Latex Foam Mattress Toppers

Latex pillow tops are a good choice for allergy sufferers

Latex foam offers a lot of comfort and cushioning that some find comparable to memory foam, but often at a slightly lesser cost. While it doesn't offer the neck and back support of memory foam, latex foam does mold itself to the body, reduces movement that can disturb sleep partners, and is the ideal choice for severe allergy sufferers.

As with memory foam, latex foam conforms to the contours of the body, giving much-needed support and reducing the strain on the back, neck and other joints. It also helps to reduce tossing and turning, which can disturb sleeping partners. Because latex is a natural product, derived from the sap of the rubber tree, a latex mattress topper breathes easily, rather than absorbing body heat as memory foam does.

The biggest advantage of latex foam is that it is naturally hypoallergenic and anti-microbial. It resists mold, bacteria and dust mites, making it the ideal choice for allergy sufferers. However, people with latex allergies should obviously avoid buying a latex foam mattress topper. Mattress toppers that are 100 percent natural latex are biodegradable, which also makes them an eco-conscious choice. Unlike some memory foam mattress toppers, latex foam mattress toppers are virtually odorless.

Latex foam mattress toppers and pillow tops are available in 100 percent natural latex or synthetic blends. The synthetic blend toppers tend to last longer, but since latex is a naturally durable material, even the 100 percent latex toppers can last up to 20 years. Similar to memory foam, latex foam has an elasticity to it that allows it to reform to its original shape when not being laid on. After many years of use, latex foam mattress toppers tend to lose a bit of their elasticity, which can lead to lingering indentations in the material.

Available in all mattress sizes, standard queen-sized latex foam mattress toppers range in price from $70 to $700. They are available in various thicknesses, from 2 to 4 inches, and are primarily available in traditional mattress or egg-crate styles. Natural latex toppers are pricier than the synthetic blends, but most customers find the two types to be equally comfortable. Sleep Studio is one popular brand that offers mattress toppers in a latex foam blend for around $100 to $200. ErgoSoft offers 100 percent natural latex toppers that cost $330 to $560 and come with optional quilted cotton covers.