Best Latex Mattresses

Written by Loren Bullock, Mattress & Bedding Expert

Methodology

Here at Mattress Nerd, we’ve tested hundreds of mattresses to bring you unbiased, expert reviews of the top brands. Learn more.

In This Article

We make your search for a latex mattress less overwhelming by sharing our top picks for the best latex mattresses out there, based on our performance testing results.

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Latex mattresses are among the most popular in the market, known for their durability, comfort, and extended lifespan. Made from the sap extracted from the rubber tree, these healthy, comfortable mattresses have great appeal, especially for eco-conscious consumers.

If you’re interested in purchasing a latex mattress, there are thousands of options to choose from. We curated a list of the best latex beds we’ve come across and will also share the pros and cons of the material, different types of latex, and who these mattresses are best for.

The Best Latex Mattresses of 2023

• Nerd’s Pick – Saatva Latex Hybrid
• Best Hybrid Latex Mattress – WinkBeds EcoCloud
• Best Cooling Latex Mattress – Nolah Natural
• Best Flippable Latex Mattress – Brooklyn Bedding EcoSleep Luxe
• Best Latex Mattress for Pressure Relief – Birch Luxe
• Best for Eco-Conscious Shoppers – Avocado Green
• Best Adjustable Latex Mattress – Saatva Solaire
• Best Latex Mattress for Couples – Awara Original
• Best Latex Mattress for Side Sleepers – PlushBeds Luxury Bliss
• Best for Multiple Firmness Options – DreamFoam Latex
  

Bottom Line: What is the best latex mattress?

Our team of mattress experts selected the Saatva Latex Hybrid as the best latex mattress because of its certified natural and organic materials, high score in our mattress tests, and a durable construction.

Latex Mattresses Video Review

Here’s Loren and Becca, two of our wonderful product reviewers here at Mattress Nerd, taking a closer look at our top picks for the best latex mattresses.

Chosen by Experts and Advocates

The Nerd team, consisting of Certified Sleep Science Coaches and Mattress & Bedding Experts, personally tested and hand-selected each bed on this list. We examined the materials and performance factors such as ease of movement, durability, pressure relief, motion isolation and more.

To learn more, read about our review process.

Nerd’s Pick: Saatva Latex Hybrid

Pros of the Saatva Latex Hybrid

Contains breathable and cooling layers for hot sleepers

Provides alignment for back and stomach sleepers

Natural and organic materials

Cons of the Saatva Latex Hybrid

Comes in at a higher price tag

Transfers motion; might disrupt lighter sleepers

May be too firm for some side sleepers

This mattress checks every box, which is why we think it’s one of the best latex options out there. We love that Saatva Latex Hybrid has gone out of its way to use 100% Talalay latex. While more expensive, Saatva latex delivers what the customer pays for. It is more durable, buoyant, and resilient.

You’ll have a challenging time finding anything that’s not to love about this mattress. Not to mention, Saatva Latex Hybrid is a part of the Saatva mattress family, which is well known for making high-quality products and offers a Lifetime warranty, free white glove delivery, free old mattress removal, and a full year to try it out.

How We Select Nerd’s Pick

Our team selects the overall Nerd’s Pick for the best latex mattresses using a specific set of criteria: its had to use organic latex foam in the comfort layer; it must have the durability, cooling features, and responsiveness we expect from latex; and it was a requirement for it to perform well in our Mattress Lab testing. We believe you’ll love the Saatva Latex Hybrid, but read the remaining mini-reviews to ensure there isn’t a better option for you.

What our testers say: “First up, it’s very bouncy and supportive, so if you’re looking to easily change sleeping positions, have sex, or just want a mattress that supports all body weights without making you feel stuck, Saatva is it. Next, this bed sleeps cool, which—come on. Who doesn’t want that? And finally, this mattress is hypoallergenic and is made with natural and eco-friendly materials.” –Loren, Lead Mattress Tester

Who Might Like the Saatva Latex Hybrid

• Hot sleepers–Latex is already cooling, but the Saatva Latex Hybrid has extra cooling features to ensure you sleep through the night without sweating.
• Back and stomach sleepers–The firm support of this bed is great for those who sleep on their back and stomach.
• Eco-conscious shoppers–100% Talalay latex means a completely natural construction.

Who Might Not Like the Saatva Latex Hybrid

• Couples who are light sleepers–This bed doesn’t isolate motion all too well, meaning you’ll wake up your partner tossing and turning.
• Side sleepers–Since the bed is firmer for back and stomach sleepers, side sleepers won’t find the pressure relief they need.
• Budget shoppers–Saatva is a luxury brand, so their beds are priced as such!

Other User Reviews

On Saatva’s website, their Latex Hybrid scores a 4.8 out of 5 stars. Positive reviews say the bed is comfortable and praise Saatva’s stellar customer service and delivery. There were some complaints about the bed feeling too firm for some or not as responsive as they’d like, but overall, customers seemed satisfied.

Read our full Saatva Latex Hybrid Mattress Review to learn more.

Best Hybrid Latex Mattress: WinkBeds EcoCloud

Pros of the WinkBeds EcoCloud

Responsive

Contains organic materials

Constructed with naturally cool latex and coils that facilitate airflow

Cons of the WinkBeds EcoCloud

Lacks pressure relief for lightweight side sleepers

Transfers a bit of motion

We love that the WinkBeds EcoCloud mattress provides an option for those who want a hybrid latex with all of the bells and whistles. The natural materials (like Talalay latex, organic cotton, and wool) give you a cooling luxurious sleep. Plus the reinforced edges means super supportive edges. 

Wondering why wool matters in a mattress? Check out our article on the benefits of sleeping on wool.

What our testers say: “The latex combined with the coils creates one of the most bouncy, responsive mattresses we’ve ever tested in the Nerd Lab. These materials are also very durable; there isn’t a more sturdy combination that exists yet.” –Becca, Editor & Mattress Tester

Who Might Like the WinkBeds EcoCloud

• Combination sleepers–This bed’s responsiveness means it’s easy for you to switch positions throughout the night.
• Hot sleepers–This bed should keep you cool through the night!
• Eco-conscious shoppers–Natural and organic materials make this a great green option for a mattress.

Who Might Not Like the WinkBeds EcoCloud

• Lightweight side sleepers–Lightweight folks who sleep on their side won’t find the pressure relief they need from this mattress.
• Couples who are light sleepers–Sub-par motion isolation means you’ll feel your partner moving on the other side of the bed.

Other User Reviews

At 4.8 out of 5 stars on WinkBed’s site, the EcoCloud has an overwhelmingly positive response. The few negative reviews cite preferences that the bed is either too soft or too firm for their specific needs. The majority of positive reviews praise the organic, hypo-allergenic materials and comfort the bed provides, some even saying they found pain relief.

Check out our WinkBeds mattress reviews page for exclusive deals. If you aren’t interested in the WinkBeds mattress, check out our list of the best hybrid mattresses for more great options.

Best Cooling Latex Mattress: Nolah Natural

Pros of the Nolah Natural

Back sleeper friendly

Supportive for heavyweight sleepers

Middle-of-the-road firmness level

Cons of the Nolah Natural

Not firm enough for heavyweight stomach sleepers

Pressure buildup for most side sleepers

Motion transfers across mattress

Hybrid latex mattresses tend to do a fantastic job of keeping sleepers cool at night, and the Nolah Natural is no exception. The cotton and wool mattress cover may not be cool to the touch, but it helps to wick away moisture and regulate temperature.

The aerated Talalay latex and coil layer underneath the cover are very breathable. So, it won’t feel like you’re sleeping on a block of ice, but you should remain at a very comfortable temperature all throughout the night. 

What our testers say: “Hybrid latex mattresses tend to do a fantastic job of keeping sleepers cool at night, and the Nolah Natural is no exception. When we cut into the mattress, we saw perforated, cooling latex and coils that add lots of airflow.” –Rachael, Editor & Mattress Tester

Who Might Like the Nolah Natural

• Back sleepers–The Nolah Natural’s firmness level is perfect for providing support to back sleepers.
• Heavyweight side sleepers–Heavier sleepers need a firmer mattress so they don’t sink into the mattress when they sleep on their side, and this bed delivers.

Who Might Not Like the Nolah Natural

• Heavyweight stomach sleepers–Though firm, this bed still isn’t firm enough for heavier folks who sleep on their stomach, who will most likely sink in too far.
• Average and lightweight side sleepers–The Nolah Natural won’t provide the proper pressure relief for side sleepers who are lighter or average weight.
• Couples who are light sleepers–This is another mattress where you’ll feel your partner moving around across the bed.

Other User Reviews

On Nolah’s website, the Nolah Natural gets a 4.8 out of 5 stars. Negative reviews seem focused around personal preference, with customers either finding the bed too soft or too firm for their needs and expectations. But reviewers praise the bed’s quality construction and claim it’s changed their nights for the better.

Read our full Nolah Natural mattress review to learn more. If you aren’t interested in the Avocado mattress, check out our list of the best cooling mattresses for more great options.

Best Flippable Latex Mattress: EcoSleep Luxe

Pros of the EcoSleep Luxe

Dual-sided firmness

Supportive

Cooling layers

Cons of the EcoSleep Luxe

May transfer motion between co-sleepers

Not the best edge support

Not only is the EcoSleep Luxe from Brooklyn Bedding eco-friendly with many green certifications but it’s flippable. We recommend this mattress for all sleeping positions since it offers a medium side and a firm side. Looking for a different model? Check out our Best Firm Mattresses for more options.

The main concern for stomach sleepers is that their hips sink too far into the mattress. The firm side of the EcoSleep is firmer than average, meaning that even heavier and taller stomach sleepers can receive support from its construction. While firm, the latex layer is bouncy and responsive, so it’s still easy to move around the mattress.

What our testers say: “If you consider yourself an indecisive shopper, you get two firmness options out of this mattress: medium firm and firm—it works for all sleeping positions, and you can flip the bed and pick the firmness that best suits you. This type of customizability is rare in a latex bed.” –Loren, Lead Mattress Tester

Who Might Like the EcoSleep Luxe

• Back sleepers–This mattress is great for all sleeping positions, but the support is great for back sleepers especially.
• Hot sleepers–Cooling layers ensure this mattress has great breathability.

Who Might Not Like the EcoSleep Luxe

• Couples who sleep light–Again, good responsiveness means poor motion isolation, so seek out a more motion-absorbing mattress if you’re easily woken up.
• Those who need a supportive edge–If you sleep on the edge of the bed or need to sit on it to get up, the EcoSleep Luxe is lacking in the support department.

Other User Reviews

On Brooklyn Bedding’s website, this mattress scored a 4.8 out of 5 stars. People love the flexibility of this sustainable mattress that allows them to choose what they want. Users complain that the bed is too firm for their tastes or too heavy to move easily.

Read our full EcoSleep Luxe mattress review to learn more.

Best Latex Mattress for Pressure Relief: Birch Luxe

Pros of the Birch Luxe

Works well for all sleeping positions

Good motion isolation

Combination sleeper-friendly

Cons of the Birch Luxe

Too firm for lightweight side sleepers

Not for those who can’t stand firm

We think this mattress is an excellent choice for back and side sleepers who need pressure relief. It has a firm feel, making it ideal for stomach sleepers as well. On the Birch, back and stomach sleepers will experience their hips sinking into the softer wool and latex layers without going too far, maintaining spinal alignment. The latex foam should also provide lower back support, and offers great pressure and weight distribution.

What our testers say: “We saw blues and greens all around during our pressure map test for back and side sleepers, even though it’s on the firmer side. This indicates great distribution of your body weight, which means your pressure points aren’t digging into the mattress.” –Loren, Lead Mattress Tester

Who Might Like the Birch Luxe

• All sleeping positions–This bed is a solid option all-around for all sleeping positions.
• Couples–With great responsiveness and motion isolation, this is a great mattress if you share a bed.
• Combination sleepers–The Birch Luxe’s ease of movement means you can switch positions throughout the night without feeling “stuck” in your mattress.

Who Might Not Like the Birch Luxe

• Lightweight side sleepers–Though great for almost everyone, lightweight sleepers will probably find this bed too firm if they sleep on their side.
• Medium and soft firmness fans–This is a firm bed, so if you’re looking for something softer, check out another option on this list.

Other User Reviews

Birch mattresses have a 4.6 rating out of 5 stars on their site. Negative reviews of the Luxe find the bed too soft or too firm for their specific preference. The mostly positive reviews say this bed has changed their sleep habits for the better!

Read our full Birch Luxe mattress review to learn more.

Best Latex Mattress for Eco-Conscious Shoppers: Avocado Green

Pros of the Avocado Green

Provides good pressure relief and alignment

Great responsiveness

Vegan version available

Cons of the Avocado Green

Heavy, may be difficult to move

Transfers motion

Can be expensive

The Avocado Green mattress is one of the best organic mattresses out there. If your budget allows you to choose a luxury option and you want to go the all-natural route, the Avocado is the perfect choice. Avocado is best for those who want the absolute best-in-class materials, comfort, adjustability, and buying experience. 

The quality of this mattress’s materials has earned it 6 certifications, including GreenGuard Gold, a rigorous chemical emissions standard earned by less than 1% of mattresses. It’s the company’s most popular mattress for this reason.

As with most luxury options, this bed is completely customizable in firmness and thickness. It also comes with a 25-year warranty and free shipping, making it our recommendation for the luxury buyer.

What our testers say: “Avocado mattress uses organic dunlop latex. This material is not only naturally derived, but it keeps your body supported and aligned as well. The system of pocketed coils uses American-made steel to add extra support, bounce, breathability, and durability to your mattress.” –Loren, Lead Mattress Tester

Who Might Like the Avocado Green

• Back and side sleepers–With great pressure relief and support, this bed is great for both back and side sleepers.
• Combination sleepers–The responsiveness of this bed means you can move around easy.
• Vegans–If you’re concerned about using animal products, there’s a completely vegan option of this bed available.

Who Might Not Like the Avocado Green Mattress

• Couples who are light sleepers–Great responsiveness tends to mean you’ll unfortunately get woken up by your partner’s movements from across the bed.
• Budget shoppers–With its high quality and sustainable materials, the Avocado Green has a hefty price tag.

Other User Reviews

The Avocado Green Mattress scores a 4.7 out of 5 stars on the Avocado site. Users love the pain relief and comfortable sleep they get from the mattress. Some users point out a “breaking-in” period for the mattress and others found it to be too firm.

Read our full Avocado Green mattress review to learn more. If you aren’t interested in the Avocado mattress, check out our list of the best organic mattresses for more great options.

Best Adjustable Latex Mattress: Saatva Solaire

Pros of the Saatva Solaire

Dual air chambers

Temperature neutral

Completely customizable

Cons of the Saatva Solaire

Expensive technology

Noisy

The Saatva Solaire mattress is an adjustable airbed, perfect for people who are unsure of which firmness level they need. Like Sleep Number, the Solaire offers 50 different remote-controlled firmness options, so you can find your perfect fit. Saatva also offers free white glove delivery, so you don’t have to lift a finger while setting up this bed on its base. On top of that, you get a full-year sleep trial period and a Lifetime warranty.

What our testers say: “A mattress with over 50 firmness options available should work well for most people. It also doesn’t hurt that it performed well in almost every single mattress performance test we put it under.” –Ashton, Editor & Mattress Tester

Who Might Like the Saatva Solaire

• Couples with different sleep preferences–The dual air chambers mean you can set your preferred firmness and your partner can also have theirs.
• Hot sleepers–This bed is a great temperature-neutral option for hotter sleepers.
• Luxury shoppers–If you’re searching for a unique luxury bed, look no further!

Who Might Not Like the Saatva Solaire

• Budget shoppers–Since this is a luxury airbed, it’s going to be up there in terms of price, even for luxury shoppers.
• People sensitive to noise–This bed makes noise as it deflates and inflates, so be aware if you’re especially worried about the quiet.

Other User Reviews

On Saatva’s website, the reviews for the Saatva Solaire are overwhelmingly positive, coming in at 4.8 out of 5 stars. Customers praise both the delivery and the high quality of the bed. Negative reviews say that the beg can sag around the perimeter, while others say they don’t believe an adjustable mattress is for them. However, these reviews also cite amazing customer service from Saatva when it comes to returns and exchanges.

Check out our Saatva Solaire mattress review page for exclusive deals. If you aren’t interested in the Saatva mattress, check out our list of the best adjustable mattresses for more great options.

Best Latex Mattress for Couples: Awara Natural Hybrid

Pros of the Awara Natural Hybrid

Works for all sleeping positions

Incredibly durable

Balances motion isolation and responsiveness

Cons of the Awara Natural Hybrid

Not the best budget mattress

Too firm for most lightweight folks

Some latex mattresses sacrifice motion isolation for ease of movement, but not the Awara. The Awara does a good job of keeping motion waves from traveling across the surface of the bed, so your partner can toss and turn without disturbing your sleep. Plus, the high ease of movement score (5/5) means that moving around is a breeze—perfect for other couple activities besides sleep.

What our testers say: “Choosing to share your life and your bed with someone is a big deal, and you deserve a mattress where both parties can sleep soundly. We like the Awara mattress. We gave it a great score in our motion isolation test, which is the key to sound sleep.” –Becca, Editor & Mattress Tester

Who Might Like the Awara Natural Hybrid

• All sleeping positions–This bed is a great option for back, side, and stomach sleepers.
• Combination sleepers–Responsiveness means that this bed has great ease of movement, so you can switch positions without worry.
• Those in it for the long haul–If you’re looking for a long-lasting bed, the Awara is extremely durable.

Who Might Not Like the Awara Natural Hybrid

• Budget shoppers–This bed can be more expensive than the going rate.
• Lightweight sleepers–Despite being a great option for all sleeping positions, some lighter folks may find the bed too firm for their needs.

Other User Reviews

On Awara’s website, this bed scores approximately 4.5 out of 5 stars. Negative reviews stem from personal preference or complaints about an initial off-gassing smell. But the overwhelmingly positive response is that the bed is comfortable and breathable.

Read our full Awara mattress review to learn more. If you aren’t interested in the Avocado mattress, check out our list of the best mattresses for couples for more great options.

Best Latex Mattress for Side Sleepers: PlushBeds Luxury Bliss

Pros of the PlushBeds Luxury Bliss

Suits all sleeping positions

Durable construction

Responsive and motion isolating

Cons of the PlushBeds Luxury Bliss

Heavy and weighty

Lacking edge support

There’s nothing worse than a bed that doesn’t allow sensitive hips and shoulders to sink in—not only because it causes aches, but also because it allows the spine to sink out of alignment. Thankfully, the PlushBeds Luxury Bliss is constructed with side sleepers in mind. 

The Luxury Bliss provides a good distribution of weight, according to our pressure map test, and keeps your spine in a straight line. If you’re a side sleeper who’s on the hunt for a latex mattress, the PlushBeds Luxury Bliss is a great choice.

What our testers say: “As a side sleeper myself, I know how important it is to find a mattress that keeps my hips and shoulders nice and cushioned. The latex foam permits your weightier pressure points to sink comfortably below the surface, while the coil base provides the structure that keeps them from sinking in too far.” –Daniel, Editor & Mattress Tester

Who Might Like the PlushBeds Luxury Bliss

• Side sleepers–Though great for all sleeping positions, the pressure relief on the Luxury Bliss is perfect for side sleepers.
• Couples–With great responsiveness and motion isolation, this is great for couples who want to sleep together and… sleep together.

Who Might Not Like the PlushBeds Luxury Bliss

• Those who need a supportive edge–The edges on this bed are lacking when it comes to support, so that means steer clear if you tend to sleep on the edge or use it to get out of bed in the morning.
• Budget shoppers–Living up to the name “Luxury,” this bed is priced high. Check out the DreamFoam below for a better budget option.

Other User Reviews

The Luxury Bliss has a 4.9 out of 5 stars on PlushBeds’ site. With nothing under 4 stars, the response to this bed is overwhelmingly positive. The only complaints seem to be that the bed can be too firm or too soft for personal preference.

Read our full PlushBeds Luxury Bliss Review to learn more. If you aren’t interested in the PlushBeds mattress, check out our list of the best mattresses for side sleepers for more great options.

Best Latex Mattress for Multiple Firmness Options: DreamFoam Latex

Pros of the DreamFoam Latex

Affordable

Three firmness and two height options

Good responsiveness

Cons of the DreamFoam Latex

Not the best pressure relief for side sleepers

Doesn’t have the best edge support

The DreamFoam Latex mattress is one of the most affordable, customizable latex beds we’ve come across. This bed uses a combination of talalay latex and high-density foam to offer you tons of support and bounce, great for combination sleepers.

Pick between two heights (10” and 12”) as well as three firmness levels (soft, medium, and firm). Not only that, but you have 100 nights to try out the bed, plus a 10-year warranty to back you up.

What our testers say: “We typically test latex beds that only come in one or two firmness options, but the DreamFoam Latex has firmness and height options. This mattress gives you both the meat and potatoes, all for a fraction of the price compared to similar latex hybrid beds.” –Becca, Editor & Mattress Tester

Who Might Like the DreamFoam Latex

• Budget shoppers–This is an incredibly affordable option, especially for a latex mattress!
• Combination sleepers–The DreamFoam scores high for ease of movement, meaning you can switch positions without getting “stuck.”

Who Might Not Like DreamFoam Latex

• Side sleepers–This bed unfortunately doesn’t have the best pressure relief on the shoulders or hips, which is essential for those who sleep on their side.
• Those who need a supportive edge–If you sleep on the edge or like sitting on the edge of the bed, be aware that the DreamFoam tends to sag due to lacking support.

Other User Reviews

On DreamFoam’s website, their Latex model earns a 4.4 out of 5 stars. Negative reviews focus on the fact that it’s not the best for side sleepers, causing pain in pressure buildup areas. But positive reviews say the bed is reasonably priced and provides great support for back pain especially.

Read our full DreamFoam Latex mattress review to learn more.

Pros and Cons of Latex Mattresses

Pros of Latex Mattresses

• Durable: Latex is very durable. It is excellent at resisting body impressions and tends to always spring back to its original form.
• Supportive: Latex contours to the shape of your body while remaining very “buoyant,” keeping you floating on top of it rather than sinking too far into it.
• Temperature neutral: Latex does not easily change its temperature (in scientific terms, it has a high specific heat; it takes a lot of energy to increase the temperature each degree). This means it does not sleep hot or cold, and the firmness is not affected by room or body temperature. This leads to less tossing and turning to try to find a cooler spot on the bed since the mattresses are naturally very breathable.
• Hypoallergenic: While we recommend every mattress use a mattress protector, latex is naturally hypoallergenic, resistant against dust mites, and moisture-wicking, which adds another layer of protection against allergens.
• Less Off-Gassing: If you buy a mattress in a box, once you unbox it you will likely experience an off-gassing, chemical scent if it is a hybrid, hybrid innerspring or memory foam mattress. Latex mattresses tend to have significantly less smell, but if they do they are a more “natural” or “earthy” scent. Some say it smells similar to tea bags or leaves.

Cons of Latex Mattresses

• Price: Latex is one of the more expensive materials to put in a mattress, and therefore latex mattresses tend to be the most expensive ones out there. If you find an inexpensive latex mattress, be very wary. They either mixed the latex with more “binder” to dilute the actual latex, or they just use a thin layer of latex on top of polyurethane foam. Real latex will cost you.
• Pressure: While latex can be decent at relieving pressure, it is not as pressure-relieving as some other alternatives, like memory foam. This depends in part on the type of latex being used (Dunlop tends to be harder, Talalay can be soft or firm). When trying a latex mattress, be mindful of the pressure on your shoulders and hips. When trying a latex pillow, make sure you don’t feel too much pressure on your head.
• Motion transfer: Once again, latex is decent at motion isolation from one side of the bed to the other, but it is not as good as memory foam in this regard. Latex has a “bouncy” feel and some of that bounce can disturb your partner if you’re not careful.
• More Bounce Than Memory Foam: This isn’t necessarily a con of latex, but more of a preference. Latex generally has more elasticity than memory foam mattresses because of the open-cell structure. If you were to press your hand into a latex mattress, it would snap back almost immediately, whereas memory foam would slowly return to its original shape. If you’re interested in a latex mattress, but sure you’re comfortable with the bounce.

Who Is a Latex Mattress Best For?

Latex adds longevity, support, and temperature neutrality to any mattress. But as we’ve mentioned, latex mattresses can be expensive. If you fall into the following categories, it may be a worthwhile long-term investment for you.

Hot Sleepers

We highly recommend that hot sleepers consider a mattress with, at minimum, a layer of latex. As mentioned, the material’s structure allows for breathability, meaning your body heat shouldn’t become trapped in the mattress, so you’ll have a cool night’s sleep or, at worst, a temperature-neutral mattress. Keep in mind that blended and synthetic latex may be warmer than 100% natural latex. 

Our list of the best cooling mattresses has more information on temperature regulation if you’re interested.

People with Lower Back Pain

If you have acute or chronic low back pain, latex tends to have the body-cradling, contouring properties of memory foam while also providing cushioned support without the harmful chemicals. Be sure to purchase your latex mattress from a company that’s designed the bed with layers that provide support in areas you need them most. Look for features such as Zoned Support or lumbar support.

Struggling with back pain? Check out our list of the best mattresses for back pain to find the most supportive mattress.

Certain Sleep Positions

Stomach sleepers, who also tend to be people with low back pain, will enjoy the firmness levels and hip support that a latex mattress can offer. However, there are also latex options on the market for back and side sleepers, as well as people who don’t subscribe to a single sleeping position. 

We recommend taking a look through our recommendations above to find the best latex mattress for your sleeping habits. If you don’t see anything that speaks to you, we have articles on the best mattresses for side sleepers, best mattresses for stomach sleepers, best mattresses for back sleepers, and best mattresses for combination sleepers.

Who Is a Latex Mattress Not Best For?

Couples

If you sleep with a partner who happens to move around a lot in their sleep, you’ll probably want a mattress that has exceptional motion isolation. As we mentioned, latex is pretty solid in this category, but memory foam is generally the safest bet when it comes to keeping your partner’s tossing and turning from disturbing you. You can also take a look at our best mattresses for couples article for more info on what makes for a great two-person mattress.

Side Sleepers with Shoulder Pain

Much like with couples, if you are a side sleeper who suffers from shoulder pain, you may want to consider a soft, memory foam mattress as opposed to a latex mattress. Latex often does a good job of supporting pressure points, but the natural softness of memory foam may do an even better job for you. If you have your heart set on a latex, however, you could always add a memory foam mattress topper to make things more cushioned. 

Looking for more info? Check out our sleeping with shoulder pain article.

Shoppers on a Budget

It can be challenging to find a great latex mattress for a reasonable price. The materials and construction process make for a superior quality, but a substantial cost. If you are looking to spend a bit less than the products on this list call for, take a look at our best mattresses under $1,000, or even best mattresses under $500 page. There are some wonderful beds out there that won’t break the bank.

Latex vs. Other Mattress Types

Latex vs. Memory Foam

Perhaps the biggest leg up that latex has on memory foam is breathability. Because memory foam beds are made up of such dense material, heat can easily become trapped within the layers. Latex foam, on the other hand, tends to be more open-celled, and so heat can flow right on out of the mattress. 

For couples who aren’t concerned with overheating, memory foam might be worth consideration. The same thick layers of foam that can sometimes trap heat also make memory foam better than latex when it comes to motion isolation. This means that you’re less likely to be disturbed by your restless partner’s movements. To learn more, check out our page on the best memory foam mattresses or our article on memory foam vs latex mattresses.

Latex vs. Innerspring

Latex and innerspring mattresses have some things in common, namely breathability. They also both provide some good bounce and responsiveness, meaning you shouldn’t have much trouble changing positions as you sleep. 

As for the differences, latex will most likely do a better job relieving pressure, and it probably won’t creak and groan as much as an innerspring mattress will. Be prepared to pay quite a bit more for latex, though—innersprings are the most affordable mattresses out there. For more information, look at our roundup of the best innerspring mattresses.

Latex vs. Hybrid

Our last matchup of the day is latex and hybrid. This is a bit of a tricky one, since many latex mattresses are hybrids themselves. When shopping for a hybrid mattress, you will notice that some contain layers of memory foam, while others contain latex foam. Both are great, but you will probably find that the latex option is slightly more responsive and sleeps cooler, while the memory foam option offers better contouring.  See our article on the best hybrid mattresses for more information.

Different Types of Latex

Natural vs. Synthetic Latex 

Latex in mattresses can be 100% natural, synthetic, or a blend of the two. 

One-hundred percent of natural latex is harvested from rubber trees. This is the most expensive type and is rated marginally higher in overall satisfaction by consumers. Consumers who want to live an organic lifestyle and would like to be sure they’ve removed synthetic materials from their homes gravitate toward this option.

Synthetic latex is made when latex, that is not 100% organic, is combined with a petroleum-based plasticizer. Many companies choose to blend natural latex with synthetic latex, such as 85% natural and 15% synthetic because it provides extended stability and reduces cost. 

But buyer beware! As long as there is a certain percentage of all-natural latex used in a mattress, it can be marketed as “Natural Latex.” To be sure you are buying a 100% natural latex mattress, make sure it is labeled as such. Although the cost will be higher, natural latex is more durable and has greater health benefits. To learn more, check out our article, “Guide to Natural, Non-Toxic Bedroom Products.”

Dunlop vs. Talalay Latex 

Dunlop and Talalay refer to the two most common types of latex processing. Both blended and 100% natural latex mattresses can be made using either of these processes.

Dunlop latex is typically more suitable for those seeking a firmer, more supportive mattress. The Dunlop process fills the mattress mold completely, resulting in a heavier, denser bottom that makes it ideal as a base core component.

The Talalay process is newer and slightly different. To make natural Talalay latex, the mattress mold is partially filled and the remainder is filled with air, creating a uniform density throughout the mattress. It is softer and more pillow-like, making it preferable as a top cushion layer.

For more information, read our article on Dunlop vs. Talalay latex.

Latex Density & ILD

Indentation load density (ILD) is the measurement used to explain how difficult it is to compress or cause an indentation in the foam. A higher ILD means it will take more force to indent the foam, meaning it is more firm. The scale of ILD foam used in mattresses ranges from 15-40, with 15-25 being very soft, 25-35 is medium-firm and above 35 ILD is very firm. The ILD is not the only thing you should take into consideration when thinking about the firmness of the mattress. They can be different firmness levels depending on how the different foam layers are stacked. 

The density of the latex will refer to the weight of the foam. The denser the latex, the firmer it will feel and some say, the longer it will last. Density is usually denoted as “D60-D90.” For more info, head over to our article on how latex density is measured.

Environmentally-Friendly Mattresses

Latex is often associated with organic materials that make eco-friendly, natural mattresses. While it is true that there are latex mattresses that are created using processes and components that are less harmful to the environment than other mattress types, that is not necessarily true of all of them. Below are some certifications that indicate compliance with some form of environment preservation guidelines. If you find a mattress that has any of these approvals, you’re off to a good start. 

OEKO-TEX Standard 100: The primary purpose of OEKO-TEX is to ensure that a minimal amount of harmful chemicals are emitted during the production and use of a product. They do not focus exclusively on latex, so you may see this certification on memory foam or hybrid mattresses as well. See our article on toxic mattress chemicals for more information on the subject.

Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS): If a mattress is GOTS certified, it means that at least 95% of the materials used are certified organic. GOTS is one of the best certifications to look out for, as their guidelines are a good deal more stringent than other organizations. For example, they require that materials used in the manufacturing process are harvested in not just an environmentally responsible way, but a socially responsible way as well. 

Global Organic Latex Standard (GOLS): GOLS is a more focused version of the GOTS. Simply put, it is the first globally recognized standard for responsible production of latex mattresses using raw organic materials.

Even with some of this information at your disposal, determining whether or not a mattress is truly organic can be difficult. Companies may use terms like “organic” and “all-natural” but without the proper certifications these claims are meaningless. If buying an environmentally-friendly mattress is the most important thing for you, then we suggest you look at our best organic mattresses page. Latex is a great place to start, so you’re already on the right track.

And don’t forget, whenever you’re ready to dispose of it please consider recycling your old mattress.

Check out our video on what makes a mattress organic for more information!

Conclusion

Now you should have a better idea of whether or not latex might be the best option for your new mattress. If you were already convinced, then we hope we’ve helped you narrow down your search. When you factor in how long a latex mattress will last you, it’s important to choose a mattress that you’re really going to love. If you feel like a latex mattress might not be for you, check out our best mattresses of 2023 guide.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you sleep on a latex mattress if you’re allergic to latex?

If you’re one of the less than one percent of individuals less than one percent of individuals in the United States who are allergic to latex, you may be wondering whether or not you should be considering a latex mattress at all. You may be surprised to learn that, depending on the severity of your allergy, a latex mattress may be perfectly fine for you to sleep on. 

The latex used in mattress manufacturing goes through an intense washing process that results in most of the reaction-inducing proteins being stripped away. On top of that, most of the latex used in these mattresses is found in the core, so direct contact is fairly unlikely. If your allergy is mild, then you could be fine with a latex mattress. If you have a severe allergy, or are concerned in any way, then it would be best to either avoid latex altogether or consult a medical professional before making your purchase. 

Is latex better than memory foam?

Both latex and memory foam have their upsides and downsides. If you’re someone who appreciates organic, eco-conscious products then you’ll certainly want to start your mattress search with latex, but that’s not the only thing it has going for it. 

Latex is also a great choice if you like a bouncy mattress that keeps up with your movements, or if you like to stay cool as you sleep. Memory foam tends to have great pressure relief, so it can help prevent shoulder and hip aches. On the flip side, memory foam can be difficult to move around on and may not stay quite as cool as latex.

Do latex mattresses sag?

Throughout our many mattress tests, we have found latex to be quite durable. While it may not sag as quickly or easily as other mattresses, with time you may notice some sagging, especially in the areas where you regularly sleep. 

In order to prolong the integrity of your mattress, you should rotate it several times per year so that the stress you place on it doesn’t affect just one area of the mattress’s surface. For more information, check out our guide on how to fix a sagging mattress, how to fix a sagging mattress or our article on the best mattresses that won’t sag best mattresses that won’t sag.

Can latex mattresses get bed bugs?

Any mattress can get bed bugs. If a company markets their mattresses as being 100% bed-bug proof then they are making false claims. That said, certain mattresses can be resistant to bed bugs; latex, because of its density, is one such type of mattress.

Recap of the Best Rated Latex Mattresses

Mattress	Award	Materials
Saatva Latex Hybrid	Nerd’s Pick	Talalay latex foam and coils
WinkBeds EcoCloud	Best Hybrid Latex Mattress	Talalay latex foam and coils
Nolah Natural	Best Cooling Latex Mattress	Talalay Latex foam and coils
Brooklyn Bedding EcoSleep Luxe	Best Flippable Latex Mattress	Talalay latex foam and coils
Birch Luxe	Best Latex Mattress for Pressure Relief	Dunlop latex foam and coils
Avocado Green	Best Latex Mattress for Eco-conscious Shoppers	Dunlop latex foam and coils
Saatva Solaire	Best Adjustable Latex Mattress	Talalay latex foam, memory foam, air chamber, and coils
Awara	Best Latex Mattress for Couples	Dunlop latex foam and coils
PlushBeds Luxury Bliss	Best Latex Mattress for Side Sleepers	Talalay latex foam and coils
DreamFoam Latex	Best Latex Mattress for Multiple Firmness Options	Talalay latex foam and coils

See All Latex Mattress Reviews

Brand	Model	Type	Firmness	Trial	Warranty	Price	Coupons	Review
Amerisleep	Organica	Latex Hybrid	6.5	100 Nights	20 Years	$$$$	Check Price	Organica Review
Avocado	Green	Latex	7	365 Days	25 Years	$$$$	Check Price	Full Review
Avocado	Latex	Latex	7.5	365 Days	25 Years	$$$	Check Price	Full Review
Avocado	Vegan	Latex	7	365 Days	25 Years	$$	Check Price	Full Review
Awara	Organic Luxury Hybrid Mattress	Latex	Varies	365 Days	Lifetime	$$$	Check Price	Full Review
Birch	Birch	Latex	6.5	100 Nights	25 Years	$$$	Check Price	Full Review
Brentwood Home	Cedar Natural Luxe	Latex Hybrid	7	365 Nights	25 Years	$$$$	Check Price	Full Review
Brooklyn Bedding	Bloom	Latex Hybrid	Varies	120 Nights	10 Years	$$$	Check Price	Full Review
Happsy	Happsy	Latex	6.5	120 Nights	20 Years	$$	Check Price	Full Review
Naturepedic	Serenade	Latex	6	90 Days	20 Years	$$$$	Check Price	Full Review
Naturepedic	EOS	Latex	Varies	90 Days	20 Years	$$$$	Check Price	Full Review
Naturepedic	Halcyon	Latex	Varies	90 Days	20 Years	$$$$	Check Price	Full Review
Nest Bedding	Hybrid Latex	Latex	Varies	100 Days	Lifetime	$$$$	Check Price	Full Review
PlushBeds	Botanical Bliss	Latex	Varies	100 Nights	25 Years	$$$$	Check Price	Full Review
PlushBeds	Natural Bliss	Latex	Varies	100 Nights	25 Years	$$	Check Price	Full Review
PlushBeds	Luxury Bliss	Latex	Varies	100 Nights	25 Years	$$$	Check Price	Full Review
Saatva	Latex Hybrid	Latex	7.5	180 Nights	15 Years	$$$$	Check Price	Full Review
Saatva	Zenhaven	Latex	7	120 Nights	20 Years	$$$	Check Price	Full Review
Spindle	Spindle	Latex	Varies	365 Nights	10 Years	$$$	Check Price	Full Review
WinkBeds	EcoCloud	Latex	5	120 Nights	Lifetime	$$$$	Check Price	Full Review

Loren Bullock

Mattress & Bedding Expert

About Author

Loren is the Lead Mattress Reviewer at Mattress Nerd. She has prioritized sleeping for as long as she can remember, rarely deviating from seven to nine hours each night. As an editor on Mattress Nerd and a Certified Sleep Science Coach, Loren aims to help people achieve optimal sleep health and pick the best sleep accessories for their needs. You can find her testing mattresses, exploring the best sleep hacks, and telling you about her findings on Mattress Nerd’s YouTube channel and on TikTok.

Combination Sleeper

Education & Credentials

• Certified Sleep Science Coach