Where Does Latex Come From?
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Latex can come from two sources - the Rubber tree or a laboratory.
Originally, natural latex was a Brazilian commodity but the British are largely responsible for its successful export around the world. Much of the latex harvested naturally now is grown in Malaysia, Indonesia and other Far East environments. Many latex products are made synthetically now thanks to a research boom that began during World War II when fighting caused a shortage of natural latex.
Natural latex is generally considered to be more durable and the better of the two forms. Latex from the rubber tree (Hevea Brasiliensis) is siphoned directly from the milky sap that is found in ducts in the inner bark. The sap is then processed - heated and mixed with acid - and ends up as crude rubber. The crude rubber is pressed to remove water and ends up in sheets that are dried and baled for shipment to manufacturers. The trees from which latex is harvested continue to grow and are not harmed if the tapping is done correctly.
Synthetic latex is a petroleum product and is sometimes mixed with natural latex in manufacturing. Although it is generally not considered as good as natural latex, synthetic latex is a less expensive alternative for some manufacturers.
Different rubber mattress processing techniques
Latex is processed in two forms - Talalay and Dunlop. Talalay is a more sophisticated process and is considered higher quality but Dunlop is used more often due to its cheaper production costs. Both processes can be used with natural or synthetic latex.
Natural latex is considered superior for several reasons including its durability. Natural rubber mattresses take far longer in general to break down than synthetic compounds. Natural latex is also hypo-allergenic and anti-bacterial. It is moisture resistant so mold does not grow. Synthetic rubber lacks all of those qualities.
There are about 50,000 products such as auto tires, to belts, combs, gloves, toys, paints and mattresses made from rubber. Our mattresses utilized both Talalay and Dunlop giving our customers options to receive optimal support for their latex mattresses.
