Best Organic Latex Mattress (2024): Reviews and Buyer’s Guide

Organic, all-latex mattresses are some of the safest and most eco-friendly models on the market. However, they’re not common, and it can be hard to tell if they’re truly organic. Terms like “green,” “all-natural,” “organic,” and “eco-friendly” are often used interchangeably, but they don’t always mean the same thing.

For the purposes of this article, when we say “organic latex mattresses,” we’re generally talking about models with comfort, transition, and support layers made of certified organic latex. Because these types of mattresses are few and far between, we also include natural latex mattresses made in organic-certified facilities.

The latex may not be certified organic, but the facility has to meet certain standards such as no use of harmful chemicals like formaldehyde, PBDEs, and heavy metals—meaning the latex is either free from or low in these chemicals and overall emissions. This article includes some of the best organic latex mattresses as well as a guide to help you find the right mattress.

The Amerisleep Organica has a medium feel created by plush wool, responsive Talalay latex, and buoyant coils. It’s unlike any of Amerisleep’s other mattresses, which mainly feature memory foam and, although they’re still eco-conscious, aren’t quite as all-natural as the Organica.

All Amerisleep mattresses, whether they’re part of the main numbered line or the individual Organica, come with free shipping, a 100-night sleep trial and a 20-year warranty.

SEE ALSO: Best Mattress for Seniors

If you want natural latex comfort that’s eco-friendly, a solid choice is the Nolah Natural 11. Made with Talalay latex foam that has a portion of synthetic filler, it’s not fully organic but has still gone through rigorous third-party review to ensure it’s a safe, clean, and comfortable mattress.

The Nolah Natural 11 ships free and includes a 120-night sleep trial and a lifetime warranty. The trial period can be removed before checking out for deeper savings.

SEE ALSO: Best Adjustable Bed and Mattress Combo

Naturally, a hybrid mattress won’t be as completely organic as an all-latex mattress can be, but it’s still possible to find one with organic materials, including certified organic latex cushion. The Saatva Latex Hybrid is one such mattress, with organic wool, cotton, and latex paired with eco-friendly steel coils for support.

The Saatva Latex Hybrid not only ships free but comes with free white glove delivery, which includes in-room setup and old mattress removal. The mattress is also protected by a 365-night sleep trial and a lifetime warranty.

The Avocado Green Mattress is a popular choice among eco-conscious consumers who want a comfy and sustainable organic latex mattress. The company takes pride in the fact that the mattress is handmade in California using only natural, non-toxic, and organic materials. They’ve expanded their lineup to include budget-friendly models and a luxury latex mattress, but it’s difficult to beat what their flagship model offers.

The Avocado Green mattress ships free and includes a lengthy 1-year trial period and a 25-year warranty.

PlushBeds specializes in making natural and organic mattresses. Of their beds, the PlushBeds Botanical Bliss is the most popular. Real customers praise the mattress for providing a luxurious sleep experience, improving their pain, and being environmentally conscious, all without being unreasonably expensive.

PlushBeds offers a 100-night sleep trial—if you don’t like the mattress, the manufacturer will arrange for curbside pickup. The Botanical Bliss mattress also comes with a lifetime warranty.

SEE ALSO: Best Mattresses for Couples

Of Essentia’s twelve mattress line-up, the Stratami is their most popular for its excellent feel and versatility. Essentia calls the Stratami an organically-built mattress rather than an organic mattress.

Their factories are GOLS and GOTS certified. That means there are no chemical flame retardants, poly-foams, or toxic chemicals found in-factory or in the mattress. The latex is natural but not GOLS certified, but the cover is GOTS certified, which means it’s made of at least 70 percent organic materials.

The Stratami comes with a 120-night trial period and a limited 20-year warranty that covers indentations greater than 0.75 inches.

SEE ALSO: Best Mattress for Kids

Organic latex mattresses aren’t the cheapest option on the market, which can be frustrating for those living on a tight budget who want to enjoy eco-friendly comfort. However, mattresses like the Happsy Organic Mattress address by striving for easy affordability without sacrificing quality latex foam and other organic materials.

Eco Terra partners with sustainable farmers and local craftsmen to bring customers an eco-friendly option at an affordable price. They believe a non-toxic, comfortable mattress should be available to all.

Eco Terra offers a 90-night sleep trial period to test out the mattress, a no-hassle return policy, plus a 15-year warranty.

SEE ALSO: Best Hybrid Mattress for Side Sleepers

The Birch Natural Mattress from Helix Sleep can suit many different types of sleepers, but we primarily recommend it for back sleepers seeking a “firm but not too-firm” mattress.

There’s also an upgraded version of the Birch Natural Mattress known as the Birch Luxe Natural Mattress, which adds organic cashmere for more comfort and cushion. The Luxe model also features targeted lumbar support, excellent for back sleepers who want to deter morning stiffness and aches.

The Birch mattresses come with a 100-night sleep trial and a 25-year warranty.

Best Organic Latex Mattresses Highlights and Comparison

What Is a Latex Mattress?

Both natural and synthetic latex are used to make mattresses. Latex is processed using either the Dunlop or Talalay method. Talalay latex is typically found in the comfort and transition layers of the mattress because of its lighter, more responsive feel. Latex support layers are usually made of Dunlop latex due to its firmer feel.

Latex mattresses may also be made of synthetic, man-made latex, which is not derived from the sap of the rubber tree like the natural variety. Synthetic latex may be used alone or mixed with natural latex during the manufacturing process. While synthetic latex mimics the feel of natural latex, it’s less durable and breaks down faster.

Latex’s cushioning abilities allow latex layers to be used as an alternative to memory foam. However, latex contours to the body but doesn’t necessarily conform as closely as memory foam. It returns to its original shape faster, giving it a bouncier, more responsive feel.

However, like memory foam, latex mattresses can trap heat. For that reason, it’s aerated with channels or sculpted into shapes that promote airflow and enhance breathability.

Latex works well for sleepers, especially side sleepers, who prefer contouring over snug conformability. It also offers a bouncy, more responsive feel for those who don’t like to sink into their mattress.

SEE ALSO: Mattress Size and Dimensions Guide

Benefits of Organic Latex Mattresses

You might wonder why you would want to choose an organic latex mattress over any other type of mattress. There are a number of benefits to latex mattresses you may not be aware of:

• Eco-Friendly: Organic latex mattresses are made from natural and sustainable materials, which makes them an eco-friendly option. The latex used in these mattresses is derived from rubber trees, which are grown using eco-friendly farming practices that promote sustainability.
• Hypoallergenic: Organic latex mattresses are naturally hypoallergenic, meaning they are less likely to cause allergic reactions or trigger allergies. Unlike synthetic materials that can trap dust, mold, and other allergens, organic latex is resistant to these allergens, making it a great choice for people who suffer from allergies or asthma.
• Durable: Organic latex mattresses are known for their durability and long lifespan. The natural latex used in these mattresses is resilient and can retain its shape and support for many years. This means that organic latex mattresses can provide long-term comfort and support, even with regular use. As a mold-resistant mattress, it can also endure climate better.
• Comfortable: Organic latex mattresses are known for their superior comfort and support. The latex material conforms to the contours of the body, providing pressure relief and support where it is needed most. This can result in a more comfortable and restful sleep, which can lead to improved overall health and well-being.
• Chemical-Free: Organic latex mattresses are free from harmful chemicals and synthetic materials. Unlike conventional mattresses that can contain chemicals such as flame retardants, formaldehyde, and phthalates, organic latex mattresses are made with natural and non-toxic materials. This makes them a safer and healthier option for you and your family.

Other Mattress Types

Mattresses fall into four broad types—memory foam, latex, innerspring, and hybrid. Each type has its pros and cons and may work better for different sleep positions and sleepers of different sizes and weights. The best mattress offers sleepers a balance of comfort and support for healthy spinal alignment.

Memory Foam Mattresses

Memory foam is made with polyurethane foam that’s been treated by chemicals to give it a viscoelastic feel, but it may overheat from its dense structure. Today’s manufacturers use a variety of techniques to improve the breathability and temperature neutrality of their memory foams. They may add or infuse the foam with gel, copper, or graphite, which absorb heat and move it away from the body.

Every mattress manufacturer has their own memory foam mattress formula to give their foams unique properties. Memory foam can also be made in different densities and firmnesses.

However, memory foam mattresses may alternate poly-foam layers or even latex foam with the memory foam layers. Memory foams of different densities, firmnesses, and structures can be used to create mattresses that fall anywhere on the firmness scale from soft to firm.

Eco-friendly memory foam contains some plant oils in place of petroleum— and it still has the ability to stretch and conform under pressure and heat. That ability to change, conform, and adjust to the sleeper’s individual shape makes it feel as though the memory foam partially surrounds your body. It relieves pressure and changes shape as the sleeper moves throughout the night.

Memory foam mattresses work well for most sleep positions because it adapts to each sleeper’s individual shape. A memory foam mattress is also often the best mattress for pressure points, as the material conforms to the body so closely.

SEE ALSO: Memory Foam vs Latex: What’s the Difference?

Innerspring Mattresses

Innersprings have an internal coil support system with a quilted top for comfort. Some have memory or poly-foam quilted to the cover or a pillow or Euro top to further cushion the body, while others use wool or cotton to create a mattress without memory foam.

The coils within the system vary in design from low cost continuous and Bonnell coils to the individually-wrapped pocketed coils found in more expensive mattresses. Coils come in different gauges, which affects how firm they are. Mattresses may even have zoned coils so there’s more support in the back and less in the shoulders. Firmer coils are often found around the edge of the mattress to prevent sagging.

Innerspring mattresses come in all firmness levels, though they offer stiffer support than memory foam or latex beds. Side sleepers may prefer the targeted pressure relief of pocketed coils while back and stomach sleepers may be comfortable with the firmer and less expensive varieties like continuous or Bonnell coils. Overall, coils tend to be stiffer with more response to sleeper movement.

SEE ALSO: Latex vs Innerspring Mattresses: What’s the Difference?

Hybrid Mattresses

Hybrids bring cushioning foam to the support of coils. The comfort and transition layers of hybrid mattresses contain memory foam, poly-foam, or latex foam. Supporting these layers is a pocketed coil support core. The extra space around the coils creates more room for air to flow, so they usually have better breathability than all-foam, mixed foam, or memory foam mattresses. However, the responsiveness of the coils transfers more motion than foam mattresses.

Couples with different mattress preferences may find a hybrid to be the perfect compromise. Side, back, and combo sleepers also do well with a hybrid’s mix of conforming foam and supportive coils.

SEE ALSO: Latex vs. Hybrid Mattresses: What’s the Difference?

What to Look For in the Best Latex Mattress

When looking for the best organic latex mattress, consider budget, sleeping position, cooling features, and available sleep trials, return policies, and warranties.

Mattress Budget

Mattresses range in price from around $200 to well over $10,000. Affordable budget mattresses start around $200 and go up to around $700. Their comfort may rival more expensive models, but it’s the longevity and durability that suffer at this price point.

Mid-priced models fall in the $700 to $1,200 dollar range. These models offer a balance of comfort and durability. High-end, luxury mattresses start around $1,200 and go up to about $5,000. However, some affordable luxury mattresses, those that have intricate stitching in the cover and high-quality in the interior layers, can start at around $1,000. You’ll find many eco-friendly and organic models in this category too.

Premium mattresses fall under the $5,000 to $10,000 range, though you can find models that are much more expensive. Hand stitching, high-end fabrics, all-natural or organic materials, and layers upon layers of premium foams and coils go into the construction of these mattresses.

Be wary of some of the mattresses in this category. Some have gold in the thread and brass fittings that do nothing more than add to the price. Make sure you’re not paying for perks that add little to your sleep quality.

Shoppers may also want to consider what else they might be buying with their mattress, such as an adjustable bed or new bedding.

Sleeping Position

We all move during the night, but each of us has a preferred sleep position. Different sleep positions need different kinds of support and cushioning, which means you require a mattress that’s tailored to your specific needs.

Side Sleepers

A good mattress for a side sleeper should keep your spine in a neutral position from head to tailbone. Side sleepers may have trouble maintaining this position because of the varying pressure points found at the shoulders, waist, hips, and knees.

You can’t have the same pressure at your shoulders as you do at the lower back, for example, and expect to stay comfortable all night. The wrong type of support could lead to hip, shoulder, or back pain.

Foams, both memory and latex, work well for side sleepers because they conform to each sleeper’s individual shape. The best mattress for side sleepers relieves pressure points in the shoulders and hips.

Back Sleepers

The spine of a back sleeper more easily stays in a neutral position. However, back sleepers still need support in the lower back and shoulders. It’s a matter of finding a mattress for back sleeping with the right cushioning and contouring.

Latex mattresses can be a good choice for back sleepers as they offer more natural buoyancy than memory foam. In other words, they’re excellent at keeping a sleeper feeling like they’re on top of the mattress, rather than sinking too far into it.

Stomach Sleepers

Sleeping on the stomach puts extra pressure on the lower back—because of this, we don’t recommend it. However, we all move and shift throughout the night, and some of us end up on our stomachs.

The best mattress for stomach sleepers provides firmer support to prevent the hips from sinking too far into the mattress. They may also benefit from lighter support in the shoulders, so they can sink slightly to relieve lower back pressure. A latex mattress for stomach sleepers can be a good choice as the material’s buoyancy can help it feel firmer under the body.

Combination Sleepers

Are you a combination sleeper who changes sleep positions frequently throughout the night? If so, you need a mattress that can accommodate your needs and provide comfort and support.

Mattresses for combination sleeping strike the perfect balance between pressure relief and support, making them an ideal choice for individuals who switch between different sleep positions based on their comfort level or mood. With the right amount of cushioning and lift, these mattresses provide adequate support during stomach sleeping and protect the joints during side sleeping.

Body Type

Sleep position isn’t the only consideration that will guide you to the right mattress firmness. Body type also influences how you push down on the mattress, which in turn affects what the most comfortable mattress for your needs is.

Lightweight Sleepers

For lightweight sleepers under 130 pounds, a softer mattress is generally recommended. This is because they don’t exert as much pressure on the mattress, and a softer surface can provide better contouring and pressure relief. A softer mattress for petite sleepers can also help to prevent the feeling of being “stuck” in the mattress, which can be a common issue for lighter sleepers on firmer surfaces.

Plus-Sized Sleepers

On the other hand, heavier sleepers over 230 pounds typically require a firmer mattress to provide adequate support. This is because they exert more pressure on the mattress, and a softer surface may not be able to provide the necessary support for their body weight. A firmer mattress for heavy sleeping can help to prevent excessive sinking and maintain proper spinal alignment.

Sleeping Cool and Airflow

A mattress that traps heat can wake you prematurely or make it hard to fall asleep. Your body temperature drops and fluctuates throughout the night as a regular part of your sleep cycle. If you get too warm, it can cause wakefulness.

Temperature regulation, breathability, and airflow are, therefore, important factors when choosing a mattress. Foams with large, open-cell designs or those infused with gel, copper, and graphite allow air to flow or absorb heat and move it away from the sleeper.

Many cooling memory foam mattresses also have aeration channels, convoluted structures, or cutouts in the surface to create space for heat to escape. Coils of all types also create room for air to flow through and away from the sleeper.

Unlike memory foam, latex mattresses tend to sleep cooler due to their natural structure. They are also usually assembled with natural textiles that are more breathable than synthetic options, so a latex bed can be an excellent cooling mattress.

Sleep Trials, Return Policies, and Warranties

Sleep trials, return policies, and warranties serve as reassurances to customers of a quality purchase. These policies provided by manufacturers enables customers to try out a new mattress without risk and protects the bed for a prolonged life.

Sleep Trial

Sleep trials are in-home trial periods where the customer can try a new mattress at home, instead of in-store. This is a boon when you’re buying an untested online mattress and are hesitant about whether or not you like it.

Mattresses with free sleep trials generally last between 90 to 120 nights—some companies require the customer to keep the mattress at least 30 days before accepting returns. If the customer doesn’t like the mattress, most companies will issue a full refund.

Return Policy

If a sleep trial isn’t offered, the next best thing is the return policy. Return policies last 30 days, about the same time it may take to adjust to a new sleep surface. Should the customer not like the mattress, they can return it for a refund.

Warranty

Warranties protect the mattress against manufacturing defects and sagging greater than 1 inch—this measurement varies, depending on mattress brand. Most beds come with a standard 10-year warranty, though many of the best mattress warranties last longer. A mattress warranty only applies to the original purchaser.

Saving on Organic Latex Mattresses

As we’ve mentioned, organic latex mattresses can be the most expensive type of mattress due to their high production costs. However, it’s possible to save significantly by carefully where and when you buy a new mattress, taking advantage of mattress sales and coupon codes.

Some of the best times to buy a mattress throughout the year include:

• Martin Luther King Day mattress sales
• Presidents Day mattress sales
• Sleep Awareness Week mattress sales
• Memorial Day mattress sales
• Fourth of July mattress sales
• Labor Day mattress sales
• Columbus Day mattress sales
• Black Friday mattress sales
• Cyber Monday mattress sales

Other Things to Consider

Are latex mattresses better?

That depends on what exactly “better” means to you. Latex mattresses can be nearly 100 percent organic and eco-friendly, so in that sense, they can be better than other options. The best latex mattresses are also responsive and resistant to mold and dust mites.

However, not all latex is made the same. Synthetic latex may have as many chemicals and emissions as other types of mattress materials. Natural latex foam may be and often is, mixed with a small percentage of synthetic latex during the manufacturing process. So, it really depends on the manufacturer and the model.

As far as comfort, that depends on your preferred sleep position, weight, and personal preferences. If you like a responsive mattress that contours to your shape, then a latex bed may be a better choice for you. However, for others, it may not have enough conformability or support.

What is the best Talalay latex mattress?

We won’t pick one model, but we can tell you how Talalay latex affects the feel of the mattress. Talalay latex has a spongier, bouncier feel than Dunlop. That makes it lighter and highly responsive to movement and changes in sleeping position. However, it’s not as dense or durable as Dunlop.

A mattress with Talalay in the comfort and transition layers will contour and quickly bounce back to its original shape after the sleeper moves. A Talalay latex mattress should be supported by a firmer support core of either Dunlop latex, poly-foam, or coils. Otherwise, it may not have the support or longevity you’d like or expect.

What is the best natural latex mattress?

We’re not going to pick a specific model here either, but instead, we’ll clarify the term, so you know what you’re looking at when you see a natural latex mattress. Natural latex is derived directly from the liquid sap of the rubber tree.

The term “natural” refers to this natural source versus a synthetic, man-made one. If you want an organic latex mattress, it will, by default, be made of natural latex because only natural latex can be organic. However, “natural” does not necessarily mean organic or eco-friendly, though it can be either or both.

Are latex mattresses good for back pain?

Latex mattresses contour to the body a bit like memory foam to ease pressure and alleviate aches and pains, so they’re great options for those with back pain. Latex beds are also a go-to for sleepers with back pain because they have a buoyant lift and can promote neutral spinal alignment while resisting sinkage.

How long do organic latex mattresses last?

Latex mattresses are extremely durable and many of them can last 15 to 20 years without developing sags. However, we recommend replacing latex mattresses every 10 years for hygienic reasons. Ultimately, that means organic latex mattresses last just as long as high-quality memory foam beds.

Do organic latex mattresses sleep hot?

Latex mattresses can vary in their temperature regulation, but in general, they tend to sleep cooler than other types of foam mattresses. This is because latex is a natural material that is breathable and allows for good airflow. Latex mattresses can also come with additional cooling features, such as hole-punched air channels or cooling infusions, to further help regulate temperature and prevent overheating.

However, individual experiences with mattress temperature can vary depending on factors such as room temperature, bedding, and personal preference. Some people may still find that a latex mattress sleeps too hot for their liking, particularly if they tend to sleep hot or live in a warmer climate.

If you’re concerned about sleeping hot on an organic latex mattress, it’s important to choose one that is designed to promote airflow and regulate temperature. Pair the mattress with breathable bedding, such as cotton or bamboo sheets, and keep your bedroom at a cooler temperature to improve your overall sleep comfort.

Can I buy an organic latex mattress if I have latex allergies?

If you have a latex allergy, it is generally not recommended to buy a latex mattress. While many latex mattresses are made from natural latex foam that is hypoallergenic, some people can still experience allergic reactions to latex, even in small amounts.

Symptoms of a latex allergy can range from mild to severe and can include skin irritation, itching, hives, nasal congestion, watery eyes, and even anaphylaxis in severe cases. While your body should not come into direct contact with the latex foam, some sleepers may still find the latex inside the mattress is too close for comfort.

Conclusion

If you’re looking to cut down on the number of chemicals and potential emissions in your home or want a hypoallergenic mattress, organic latex mattresses are a good way to go. But remember, the best mattress for you is one that helps you sleep for a full seven to nine hours every night.

What’s best for you may be different than what’s best for your neighbor or best friend. Take a good look at your sleep style and preferences and rely on sleep trials to make sure you’ve found the right model.

Dr. Burns tests each mattress at eachnight’s facility to make sure the recommendations are based on real, expert reviews.