The Happy Beds Milk Vitality 2000 Pocket Sprung Memory, Latex, and Reflex Foam Mattress combines a number of materials - including latex - for hybrid comfort and support.
The Happy Beds Milk Vitality 2000 Pocket Sprung Memory, Latex, and Reflex Foam Mattress combines a number of materials - including latex - for hybrid comfort and support.
This is one of the best budget options for latex lovers.
All about the Happy Beds Milk Vitality 2000 Pocket Sprung Memory, Latex, and Reflex Foam Mattress
The Happy BedsMilk Vitality 2000 Pocket Sprung Memory, Latex, and Reflex Foam Mattress is a great choice for people looking for hybrid quality.
The mattress features an average of 2000 pocket springs and thick layers of memory foam, latex foam, and reflex foam for exceptional comfort, support, and stability. 🤩
Air vents at the side of the mattress increase airflow, keeping the mattress cooler and more comfortable. ❄️
This is a no-flip mattress that only needs to be rotated head-to-toe once every six weeks.
Convenient side handles at the side of the mattress make this an easy task. 🙌
The thick Mirapocket spring and latex layer makes this a great choice for those who are looking for an ultra-deep mattress.
What is a latex mattress?
Latex is a similar substance to tree sap, which comes from tropical rubber trees.🌴
As latex is harvested without damaging the tree, it’s considered a fantastic natural and eco-friendly alternative to man-made mattress materials.
Latex is a sustainably sourced natural material.
Many people have never heard of latex mattresses, but they were invented as far back as the 1920s (50 years earlier than memory foam!) 🤯
However, not all latex mattresses are completely natural…
Types of latex mattresses
Latex mattresses can be made from natural latex, synthetic (man-made) latex, or a combination of the two. 😮
Many latex mattresses also consist of several layers of foam, combining a latex layer with an additional layer of memory foam, reflex foam, or pocket springs.
Natural latex mattresses
Natural latex is tapped from rubber trees (Hevea brasiliensis) and has been used in the bed industry for over a hundred years.
A few facts about natural latex mattresses:
Made from 100% naturally sourced tree sap.
Sustainably harvested in a way that preserves vegetation.
Completely Biodegradable.
Naturally breathable material.
Expensive (if you find a cheap alternative, it's highly likely it contains synthetic latex.)
Still have to be manufactured in factories, which aren't typically good for the environment.
You can see how natural Dunlop latex is manufactured below. 👇
We’ll go into more detail about the differences between Dunlop and Talalay latex a bit later...
Synthetic latex mattresses
Synthetic latex is a man-made material produced to recreate the same feeling as natural latex at a much lower cost. 💰
A few facts about synthetic latex mattresses:
Man-made material designed to feel like real latex.
Cheaper than natural latex.
Can be more durable than natural latex.
Doesn't adapt to the body as well as natural latex.
Manufactured from plastic - not very eco-friendly.
Not as breathable as natural latex.
If you're considering a latex mattress for its natural, breathable, and eco-friendly benefits, then a synthetic latex probably isn't a good choice.
Blended latex mattresses
Blended latex mattresses combine natural and synthetic latex for a “best of both worlds” approach. 🤩
A few facts about blended latex mattresses:
Combines natural and synthetic latex into one mattress.
More affordable than a pure latex mattress.
Many "blended" latex mattresses only contain a tiny percentage of natural latex.
Mattresses are often advertised as 100% natural latex even though it is blended with synthetic latex or other filler foam.
If you are considering a blended latex mattress, we highly recommend checking the exact specifications with the manufacturer.
Latex hybrid mattresses
Latex hybrid mattresses are usually made up of a main layer of pocket springs or support foam with a latex pillow top or latex layer. 🧅
A few factors about latex hybrid mattresses:
A great budget-friendly alternative to 100% pure latex.
Contains latex layers with springs, memory foam, or other fillings.
Pocket springs provide additional support for heavier-weight sleepers.
Composition of the layers provides fantastic pressure relief for side sleepers.
Highly breathable as the pocket springs encourage better ventilation.
Some "hybrid" latex mattresses only contain a very thin layer of latex.
Hybrid mattresses come in many other forms including memory foam, gel, and even wool layers.
Dunlop latex vs Talalay latex
There are two different types of natural latex distinguished by their manufacturing processes: Dunlop latex and Talalay latex.
Both Dunlop latex and Talalay latex are pure latex, but they have unique characteristics and benefits. 🧐
Dunlop and Talalay mattresses have slightly different manufacturing processes.
Dunlop latex
For the Dunlop process, the latex is poured into a mould and baked in a vulcanisation oven.
This creates a dense and firmer feeling latex. 🧱
Natural Dunlop latex is great for couples looking for a low motion transfer mattress.
It’s also a brilliant choice for stomach sleepers who need a firm and supportive mattress for correct spinal alignment.
Talalay latex
Natural Talalay latex is made similarly to Dunlop, except it includes distributing the latex in a vacuum-sealed mould and being flash-frozen before baking.
This makes a more open-cell structure for optimal air circulation, ideal for hot sleepers.
Talalay latex is great for side sleepers and lighter-weight people who are looking for a latex mattress on the softer side. 🧸
Natural Talalay latex is often used in hybrid or pillow-top mattresses to add an extra layer of comfort on top of supportive pocket spring or foam layers. 🤗
What does a latex mattress feel like?
If you've never slept on a latex mattress, you might be wondering exactly how it feels. 🤔
It's hard to imagine sleeping on a product made purely from tree sap...
So, what can you expect from a latex mattress? 👇
1. Just a little contouring
Latex moulds around the body but in a slightly different way from memory foam.
Whilst memory foam "hugs" around the body, the contouring effect of latex is much less intense.
This means latex is a great option for those who are looking for pressure reliefwithout feeling hugged in by a mattress.
2. More bounce-back
Latex is highly responsive to movement. ⛵
Latex mattresses react quickly to pressure and will spring back to their original shape almost instantly.
This gives it a slightly more elasticated spring-like feel, which makes moving around on the mattress much easier.
3. High-foam density
Whilst moving around on a mattress is easy, moving the mattress itself can be more difficult than a regular mattress.
The high-foam density in latex can make them fairly heavy to move around.
The flexible foam also means the mattress can feel quite "floppy" which makes manoeuvring it fairly awkward. 😓
What are the benefits of a latex mattress?
There are many benefits to buying a latex mattress. 💡
As mentioned, opting for a natural latex mattress instead of memory foam is much more resourceful.
Rubber trees can produce sap for up to 30 years and harvesting this for latex is not harmful to the trees or the environment. 🌎
Natural latex is also biodegradable, which reduces the impact on landfills and makes it a more eco-friendly choice.
Not only are latex mattresses hypoallergenic and dust-mite resistant, it’s also antimicrobial, which helps to prevent bacteria from building up inside. 🛡️
Latex is a much cooler alternative to memory foam.
Whilst many memory foam mattresses retain heat, latex mattresses have air pockets, designed to release warm air that collects in the mattress. 🌬️
A latex mattress has many benefits.
Latex mattresses are often more hard-wearing and durable than other mattress types.
So, even though latex mattresses can be expensive, they should last much longer than a typical memory foam mattress with no dipping or indentations in the material.
Natural latex mattresses have such great durability, some even come with 25-year warranties! ⏳
What is the best latex mattress for back sleepers?
For back sleepers, we suggest a mattress that has a medium-firm feel.
We recommend a mattress that supports the natural alignment of your spine.
This means the mattress will be firm enough to keep your spine straight (not creating that hammock effect) but soft enough to offer pressure-relieving comfort for those heavier regions. ⚖️
Back sleepers need a medium-feel mattress.
We highly recommend Sealy Posturepedic Nostromo Mattress for back sleepers. 🤩
This medium-feel mattress has a Posturepedic spring system to help keep the spine straight and supported during the night.
The latex pillowtop will help to relieve pressure from the shoulders and hips without sinking too much and creating a hammock effect.
You’ll be pleased to know it’s not just mattresses that are made with latex.
There are lots of popular bed accessories to accommodate your love for natural latex. 😍
Latex pillows can enhance your sleep.
We’ve got the best latex toppers and pillows below for a more organic sleep.🌱
Are latex mattress toppers any good?
Latex mattress toppers offer many benefits.
If you’re not quite ready to fork out on a brand new latex mattress, then trying a latex mattress topper first is a sensible stepping stone towards that goal.
A latex mattress topper can help to improve the feel of a sagging and unsupportive mattress.
If your mattress feels too firm, a latex mattress topper can give it an added layer of comfort and help to ease pressure on your joints during the night. 🤗
Likewise, if your mattress feels too soft, then a latex mattress topper can help to give it some additional support.
A latex mattress topper can enhance the feeling of your mattress.
Just like traditional mattresses, latex beds come in a range of sizes and depths.
Latex mattresses come in standard UK sizes.
The standard UK latex mattress sizes are below:
Latex mattress small single: 75 x 190 cm (2’6” x 6’3")
Latex mattress single: 90 x 190 cm (3’ x 6’3”)
Latex mattress small double: 120 x 190 cm (4’ x 6’3")
Latex mattress double: 135 x 190 cm (4’6” x 6’3”)
Latex mattress king size: 150 x 200 cm (5’ x 6’6”)
Latex mattress super-king size: 180 x 200 cm (6’ x 6’6”)
Latex mattress emperor: 200 x 200 cm (6’6” x 6’6”)
Some latex mattresses even come in custom or EU sizes.
Depths of latex mattresses range from about 20-30cm depending on the type of latex mattress.
Hybrid latex mattresses are generally much deeper than pure latex mattresses.
It’s important you measure your bed before buying a mattress and checking the depth.📏
If you are buying a mattress for a bunk bed or a bed with a foot end, this is especially important to ensure the mattress isn’t too deep. 💡
How much do latex mattresses cost?
Just like sizes, latex mattresses prices vary depending on the type of latex mattress and whether the latex is real or synthetic (or a blend of both!) 🤔
Latex mattresses can be more expensivethan some alternatives, such as memory foam or innerspring mattresses.
Synthetic or hybrid latex mattresses can cost anywhere from £250.
Pure natural latex is likely going to £1000 or more!
Consider your budget before buying a mattress.
Never feel pressured to overspend on a mattress.
Whilst we believe a good mattress should be essential for life quality, you should only buy within your budget.
If money is tight, consider a hybrid mattress with support foam or springs with a layer of latex on top.
Likewise, many retailers have finance options to help you spread the cost more easily.
Latex mattress discount codes
If you’re looking for the best deal for a latex mattress, there are often discounts on many popular latex mattress brands. 💰
Latex mattress offers can be reduced by as much as £500!
As latex mattresses can be expensive, it’s a great idea to check for the best deal you can.
Our discounts page will keep you up to date with all the latest latex mattress offers.
Who are latex mattresses suitable for?
As there are so many different types of latex mattresses available, it’s not as straightforward as assigning a latex mattress to a specific type of person.
But here is a general overview of suitability:
Latex mattresses are suitable for 👍
Latex mattresses are less suitable for 👎
Most body types and sleeping positions
Restless sleepers who don’t like feeling “stuck” in a mattress
Environmentally-conscious people
Warmer sleepers
Couples
Allergy sufferers
Those looking for a similar alternative to memory foam
Excessively hot sleepers
Those that like to feel “hugged” by a mattress
Elderly or disabled people who may have trouble rotating/moving the mattress
Alternatives to latex mattresses
Not convinced about latex mattresses?
Don’t sweat it. 😅
Luckily, mattresses come in a combination of materials.
Mattresses come in a variety of materials.
If you’re still on the hunt for a fantastic new mattress, then consider some of our alternatives below.
Latex can be a great choice for all sleeping positions, particularly side sleepers.
For side sleepers, the increased pressure on your shoulder and hip can lead to pain during the night.
It’s important to choose a mattress that supports spinal alignment whilst moulding around the joints to relieve pressure.
Do latex mattresses smell?
Most things we buy brand-new come with a smell when we first open them.,
Natural latex can have a rubbery or even sweet smell whilst synthetic latex might smell more like a chemical or plastic.
However, the smell of latex mattresses is much fainter than memory foam mattresses, as they don’t experience off-gassing.
If you are sensitive to even faint smells, then we recommend airing your new mattress out as soon as it arrives.
You can do this by completely removing the packaging and leaving it in a well-ventilated room.
Are latex mattresses good for back pain?
Latex can have a firmer feel whilst adapting to the shape of the body and providing great pressure relief.
This can make them a fantastic option for those who suffer from back or neck pain.
Latex mattresses are also often recommended for orthopaedic purposes.
However, it’s important to remember if you suffer from back pain during the night, this could be due to an unsupportive mattress.
A mattress that is too firm or soft will mis-align the spine and neck and cause back pain.
Our guide to choosing the correct firmness for your body can help you find a more supportive mattress.
Can latex mattresses be recycled?
If you’re conscious about the environment, you might consider latex as a more sustainable mattress option.
Each mattress that ends up in landfill takes up28 cubic feet of space.
So it’s great to know that 100% natural latex mattresses can be fully recycled.
Latex mattresses have a longer lifespan, which means you’ll need to replace the mattress less often.
Buying a long-lasting product that can be eventually recycled is a great way to reduce your environmental impact.
Are latex mattresses flammable?
Yes, natural latex is highly flammable, and all latex mattresses must be treated with fire retardants or graphite (a natural alternative) according to UK safety regulations.
Some latex mattresses also feature a fire-retardant mattress cover.
Are latex mattresses flippable?
Most latex mattresses aren’t flippable.
This is because of their layered structure, which usually includes a supportive foundation and softer top.
However, latex mattresses can be rotated.
Most latex mattresses need to be rotated every 6 months, but you should check with the manufacturer for your specific latex mattress for the best answer.
For some people, a non-turnable mattress is a deal-breaker.
Luckily, we have some options for you.
The HappyBeds Majestic 1000 Pocket Sprung Mattress can be flipped and rotated.
Having two sides to a mattress can help to increase its lifespan.
Are latex mattresses firm?
Depending on the make-up or type of latex within the mattress, a latex mattress can come in a range of firmness levels.
Some of the firmest mattresses on the market come in latex form, whilst other latex mattress options can be much softer.
Synthetic latex mattresses tend to be firmer than organic latex mattresses.
Likewise, if you’re looking for something with a bit more bite, then Dunlop latex is firmer than Talalay latex.
To answer another question: Is latex firmer than memory foam?
The short answer would be yes.
Memory foam has a softer, more “hugging” feeling than latex, so if your decision comes down to firmness - latex would generally be the firmest choice.
Holly
After years of working in a leading UK bed store, I'm passionate about helping others find their perfect mattress. I love to write about sleep almost as much as I love to nap!
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