Latex Mattresses are Highly Recommended by The Healthy Bed Store

At the Healthy Bed Store we believe that latex rubber makes a great sleeping surface. This isn’t just something we merely preach, it’s something we practice as well. Everyone at the Healthy Bed Store sleeps on a latex mattress. Although latex may not be for everyone, we believe it deserves serious consideration when choosing a mattress or topper.

Why latex you may ask? The simple answer is that it provides comfort, support and durability, three things sleep experts agree are important when considering a new mattress. However, not all latex is created equally.

We’ve searched the web and know that there is a lot of information out there. We’ve been selling latex products for over 11 years. Based on our experience and the very informative Savvy Rest website, here’s a “clear and simple users guide” to latex.

First we’ll explain the types of latex, or more specifically the materials used. We will then mention the two main processing methods. Finally we will provide a list of certification to look for when choosing your latex mattress.

There are basically four types of latex:

• Organic – The main ingredient in organic latex is sap from the rubber tree grown either to USDA Organic Standard or to Global Organic Latex Standards (GOLS). A small amount of a curing agent or agents is added.
•  Natural – Natural latex does not have a standard definition and actually is more of a descriptive term. However, the main ingredient in natural latex, as distinct from blended latex, is sap from the rubber tree that does not meet the definition of certified organic. A small amount of a curing agent or agents is added.
• Blended – Blended latex is made from a combination of natural and synthetic ingredients. The proportions of natural to synthetic may vary by manufacturer.
• Synthetic – Synthetic latex, as the name implies, contains no natural ingredients but is derived solely from synthetic materials.

At the Healthy Bed Store we have sold all types of latex based on customers needs and preferences. We will work with you to understand what is important to you and then make recommendations based on that information.

Processing Methods

There are basically two processing methods, the older simpler Dunlop process and the newer more involved Talalay process.

• Dunlop – Liquid is poured into a mold and cured to change the composition of the materials from a liquid to a solid state. This process is called vulcanization.
• Talalay – Liquid is poured into a mold and is then flash frozen and vacuum- sealed.

Dunlop is firmer and denser making it a good choice for the bottom or support layer. The springier and more uniform Talalay is often used as a top or comfort layer. These are general guidelines that help to distinguish the two.

Certifications

We believe in certification as it’s one of the most compelling aspects of a “healthy bed” and generally the easier to understand the less room there is for interpretation. Our products have been third-party certified for content, safety, durability and emissions. When choosing latex here are some important certification to consider:

• USDA Organic– Only Dunlop latex grown to the organic standards set by the US Department of Agriculture can carry the USDA Organic seal.
• GOLS – Control Union Certifications has pioneered the first global standard for organic latex: the Global Organic Latex Standard (GOLS).  To achieve GOLS certification a product must contain more than 95% of certified organic raw material.  Controlunion.com
• GOTS – The Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) is recognized as the world’s leading processing standard for textiles made from organic fibers. It defines high-level environmental criteria along the entire organic textiles supply chain and requires compliance with social criteria as well.  Global-standard.org
• Oeko-Tex® – “Confidence in textiles” – OEKO-TEX® Standard 100 is an independent test and certification system for all types of textiles tested for harmful substances –from threads and fabrics to the ready–to–use items. The OEKO-TEX® test and certification system is centrally issued by the International Association for Research and Testing in the Field of Textile Ecology with headquarters in Zürich.  Oeko-tex.com
• Green guard Certified – GREENGUARD Certification is part of UL Environment, a business unit of UL (Underwriters Laboratories). GREENGUARD Certification helps manufacturers create--and helps buyers identify--interior products and materials that have low chemical emissions, improving the quality of the air in which the products are used.  Greenguard.org

All the latex mattresses that we carry have earned one or more of these certifications.

We understand that when you purchase a latex mattress you are making an investment in better sleep. We also know that sometimes you want time and additional information so that you can “put all the pieces together”.

We proudly feature in our showroom latex mattresses by Savvy Rest, OMI and Posh + Lavish. That’s why we’re still here in the Broadstone Marketplace Center to help you find the mattress that is right for you. Our address is 2690 East Bidwell Street, Suite 100, Folsom, CA 95630. Our phone number is (916) 351-0700.