Latex Foam vs. Memory Foam

It is the end of the year, and you are finally ready to replace your old mattress. You begin your search by researching which type of mattress is best for you and your needs, but you find yourself overwhelmed by the various options. Sound familiar?

Among the many types of mattresses available, the two most commonly compared are latex foam mattresses and memory foam mattresses. Before choosing a mattress, it is important to know which type is best for you and your needs. To help you during your search, we have broken down the differences and similarities between latex foam and memory foam mattresses. 

The basics

First, let’s actually discuss what latex and memory foam even is. In short, latex is a natural plant product, and memory foam is a polyurethane material created with different types of chemicals. Because of its nature, latex has much more of a bounce compared to memory foam. The chemicals used to make memory foam cause the material to feel denser and absorb more energy. 

For instance, if you were to press your hand down on a latex mattress, the mattress would quickly bounce back to its original shape. In contrast, if you were to press down on a memory foam mattress, it would take a few seconds to resume its shape. 

Similarities between the two

While both are foam material, latex foam mattresses and memory foam mattresses do not have much in common, as they are both created for different wants and needs. The main similarity between the two is their ability to support and conform to the body, relieving joint pressure while you sleep. 

Difference between latex foam and memory foam

Conformity

As mentioned before, one of the biggest differences between latex foam and memory foam is the way it conforms to your body. Latex foam has much more bounce to it, while memory foam conforms and contours to the shape of your body. 

Think about what type of sleeper you are. Do you sleep on your stomach, back, or side? Do you toss around a lot? If you are a stomach sleeper, for instance, memory foam may not be as comfortable since you will sink into the mattress more than a bouncier latex mattress. However, if you are a back sleeper, a memory foam mattress might be exactly what you need. It truly just depends on the type of sleeper you are. 

Heat Retention

Do you like to be cold or warm when you sleep? Because of memory foam’s density, mattresses made with memory foam often trap more heat throughout the night. In contrast, latex foam is more breathable and is made with naturally cooling material.

Affordability. 

Let’s face it: your budget plays a critical role in any purchasing decision. Because of the materials used to create both a latex foam mattress and a memory foam mattress, prices vary among each type. 

Generally, a foam mattress is less expensive than a latex mattress. However, latex mattresses also tend to be more durable. Therefore, an initially more expensive purchase could add a few years to your mattress. 

Final thoughts before you make a decision

Overall, both types of mattresses have their pros and cons, you just need to determine which one fits your sleeping needs. Do you prefer a firm bed or one that contours to your body? Do you prefer one that retains heat or one that cools you down?

Our team at Mattress Man is here to help answer any questions you may have about our different types of mattresses. Come talk to our sleep experts, and we’ll help you find the right mattress for you.