Latex problems
Nov 7, 2009 9:21 AM
Joined: Oct 13, 2009
Points: 156
Hello,
I'm new to this forum but have been researching latex mattresses for the past month. To make a long story short, I decided to buy my new mattress from a very reliable small mattress mfg in the Boston area. After long tests in the store, I chose their "medium firm" fully talalay laxex mattress and foundation. WRONG! That mattress has a 6 inch medium firm core and a 2 inch medium top layer. At 270 lbs I was too heavy for it and found I was bottoming out and feeling the foundation under it when sleeping. I asked the store for an exchange and just received my new "firm" latex mattress. This mattress has a 6 inch bottom layer with a "40" ILD and a 2 inch top layer of "32" ILD talalay latex. I don't bottom out anymore, but it is SO firm I'm not sure I will ever get used to it.

I feel like Goldilocks and the Three Bears---one's too soft and one's too firm! I'm now thinking about getting a top layer or pad in a softer latex to add to my NEW bed....grrrrrr. What would you suggest for the firmness level? Also, how thick? I've looked at Flobeds, Sleeplikeabear, and Foam Sweet Foam toppers and they all are similar in price but seem to have different priced covers and firmness gradings. I now wish I had bought the entire bed with layers online.

Mark
Re: Latex problems
Reply #12 Nov 13, 2009 11:25 PM
Joined: Oct 13, 2009
Points: 156
Kimberly,
Ummm.....I can't move my "32 topper". The mattress I bought is bonded together by the maker, then covered with a very fine cotton/joma wool cover which is sewn on to form the completed mattress. It was this "finished look" that attracted me to this company in the first place. (Gardner Mattress, Salem, MA Check them out online). I'm not sure what my old memory foam is rated in ILD but so far it's not too bad for comfort level. I'm thinking maybe a 28-32 ILD 3 inch layer of latex might do the trick.

I see an interesting old post from someone with a very firm innerspring who put a soft topper over it and is happy now. Sounds like me, but luckily I don't have any back issues.
Re: Latex problems
Reply #13 Nov 14, 2009 5:38 PM
Joined: Aug 30, 2007
Points: 191
Mark,

 Sorry to hear of your latex mattress woes.I know Gardner Mattress is great to deal with so I would try talking to them and see if they could do something different with your mattress to make it softer while at the same time not losing any of the support that you require.

Latex is great to sleep on but finding the right combination can be a frustrating experience.I know from experience.

One question for you...

Did you happen to notice while in Salem if Gardner had a lot of traditional spring mattresses on display?

I was in their Rye store recently,and while there were a couple units, I wanted to try some different spring combinations before I make a decision for my next mattress.

Jeff

This message was modified Nov 14, 2009 by JCturboT
Re: Latex problems
Reply #14 Nov 14, 2009 5:56 PM
Joined: Oct 13, 2009
Points: 156
Jeff,
I actually am from New Hampshire and made 3 trips to the Rye store before going to Salem to place my order. (It was less money in Salem!) As far as spring mattresses, I would say they have a similar display in Salem as they have in Rye. The only difference is "lower overhead" and the ability to talk to and deal with the company owner in Salem, MA. It is a custom mattress factory and they will build just about any type mattress you want. The people are very friendly and easy to deal with. I know I should probably ask for another "comfort exchange" and they would oblige, but I have already paid 2 shipping charges on original delivery and first exchange. Plus, they only build an 8 inch matress and at my weight I am reading that I need more depth. So, I'm leaning toward keeping my "firm" latex from Gardner and adding another softer layer on top eventually. More money, but probably worth a try.
Re: Latex problems
Reply #15 Nov 28, 2009 6:50 PM
Joined: Aug 30, 2007
Points: 191
Mark,

How is everything going with your latex mattress?

I know what you mean about the prices in Salem-they are quite a bit less money when you buy factory direct.

Jeff

Jeff

Re: Latex problems
Reply #16 Nov 29, 2009 8:06 AM
Joined: Oct 13, 2009
Points: 156
Jeff,

So far I still have the very firm latex mattress from Gardner PLUS an old 2 inch memory foam topper that I added.   I'm getting used to the firmness and find myself sleeping very well lately. 

I'm still considering ordering another layer of medium latex after the holiday spending is over, but I'll see how I feel by then.   Have you done anything yet about a new mattress?

Mark in NH

Re: Latex problems
Reply #17 Dec 2, 2009 9:11 AM
Joined: Aug 30, 2007
Points: 191
Mark,

   Good to hear your are adjusting to your new mattress.I know from experience it takes some time.

I just might take a trip to the Gardner's Salem store today to see what they have in stock to "test" out.

Jeff