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With so many mattress styles and materials available, finding the best mattress for your needs can take time. If you’ve been mattress shopping, you may have come across beds made from memory foam, innerspring, and hybrid materials, and wondered what makes them different from latex.
Like memory foam mattresses, latex mattresses do not contain springs—unless they’re a hybrid model. Latex differs from memory foam in that it’s more responsive and provides more bounce, which is great for people who don’t want the cradling and sinkage typical of most memory foam mattresses. Latex mattresses may offer a firmer feel than memory foam mattresses, which can provide more support. Latex mattresses may be a good option for those dealing with back pain thanks to the added support they provide, and some studies have shown that they offer more pressure relief overall compared to polyurethane foam mattresses.
To help you decide which latex mattress is best for you, our team tested and reviewed five of the best latex mattresses on the market to evaluate them in terms of pressure relief, cooling capabilities, support, and more. Continue reading to discover our top pick and which other mattresses made the cut.
The Nolah Natural is an all-natural latex hybrid with medium firmness. It features a mix of natural, eco-friendly Talalay latex and individually pocketed innerspring coils that provide breathability, pressure relief, and support, making it a doctor recommended mattress for back pain.
The mattress is made of five primary layers all wrapped in a certified organic cotton cover that’s breathable and soft to the touch. Underneath the cover is a layer of organic, flame-retardant wool that adds extra cushioning. Next is the comfort layer made with Talalay latex, which is responsive—meaning it provides bounce—and also comes with some added pressure relief. Under this layer, you’ll find the transition layer also made with Talalay latex, which offers more support. Next is the 8-inch layer of HD-MAX Tri-Zone support coils, which has three targeted support zones to provide the right level of support and pressure relief while keeping the spine in a neutral position. Lastly, you’ll find another organic cotton and wool layer that lends stability and durability to the mattress.
One of the areas where the Nolah Natural really shines is in pressure relief. Our experts tested it for back, shoulder, and hip pain, and noticed it performed high across the board in all three categories. People who sleep on their back will enjoy some contouring around the hip and lower back area, while those who sleep on their side will get pressure relief in the shoulder or hip. It’s important to note that people in different weight categories will experience pressure relief differently. For example, lighter-weight sleepers may not feel the same level of pressure relief in a side-sleeping position on this mattress compared to average-weight or higher-weight sleepers.
Overall, we love the Nolah Natural for its high scores in pressure relief and cooling, and for its construction with all-natural materials. While it may be priced high for some, we feel its high-end construction merits the price tag.
Who may love it
Who may want to avoid it
Read our Nolah mattress review for more information.
The WinkBeds EcoCloud is a medium-firm hybrid mattress made with latex and recycled steel innersprings. It has two primary layers underneath an organic cotton and wool cover that’s breathable and soft to the touch. The first layer is made with Talalay latex, which is breathable and provides a good amount of bounce, making it great for combination sleepers. This layer is also antibacterial and suitable for people with allergies. Next is the support layer, which contains individually wrapped zoned coils. This layer is zoned to offer more support in the hip area and softer at the shoulders. The support layer also contains a border of extra coils around the perimeter for increased edge support, which is good news for people who like to spread out while sleeping. This mattress also topped our list of the best organic mattresses.
One thing worth noting is that the EcoCloud has significant motion transfer (which is not uncommon for latex or innerspring mattresses), but this means it may not be the best pick for couples or people who co-sleep.
When our tester evaluated it for pressure relief, they noticed the zoned support system provided relief in the lower back and hip area, so it may be a good choice for people dealing with pain there. But side sleepers dealing with shoulder pain may want to explore softer options that are better at relieving pressure in that region.
Overall, we think the EcoCloud is a good option for eco-conscious shoppers looking for a natural mattress that’s cool, responsive, and provides significant pressure relief.
Who may love it
Who may want to avoid it
Learn more in our in-depth WinkBeds review.
Saatva is known for its commitment to using organic, naturally sourced, and environmentally friendly materials in its mattress construction, and the Saatva Latex Hybrid is no exception. Because of its construction with Talalay latex (which sleeps cooler than traditional memory foam), organic cotton, organic wool, and airflow-friendly coils, this hybrid is our pick for best cooling mattress.
The mattress has four principal layers underneath an organic cotton and wool Euro top cover. Underneath the Euro top is a certified organic New Zealand wool layer that wicks away moisture, regulates body temperature, and acts as a flame retardant. Beneath that is a 3-inch layer of Talalay latex with five different zones to provide pressure relief and support where it’s needed most. This layer also contains vented airflow channels to assist in the mattress’s breathability. Under that, you’ll find the layer of pocketed coils that are also ergonomically zoned to provide targeted pressure relief and contouring. All of these layers sit on an Organic Eco-Loft Pad made of cotton and wool that provides durability and stability to the mattress.
We found the Saatva Latex Hybrid performed strongly in pressure relief when our tester rested on their back. There was almost no pressure buildup anywhere in the body, which means it may be a great pick for back sleepers or anyone dealing with back pain. But we did notice some pressure buildup in the hip area for side sleepers, so we’d recommend they get a softer mattress that will provide additional contouring.
Our tester also rated the Latex Hybrid highly in terms of edge support, which is good news for people who like to share the bed or need a strong edge for mobility purposes.
One thing to consider with latex hybrids is there will be a considerable amount of motion transfer due to the bounce from the latex and coils. If you’re concerned about this, you may want to explore memory foam options designed to limit such responsiveness.
Who may love it
Who may want to avoid it
If you’re considering a Saatva mattress, read our Saatva mattress review.
The Birch Natural is a latex hybrid with a medium feel that’s made with natural and certified organic materials including cotton, wool, and latex. The mattress contains five key layers underneath a breathable organic cotton cover that’s soft to the touch. The first layer is made with fire-retardant organic wool (a natural alternative to fiberglass which is often used as a flame retardant). The next layer is the comfort layer, which is also made of wool but is designed to regulate temperature and provide some contouring. Underneath the wool, you’ll find a layer of Talalay latex that’s highly responsive and provides the mattress its bounce. Next is the support layer, which is made with 1,000 pocketed coils to provide more cradling and edge support. Finally, the mattress sits on a base layer made with more wool that gives it more fire protection as well as stability and durability.
When evaluating the mattress’s performance, our tester noticed it was comfortable in back, side, and stomach positions but said it was exceptionally good for average-weight side sleepers. The mattress offered pressure relief at the hip and shoulder, which is necessary in the best mattresses for side sleepers. Since the mattress is highly responsive, it should also be a good option for combination sleepers who frequently change positions.
Despite the fact the mattress is made with the same cooling latex, cotton, and wool as other mattresses on the list, our tester felt it heating up the longer they rested, so we’d recommend another option for people who sleep hot. Generally, the mattress provides solid support across the body in all sleeping positions, and our tester gave it a 4 out of 5 in this category.
Our tester also appreciated the strong edge support the mattress provided, saying it felt like they were cradled by the edge when they rolled over to the side of the mattress. This is important if you have mobility issues because you can put significant pressure on the edge of the mattress to support you as you stand up.
Who may love it
Who may want to avoid it
Learn more in our in-depth Birch review.
This latex hybrid is from the mattress brand Awara, which focuses solely on producing organic mattresses. With its budget-friendly prices, the Awara Natural Hybrid is our choice for best affordable mattress in the latex category.
The Natural Hybrid is 10 inches tall and is made of all-natural materials including natural cotton, organic wool, organic Dunlop latex, and individually pocketed coils. Dunlop latex is made from 100% natural rubber and differs from Talalay latex in that it’s denser.
The mattress has two primary layers wrapped in a natural cotton and organic wool cover that helps to wick away moisture and promote breathability. Underneath is a 2-inch layer of organic Dunlop latex that helps provide contouring and pressure relief and gives the mattress its bounce. Also, the Dunlop latex is certified by The Rainforest Alliance, which means it provides an eco-friendly solution along with exceptional bounce, durability, and cooling. Under the layer of latex are 8 inches of pocketed coils that aid in breathability and add some additional contouring.
Like other mattresses on this list, the Awara is quite bouncy, so combination sleepers might love how it facilitates movement. Even though it is branded as medium-firmness, our tests found it to feel firmer than medium, so side sleepers may want to explore softer options that contour the hip and the shoulder better.
Light- and average-weight stomach sleepers should feel comfortable and well-supported on the Awara, and so will average- and higher-weight back sleepers.
As for pressure relief, our tester noticed good support in their lower back region while resting on the mattress, which may make it a good choice for people with back pain.
Who may love it
Who may want to avoid it
Read our Awara mattress review to learn more.
At NCOA, the members of our Reviews Team have spent over 1,000 hours researching more than 130 different models across 40 brands. In addition to our own research, we surveyed over 3,200 consumers about what they look for in a new mattress. We also interviewed 10 healthcare professionals in order to gain insight into what is most important to consider when looking for a new latex mattress.
This information allowed us to select the most promising mattress models for mystery shopping and independent, first-hand testing. This process is guided by a 32-page, standardized testing form, which allows us to collect detailed information across a number of categories, including the materials used, comfort features, and affordability. This data is used to score each mattress in each testing category, and then each model is awarded one overall score. Our testing categories include:
The right mattress firmness level is different from person to person, because each person has different comfort needs. In general, lighter sleepers are more comfortable on softer mattresses, while heavier weight sleepers will be most comfortable in a medium firm to firm bed. During testing, we found that a medium to medium firm mattress strikes a good balance for most average weight sleepers.
All sleepers benefit from a mattress that provides good pressure relief, no matter their reason for buying a latex mattress. The best latex mattress will evenly distribute weight so that pressure doesn’t build up in one spot and cause pain or discomfort. During testing, we use a pressure mat to measure pressure build up, which most often occurs in the hips, neck, shoulders, and back.
As an alternative to memory foam, latex shines in cooling capabilities. While memory foam is dense, trapping and storing body heat from the sleeper, latex foam is more breathable. This promotes airflow in the mattress, aiding in keeping the sleeper cool. Individuals who tend to run hot might be most comfortable in a latex hybrid mattress, with the innerspring coils and breathable latex foam promoting airflow.
Support speaks to a mattress’s ability to keep the sleeper’s spine aligned. This means the bed will prevent your hips or lower back from sinking uncomfortably into the bed. Some mattresses use zoned support to accomplish just that, with added support foam in the lumbar region helping to maintain spine neutrality.
To learn more about our testing, review our sleep methodology.
We continuously test new mattresses each month and make sure we give you the most up-to-date information possible. We also consult with experts about each mattress we review, which allows us to feel confident in each model we review and recommend.
A latex mattress is a mattress made with latex or a combination of latex and innerspring. Natural latex is a substance derived from a type of rubber tree called Hevea brasiliensis. It’s harvested by “tapping the tree,” and it has a milky white appearance. After the latex is harvested, it’s poured into molds and then baked to form the base of the mattress. There are two types of natural latex: Talalay and Dunlop. While both have different processing methods, they come from the same plant.
Natural latex is made without the addition of chemicals, and when it’s used in mattresses, it can be a great choice for those who want eco-friendly and hypoallergenic bedding options. Synthetic latex mimics the texture and characteristics of natural latex, is cheaper to make, and is more widely used. It’s also a good alternative for people allergic to natural latex.
When used in mattresses, latex provides a high level of responsiveness or bounce, which is a good characteristic for people who want to avoid the “sinking” feeling they get from most memory foam mattresses.
Because of the manufacturing process, latex mattresses may be more expensive than other mattresses. Some advantages of latex mattresses are that they’re more durable and may be hypoallergenic when they use all-natural latex.
Because latex is naturally bouncy, latex mattresses may be good for combination sleepers, as it will allow them to switch positions easily.
People who sleep hot will appreciate the cooling nature of a latex mattress since latex is more cooling than memory foam. Many natural latex mattresses are also made with other natural materials like organic cotton and wool, which can be cooling. You may want to consider a hybrid latex mattress, as the innerspring material adds even more airflow to the mattress.
Firmer latex mattresses that provide a lot of support like the Saatva Latex Hybrid is often the best mattress for heavy people.
Latex mattresses may also be good options for people who sleep on their backs, as they provide good support and potential pain relief in the lumbar region.
Depending on the firmness of the mattress, some side sleepers may find latex mattresses don’t offer the level of contouring needed to provide adequate pressure relief in the shoulder and hip areas.
While the responsiveness of a latex mattress may be good for combination sleepers, couples may have a harder time sleeping on one because of how much they transfer motion. Since latex is naturally bouncy, movement transfers easily across the mattress and may potentially disturb sleep partners.
We have found that latex mattresses have a lot to offer thanks to their excellent cooling capabilities and pressure relief. During testing, we chose the Nolah Natural as the best latex mattress overall, but we know that buying a new mattress is a very personal decision and that what works well for one person might not work well for another. In your search for the right choice for you, here is what to consider.
A latex may be made with natural or synthetic latex. Natural latex is derived from rubber trees, and will be a good choice for someone who values all-natural or organic materials. These mattresses tend to be more expensive than synthetic options. Budget-conscious consumers may consider a synthetic latex mattress, which uses a blend of man-made and naturally derived materials to create latex foam.
Your preferred sleeping position can play a role in determining what you need most from a mattress.
Latex mattresses use a foam alternative that tends to have better cooling capabilities than memory foam. While polyurethane-derived foam is dense and typically holds on to the heat of the sleeper, latex is naturally derived from rubber trees and is generally more breathable. This allows air to move more freely through the mattress, helping to keep sleepers cool.
If you are someone who runs hot at night, consider a latex foam mattress as a good option for you. It is also worth looking for models with added cooling features, such as covers made from natural textiles and an innerspring core that further promotes breathability.
The quality of latex mattresses can vary greatly, but third-party certifications can provide reassurance that brands have prioritized sleeper health during the manufacturing of the latex mattresses sold.
Latex is a breathable foam, so these mattresses are naturally hypoallergenic, resisting build up of dust mites, dust, and mold. This could make a latex mattress a great choice for someone who finds they are sensitive to environmental allergies or chemicals present in other mattresses.
It is important to keep in mind that some people are allergic to latex, and may respond to the latex present in these mattresses. While latex allergies aren’t often triggered by a latex mattress, it is a good idea to speak with your allergist before considering this type of mattress.
Latex mattresses offer cushion and support, with layers of foam naturally derived from rubber trees. At the same time, these mattresses tend to be breathable, giving them natural cooling capabilities that memory foam might not have. The right mattress for you depends on what you find most comfortable and supportive for a good night’s sleep.
| Mattress type | Latex hybrid | Latex hybrid | Latex hybrid | Latex hybrid | Latex hybrid |
| Mattress height (inches) | 11 | 12.5 | 12 | 11 | 10 |
| White-glove delivery* | Yes, for an additional cost | No | Yes | Yes, for an additional cost | No |
| Warranty (years) | Lifetime | Lifetime | Lifetime | 25 | Lifetime |
*Free delivery and setup of new mattress and removal of old mattress
When shopping for a latex mattress, take the time to learn about how it’s constructed, the cost, the length of the trial period, whether it matches up with your sleeping position, and other factors before making a decision.
While Nolah Natural is our pick for best latex mattress overall, the WinkBeds EcoCloud, Saatva Latex Hybrid,
Birch Natural, and Awara Natural Hybrid are all high-quality options that suit a variety of sleeping styles and needs. All the mattresses on this list have been tested by our Reviews Team so you can make an informed decision about which one is right for you.
Choosing the right latex mattress for your needs will depend on your sleep style and individual preferences. Mattresses made with natural latex may cost more than mattresses made with synthetic materials, but they offer high value in terms of being durable, environmentally friendly, and are often made with other all-natural and organic materials that are hypoallergenic.
Do your research to make sure the mattress you chose is made with natural latex.
In our testing, we found the Awara Natural Hybrid and the Saatva Latex Hybrid to be the two best mattresses to help with lower back pain due to their high pressure-relieving abilities.
We rated the Nolah Natural as the best latex mattress overall due to its high scores in cooling, pressure relief, and high-quality natural construction.
Combination sleepers often appreciate a latex mattress since they’re responsive and make it easy to switch positions. Latex mattresses are also good options for back sleepers as they provide good support in the lumbar region. On the other hand, a latex mattress may not be the best pick for side sleepers since it doesn’t provide the same contouring effect as memory foam.
Have questions about this review? Email us at reviewsteam@ncoa.org.
