What base for solid latex mattress?
I wonder if you could advise me on the best type of base for a full latex mattress please?
I am considering buying a latex mattress for a sprung edge base, however, I am concerned this will make the bed feel too soft and reduce edge to edge sleeping surface. I am also concerned about roll off as I find it difficult to get in and out of bed. At the moment I have an old sealy torsion base, which I found good with my sprung mattress. My only concern about going for a platform top is that the mattress will feel too firm and be less breathable. This is making my choosing of mattress/base very difficult also in terms of soft medium or firm mattress – what should I pick first, mattress or base and then will this determine what firmness i pick?
I weigh 10 stone, have a bad back and pain issues, have always had a firm mattress but now feel I want comfort but with a good support. My partner weighs 13 stone and likes a comfortable feel but not saggy. We both want to be able to move freely in bed as we shift a lot and don’t like the feel of being stuck in the bed, like memory foam. Would a full latex or latex with springs be better?
Thank you in advance, we look forward to your response. Kind regards, Mark
Hi Mark,
I can empathise with the myriad of decisions you feel you’re going to have to make. So I will aim to simplify the problem to assist you.
We always advise that if your base is in sound condition there is no point in replacing it. A sprung edge base will soften the overall feel of any mattress so you’re right to investigate this with latex. For your weight, I wouldn’t usually recommend a firm mattress.
| Bodyweight | Spring tension |
|---|---|
| Upto 16 Stone / 50-101kg | Medium (1.4mm) |
| 16 Stone / 101kg Upwards | Firm (1.6mm) |
| Available in Bespoke Products (Please Call) | Soft (1.2mm) |
That said solid core latex in a firm tension is nowhere near as robust or solid in its top layer as say a pocket sprung mattress. This is because latex is by nature far more malleable and the top layers will always feel softer before the firmer support kicks in. With solid core latex, you will never get a firm edge as there’s no perimeter support in such a mattress. To include it be it either firm foam or wire edging would complete negate the benefit of latex and introduce weaker components reducing its shelf life. Latex always has a softer sink in the top layer before the support kicks in. Given you have a sprung edge base, it may be the perfect compromise to get a medium firm feel for you without too much sink.
If you have any further questions please don’t hesitate to contact the office on 0161 437 4419
– Lee
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