DIY latex mattress? How to?!
Jun 7, 2011 12:00 AM
Joined: Jun 6, 2011
Points: 18
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!)
Re: DIY latex mattress? How to?!
Reply #8 Jun 7, 2011 6:29 PM
Location: San Francisco Bay Area
Joined: May 13, 2011
Points: 170
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.
Re: DIY latex mattress? How to?!
Reply #9 Jun 7, 2011 8:06 PM
Joined: Jun 6, 2011
Points: 18
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....
Re: DIY latex mattress? How to?!
Reply #10 Jun 7, 2011 8:51 PM
Location: San Francisco Bay Area
Joined: May 13, 2011
Points: 170
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
Re: DIY latex mattress? How to?!
Reply #11 Jun 7, 2011 10:01 PM
Joined: Jun 7, 2011
Points: 8
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.
Re: DIY latex mattress? How to?!
Reply #12 Jun 9, 2011 10:55 PM
Location: L.A. area
Joined: Jan 18, 2008
Points: 1161
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?


See the Higlighted Threads posts at the top of the forum re mattress surgery. I have been using latex over springs for years. See my post about it there along with others. Someone just did mattress surgery  and reported on it last week here in fact.

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