designates the requirements for organic textiles. Last but not least is the OEKO-TEX Standard 100, indicating the materials don’t contain harmful substances.

Latex is an excellent option for those sensitive to dust, mildew, and other allergens. Latex is naturally resistant to allergens, making it a good choice for allergy-prone people. However, latex allergies are common and can be severe for some people, so it’s important to make sure you’re not allergic before buying.

Explore our picks for the best mattresses for allergies and asthma.

Latex beds make virtually no noise, which is good news for people who share a bed or are light sleepers themselves. Even latex hybrid beds are unlikely to cause nighttime disruptions, although they may be slightly noisier than all-latex mattresses. The noise reduction can help improve your quality of sleep and that of your partner.

Off-gassing is a common issue many people face regardless of the mattress they buy. Off-gassing is the “new mattress smell” that takes a certain period to dissipate. The intensity of the smell depends on the compression and packaging process, but it usually takes at least a day or two to go away. Latex beds have a certain smell when new, but it’s not nearly as intense as synthetic foam beds. If off-gassing is a concern, we recommend going with an all-natural option.

The trial period usually depends on the brand. Most online companies offer generous trial periods, allowing customers to test the bed for 100 days to a full year before committing. Because the trial period is critical, particularly for online shopping, you should always check how long it lasts and whether the returns are free.

Most latex mattresses come in a box, making them easy to move from your doorstep to your bedroom. Although the package may be heavy, it’s not as cumbersome as traditionally shipped beds. Most brands now have free shipping within the U.S., but it’s still a good idea to confirm before buying. Additionally, many offer White Glove Delivery, which means a team of professionals will install the new bed for you and remove your old one. Some companies include this with your purchase while others provide it at an additional cost.

Warranty is equally important as a trial, but it also depends on the brand. Most companies will offer some warranty, covering for defects caused by faulty materials and manufacturing. Most warranties last at least a year, although some can last up to 10 years or longer.

Latex mattresses are excellent for those who want an organic bed free of chemicals and other harmful substances. Their responsive nature makes them easier to move about on. They last a long time, help dissipate body heat, and offer gentle cradling for pressure relief.

Latex mattresses can be a more eco-friendly option than other bed types, and they appeal to people who want biodegradable and natural (rather than synthetic) products. However, just because a bed is advertised as a latex mattress doesn’t mean it’s automatically meeting an environmental gold standard. 

Natural latex mattress layers come from the sap of a rubber tree that’s been processed into a supportive foam. Not every latex foam can be said to be completely natural or organic—sometimes synthetic materials are added to the mix. If you want to maximize the eco-friendliness of your mattress purchase, look for latex mattresses with a high percentage of natural materials and certifications from places such as OEKO-TEX®, GREENGUARD Gold, GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard), and GOLS (Global Organic Latex Standard).

Latex mattresses and memory foam mattresses each have their own pros and cons, so it’s a matter of finding what suits you the best. For example, memory foam offers more contouring while latex is bouncier and better for hot sleepers. They’re both valuable products, but you need to see which type works best for you specifically.

A queen-sized latex mattress typically costs around $2,000, but that’s a rough average. Certain latex mattresses may exceed $3,000 in price, whereas models aiming for affordability (or those with an applicable discount) can cost much less. The materials within the mattress, its size, its various certifications, and even the time of year can all influence how much a latex mattress costs.

Most latex mattresses should last at least eight years or longer, depending on how you use them. In other words, jumping on the bed will shorten its lifespan. If used correctly, a latex bed should outlast most innerspring and foam models—they’re some of the most durable mattresses on the market.

A latex mattress feels slightly springy and pleasantly firm. You should still feel cushioned by a latex bed, but you won’t find it as yielding as a memory foam mattress, and you won’t sink deeply into it. Latex is responsive but not as overtly bouncy as an innerspring mattress, which is why it’s often equated to a comfortable “in-between” option in terms of sensation.

Latex mattresses should remain cooler throughout the night than many foams, which have a tendency to trap heat near your body. Latex beds are more breathable and temperature-neutral. 

Air is free to flow through the latex foam when you move around on it, and this can carry away heat that might build up inside it. As an added bonus, this breathability goes hand-in-hand with its quick response time, helping to ensure you don’t feel trapped in your bed or struggle to roll over in the night.

Get More Info: Top Rated Cooling Mattresses

If you’ve been shopping for latex already, you probably already know that this material represents a more substantial investment, especially if you’re committed to buying an all-natural product. The temperature control paired with body conformance and long-term durability of latex adds significantly to the product’s overall value, so you’ll want to keep that in mind when evaluating price.

There are also ways in which latex brands are seeking to reduce prices and become more affordable that you may want to consider if you have a tighter budget. Synthetic latex can provide many of the same advantages as materials from more natural sources, and brands that blend synthetic and natural can also bring down the price. Online mattress brands, who are able to eliminate the costs of middlemen in their supply chains, can often have better deals – even on pricier organic models.

View Our In-depth Guide: Best Budget Mattresses

Latex is popping up in the comfort systems of many high-end luxury beds and product lines, and for good reason. Latex’s temperature control, elasticity, bounce, and potential for pressure relief work very well to cradle tired joints, and much of it is naturally sourced and environmentally sustainable.

Organic latex beds that minimize the presence of synthetic materials or chemicals are highly attractive among those who are looking to make their bedroom more eco-friendly. All-natural mattresses with more organic certifications tend to represent a more substantial investment, but one that can be worthwhile.

Processing may also make a difference in deciding whether the latex you’re considering is “high end.” In general, Talalay appears more often in luxury brands due to its buoyancy and consistency, but keep in mind, that the process for Dunlop latex usually uses slightly fewer chemicals during manufacturing.

For More Info: Best Luxury Beds

Latex beds are excellent for dispersing body weight and relieving pressure, which should help reduce back pain. These are also great for supporting proper spine alignment, which should help relieve back pain regardless of your preferred sleeping position. However, the level of support depends on the firmness you choose.

Latex beds, as with other mattress types, should be replaced once they start sagging and no longer give good support. Although latex is durable and should last at least eight years, you will notice some sagging after said period. How quickly and how much the bed sags depends on its overall quality and how you use it. You can reduce sagging by rotating the bed regularly.

If latex’s capabilities sound like something you could greatly benefit from, then you should consider this type of mattress. Hot sleepers, combination sleepers, and eco-conscious shoppers are just some examples of people who could get a lot of value from a latex bed. Additionally, if you’ve never experienced latex before, companies offer substantial trial periods, giving you lots of time to see how you like the feel and if it works for you.

Need help? Learn how to choose a mattress in our complete guide.

Yes, you can find brands with natural products in this space. Just use a discerning eye, as brands that use synthetics are not always completely forthcoming about their materials. Remember to look for certifications to guide you in your search.

Another good thing to keep in mind is that “natural” does not always mean “organic.” Due to the shipping process of some Talalay latex, for example, sometimes there are additives to the material for safe shipping that are later stripped out completely during production, which is why the term “natural” is used instead of the product being labeled completely “organic.” Company representatives and FAQ sections on the website, in addition to the product page, make great places to check for this type of information.

Read Our Full Guide: Highest Rated Organic Beds