A latex bed is a bed made with a core of latex foam, rather than a set of springs. Latex beds provide a great deal of support and they can vary from soft to firm in texture, and unlike beds with springs, they should not deform over time. Many manufacturers of latex beds guarantee their products for 20 years or more, claiming that a latex bed should last for decades when it is properly cared for.
The softness level of a latex bed can be adjusted in a number of ways. Foam with numerous large holes tends to be softer, while smaller holes tend to yield a firmer bed. The latex core is also covered in a variety of wrapping materials which can be used to adjust softness levels, including memory foam which will conform with the shape of a sleeper's body for greater comfort. Some companies offer consulting services in which people can wear pressure-sensitive suits and lie on a bed to see whether or not hot spots which indicate high pressure differences develop, allowing people to find a bed which will distribute pressure evenly across the body for greater comfort.
Some companies offer latex beds with different softness zones. In a simple version, the two sides of the bed could have differing softness levels so that people who co-sleep can get the level of support they need. Other beds may distribute firmer and softer areas across the bed lengthwise, varying support for different regions of the body for greater comfort. Mattress toppers made from latex, memory foam, and other materials can be used to further adjust the softness level of a latex bed.
In addition to being durable and long-lasting, latex is also suitable for people with allergies. It is naturally hypoallergenic and of no interest to dust mites, making it preferable to other bedding materials, especially if the bed is covered in a hypoallergenic cover. Latex beds are also naturally antimicrobial, and they will not harbor fungi either, a distinct advantage in a bed which will be used for a long time.
Buying a latex mattress can get costly, especially if consumers use the services of a company which creates customized mattresses. However, over the life of the bed and the users, the expense may seem acceptable. A well-made latex bed can prevent injuries, contribute to better sleep, and support people with specific medical conditions, in contrast with many other mattress types. Some people may also prefer to purchase a single expensive mattress for 30 years of use, rather than replacing a mattress every five to 10 years as it wears out.