Latex comes from rubber trees in the forests of Asia and is a rapidly renewable resource. The average rubber tree produces 4 lbs of sap yearly, which makes it a rapidly renewable resource that can be mined safely, without harm to the tree, for generations.
Rubber is harvested by hand (like maple syrup) and without the use of chemicals or large farm equipment. Once the rubber milk is tapped from the tree, it destabilizes very quickly, and to reduce the need for additional chemicals, processing is done nearby and on the same day of harvest.
Latex is processed one of two ways – Talalay or Standard (or natural). Talalay is much more involved process, which takes more time and energy than Standard. But the finished product over-performs in terms of quality and longevity.
Turning rubber into Talalay latex
The milk is whipped and frothed and then poured into molds that look like nail beds. The pins sticking up add air to the mold, speed the processing (foam rubber is a poor conductor of heat and cold) and the drying afterwards.
Once the mold is poured, it’s flash frozen. As it freezes, bubbles form to create an interconnecting structure – millions of tiny pin holes that give the latex both longevity and ventilation. The matrix is shot with carbon dioxide to further set the mold and force the bubbles to interconnect. The mold is finally heated to cure the latex and give it its resilient properties.
The finished Talalay latex is removed from its mold and thoroughly washed (multiple times), dried and inspected according to strict European standards.
Natura carries both Talalay and Standard latex, as well as a synthetic latex blend. All 3 give a unique feel and many of our mattresses combine different thicknesses. If you’ve never tried a latex mattress, visit a Natura Retailer near you and see for yourself.
Top 10 Reasons to
sleep on
Talalay latex
1. Contours to the body’s natural curves
any sleeping position
2. Superior support and comfort in any
sleeping position3. Choice of firmness options
4. Returns to its original shape night after night
5. Long lasting and exceptionally durable
6. Ventilated open-cell design reduces
moisture buildup
7. Naturally dust mite resistant and antimicrobial
8. Reduces stress on pressure points
9. Reduces tossing and turning
10. Absorbs motion transfer
We can help you get a better night’s sleep – starting tonight. Search for a dealer near you or continue reading through our Healthy Sleep Center.