Over the past decade or so, latex foam has become as synonymous with mattress design as traditional go-tos like memory foam and innerspring. In fact, latex lands somewhere slightly between the two, as it’s known for both its buoyant support and pressure-relieving softness. With these characteristics, along with its naturally cooling nature, it’s no surprise that the best latex mattresses have become increasingly popular.
That’s why we’ve created this roundup. We put all of beds to the test and written about them here, so you can determine the best latex mattress for your needs. While all of the mattresses in this roundup share a common material in latex foam, that doesn’t mean they all feel the same. So, we’ll showcase unique characteristics of this classic bedding material in relation to each model, discuss some of our personal faves by category, and then wrap up with a few fabulous latex alternatives.
Best Latex Mattresses
- Best Overall Latex Mattress – Nolah Natural
- Best Organic Latex Mattress – WinkBeds EcoCloud
- Best Firm Mattress – Plank Firm Natural
- Best Latex Mattress for Back Sleepers – Brooklyn Bedding EcoSleep
- Best Cooling Latex Mattress – Saatva Latex Hybrid
- Best Medium-Firm Latex Mattress – Birch
- Best Latex Mattress for Back Pain – Silk & Snow Organic
Best Latex Mattresses Video
Compare Best Latex Mattresses
Nolah Natural Mattress | WinkBeds EcoCloud Mattress | Plank Firm Natural | Brooklyn Bedding EcoSleep | Saatva Latex Hybrid Mattress | Birch Natural Mattress | Silk & Snow Organic Mattress | |
Rating | |||||||
Firmness | Medium-soft: 6/10 | Medium-firm: 6.5/10 | Multiple firmness options | Multiple firmness options | Firm: 7.5/10 | Medium-firm: 7/10 | Medium-firm: 6.5/10 |
Material | Latex | Latex | Hybrid | Latex | Latex | Hybrid | Latex |
Cooling | ✓ | -- | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
Sleep Position | Combination | Back & Side | Back & Stomach | Back & Stomach | Back & Stomach | Back & Stomach | Back |
Nolah Natural Mattress | WinkBeds EcoCloud Mattress | Plank Firm Natural | Brooklyn Bedding EcoSleep | Saatva Latex Hybrid Mattress | Birch Natural Mattress | Silk & Snow Organic Mattress | |
Rating | |||||||
Firmness | Medium-soft: 6/10 | Medium-firm: 6.5/10 | Multiple firmness options | Medium-firm: 6.5/10 | |||
Material | Latex | Latex | Hybrid | Latex | Latex | Hybrid | Latex |
Cooling | — | ||||||
Warranty | Lifetime warranty | Lifetime warranty | 10-year warranty | 10-year warranty | Lifetime warranty | 25-year warranty | 15-year warranty |
Shipping | Free shipping | Free shipping | Free shipping minus HI and AK | Free shipping minus HI and AK | Free white glove delivery | Free shipping | Free shipping |
Trial Period | 120 Nights | 120 nights | 120 nights | 120 nights | 365 nights | 100 nights | 100 nights |
Best For | Side Sleepers, Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers, Hot Sleepers, Back Pain | Back Sleepers, Side Sleepers | Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers, Hot Sleepers | Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers, Hot Sleepers | Stomach Sleepers, Back Sleepers, Back Pain, Hot Sleepers | Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers, Hot Sleepers | Hot Sleepers, Back Sleepers |
Best Overall Latex Mattress – Nolah Natural
The Nolah Natural mattress is not only made with eco-friendly and hypoallergenic materials, but it also offers pressure relief and comfort that many sleepers should enjoy.
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress. The Nolah Natural mattress is not only made with eco-friendly and hypoallergenic materials, but it also offers pressure relief and comfort that many sleepers should enjoy.
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress. The Nolah Natural mattress is not only made with eco-friendly and hypoallergenic materials, but it also offers pressure relief and comfort that many sleepers should enjoy.
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress.Nolah Natural Mattress
Material
Latex
Trial Period
120 Nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Medium-soft: 6/10
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight side sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight stomach sleepers.
Financing Options
Nolah Natural Mattress
Material
Latex
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Firmness
Medium-soft: 6/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 Nights
Price Range
$$$$$
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight side sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight stomach sleepers.
Financing Options
Nolah Natural Mattress
Material
Latex
Firmness
Medium-soft: 6/10
Trial Period
120 Nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight back sleepers.
Side Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight side sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight stomach sleepers.
Financing Options
Expert Opinion
The Nolah Natural is made with top-notch organic (and recycled) materials. While testing in our mattress lab, we found this to be a medium-soft latex mattress with a luxurious feel that allowed our hips to sink in just the right amount. We think it could be an especially good fit for back sleepers since the bed’s two layers of Talalay latex foam gave us some cushioning in the lumbar region. Simultaneously, our body got a nice lift from the coils. All of this helps keep the spine in a neutral alignment. One of the other most notable traits about this Talalay latex mattress is that it’s responsive and bouncy. When testing it out, we were able to spread out and switch positions without a problem.
And since this is an organic mattress, we of course took note of its eco-conscious certifications. These include GOTS certified cotton and organic wool, in addition to the naturally sourced Talalay latex. This type of foam is much different from Dunlop latex, which is synthetically sourced. You can read more about each of the materials and how they compare to one another on our Dunlop vs Talalay latex page.
What Customers Say
On the Nolah website, reviewers consistently praise the Nolah Natural (which has an average customer rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars) for its craftsmanship and quality of materials. From what we can tell, this is going to be an exceptionally durable latex mattress.
Pros of the Nolah Natural Mattress
- A lot of side sleepers should be happy on this mattress as they sink into the latex layer and get pressure relief at their shoulders and hips, as evidenced by our pressure map test. Learn more about our testing methodology here.
- Combination sleepers need to be able to switch from their back to their stomach to their side with little issue. So they should be right at home on the responsive Nolah Natural, which tested well for responsiveness in our lab.
- After examining the construction, we noticed some effective cooling factors in this natural latex mattress. The Natural features a breathable cover made of organic cotton and wool, as well as pocketed coils that have lots of space for airflow. All of these traits are a plus for hot sleepers.
Cons of the Nolah Natural Mattress
- The Nolah Natural is likely too soft for strict stomach sleepers, as we felt our hips dip too far into the material. So, we recommend these folks seek out a mattress that’s firmer and more supportive.
Learn more in our Nolah Natural mattress review. You can also click here to get the best deal, or see our best mattress page for more options.
Best Organic Latex Mattress – WinkBeds EcoCloud
WinkBeds EcoCloud Mattress
This is one of the most sustainable mattresses I’ve tested. It is also a fantastic mattress for combination sleepers, who will like its bounciness and appreciate how comfortable it feels in a range of positions. It also features zoned support, making it good for those with pain concerns.
Material
Latex
Trial Period
120 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
WinkBeds EcoCloud Mattress
This is one of the most sustainable mattresses I’ve tested. It is also a fantastic mattress for combination sleepers, who will like its bounciness and appreciate how comfortable it feels in a range of positions. It also features zoned support, making it good for those with pain concerns.
Material
Latex
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
WinkBeds EcoCloud Mattress
This is one of the most sustainable mattresses I’ve tested. It is also a fantastic mattress for combination sleepers, who will like its bounciness and appreciate how comfortable it feels in a range of positions. It also features zoned support, making it good for those with pain concerns.
Material
Latex
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
Expert Opinion
Many organic mattresses are made from latex, as the material is naturally derived from rubber trees. And when considering all the organic latex mattress options out there, we’re huge fans of the WinkBeds EcoCloud. It’s an extremely comfortable bed with a classic medium-firm feel that tested well in our studio for a variety of sleeping positions. When lying down on it, the bouncy latex feel made it easy for us to move around. We also got a lot of support from the bottom layer of recycled steel coils.
Because the EcoCloud claims to be an organic mattress, we paid close attention to its eco-friendly certifications to make sure the term is being truthfully used. Fortunately, it very much is. The mattress boasts GOTS certified cotton, as well as recognitions from the Rainforest Alliance and Eco Initiative for its recycled coils. You can read more about these terms on our certifications page.
What Customers Say
One the WinkBed website, the EcoCloud currently has a little under 250 customer reviews. Despite it being a responsive mattress, many folks comment on its ability to offer contouring and pain relief.
Pros of the WinkBeds EcoCloud Mattress
- The EcoCloud has several features to help hot sleepers regulate their temperature: a breathable organic cotton and wool cover, four inches of naturally cooling Talalay latex, and coils that promote airflow.
- The latex foam and coils of this mattress made it responsive enough for us to easily switch sleeping positions. This is fantastic news for the combination sleepers out there.
- Back sleepers should get the zoned support they need to keep their spines in a neutral alignment. Our pressure map test showed little buildup at the lumbar region in this position.
Cons of the WinkBeds EcoCloud Mattress
- The EcoCloud tested poorly for motion isolation, so if you’re a light sleeper, you may feel a partner tossing and turning on the other side of the bed.
- Stomach sleepers will likely need a firmer bed to lift their hips and keep their spine aligned.
To learn more, read our full WinkBeds EcoCloud mattress review. You can also click here to get the best deal, or see our best organic mattress page for more eco-friendly options.
Best Firm Latex Mattress – Plank Firm Natural
Plank Firm Natural
The Plank Firm Natural is Brooklyn Bedding's take on a mattress that's both eco-friendly and flippable. You can choose between a medium-firm and firm side of the bed.
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
120 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping minus HI and AK
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Warranty
10-year warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
Plank Firm Natural
The Plank Firm Natural is Brooklyn Bedding's take on a mattress that's both eco-friendly and flippable. You can choose between a medium-firm and firm side of the bed.
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
10-year warranty
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Shipping Method
Free shipping minus HI and AK
Trial Period
120 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
Plank Firm Natural
The Plank Firm Natural is Brooklyn Bedding's take on a mattress that's both eco-friendly and flippable. You can choose between a medium-firm and firm side of the bed.
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
10-year warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping minus HI and AK
Price Range
$$$$$
Expert Opinion
The Plank Firm Natural — created by Brooklyn Bedding — is a flippable latex mattress with both a firm and extra-firm side, so you can get the best of both worlds. The firm side of the Plank Firm Natural scored a 7 on our firmness scale, and the extra-firm side scored an 7.5 out of 10.
These scores mean both sides of the Plank Firm Natural are firmer than the industry standard for medium firm (6.5). The “on top” feel is great for combination sleepers who need to easily switch positions on the mattress, as well as back and stomach sleepers who need more support and stability to keep their hips in line with their shoulders, and their spine in a neutral alignment. Also, the core of the mattress is made up of innerspring coils, which gave us further support and provided a bit of bounce for ease of movement.
What Customers Say
As of this writing, the Plank Firm Natural is a very new bed and only has about 20 ratings on the Brooklyn Bedding website, with an average rating of 4 out of 5 stars. Customers praise its firmness (obviously) and the high level of support.
Pros of the Plank Firm Natural Mattress
- We think lightweight sleepers should enjoy the Plank Firm Natural, especially if they prefer to sleep on their back and stomach. This mattress should provide enough lumbar support, and the added comfort layer should help with pressure relief.
- Sleepers with back pain should appreciate the firm feel of the Plank Firm Natural. Despite its firmness, it tested well for pressure relief at the lower back. This can help keep their spine aligned, giving their lumbar region extra cushioning to alleviate the pain.
- The Plank Firm Natural scored well on our motion transfer test. This is when we drop a steel ball from different heights onto the mattress and measure the vibrations with a seismometer. If the vibrations are low, then the bed is good at isolating motion. On the Plank Firm Natural, couples shouldn’t be able to feel their partner moving during the night.
Cons of the Plank Firm Natural Mattress
- Side sleepers should avoid both sides of the Plank Firm Natural because they are both going to be too firm. This mattress will most likely not give these sleepers enough pressure relief on their hips and shoulders, as we noticed a lot of buildup on our pressure map test. Instead, take a look at our roundup of the best mattresses for side sleepers.
Ready to walk the plank? Click here to get our best deals on this mattress, or get more information from our full Plank Firm Natural review. If you’re still looking, check out our roundup of the best firm mattresses.
Best Latex Mattress for Back Sleepers – Brooklyn Bedding EcoSleep
Sustainable shut-eye is within your grasp with this latex hybrid bed — ideal for hot sleepers. We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress. Sustainable shut-eye is within your grasp with this latex hybrid bed — ideal for hot sleepers. We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress. Sustainable shut-eye is within your grasp with this latex hybrid bed — ideal for hot sleepers. We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress.Brooklyn Bedding EcoSleep
Material
Latex
Trial Period
120 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping minus HI and AK
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Warranty
10-year warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for heavyweight back sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for heavyweight stomach sleepers.
Financing Options
Brooklyn Bedding EcoSleep
Material
Latex
Warranty
10-year warranty
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Shipping Method
Free shipping minus HI and AK
Trial Period
120 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for heavyweight back sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for heavyweight stomach sleepers.
Financing Options
Brooklyn Bedding EcoSleep
Material
Latex
Firmness
Multiple firmness options
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
10-year warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping minus HI and AK
Price Range
$$$$$
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for heavyweight back sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for heavyweight stomach sleepers.
Financing Options
Expert Opinion
The Brooklyn Bedding EcoSleep combines high-quality organic and eco-friendly materials for a luxurious sleeping surface, especially for back sleepers. At the bottom of the mattress is a layer of individually wrapped coils, which should help give you the proper spinal support.
When testing out this bed, we found it to have a bouncy, responsive feel that kept our hips well-aligned with our shoulders. We also wanted to see how the mattress performed in our pressure-map test. This is when we roll out a specialized mat across the bed and lie down on it in various sleeping positions. The mat transmits color-coded results to a computer that shows where the mattress is putting pressure on our body. In the case of the EcoSleep, the area around the back was mostly blue in all three sleeping positions, indicating little to no pressure. This shows that it’s an excellent mattress for back sleepers.
What Customers Say
The EcoSleep is one of the newer models from Brooklyn Bedding, and has just under 200 user reviews on its website. Sleepers praise various aspects of this bed, including its cooling ability and relatively low cost for an organic mattress.
Pros of the Brooklyn Bedding EcoSleep Mattress
- The bed’s springiness should appeal to most combination sleepers, as we found it easy to switch sleeping positions on the EcoSleep.
- This bed encourages hip/shoulder alignment with a balance of comfort and support, which should help prevent back pain.
- Since latex is a naturally cooling material, hot sleepers should also feel comfortable on this mattress.
Cons of the Brooklyn Bedding EcoSleep Mattress
- It probably isn’t going to be soft enough for strict side sleepers, who need a bit more pressure relief than what was shown on our pressure map test. They’ll likely need a mattress with more contouring and pressure relief.
Check out our full EcoSleep mattress review to learn more about this cooling mattress. You can also click here to get the best deal, or see our best mattress for back sleepers page for more options.
Best Cooling Latex Mattress – Saatva Latex Hybrid
Saatva Latex Hybrid Mattress
The Saatva Latex Hybrid is a firmer hybrid model, combining latex foam and individually pocketed coils for excellent bounce and mobility. It has good pressure relief, so we recommend it for back, stomach, and combo sleepers.
Material
Latex
Trial Period
365 nights
Shipping Method
Free white glove delivery
Firmness
Firm: 7.5/10
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.Back Sleeping
Ideal for average weight and heavyweight back sleepers.Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Saatva Latex Hybrid Mattress
The Saatva Latex Hybrid is a firmer hybrid model, combining latex foam and individually pocketed coils for excellent bounce and mobility. It has good pressure relief, so we recommend it for back, stomach, and combo sleepers.
Material
Latex
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Firmness
Firm: 7.5/10
Shipping Method
Free white glove delivery
Trial Period
365 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.Back Sleeping
Ideal for average weight and heavyweight back sleepers.Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Saatva Latex Hybrid Mattress
The Saatva Latex Hybrid is a firmer hybrid model, combining latex foam and individually pocketed coils for excellent bounce and mobility. It has good pressure relief, so we recommend it for back, stomach, and combo sleepers.
Material
Latex
Firmness
Firm: 7.5/10
Trial Period
365 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Shipping Method
Free white glove delivery
Price Range
$$$$$
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types:
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.Back Pain
This bed is perfect for anyone suffering from back pain.Back Sleeping
Ideal for average weight and heavyweight back sleepers.Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for lightweight, average weight, and heavyweight stomach sleepers.Financing Options
Financing options are available for this mattress.
Expert Opinion
Part of why latex mattresses are so desirable is because they’re naturally cooling. The Saatva Latex Hybrid takes latex cooling powers to the next level with a layer of coils that allows for airflow and breathability. When we lie down on these materials, we feel incredibly cool and can tell that the mattress offers a breathable sleeping experience. It’s also worthwhile to note that the Saatva Latex Hybrid uses organic materials in the construction such as Talalay latex and a cover of organic cotton and wool, so those looking for an environmentally friendly bed should find a lot to like.
Another trait people love about Talalay latex mattresses is the material’s responsiveness, which makes it easy to move around and switch positions while sleeping. This is very much the case on the Saatva Latex Hybrid. When we tested it out, we found it to be very bouncy, granting us easy mobility.
What Customers Say
Saatva is known for its stellar customer service, partly because the brand offers free white glove delivery, where the company sends someone to your home to set up your new mattress and dispose of your old one. Customers rave about this on the Saatva website, in addition to how nice and supportive the Latex Hybrid feels on their back.
Pros of the Saatva Latex Hybrid Mattress
- While stomach sleepers often have a hard time finding a supportive-enough bed for their sleep position, the Saatva Latex Hybrid is a good fit. They should feel on top of the bed, with their hips neutrally aligned with their shoulders.
- The springs should help keep back sleepers’ spines in a neutral alignment.
- Saatva offers free white glove delivery when you purchase a mattress. This means that Saatva representatives will deliver your bed-in-a-box and set it up for you. They’ll also take away your old mattress for free.
Cons of the Saatva Latex Hybrid Mattress
- Side sleepers probably won’t receive the contouring and pressure relief they need in the hips and shoulders since this is a firmer mattress.
- If you sleep with a partner who tosses and turns a lot at night (or a very active pet), you’re likely to feel their movement on this mattress. We didn’t give this bed a high score for motion isolation.
Ready to check out this latex model from Saatva? Click here to get the best deal, or read our full Saatva Latex Hybrid review for more info. Or you can explore more options on our best cooling mattresses page.
Best Medium-Firm Latex Mattress – Birch
The Birch mattress is an all-natural bed that uses organic cotton and wool fibers to create a structure that’s as eco-friendly as it is cozy.
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress. The Birch mattress is an all-natural bed that uses organic cotton and wool fibers to create a structure that’s as eco-friendly as it is cozy.
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress. The Birch mattress is an all-natural bed that uses organic cotton and wool fibers to create a structure that’s as eco-friendly as it is cozy.
We recommend this mattress for the following sleeper types: Financing options are available for this mattress.Birch Natural Mattress
Material
Hybrid
Trial Period
100 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Medium-firm: 7/10
Warranty
25-year warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for average weight back sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for average weight stomach sleepers.
Financing Options
Birch Natural Mattress
Material
Hybrid
Warranty
25-year warranty
Firmness
Medium-firm: 7/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
100 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for average weight back sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for average weight stomach sleepers.
Financing Options
Birch Natural Mattress
Material
Hybrid
Firmness
Medium-firm: 7/10
Trial Period
100 nights
Warranty
25-year warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
Back Sleeping
Ideal for average weight back sleepers.
Stomach Sleeping
Ideal for average weight stomach sleepers.
Financing Options
Expert Opinion
Many people — back sleepers, in particular — love a proper balance between comfort and support, and this is typically achieved with a medium-firm latex mattress. We think the Birch (created by Helix) provides contouring and sturdiness that should keep these folks happy. Combination sleepers should like the Birch, too, as its Talalay latex foam and individually wrapped coils create enough bounce and responsiveness for them to easily switch sleeping positions at night.
It’s worth nothing that, when testing out the Birch, we experienced it as a 7 out of 10 on our mattress firmness scale. While we would technically classify that as firm, the industry standard for medium firmness is 6.5. Firmness tends to fluctuate from person to person, so we feel confident in calling this a medium-firm mattress. On Birch’s website, they say that most folks should experience it between a 6 and a 7 on the mattress firmness scale. This matches up with our testing. If you want the some of the same features, but a slightly softer construction, you can always check out the Birch Luxe, although it does cost a bit more.
What Customers Say
Birch was created by Helix, and there are nearly 2,000 reviews of the mattress on the company’s website. Many users love its balanced feel, and that it’s supportive without being too firm.
Pros of the Birch Mattress
- A 2021 review of existing mattress-related studies found that medium-firm and firm mattresses may be the best at promoting a neutral spine alignment, which may reduce your chances of experiencing back pain. We’d consider the Birch to be medium firm, meaning it could be a good choice if you have aches or pains in your lower back.
- The Birch offers natural elements in its construction. These include organic cotton, wool fibers, and all-natural Talalay latex, all of which make this a quality natural mattress for eco-conscious shoppers.
- Another bonus of eco-friendly materials? They tend to sleep cool. Latex and wool are naturally breathable, and the coils allow lots of air to flow through the mattress’s structure. This makes the Birch a good choice for hot sleepers.
Cons of the Birch Mattress
- The Birch is likely going to be a bit firmer and more responsive than side sleepers typically need.
Could the Birch be the mattress you’re looking for? Find out in our full review or click here to get the best deal if you’re ready to purchase. For more options, see our roundup of the best medium-firm mattresses.
Best Latex Mattress for Back Pain – Silk & Snow Organic
The Silk & Snow Organic is one of the most eco-friendly mattresses on the market. It offers comfort and support to many sleepers, and Silk & Snow is offering this bed at an affordable price.
The Silk & Snow Organic is one of the most eco-friendly mattresses on the market. It offers comfort and support to many sleepers, and Silk & Snow is offering this bed at an affordable price.
The Silk & Snow Organic is one of the most eco-friendly mattresses on the market. It offers comfort and support to many sleepers, and Silk & Snow is offering this bed at an affordable price.
Silk & Snow Organic Mattress
Material
Latex
Trial Period
100 nights
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Warranty
15-year warranty
Price Range
$$$$$
Silk & Snow Organic Mattress
Material
Latex
Warranty
15-year warranty
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Trial Period
100 nights
Price Range
$$$$$
Silk & Snow Organic Mattress
Material
Latex
Firmness
Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Trial Period
100 nights
Warranty
15-year warranty
Shipping Method
Free shipping
Price Range
$$$$$
Expert Opinion
When we tested out the hybrid Silk & Snow Organic, we gave it a 6.5 out of 10 on our mattress firmness scale, which is the industry standard for medium-firm. We could feel the durable Dunlop latex and supportive coils lifting our hips so they didn’t sink into the structure. This makes the bed a good choice for anyone struggling with back pain, as some research suggests that medium-firm to firm mattresses are better at keeping the spine neutrally aligned. In fact, a 2015 meta-analysis that examined 24 overall studies on different mattress firmness levels found that medium-firm to firm mattresses are best at providing spinal alignment and may help you sleep more comfortably.
We also put the Silk & Snow Organic through our pressure-map test to see how comfortable it would be for sleepers with back pain. We saw little to no pressure in the lumbar region while back sleeping, but did see some pressure while side sleeping. We think back sleeping is going to be the most comfortable position on the Silk & Snow Organic.
What Customers Say
There are 697 customer reviews of the Silk & Snow Organic on the brand’s website, and the majority are 5 out of 5 stars. 24 of these testimonials specifically praise the mattress’s effect on their back pain, with several people saying that their aches got better after a few nights of sleeping on the bed.
Pros of the Silk & Snow Organic Mattress
- As is the case with so many other latex mattresses, we found the Silk & Snow Organic to be naturally bouncy and responsive. This makes it a natural fit for combination sleepers.
- The Silk & Snow Organic has an extra-firm perimeter that helped it test well for strong edge support. You should be able to spread out and use the entire surface of the mattress.
- The Silk & Snow Organic stands out for offering a quality bed at a competitive price. With sales and discounts, you should often be able to find a queen close to or under $1,200. That’s a very affordable price for a latex mattress, and should appeal to budget shoppers.
Cons of the Silk & Snow Organic Mattress
- Per our pressure map results, side sleepers will probably want a softer bed that offers more of a sinking feeling — perhaps a memory foam mattress.
- The Silk & Snow Organic probably isn’t firm or supportive enough for stomach sleepers.
Interested in the Silk & Snow Organic? Learn more in our full Silk & Snow Organic mattress review. You can also click here for the best deal, or see or best mattress for back pain page for more options.
What is a Latex Mattress?
Latex is considered a natural foam made from a milky substance derived from the hevea-brasilienis rubber tree, which is removed in a process similar to maple tapping. When transformed into a foam, this substance produces a proliferation of tiny air bubbles, giving latex its soft and bouncy texture.
Typically speaking, an organic latex mattress will encompass three to four distinct layers of latex overlaid by a cotton cover. The various latex layers will feature varying firmness levels, allowing for an interplay between comfort and support. While different brands will always put their unique spin on the classic latex mattress, almost all of them feature excellent bounce, terrific temperature regulation, and a gentle feel.
Who Should Buy a Latex Mattress
Just because you buy latex balloons for your parties doesn’t mean you want to purchase a latex mattress. Could you be a top candidate for latex snoozing? Read below to find out.
Combination Sleepers
The common mix of pressure relief and responsiveness in a latex mattress is ideal for combo sleepers who often switch from one position to another throughout the night.
Eco-Conscious Sleepers
Obtained from a tree like you would maple syrup, the eco-lovers of the world should enjoy the 100 percent natural Dunlop latex or the organic Talalay latex materials that are often present in latex mattresses.
Durability Seekers
Any product will be subject to wear over time, but if you’re looking for the longest-lasting option, latex may be a good choice for you. This is especially true when compared to its foam competitors, which normally have much shorter warranties.
Hot Sleepers
Latex is a naturally cooling material, and these beds often receive impressive scores in cooling and work really well for those who tend to overheat at night.
Who Shouldn’t Buy a Latex Mattress
No mattress type or material is without flaw. There are things to dislike with memory foam and hybrid beds too, so let’s get into some key concerns about latex mattresses.
Those With Latex Allergies
Though latex allergies are rare, they exist. If you’re aware of an allergy, we’d recommend looking into a synthetic latex product. However, you’ll still want to do your research on the chemicals potentially present in a faux latex mattress.
Light Sleepers
If you’re easily disrupted during sleep and share the bed with a partner or pet, you probably won’t love a latex mattress. These beds typically have high motion transfer, meaning you’re more likely to feel someone else’s movements across the mattress.
We test motion transfer in our mattress lab with a few different methods, but our favorite is the drop test. For this test, we drop a 10-pound steel ball from three different heights and use a seismograph to measure the disturbance. Large lines indicate lots of disturbance and higher motion transfer, and the opposite is true for smaller lines and lower motion transfer.
See our complete Sleepopolis Methodology for more information on our testing processes.
Those With Bedrooms on the Top Floor
If you’re looking for a mattress that’s easy to move on your own, latex mattress may not be the best for you. Though very durable, natural latex is also dense, making it quite heavy.
Budget Shoppers
Latex beds tend to be more on the expensive side, so if you’re on a budget, you may want to consider other options.
Things to Consider When Buying a Latex Mattress
It goes way beyond simple pros and cons. Purchasing a mattress is a huge investment, and we want to make sure that whatever you choose is the best fit for your individual needs.
Sleeping Position
The position you tend to sleep in should play a role in your mattress purchasing journey as well. Side sleepers will generally want a softer mattress, while back sleepers will prefer medium to firm, and stomach sleepers should like firm or extra-firm best. A lot of these brands have put their own spin on a latex bed, so you shouldn’t have too much trouble finding the best fit for you.
To learn more, see our guide on The Best Sleeping Position for Better Health and Sleep.
Body Weight
More often than not, average weight sleepers will feel a bed as advertised. However, lighter sleepers could feel a mattress firmer or softer depending on the construction of the mattress’s layers. Heavier sleepers, on the other hand, require quite dense mattresses, so it’s often a better choice to look for ones that are tailored for them. For additional options, take a look at our best mattresses for heavy people roundup.
Firmness
A bed’s firmness level is a good indicator of how it will perform for specific sleeping positions, weights, or pain areas. If you’re versed in your needs, you’ll be better prepared to choose a firmness that works for you. As mentioned above, side sleepers will need the softest mattress, stomach sleepers will need the firmest, and back sleepers fall somewhere in between.
Pressure/Pain Relief
Pressure relief refers to how well a bed alleviates tension at sensitive pressure points. These pain points are typically found at the hips, shoulders, and lower back. Everybody is different, so how a mattress feels to you may be different than how it is for someone else, and how it may impact your pain points will be different as well.
However, generally speaking, softer mattresses will offer more relief for those with hip or shoulder pain. A bed’s pressure-relieving properties can also heavily depend on sleeping position. For example, a back sleeper with back pain will likely need a firm bed to help keep their spine aligned, whereas a side sleeper with back pain should need something softer to allow their hips and shoulders to sink in enough for proper spinal alignment.
Off-Gassing
Off-gassing is a common process among most mattresses. It refers to the time period your mattress needs to rest, allowing the “new mattress smell,” either from compression or other packaging processes, to dissipate. The intensity and variety can also depend on the materials within your mattress and how recently it was made. Latex mattresses tend to off-gas less than synthetic foam beds.
Latex vs Other Types of Mattresses
Now it’s time to “lay down” the hard facts. Which material do you want in your corner? Will you be loyal to one or would you prefer some type of happy medium?
Latex Mattress vs Memory Foam Mattress
- Many memory foam mattresses are dense and tend to retain heat, but a 100 percent latex bed is likely to be a bit more porous and sleeps cooler.
- Latex comes in natural, synthetic, as well as a hybrid mix of both, while memory foam is completely man-made.
- For more on the latex and memory foam battle, check out our comprehensive guide to latex vs memory foam.
Latex Mattress vs Hybrid Mattress
- There is latex present in some hybrid mattresses, but not all. Most hybrid mattresses contain a combination of foams, coils, and other materials.
- Hybrids create the best of both worlds from foam and coil mattresses, meeting a wider range of needs.
- Check out our best hybrid mattresses, also featuring the Birch.
Latex Mattress vs Innerspring Mattress
- Both mattresses offer a great amount of bounce, support, and cooling.
- Some beds are latex and innerspring, like the Birch.
- The best innerspring mattresses usually contain layers of foam on top of coils, but it isn’t always latex foam. It can include memory foam as well.
For more on mattress materials, see our Mattress Layers Guide.
What Makes a Latex Mattress Environmentally Friendly
Before we get into the final product’s ecological footprint, let’s first discuss the process. Latex is extracted similarly to maple syrup, carefully drawn out from rubber trees. The parts of these trees that release the natural latex are right beneath the surface. This makes it simple to pull away the bark and extract the product without harming the tree. Extraction also only occurs in the same spot for a certain period of time. After each area hits the six-year cut off, the extraction site is moved to other areas to allow that one to heal.
Below are some of the various environmental standards that these materials can be certified by:
- Global Organic Textile Standards (GOTS) – Driven by respect for people and the environment, the GOTS designates the requirements for organic textiles. Textiles certified by GOTS provide credibility for suppliers and consumers.
- Global Organic Latex Standards (GOLS) – GOLS are the most important, as they certify organic latex. These standards follow the practices of the farmer all the way to the manufacture to ensure it’s an organic process all around.
- OEKO-TEX Standard 100 – If you see this label on a product, you can be assured that every fabric and fiber of it has been tested for, and does not contain harmful substances. They help aid in customer confidence and top product safety.
You can learn more about these certifications in our full mattress certifications guide.
FAQs
What are the benefits of a latex mattress?
Latex mattresses offer several benefits. Latex is a natural material, so it appeals to folks who are looking for an organic bed free of chemicals. It also creates mattresses with great bounce and durability (often beneficial for combination sleepers) and it does a great job of dissipating body heat (which is great for hot sleepers).
Is latex better than memory foam?
Latex isn’t necessarily better than memory foam. The “best” material for a mattress is a matter of personal preference. That said, each material offers its own advantages. For example, memory foam is known for offering plenty of body-contouring and pressure relief. Meanwhile, latex tends to offer more bounce, mobility, and durability than foams, and it also tends to sleep cooler.
Do latex mattresses sag?
Eventually, all mattresses will need to be replaced due to sagging or other wear and tear. In general, latex does prove more durable than memory foam. This is reflected in the fact that latex mattresses tend to offer longer warranties than their foam counterparts.
Best Latex Mattresses 2024
Mattress | Best For | Price (Queen) | Coupon | Review |
---|---|---|---|---|
Nolah Natural | Overall | $2,099 | Nolah Coupon | Read Our Review |
WinkBeds EcoCloud | Organic | $1,999 | WinkBed Coupon | Read Our Review |
Plank Firm Natural | Firm | $2,132 | Brooklyn Bedding Coupon | Read Our Review |
Brooklyn Bedding EcoSleep | Back Sleepers | $1,874 | Brooklyn Bedding Coupon | Read Our Review |
Saatva Latex Hybrid | Best Cooling | $2,195 | Saatva Coupon | Read Our Review |
Birch | Best Medium-Firm | $1,812 | Birch Coupon | Read Our Review |
Silk & Snow Organic | Back Pain | $1,200 | Check Our Coupons | Read Our Review |
Sources
Caggiari Gianfilippo. What type of mattress should be chosen to avoid back pain and improve sleep quality? Review of the literature. Journal of Orthopaedics and Traumatology. 2021. https://jorthoptraumatol.springeropen.com/articles/10.1186/s10195-021-00616-5
Guerra Brizuela Nayrim. Biomedical applications of natural rubber latex from the rubber tree Hevea brasiliensis. Materials Science and Engineering. 2021. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34082943/
Radwan Ahmed. Effect of different mattress designs on promoting sleep quality, pain reduction, and spinal alignment in adults with or without back pain; systematic review of controlled trials. Sleep Health. 2015. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29073401/