The best mattresses with latex bring together the best of both worlds: They’re bouncy and supportive like hybrid and innerspring mattresses, but they also relieve pressure well like those made from traditional memory foam. They’re typically eco-friendly because they’re often made from natural latex that’s biodegradable and free from harmful chemicals. And when it comes to pain relief, latex is hard to beat — a high-quality latex mattress can help support a neutral spinal alignment at night while providing just the right amount of cushioning for sensitive joints. If any of this sounds like it could be a good fit for you, keep reading because we’ve got everything you need to know about shopping for a latex bed.
For over a decade, our mattress experts and certified sleep science coaches have tested more than 300 beds to assess key characteristics and make recommendations for every type of sleeper. Every mattress we test goes through a 13-step review process using our in-depth test methodology designed to tease out pros and cons — and what it’s actually like to sleep on that mattress. When selecting the best latex mattresses, here are the primary factors we looked at:
- Cooling: While latex mattresses are typically more breathable than memory foam models, they can still trap heat. We used a thermal gun to test this and gave higher ratings to mattresses that saw less than a 5-degree temperature increase after we’d rested on them for five minutes.
- Support: Latex provides responsive support by evenly distributing body weight, which can help relieve tension at pressure points for both back and side sleepers. We gave mattresses high ratings for support when they bolstered the spine and helped maintain neutral spinal alignment without sacrificing comfort.
- Quality Materials: Natural latex is durable, eco-friendly, and hypoallergenic. The mattresses on this list use high-quality, sustainably sourced latex.
While creating this latex mattress guide, we also worked with board-certified sleep doctor Dr. Raj Dasgupta, MD, FACP, FCCP, FAASM, to evaluate what to look for. Based on this research and our test findings, here are the best latex beds to give you a comfortable, well-supported night of sleep.
Best Latex Mattresses of 2025
- Best Overall Latex Mattress – Nolah Natural
- Best Medium-Firm Latex Mattress – Birch
- Best Latex Mattress for Back Pain – Silk & Snow Organic
- Best Cooling Latex Mattress – Saatva Latex Hybrid
- Best Organic Latex Mattress – WinkBeds EcoCloud
- Best Latex Mattress for Back Sleepers – Brooklyn Bedding EcoSleep
What I Looked for in the Best Latex Mattresses
With my team of mattress experts and certified sleep science coaches, I’ve tested more than a dozen latex mattresses over the years, with a focus on cooling, support, and material quality. But to help sleepers of all kinds find their perfect mattress, we also looked at these other important factors:
- Motion isolation: If you sleep with a restless partner (or wiggly pet), you’ll want a mattress that absorbs movement well so your sleep isn’t disrupted. Latex is known for being on the bouncier side, which means it tends to transfer the effects of motion to the other side of the bed. To make this list, we looked for latex mattresses that did a good job of isolating movement in spite of that reputation. Make no mistake: not all of the beds excel in this category. But they scored at least a 3 out of 5 or above (with most of them earning a 3.5) and should work for folks who aren’t woken up easily.
- Pressure Relief: Latex mattresses provide balanced pressure relief by evenly distributing body weight, which helps support good spinal alignment. I’ve included mattresses that gently contour the body to relieve tension at pressure points without excessive sinkage.
- Price: Latex mattresses are typically on the pricier side, with a queen size ranging in price from $1,000 to $2,195. In this roundup we tried to balance quality and cost to give our readers the biggest bang for their buck.
The mattresses on this list are hybrid models that combine latex with innerspring coils. These beds aren’t strictly latex models in the same way memory foam beds are made from 100-percent memory foam, but all of them use latex as the primary material in their construction.
RELATED: Best Memory Foam Mattress
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| Nolah Natural Mattress | Birch Natural Mattress | Silk & Snow Organic Mattress | Saatva Latex Hybrid Mattress | WinkBeds EcoCloud Mattress | Brooklyn Bedding EcoSleep | |
| Rating | ||||||
| Firmness | Medium-soft: 6/10 | Firm: 7/10 | Medium-firm: 6.5/10 | Firm: 7.5/10 | Medium-firm: 6.5/10 | Multiple firmness options |
| Material | Latex | Hybrid | Latex | Latex | Latex | Latex |
| Cooling | — | |||||
| Best For |
Side Sleepers, Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers, Hot Sleepers, Back Pain
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Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers, Hot Sleepers, Seniors,
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Hot Sleepers,
Back Sleepers |
Stomach Sleepers, Back Sleepers, Back Pain, Hot Sleepers,
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Back Sleepers,
Side Sleepers |
Back Sleepers,
Stomach Sleepers, Hot Sleepers |
Best Latex Mattress Video Review
Nolah Natural – Best Overall Latex Mattress
The Nolah Natural is made with eco-friendly Talalay latex and supportive coils. This mattress has GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard) organic wool, cotton, natural latex, and recycled steel. The latex makes this mattress responsive, which is great for couples and combination sleepers. This material is also naturally hypoallergenic and cooling, which can help hot sleepers prevent overheating. For more information, watch our video review.
What our tester says:
“It has a very soft, plush feel that provides you some cushioning as well. I’d say you’re going to feel more “on top” of this bed than “in it” — thanks to its bouncy latex.” – Bridget Chapman, former senior product editor.
The Nolah Natural has everything sleepers want in a latex mattress. Eco-friendly and hypoallergenic materials? Check. Excellent cooling capabilities? Check. Best-in-class pressure relief across all sleeping positions — to the extent that we gave it a 4.5 out of 5 in this category? Check. And the best part? While the Nolah Natural is on the pricier side at $2,099 for a queen-size mattress, it’s often on sale for under $1,500.
To test the Nolah Natural, I first lay down in the back and side-sleeping positions to see how it relieved pressure around my lower back, shoulders, and hips. On my back, my hips sank in just the right amount, and my spine felt aligned and comfortable. I never noticed any pain or pressure around my lower lumbar area after settling in. Similarly, I found that my hips and shoulders had the perfect amount of cushioning to prevent any discomfort and pressure buildup while on my side.
I then took a look at how the Nolah Natural might alleviate pain with our pressure map, a graphic that uses color coding to show where pressure can build up in the body when you lie on a mattress (you can look at the results below). Based on this, I would recommend the bed to both side and back sleepers, as well as combination sleepers who switch between these two sleep positions often. These sleepers should get ample pressure relief in either position, and thanks to the bed’s responsiveness, they should also find it easy to move around on.
As for cooling, if you’re someone who tends to kick off your sheets in the middle of the night, the Nolah Natural is a good fit; it’s designed with breathability in mind. I gave its cooling abilities and materials a 4 and 4.5 out of 5, respectively. Our expert mattress tester, Bridget Chapman, further explains, “If you’re a hot sleeper, then I think you’ll enjoy the cooling factors in this mattress. The Talalay latex and coil system work together to promote airflow, maximize breathability, and prevent body heat from building up.”
However, one thing to note: The Nolah Natural isn’t the best at isolating motion. While most couples should still feel comfortable on this bed, folks who wake up easily at night might want to explore mattress options that are more effective at stifling the effects of movement.
For a deeper dive into the Nolah Natural and all of its awesome features, check out our Nolah Natural mattress review. For another high-quality (albeit more expensive) latex option, check out the Avocado Green.
Best Medium-Firm Latex Mattress – Birch
The Birch Natural is a latex mattress utilizing individually wrapped coils for added support. This mattress specializes in cooling and responsiveness, and the firmer nature suits back and stomach sleepers well. Perhaps the most special part about this mattress is the material quality. Not only is the Birch organic, but it has also earned multiple certifications for safe production and materials. For more information, check out our video review.
What our tester says:
“One of my favorite things about the Birch is how cooling it is. I think any hot sleeper will be satisfied by this breathable bed. It’s definitely one of the most cooling mattresses available thanks to its wool and latex layers. These cooling materials also make it one of my favorite organic mattresses.” – Madison Schaper, Sleepopolis staff writer
The Birch Natural is a solid choice for anyone looking for a medium-firm latex mattress with top-notch materials and a stellar 5-out-of-5 lifetime warranty. After testing it, I rated it a 7 out of 10 on the firmness scale, which technically places it just above what we consider “medium firm” (6.5), but I think it strikes a nice balance between firmness and cushion.
When lying on my stomach, I felt my hips were elevated enough to stay aligned with my shoulders. As a stomach sleeper, this type of alignment is important to me, because any misalignment can lead to back pain further down the road. Overall, I think this bed is great for back and stomach sleepers who struggle with back pain.
My fellow mattress tester, Madison Schaper, agrees with my take. “Feel-wise, I think the firmness of this mattress is going to work best for back or stomach sleepers,” she says. “The Birch also offers great bounce, which means combination sleepers should feel comfortable on the mattress.”
RELATED: Best Mattress for Combination Sleepers
As for pressure relief, I saw almost all blue on my pressure map when I tested this mattress on my back, which means it does a great job of distributing body weight evenly. However, I noticed more green on my side, meaning side sleepers with sensitive joints might need more cushioning at their hips and shoulders to avoid tension building up. I gave it a 4 out of 5 for pressure relief overall.
Cooling is another area where the Birch excels. I gave it a solid 4 out of 5 for cooling, thanks to its breathable layers of natural wool and latex, which help prevent body heat from getting trapped. Due to these superior cooling abilities, it’s a great choice for couples because you won’t wake up sweating together in the middle of the night — any more than you want to.
Finally, when it comes to materials, Birch gets two big green thumbs-up. I gave it a 4.5 out of 5 for the quality of its eco-friendly construction, in part due to a Greenguard Gold certification that guarantees it’s free from harmful chemicals and VOCs. Thanks to this, I didn’t experience any off-gassing or smell any overpowering new mattress smell during unboxing — just clean, fresh air, which is a big win in my book.
Could the Birch be the mattress you’re looking for? Find out in our full Birch Natural mattress review. You can also check out the luxury upgrade version, the Birch Luxe.
Best Latex Mattress for Back Pain – Silk & Snow Organic
The Silk & Snow Organic mattress is a great choice for shoppers wanting an eco-friendly mattress. The Dunlop latex and coils make this mattress bouncy and responsive, which is great for both combination sleepers and couples. We also think this bed is an excellent choice for back sleepers, especially those suffering from back pain. The medium-firm feel provides a nice balance between soft cushioning and firm support. We also think this bed could be good for hot sleepers, as the latex is super breathable and the coils provide additional airflow. This mattress is also very affordable and could be a great find for budget shoppers.
What our tester says:
“Back sleepers should really like the Silk & Snow Organic. I think they’ll enjoy the zoned support the mattress offers, which means it has a softer feel under the head and leg area to allow sinkage in those zones — while keeping your hips at the right height.” – Bridget Chapman, former senior product editor
Latex mattresses have all the key ingredients that folks with back pain need: They’re responsive and supportive, and they also offer the right balance of firmness and pressure relief to fill out the lower lumbar area and promote healthy spinal alignment. As Dr. Raj Dasgupta, our medical advisor, explains, “The right mattress will support your body, help you sleep more comfortably, may prevent frequent awakenings throughout the night, and avoid problems like back pain.”
The Silk & Snow Organic is a great choice in this category, scoring a 4.5 out of 5 for support and a 6.5 out of 10 for firmness — right in the medium-firm range.
Most available research — including this 2015 meta-analysis of 24 studies — suggests that medium-firm to firm mattresses are often the best for good spinal alignment, which can help prevent strain to alleviate back pain. During testing, I found that the Silk & Snow’s medium-firm feel fit this profile perfectly. The mattress provided enough lumbar support to keep my spine neutrally aligned while still offering a bit of cushioning to reduce pressure on my lower back and other sensitive areas.
To round out my take on the mattress, I put the Silk & Snow through our pressure map test to see how comfortable it would be for sleepers with back pain. I saw little to no pressure in the lumbar region while back sleeping, but did see some pressure while side sleeping. My fellow mattress tester, Bridget Chapman, found similar results, which led us to recommend this bed to back sleepers looking for some relief for those lower-back aches and pains. Given all this, we gave it a 4 out of 5 for overall pressure relief.
RELATED: Best Mattresses for Back Pain
Finally, I noted another huge perk of the Silk & Snow Organic mattress: Its price tag is really competitive compared to some of the other beds on this list. The mattress starts at $1,000 for a queen-sized mattress before any discounts, which is a steal in this category. On the other hand, its drawbacks include a less-than-stellar sleep trial period (100 nights) and warranty (15 years).
To get a more detailed look at my experience with this budget-friendly latex mattress, be sure to check out our full Silk & Snow Organic mattress review. If you’d prefer an organic mattress with a more generous sleep trial and warranty, I recommend taking a look at the Avocado Latex Mattress.
Best Cooling Latex Mattress – Saatva Latex Hybrid
The Saatva Latex Hybrid is an excellent choice for anyone seeking a firm yet bouncy bed. The latex foam and coils make this mattress very supportive, which can appeal to back sleepers, stomach sleepers, and sleepers weighing over 250 pounds. This bed is also very responsive, which makes it a solid choice for combination sleepers who need to easily change sleeping positions without getting stuck. We consider the Saatva Latex Hybrid to be a durable mattress made with high-quality materials, and the lifetime warranty indicates it should last you for many years to come.
What our tester says:
“The Saatva Latex Hybrid definitely has cooling under control. Latex is a naturally cooling material, allowing this mattress to regulate body temperature and provide a cool sleeping experience. Plus, the same individually wrapped coil layer that gives the Saatva Latex Hybrid its bounce also allows for air to flow through the mattress, adding to its overall breathability.” – Bridget Chapman, former senior product editor
A big part of why latex mattresses are so desirable is that they’re naturally cooling. The Saatva Latex Hybrid takes the temperature-regulating superpowers of latex to the next level with a layer of well-spaced innerspring coils that allows for optimal airflow and breathability, all of which earns it a 4.5 out of 5 in the cooling category.
When I lay down on this mattress for testing, I felt its cool-to-the-touch surface immediately, and could tell that the mattress offers a breathable sleeping experience based on its airy cotton cover and other materials.
The mattress’s innerspring coil layer also works wonders for the bed’s overall edge support. I was pleasantly surprised by how stable and secure I felt while sitting and lying on the edges, which is a big plus for anyone who needs extra support for getting in and out. For this reason, I gave the Saatva Latex Hybrid a 4.5 out of 5 score in both edge support and overall support categories.
Combination sleepers should also find plenty to love about the Saatva Latex Hybrid. It’s extremely responsive, which means it’ll be easier to switch between different sleeping positions. In fact, I gave this mattress a 5 out of 5 for responsiveness because it is incredibly easy to move around on it.
For more about this mattress, read our full Saatva Latex Hybrid mattress review. You can also explore another luxury latex option with the Avocado Latex mattress.
Best Organic Latex Mattress – WinkBeds EcoCloud
If you’re looking for a mattress made with high-quality, organic materials, then look no further than the WinkBeds EcoCloud mattress. This bed is packed with sustainable materials, including organic cotton, sustainable New Zeland wool, natural Talalay latex, and recycled steel coils. The quilted cover gives this bed an initial plush feel, and the sturdy coils below provide lift and support. We especially like this bed for back sleepers, as it has the perfect balance between pressure relief and lumbar support. We also think hot sleepers would enjoy the breathable materials that work to keep the bed cool all night.
What our tester says:
“The EcoCloud is a great mattress for back sleepers. it has zoned support, which is meant to help promote a neutral spinal alignment, especially when back sleeping.” – Nichole Mondshein, lead reviewer and staff writer
For folks who prefer their mattresses organic and all-natural, the WinkBeds EcoCloud stands out as one of the best. I gave this mattress a 5 out of 5 in the materials category for its high-quality eco-friendly construction. The mattress is made with GOTS-certified cotton, and has earned certifications from the Rainforest Alliance and Eco Initiative for its recycled coils.
As my fellow mattress tester, Nichole Mondshein, puts it: “Anyone looking for a bed made from eco-friendly natural materials will be happy with the EcoCloud. I think it’s one of the most sustainable mattresses on the market.”
From the moment I lay down on the EcoCloud, I noticed its plush yet supportive feel — a product of its medium-firm comfort level. For back sleepers, I think this bed offers just the right balance of cushion and firmness. The bouncy latex helped me move around easily, while the bottom layer of recycled steel coils provided the support I needed to keep my spine aligned.
For a small hit of plushness, I found that the soft quilted cover adds to the luxurious feel without sacrificing its 4.5-out-of-5 support level. My hips sank a bit more than the rest of my body; however, my spine stayed in a neutral position, while the added padding gave me some excellent pressure relief around my lower back.
I was also really impressed with the specialized “Extra-Edge” support coils around the perimeter of the mattress. I didn’t feel like I was rolling off the edge when sitting or lying near it. This reinforced edge allowed me to sleep comfortably at the far sides of the bed, which led me to give the mattress a perfect 5 out of 5 for both edge support and support overall.
To test the cooling, I used a thermal gun, which measures how much the mattress heats up when you lie on it.
RELATED: Best Cooling Mattresses for Hot Sleepers
That said, there are a couple of things to keep in mind before you decide to buy this mattress. While it’s great for back sleepers and combo sleepers, side sleepers might find it a bit too firm, especially at the hips and shoulders.
Interested in the WinkBeds EcoCloud? Learn more in our full EcoCloud mattress review. You can also check out the brand’s non-latex options, including the original WinkBed.
Best Latex Mattress for Back Sleepers – Brooklyn Bedding EcoSleep
The Brooklyn Bedding EcoSleep mattress is an organic, latex hybrid mattress that’s supportive, bouncy, and natural. We think this bed is a great pick for heavy weight sleepers (those weighing over 250 pounds), and these folk should feel supported and comfortable. We also like this firm mattress for stomach sleepers, as it can help keep their hips propped up and promote proper spinal alignment. If you sleep on your back and prefer a firmer feel, then this mattress could be a nice choice. We also appreciate how cool this mattress sleeps due to its breathable latex foams and airy coils.
What our tester says:
“The EcoSleep is a responsive mattress. Changing positions will probably be easy for most people. Even if you sink into the latex a bit, you’re not going to get much of a contouring feel from this mattress.” – Logan Block, former content director
Brooklyn Bedding’s EcoSleep mattress immediately stood out to me as an excellent choice for back sleepers. Thanks to its high-quality organic materials and thoughtful construction, it provided exceptional support for my spine — so much so that I have it a 4.5 out of 5 in the support category. The combination of 3 inches of durable latex and 6 inches of innerspring coils sets it apart from the rest of the list, offering the perfect balance of firmness and responsiveness for those who sleep on their back.
To test its pain and pressure-relieving abilities, my colleagues and I rolled out a specialized mat and lay down on it in various positions to see how well the mattress relieved pressure.
The pressure map showed little to no pressure in all sleep positions. However, on my side, I did feel some uncomfortable pressure around my shoulders and hips. The EcoSleep’s firmer feel doesn’t allow for the deeper contouring that most side sleepers typically need, so this is something to keep in mind if that’s your preferred sleep position.
From a mobility perspective, this bed is fantastic. To test how responsive it is, I dropped a 10-pound ball onto the mattress to simulate how easily a sleeper can move around — or how quickly the mattress returns to a neutral position after you remove your weight from it. The ball bounced back quickly with no sinking or “stuck” feeling, earning it a 5 out of 5 in this category.
My colleagues also found that the mattress had a responsive, bouncy feel, which made it easy to change positions while sleeping. When putting the EcoSleep through its paces, my fellow mattress tester Logan Block noted, “Changing positions is easy on the EcoSleep because of the bounciness of the mattress,” he said. “Mobility is high.”
In terms of cooling, the EcoSleep does well here, too. I immediately noticed how breathable the cover and latex foam were, and they did an excellent job of dispersing heat, keeping me comfortable throughout my tests without overheating. Overall, I gave it a 4 out of 5 for cooling.
On the downside, the motion isolation leaves something to be desired. While the 10-pound ball drop revealed stellar responsiveness, it also transferred a lot of motion across the bed. If you share the bed with a restless partner, you may feel disturbed by their movements.
Check out our full Brooklyn Bedding EcoSleep mattress review to learn more about this mattress. If you’re still not sold on the EcoSleep, check out the Awara Natural Luxury Hybrid mattress for another luxury latex option from a different brand.
Other Latex Mattresses I Considered
We tested many other latex mattresses, and while we found a couple of great contenders, they still didn’t quite make it onto our best list. However, these are still worth a second look, depending on your needs.
Avocado Latex Mattress
The Avocado Latex mattress gets an honorable mention because it is an organic latex foam bed with natural cooling, durable materials, and lots of springy support. This bed is perfect for back and stomach sleepers who prefer a firmer mattress with all-natural materials (and the certifications to show for it).
However, it didn’t quite make it onto my list because it is incredibly firm, earning an 8 out of 10 on our scale. This makes it a no-go for most lightweight and strict side sleepers, as these folks will not get enough cushioning around high-pressure areas like their hips and shoulders.
Birch Luxe Natural Mattress
The Birch Luxe Natural mattress has a lot going for it. Like the original Birch Natural mattress, the Birch Luxe is great for back sleepers and couples looking for an eco-friendly mattress. The Birch Luxe also features a plush Euro-top cover that gives heavier sleepers a few more inches to sink into versus the standard model.
While the plush mattress topper is a welcome addition, I didn’t choose this mattress over the original Birch because I don’t feel the Euro top comfort layer warrants the extra money (roughly $750) you’d spend for the Luxe model.
How We Picked and Tested These Latex Mattresses
We take a hands-on approach to testing every mattress that comes our way. Our team has tested more than 300 mattresses, so we know exactly what to look for in terms of comfort, support, and durability. We combine expert input with real-world assessments to evaluate each mattress on a variety of factors that matter most to you, from cooling to pressure relief to overall support.
We also work with a dedicated network of professionals, including physical therapists, chiropractors, and sleep specialists, to ensure our recommendations are backed by credentialed expertise. This collaboration gives us the confidence to recommend mattresses based on not just how well they support various sleeping positions, preferences, and sleep-related concerns — but also the latest scientific evidence about your sleep health.
To form a comprehensive understanding of how each latex mattress performs, we use pressure-mapping technology to determine its pain-elieving capabilities, a thermal gun to see how its construction affects temperature regulation, and motion transfer tests to see if couples and combination sleepers will find it comfortable. Our hands-on process ensures that we also assess how a mattress feels in real life, not just based on its specifications. Here are some of the key tests we run on each latex mattress:
Cooling
Using a thermal gun, we measure the temperature of the mattress before we get onto the bed and then after lying on it for 5 minutes. If the temperature increases 5 degrees or less we consider the mattress to have excellent cooling, while 5 to 10 degrees indicates good cooling, 10 to 15 degrees indicates satisfactory cooling, and over 15 degrees indicates poor cooling.
Pressure Relief
We test for pressure relief in a mattress by using a pressure mat that I spread out onto a mattress and lie on in various positions. The mat then gives a digital thermal reading of the places where pressure is absorbed by the mattress, and where it’s building up on our bodies in various positions. You can see here that blue and green show good pressure relief, whereas red and yellow are signs of poor pressure relief. Latex is generally good at relieving pressure for back and side sleepers, but is usually not great for stomach sleepers, so you’ll see more red and yellow when we tested with the pressure map in the latter sleep position.
Responsiveness
Throughout our testing, our team rolls around and switches positions on each mattress, noting how easy it is to do so. We also have our testers press their hands into the center of the bed, compressing the layers for 7 seconds — and then letting go to observe the movement of each layer and what that means for the overall responsiveness of the bed.
At the end of every roundup or review, we want you to walk away with a 360-degree view of each mattress, backed by hands-on testing and expert insights. We know that buying a mattress is an expensive endeavor, and we want to give you all the information you need to make the right choice for your budget — and for a more restful night of sleep.
What to Consider When Buying a Latex Mattress
With so many options available, purchasing a latex mattress can feel a bit overwhelming. However, once you know what to look for, choosing the right one for you becomes much easier. To help you make a more confident decision, here’s what I keep in mind when reviewing each latex mattress.
Sleeping Position
Your sleeping position plays a significant role in selecting the right latex mattress for you. Whether you’re a side, back, or stomach sleeper, the right mattress will comfortably support your body and keep your spine aligned.
For side sleepers, a slightly softer latex mattress is ideal because it allows your body to sink in just enough to cushion and relieve pressure from the hips and shoulders. Latex is naturally bouncier than memory foam, so side sleepers should look for a softer latex mattress (6 out of 10 on the firmness scale or lower) to get more contouring and pressure relief around their hips and shoulders.
As a stomach sleeper, I find that medium-firm and firm mattresses work best. They keep my spine aligned without allowing too much sinkage around my hips, and offer a good balance between support and comfort. Latex mattresses, particularly those in the medium-firm to firm range, provide the right amount of cushioning while ensuring proper lumbar support.
Stomach sleepers typically need a firmer mattress to prevent the hips from sinking too deeply, which could cause misalignment and back pain. Although latex is naturally resilient, most latex beds tend to have a medium to medium-firm feel, so stomach sleepers may need to explore firmer options or hybrids for more support.
Body Type and Weight
Your body type and weight also play an important role in finding the best latex mattress for you. You want something that provides enough support without being too soft or too firm for your body.
- If you weigh under 130 pounds, you might prefer a softer latex mattress. Latex allows for slight sinking while still maintaining support, offering relief for pressure points without feeling too firm. A mattress that’s too firm, however, might not give enough cushioning around your hips and shoulders.
- For those in the average weight range of 130–250 pounds, a medium-firm latex mattress is often ideal. Most latex beds in this range will provide a good balance of support and pressure relief, contouring to the body without excessive sinking.
- Heavier sleepers over 250 pounds should opt for a firmer latex mattress or one with additional support features, such as thicker coils or a multi-layer construction. Latex is durable and supportive, but if you’re on the heavier side, make sure the mattress has a solid, high-density support layer to prevent you from sinking too far into its surface.
Bounce and Elasticity
Latex beds are known for their excellent bounce and elasticity, providing a responsive surface that quickly returns to its original shape after pressure is applied to it. This makes latex beds well-suited for various sleeping positions, especially for side and back sleepers who need strong support, neutral spinal alignment, and comfort.
Additionally, the responsiveness of latex beds can enhance sexual activity by making it easier to move around and change positions — and less likely that one of you will sink too far into the bed’s surface — which makes them a popular choice for couples.
Firmness
A bed’s firmness level is a good indicator of how it will perform for specific sleeping positions, body weights, and pain areas. Consider not only your body type and personal preferences, but also your sleep position when making a decision here. As mentioned above, side sleepers will likely need the softest mattress, stomach sleepers will need the firmest, and back sleepers will fall somewhere in between.
We test all of our mattresses’ firmness levels using our expertly developed firmness scale, which places a mattress on a scale from 1 to 10, with 10 being the most firm and a 6.5 representing “medium firm,” which is the most common mattress firmness. This can also be the best firmness option for those looking to ease pain with their latex mattress, according to Dr. Raj Dasgupta. “Look for one that’s medium firm, supportive, offers pressure relief, and keeps your spine aligned,” he says.
Latex mattresses are generally not the firmest mattresses on the market, but some brands do offer various firmness levels. I love latex mattresses for most back sleepers and some side sleepers, but they’re typically a little too soft for stomach sleepers.
Pressure Relief
Pressure relief refers to how well a mattress alleviates tension at pressure points like the hips, shoulders, and lower back. Latex is naturally good at pressure relief, especially for back and side sleepers, because it contours to your body without letting you sink in too deeply.
To test pressure relief, we place a pressure-mapping mat on a mattress and then lie on it in various sleep positions to generate a visual readout of where pressure is building up in the body. Areas marked in blue and green indicate good pressure relief, while red and yellow show where a mattress is creating potential pressure points. Latex mattresses typically provide excellent pressure relief for back and side sleepers but may not be the best option for stomach sleepers, who might need more firmness through their lower cores to prevent sinking.
Durability
Latex mattresses are highly durable and typically last for decades due to their high-quality, long-lasting materials. Natural latex in particular has a longer lifespan compared to synthetic or blended latex, and better maintains its shape, responsiveness, and pressure-relieving abilities over time. This durability makes latex mattresses worth the higher cost for long-term comfort and support.
Our medical advisor, Dr. Raj Dasgupta, further explains, “Out of all mattress materials, latex tends to be the most durable. These beds often last 10–20 years and make the higher investment worth it in the long term. Natural latex especially retains its shape well and holds its supportive properties without sagging.”
Temperature and Cooling
Latex is naturally more breathable than memory foam, which can make it a better choice for hot sleepers. The open-cell structure of latex allows for better airflow, preventing the mattress from trapping body heat. As with any mattress, though, factors like the mattress cover, thickness, and any added innerspring or memory foam layers can affect cooling performance.
Some latex mattresses may incorporate cooling features such as breathable covers or natural wool layers that further enhance cooling. Generally, latex mattresses are excellent at maintaining a cooler sleep environment compared to materials like memory foam, but if you sleep particularly hot, make sure to look for additional cooling features in the construction.
Motion Isolation
If you sleep with a restless partner or pet, you may be concerned about motion transfer. Latex mattresses tend to be bouncier and less effective at isolating motion compared to slower-moving memory foam, which is known for its ability to absorb and minimize motion. However, many latex mattresses do have good motion isolation for light movements.
If you’re sensitive to motion transfer, consider a memory foam mattress. Most will perform better than a latex or hybrid model that combines coils with latex or memory foam.
Price
Latex mattresses generally fall in the mid-to-high price range, or typically between $1,000 to $2,195 for a queen size. While these mattresses can be more expensive, their durability and eco-friendly materials often make them worth the investment. That said, it’s essential to find a latex mattress that fits within your budget while still providing the quality and features you need.
Be cautious of cheaper latex mattresses, as they might use synthetic latex or have thinner support layers of latex, which can impact durability and comfort. On the flip side, higher-priced models often use organic materials and feature improved durability, cooling, and pressure relief.
Warranty and Sleep Trial
Getting a good warranty and sleep trial is crucial when buying a latex mattress. Most mattress companies offer a sleep trial between 90 to 120 nights, which allows you to test the mattress at home and make sure it’s right for you. If the mattress doesn’t meet your expectations, check the return policy to see how you can exchange it or return it to get your money back.
A 10-year warranty is typical for latex mattresses and covers defects like sagging or manufacturing issues. For extra peace of mind, some brands offer lifetime warranties. Be sure to read the fine print to understand what’s covered and if there are any potential exclusions.
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 a lot of 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.
Are latex mattresses good for back pain?
Latex mattresses are generally good for sleepers with back pain, as they can provide the necessary support and pressure relief in the back, hips, and shoulder regions. The support offered across the spine from latex can make them a great choice for sleepers with back pain. If you want to learn more about mattresses that are good for back pain, you can check out our recommendations for the best mattresses for back pain.
How durable is a latex mattress?
A latex mattress’s durability is generally dependent on the density of the latex. As I mentioned above, higher-density latex is usually more durable and will last longer than lower-density, softer latex mattresses. However, latex is generally a fairly durable material. I also make sure to look into the warranty for all of the mattresses I review so you can be sure your mattress will be replaced, just in case it begins to deteriorate before it should.
Is latex good for allergies?
Yes! Latex is a great choice for sleepers who struggle with allergies. Natural latex is made with what is essentially a tree sap, making it an organic material that, other than latex allergies, is naturally hypoallergenic. Latex is also exceptionally breathable and naturally porous, meaning that common mattress allergens like dust do not get easily trapped within the mattress.
Kenny Timper
Staff Writer
About Author
Kenny is a Staff Writer at Sleepopolis. He tests the good, the bad, and the ugly of all things sleep, so you can skip the trial and error and jump straight into a good night’s rest. Kenny graduated from William Peace University with a degree in English and a minor in communication. Outside of testing and writing about mattresses, he enjoys hiking, biking, and avoiding the pit at your local heavy metal concert.
Stomach Sleeper
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/