When I needed to replace my traditional spring coil mattress last year, I started looking at more environmentally friendly options. I liked the idea of a natural “Talalay” latex mattress (it’s hypoallergenic and is not likely to cause allergies like latex gloves can because it’s a different manufacturing process) because they aren’t coated in flame-retardent (i.e., chemicals I would be breathing in/absorbing into my skin for 7-9 hours a day), durable, and entirely compostable when I’m done with it. However, I found that buying one was very expensive, even though it’s a fairly simple design. I found a mattress manufacturer in the area and bought the talalay core (they helped me choose the right firmness even, as there were options), then bought a dust mite cover and wool topper and assembled it myself for about $400 total. The mattress company offered to put a edging material on to prevent the edges from being damaged, but did suggest that I try to not sit on the edge too much anyway. I’ve had it a little over a year now and love it! I do find it’s a bit warmer than my old mattress, but I’ve never gotten sweaty or found it it in any way uncomfortable-I just use less covers. If you don’t have a mattress manufacturer around, I did find some through on-line stores as well.
This post was submitted by Sharlet.
Sharlet, good for you on finding such a creative solution to the mattresss issue. I, too, would love to replace my mattress with a more natural option, however, I agree that they can be a lot more expensive.
Comment by Susan — March 29, 2011 @ 10:51 am
Hi Sharlet,
This is such a great idea! Thanks for posting. I’m actually thinking of getting a new mattress. Currently I’m sleeping on a futon mattress on the floor without the frame. It was my desire to be closer to the floor/earth when I slept. My entire back hurts sometimes if I sleep wrong though. Did you build your own frame after you got the core? I’m so interested in the whole process you did if you can share it.
I found this company online:
http://www.latexmattresscompany.com/latex-cores-talalay-blended.html
How did you find a mattress manufacturer? I’m so used to real or online stores I feel at a loss of where to start.
Thanks for the tip and your info!
In love and light,
Alexia
Comment by Alexia Heller — April 22, 2011 @ 2:21 am