| I see theres the option of buying your own latex layers and then putting them together to make a mattress - what do people use for the exteriors? Is this option significantly cheaper? Im trying to make something extra sustainable (as well as, of course, comfortable!) |
| Did you check out the recent posting on a DIY latex project with photos today? That will give you some idea. I haven't done it myself, but it seems from reading this forum for awhile, a lot people buy mattress covers to encase the various layers. If I'm not mistaken, others just use a regular type of mattress cover that doesn't completely encase the foam, and people are saying there isn't a lot of problem with slippage because the layers kind of grip each other.... Isn't that right, folks? |
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I bought a topper for my side of my king bed. I just wrapped a jersey sheet (I know, jersey sheet, but it's the only sheet my SPD hubby will sleep on) around it and laid it over my mattress and then threw a thin mattress cover over my entire bed. It works fine, no slippage, even with the sheet. This 3" talalay topper (from FBM) is also very heavy. So I'm sure between the latex layers gripping, and the weight, you really wouldn't need much.
I finally have my side of the bed ideal, and I sleep so amazingly well. Have fun putting it together! This message was modified Jun 7, 2011 by serehya
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| Anybody use a normal spring mattress (for the firm support) instead of something like the 6 inch dunlops? Im thinking I could save money here - maybe build a DIY bed with a thin innerspring and two 2" talalays on top - a firm and a soft on top, or maybe two mediums? |
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kawasakiguy37 wrote: Anybody use a normal spring mattress (for the firm support) instead of something like the 6 inch dunlops? Im thinking I could save money here - maybe build a DIY bed with a thin innerspring and two 2" talalays on top - a firm and a soft on top, or maybe two mediums? |
| Now I just need to find a good mattress exterior....I definitely dont just want terry cloth. Need something extra sturdy with a good zipper |
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Hi Kawasakiguy37, I have a few thoughts for you on seeking a cover for your DIY latex bed; 1. First, a short public service message. In the last few years the Federal government and most State governments have put some very strict flammability guidelines in place for mattress manufacturers. The only way to make a Latex bed meet those guidelines is in the covering of the mattress, either by a full fiberglass “sock” or special fabric in the cover. A DIY project is not subject those rules and laws, but it is something to consider that that big piece of foam you are sleeping on has a high fire fuel load. If there is a fire in the house, the fuel load of the bed poses a threat to you, your property and any fire fighters entering to fight the fire. For this reason you may want to consider purchasing a custom mattress made to your specifications. There are many places that can do that for you. End of PSA, now on the the fun suggestions. 2. Think futons: If you are looking for a high quality fabric cover the can zip on an off try your local futon store. They often have in stock “closeout” covers in full and queen size. I am not sure how tall your DIY bed will be, but if it is 8-9” a futon cover might work great. 3. Go naked: There are many high quality “mattress protectors” or “mattress pads” available from a variety of manufactures. A quick search for organic cotton mattress pad returned a lot of relevant results. Just layer up your foam and put the mattress pad on top. Have fun and post pictures. |
| Any flame retardant covers I can use? Guy at the natural mattress store said that wool is fairly flame retardent |
| You can build the zippered mattress covers that Sleep EZ uses on their web site. They are cotton with wool quilted into the top. The organic version has organic cotton and organic wool. Look for the "Components" like on the nav bar on the left. They aren't cheap. But the terry covers are one reason why DIY is cheaper. With your $2K budget, you should be able to get an entire mattress from Sleep EZ. They have a 90 full refund return policy (less shipping), and you can exchange layers as well. Many people have purchased from Sleep EZ and are happy with their product. For a bit more, you can get organic cotton and organic wool cover. |
| Im thinking about the Eco-Cloud now - they have supposedly all organic natural latex AND organic wool/cotton exteriors - and Im not sure if its worth all the hassle of DIY if the price is going to be similar with a flame retardent wool outer.... |
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I was not able to find a lot of data on the Eco Cloud online. I went into the local store that carries these mattresses and the salesman was unhelpful so I walked out instead of begging for help. Too bad since there aren't a lot of local stores selling non "S" brand latex mattresses. This message was modified Jun 7, 2011 by sleepswithcats
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| I called Eco Cloud today. They have pretty upscale prices for their latex. Mostly over $2K for a Queen. Would probably be a good place to try out and see what you like. |
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kawasakiguy37 wrote:
Anybody use a normal spring mattress (for the firm support) instead of something like the 6 inch dunlops? Im thinking I could save money here - maybe build a DIY bed with a thin innerspring and two 2" talalays on top - a firm and a soft on top, or maybe two mediums? As to the original post here in this thread, yes, you can just throw layers of latex on top of each other and put anything on top of the latex. THe latex tends not to shift much due to the friction of rubber. I even use zoned pieces cut into thirds so I can have a firmer piece in the middle for my hips and the 3 pieces hardly shift. I check them once a month or so and adjust as needed. Sometimes it's not needed. I just use a couple of sheets under my bottom sheet for protection of the latex. Is this the best protection? Probably not. But it is probably good enough. Ideally I'd say use a wool layer over your latex, maybe a thick wool blanket or comforter. Sometimes I use a wool layer but mine is too thick (2" or so) and sometimes I feel it causes my lower back to sink in too much and cause pain. This message was modified Jun 9, 2011 by jimsocal
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