Latex mattresses have become the favourite option for buyers. However, not all Latex mattresses are created equal. They can be made using Dunlop or Talalay processes, and the foam can be Natural Latex or Synthetic Latex.

A Latex mattress is also popularly called the Dunlop mattress. The market has either cheap but low-quality products or high-quality but expensive ones. Only a handful of Latex or Dunlop mattresses are good quality and reasonably priced. The cheaper ones typically emit a pungent smell, and it sickens people. However, people often choose just based on price without checking the details.

This article is meant to serve two purposes:

• Identify the best latex mattresses in India. The review?covers new-age brands such as Sunday Latex Mattress, considered the gold standard for Latex mattresses, and more traditional brands such as MM Foam Latex Mattress.
• Give in-depth information about Latex mattresses. This covers different types of Latex, the Orthopaedic benefits of Latex mattresses and the differences between Latex and Memory foam.
• Note: We also included videos and practical tips, so take your time and enjoy the article. We also included actual pictures of the mattresses from the lab.

Best Latex Mattress in India

There are many options for latex mattresses available in the market. After a thorough analysis, our experts have put together a list of the best brands in India. We have assessed them on features, price, benefits, and overall quality. You can look at the detailed review of the best latex mattress below. Here are our best latex mattress picks from the 23 that we analysed.

Sunday Latex Mattress

The Sunday Latex Mattresses are now a household name for those looking for premium-quality mattresses at affordable prices. The brand offers only three models (two of which are latex mattresses). Amongst latex mattresses, it is the top pick of our experts for the following reasons:

• Best quality and certified Latex foam in the market.
• Organic cotton outer cover to enhance comfort.
• Sunday does not compress the mattress. Hence, guaranteeing longer life.
• Most affordable price for the above quality aspects and features.

Sunday Latex Plus Mattress

Our first impression when we saw the Sunday Latex Plus mattress was that it was very well put together. The aesthetics were perfect – Hiroko Shiratori, a well-known designer, put the design together.

The sleeping experience felt pleasant despite the hot weather (plus, I am a hot sleeper). The mattress offers excellent back and neck?support required for different sleeping postures. The outer cover feels premium, and the organic material gives superb comfort during hot summers. There was no chemical smell either.

Specification & Prices

• The base layer is 6 inches of 70-75D natural latex foam, ensuring maximum support for your spine.
• The top is made of 2 inches of 65-70D natural latex layer. Open cell?structure?helps to keep the mattress cool and comfortable.
• The mattress cover is made from 100% organic cotton.
• Price (approx): ?39,000 for a Queen size.
• Motion Isolation: Best in class.
• Firmness scale: Medium firm to soft.
• Custom sizes offered??They offer a wide range of sizes, including custom sizes.
• Trial Period: Offers a risk-free 100-night trial or 100% refund.
• Manufacturer Warranty:?10-year comprehensive.
• Compressed Mattress? Not compressed, hence longer life.

Foam Certification

• Euro Latex to ensure there are no harmful chemicals.
• LGA Certification guarantees 10-12 years of usage even if someone weighs up to 150 kilos (each person).

Fabric Certification

• GOTS ensures the top fabric is 100% chemical-free cotton to avoid allergies.
• OEKO-TEX 100 guarantees the rest of the fabric does not have harmful chemicals.

Lifespan

The average lifespan of the Sunday mattress is 12-14 years, and it can be used for up to 20 years with good care.

Weight Supported

It is suitable for weights up to 140 kg (each person!) and can easily accommodate a heavy sleeper.

Sunday Ortho Latex Mattress

Sunday also has Sunday Ortho Latex mattresses for those looking for a cheaper orthopaedic latex mattress. Sunday Ortho Latex Mattress has solid back support without compromising comfort. The icing on the cake was that it is the most affordable Latex + Memory foam Mattress we came across.

Specification & Prices

• The bottom layer consists of 6 inches of 70D latex foam. It is designed to provide maximum support to your spine and keep the alignment natural.
• The top layer consists of 2 inches of 65D latex foam. An open-cell layer helps to keep the mattress cool and comfortable.
• The mattress cover is made from 100% organic cotton.
• Motion Isolation: Excellent; No partner disturbance.
• Price (approx): ?14,000 for a Queen size.
• Mattress Firmness: Medium firm
• Custom sizes offered??They offer a wide range of sizes, including custom sizes.
• Trial Period: Offers a risk-free 100-night trial or 100% refund.
• Manufacturer Warranty:?10-year comprehensive.
• Compressed Mattress? Not compressed, hence longer life.

Foam Certification

• Euro Latex - developed by European Latex Foam Manufacturers, Euro-Latex defines the maximum acceptable levels of harmful substances allowed in the mattress cores.
• LGA Certification - conducted by TüV Rhineland AG, LGA certifications checks the compliance of mattress fit for functional performance for domestic use of the mattress.

Fabric Certification

• GOTS - The top cover of the Sunday mattress is made from 100% GOTS-approved organic cotton. The Global Organic Textile Standard defines the certified organic status from raw fibre to labelling.
• OEKO-TEX 100 - The top and side fabrics of the mattress are certified. The Standard 100 label by Oeko-Tex means that every material component has been tested for harmful substances and is certified harmless for human health.

Lifespan

The average lifespan of the Sunday mattress is 12-14 years, and it can be used for up to 20 years with good care.

Weight Supported

The density of the latex foam ensures that the Sunday latex mattress can support a wide range of body weights. It provides peaceful sleep even for people?who weigh up to 140 kg (per person).

MM Foam Pincore Latex Mattress

MM Foam is what my father-in-law thinks is the only Latex mattress. Yes, the brand has been around for 50 years and has a solid reputation amongst the 60+ age group. The beds are exorbitantly priced – primarily to accommodate the 40% dealer margin. From a quality stand, it comes very close to a Sunday mattress. MM foam makes natural latex foam mattresses, and its products have high bounce-back, superior contouring, and high breathability.

Specifications & Prices

• The mattress is made with pincore Latex, which allows ample air circulation.
• They keep the mattress cool and breathable.
• Price (approx): ?64,000 for a Queen size of 8 inches.
• Zero Partner Disturbance:?We found it a bit too bouncy
• Custom sizes offered??They offer a wide range of sizes, including custom sizes.
• Trial Period: No trial period.
• Warranty:?7-10-year warranty.
• Compressed Mattress? Not compressed, hence longer life.

Certifications

The mattress manufacturing adheres to BIS standard IS 1741-1960.

Sleepycat Natural Latex 7-Inch Mattress

SleepyCat Hybrid?Latex Mattress excited us with the packaging, and it had the coolest-looking packing out of the lot. The brand was founded in 2017 and is a reasonably new entrant in the mattress market. The brand is known for memory foam mattresses but has a small range of latex beds. It is also a first mover in the bed-in-a-box or compressed mattress delivery.

Specifications & Prices

• It is a?hybrid mattress of Latex and memory foam.
• The top comfort layer is a 2-inch latex with 7-zone support.
• The support layer is a 5-inch high-density foam.
• The top cover is a zipper cover made from spun knitted fabric.
• Price (approx): ?14,000 for a Queen size.
• Custom sizes offered??They offer a wide range of sizes, including custom sizes.
• Trial Period: Offers a risk-free 30-night trial.
• Warranty:?10-year?warranty.
• Compressed Mattress??Compressed, and there may be size?issues.

Dreamzee Vilasa Latex Mattress

Dreamzee mattresses use decent-quality raw materials to provide a high-quality finish and comfort. It uses a combination of rubber latex and 100% organic fabric in its products, and it has two models of latex mattresses in its product kitty.

Specifications & Prices

• The mattress has Dunlop latex foam. The pincore holes are for proper ventilation, making the bed breathable and removing heat.
• Price (approx): ?54,000 for a Queen size.
• Custom sizes offered??They offer a wide range of sizes, including custom sizes.
• Trial Period: No trial period or?refund.
• Warranty:?10-year?warranty.
• Compressed Mattress? Compressed, and hence softer.

Certifications

International - The international certifications include eco-Institut, LGA, and Oeko-Tex 100.

Indian - It holds the ISO 9001:2015 certification.

Springtek Natural Latex Mattress?

Springtek mattress is one of the older players in the mattress market in India. It uses Latex made from natural materials and offers an organic latex mattress?for infants.

The mattress has comfort and bounciness in a balanced blend. This mattress is certified for its latex foam, which is appropriate for back pain relief and free from allergies. It is made for restorative sleep, keeping you fresh for the next day.

Specifications & Prices

• The mattress is made in one layer of Latex foam, processed through the energy-efficient Dunlop process.
• The top cover is?a removable zipper cover and is easy to wash.
• Price (approx): ?24,000 for a Queen size.
• Custom sizes offered??They offer a wide range of sizes, including custom sizes.
• Trial Period:?100-night trial or 100% refund.
• Warranty:?7-10-year?warranty.
• Compressed Mattress? Compressed and hence felt a bit too soft.

Certifications

Springtek has international certifications for both Latex and fabric. These include Oeko-Tex 100, LGA, GOTS, and FSC.

Springtek is a good choice if you are looking for a cheap latex mattress. But it is a little cheaper than certified brands like Sunday mattress.

Wakefit Latex Mattress

Wakefit mattress was founded in 2015 and has become a famous brand for sleep products. ?We wanted to try Wakefit Latex Mattress because they are the most well-funded start-up in the sleep space and the cheapest mattress. The products are available on e-commerce sites like Amazon and Flipkart. Known for producing inexpensive mattresses, it ships directly from its factory or warehouse.

Specifications & Prices

• The mattress has three layers in its construction.
• The top layer is a 7-zone latex layer, providing differential support to various body parts.
• The middle layer is made of memory foam to contour the body.
• The bottom layer is made from high-resilience foam, which supports the mattress.
• The top cover is removable, making it easier to clean.
• Price (approx): ?16,000 for a Queen size.
• Custom sizes offered??They offer a wide range of sizes, including custom sizes.
• Trial Period: Offers a risk-free 100-night trial or 100% refund.
• Warranty:?7-year?warranty.
• Compressed Mattress??Compressed, and we noticed some size issues.

Lifespan

The brand offers the industry norm of 10 years warranty. With good care, the lifespan can be increased.

What is Latex Foam? How is it made?

Latex is the sap or the milky substance found in the Hevea Brasiliensis rubber tree. Horizontal cuts in the bark help tap the sap, ensuring the trees are not cut down. The rubber trees are hardy and do not need pesticides or herbicides, making the cultivation process eco-friendly.

Converting the milky white sap to latex foam does not need harsh chemicals. Hence, natural latex foam is one of the most sustainable and eco-conscious raw materials for mattresses.

Natural Latex or Synthetic Latex?

There are three kinds of latex foam - natural, blended, and synthetic.

Natural Latex?is the best type of Latex, and it is eco-friendly, durable, supportive, and conducive to good sleep. Once the sap is collected, it is processed into the foam via any of the two methods called Dunlop or Talalay.

Synthetic Latex is made from a plastic styrene-butadiene rubber or SBR. SBR mimics the properties of natural rubber. While mattresses made of synthetic Latex are usually safe, they are not as durable as natural ones. Additionally, off-gassing can cause chemical irritation.

Blended latex foam combines natural and synthetic Latex in its composition. The ratio of the natural Latex is usually between 15 to 30 per cent in the blend. Both blended Latex and synthetic Latex have similar performance and lifespan.

Dunlop and Talalay Processes

There are two different latex foam production processes, Dunlop and Talalay. Both these processes use vulcanisation to produce foam from Latex. Vulcanisation hardens liquid latex sap into solid foam by applying heat and mixing additives such as zinc oxide.

Dunlop Mattress - Process -
This is the original production process for Latex and?is the most energy-efficient, roughly following these steps.

The Dunlop process makes the foam denser towards the bottom and relatively lighter at the top. This is because, during the vulcanisation process, more liquid settles at the bottom due to gravity.

Talalay Mattress Process -
The Talalay process differs from Dunlop, except for a few steps.

The Talalay process produces a fluffier foam with a more homogeneous consistency than Dunlop latex foam.

Dunlop and Talalay Latex Foam - Difference

The two processes result in foam materials that have some differences from each other. The main differences are

• Dunlop latex is denser than Talalay latex foam, and
• Talalay results in more homogenous foam.
• Dunlop latex foam is more durable than Talalay latex foam. It is due to the higher density of Dunlop latex.
• Dunlop foam has a springy feel, whereas Talalay foam has a bouncy feel.
• The Dunlop process is more straightforward, and it is also more energy-efficient than the Talalay process.

Latex Mattress - Pros & Cons

Benefits of a Latex Mattress

Latex mattresses are increasingly in demand due to the benefits that they provide. These advantages make it easier to use and maintain.

Natural and Hypoallergenic

Natural Latex is naturally antibacterial and antimicrobial, and it repels the gathering of germs, moulds, dust mites, and mildew. Hence, it is highly recommended for allergies, breathing problems, and asthma. This makes the mattress much more low maintenance than any other material.

Pain Relief and Comfort

Latex mattresses offer comfort and relaxation. A latex foam mattress is an excellent option for sleepers with joint pains?and backaches. It also provides gentle cushioning and adapts to your body shape, which helps pressure relief at the joints and gives robust spinal alignment.

Breathable

Latex foam is breathable, naturally cooling, and does not retain heat like other foams. Adaptable in all weather conditions, it is best suited for hot sleepers, and it is because the breathable material regulates body temperature and blood circulation.

Durable

Natural latex mattresses are one the most durable, and the average lifespan of a high-quality latex mattress is 10 - 12 years. Natural Latex is resilient, which gives it longevity, and it also bounces back once the pressure is removed, retaining its shape for a long time.

Eco-friendly

Natural Latex is collected and processed in an energy-efficient and eco-friendly way and uses very few chemicals. The production of natural Latex encourages tree growth since there is no cutting of trees involved, and it is biodegradable and does not contribute to waste landfills.

Odour-free

Natural Latex has no odour since it is almost chemical-free. It is an excellent choice for people who are sensitive to smells. However, synthetic and blended latex foam can have some off-gassing. So be sure to check the composition of the latex foam.

Low Motion Transfer

Latex foam is known for its elastic quality and helps isolate motion transfer across the bed. Hence, it is ideal for people who co-sleep since it reduces motion transfer. So, even if one partner is restless and moving throughout the night, the other sleeper can sleep peacefully.

Enhancement of Sleep Quality

Latex foam provides ample support to the back by adapting to your body shape. So, you do not need to worry about your body structure.?In addition, it does not heat up, so you do not wake up with hot flashes or excessive sweating during summer.

Disadvantages of Latex Foam

Even though latex mattresses come with many benefits, there are some downsides. The common ones include the following factors.

Expensive

The natural latex mattress is usually costlier than other mattresses, including spring-based and other forms. However, the additional cost is offset by the sustainability and eco-friendly choice. The mattress also has a greater lifespan and lower maintenance cost than the other mattresses.

Heavy

Natural Latex is a dense foam compared to memory or PU foams. Hence, it is heavier, which might cause an issue only when moving the mattress.

Firmness

The latex foam, by default, will be of medium firmness. The latex foam, by default, will be of medium firmness. The firmness level of the foam?can be modified by varying the density of the foam.

Latex Foam vs Memory Foam

The question of Latex foam or memory foam mattresses is a tricky one. There is no single best mattress material, and the suitability of a bed depends a lot upon the user's needs. Both memory foam and latex foam have their advantages. Memory Foam is made of synthetic visco-elastic polyurethane foam. Memory foam was created to contour the body and give a hugging feel. At the same time, Latex foam is natural and meant to add bounce to the mattress.

Both foam types have their pros and cons. We have done a comparative study of the properties of the two materials.

Importance of Latex Certifications

Certifications lend authenticity to the product and process. For an eco-conscious consumer, it is essential to check for them. Otherwise, it will be difficult for a consumer to verify the truth behind the manufacturers’ claims. Usually, expensive brands sold abroad have certifications. In India, we have brands such as Sunday mattresses certified and sold at affordable prices. Some of the well-known third-party certifications are.

LGA Standard

LGA standard is one of the most important certifications, and it tests the mattress's longevity on a scale of 100. A score of 50 out of 100 is considered a pass, but brands such as Sunday mattress score 99/100.?

LGAEuro Latex ECO-Standard

European Latex Foam Manufacturers developed it with TFI, Germany's scientific institute. The Euro Latex ECO Standard restricts the maximum harmful substances acceptable in latex foam cores.

Global Organic Latex Standard (GOLS)

The GOLS certification ensures that latex products have organic origins and are free from toxic chemicals. It establishes clear procedures from the farm to the certified product and provides traceability from the plantation to the final seller.

OEKO-TEX Standard 100

It is one of the best labels for textiles, and it tests and certifies for harmful chemicals. Suppose the mattress carries the Oeko-Tex Standard 100 label. In that case, you can rest assured that every product component has been tested and is harmless for human health.

Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS)

The GOTS?certification ensures the organic status of textiles from raw fibre, manufacturing up to the labelling. The cotton or wool covers use GOTS certification.

eco-INSTITUT

eco-INSTITUT tests and certifies for volatile organic compounds in a product. The products using this label have little or no emission levels and are safe for in-home use.

Tips for caring for your Latex Mattress

Things to consider while buying a new latex mattress

Now that you know about latex mattresses in-depth, you can easily choose which option. Keep in mind the following points when buying a new latex mattress.

Features - You will be presented with many features. First, check for essential characteristics such as firmness level, breathability, size, and surface softness if they suit you.

• Composition - You should check whether the latex material is natural or synthetic. The benefits associated with latex foam are provided by natural latex foam.
• Firmness - Latex foam is naturally firm. Whether a Dunlop mattress or a Talalay, the bed will be medium-firm or firm. Latex foam is not for you if you want a soft, hugging surface that sinks in. Please be sure to look for memory foam.
• Certifications - Brands make any claims for a latex bed mattress. Please make sure to check for credentials and these show the authenticity of the materials claimed.

Price - Latex mattresses in India are available at many pricing points. You can get a bed starting from Rs. 10,000 and going above Rs. 50,000 (for the same size). Price is not the benchmark for quality. Could you check for user reviews online, certifications, and feature descriptions? These will give you a good idea of whether you are fairly charged.

Warranty - Latex mattresses have longevity and are the most durable type of mattress material. Most mattress brands in India will give you a warranty of up to 10 years. Could you be sure to read the terms for things that are included and which are excluded?

Maintenance and Care

The latex foam mattress is antibacterial and antimicrobial. It requires less maintenance and cleaning than any other type of mattress material. Nevertheless, proper care and cleaning at regular intervals will increase its lifespan. The mattress can efficiently function appropriately beyond its warranty period, sometimes up to 20 years.

Some Do’s and Don’ts

To increase the life of your mattress, follow these tips on what to do and what to avoid.

• Use a waterproof mattress protector to prevent any liquid spill or food residue from seeping inside the mattress.
• Spot-clean any stain or spill by using a mild soapy solution.
• Never leave your mattress wet. Dry it completely.

• Never expose the latex mattress directly to sunlight; the Latex can dry out and start to break down. Dry in the shade or under a fan.
• Do not iron clothes on a latex mattress. Please keep?it away from heat sources such as heat radiators and electric blankets.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can we wash the latex foam mattress?

   You cannot wash the mattress. However, the bed comes with a top cover. Usually, this cover is removable, and you can remove and wash this top cover. If the top cover is not removable, you can spot-clean the stain.

   Latex foam is dust mite resistant and does not let mildew, mould, or germs grow. Hence, cleaning the entire mattress is not required. However, you should regularly wash the removable cover.

2. What is the best bed frame for a latex mattress?

   The latex foam is durable and can be placed on most modern beds. Since it is heavier than other mattresses, a sturdy wooden frame will be best suited.

3. Is a latex mattress good for back pain?

   You should consider a latex mattress if you are suffering from back pain. Latex has a bounce-back property. Like a memory foam mattress, it cradles your body and provides surface cushioning and the right firmness. As a result, you get a proper body and spinal alignment. It also helps to relieve the pressure points in the body. That eases your back pain when you lie down.

   A latex mattress is apt if you like to keep changing sleeping positions. Since the material is springy, you will never sink in so deep that movement becomes difficult.

4. Is certification essential for a latex mattress?

   Mattress manufacturers make many claims about latex foam; some are 100% natural, sustainable, organic, biodegradable, and green. Although the claims look true, they can be creatively written marketing gimmicks.

   Third-party certifications have clear definitions and stringent tests to go through, and they also bring a uniform standard to the parameters. So, you know that third parties verify the claims made.

   Latex foam mattresses are more expensive options than other material types. Certifications assure that no one dupes you in the name of green, eco-friendly, or other such claims.

5. Is Dunlop better than Talalay?

   Dunlop and Talalay are processes wherein the sap from the rubber trees converts into foam, and Dunlop foam is denser than Talalay foam. However, both Dunlop and Talalay latex foams can have different firmness levels, and Dunlop is a more energy-efficient process. You might not feel any difference between the two latex foams as a consumer.

6. Why is a latex mattress so expensive?

   A latex mattress is more expensive than memory foam and PU foam mattresses. That is primarily due to the materials used in the bed. Blended and natural latex mattresses have naturally sourced Latex. The other foams, such as memory foam and polyurethane (PU) foam, are synthetic materials that are cheaper to manufacture.

   Even though the price point while buying may seem higher, the advantages offset the cost. Latex is much more durable and sturdier. The average lifespan is ten years, and with proper care, life can extend to 20 years. It is low maintenance and prevents the gathering of germs, moulds, and dust mites. In the long run, a latex mattress is more cost-effective than other types, which sag with improper use and need maintenance.