Memory foam has become the buzzword for pillow products in the market, but we can’t forget about the long-standing latex foam pillows as well. So, which one do we pick? Our ‘latex vs memory foam’ pillow guide is here to help you choose the right option, for you. But first, let’s go through what latex and memory foam are.
Latex foam
Latex is natural foam developed from sap (the fluid that circulates the vascular system of a plant) taken from the hevea-brasiliensis rubber tree. This sap was churned into a foam that contained an enormous amount of air bubbles which later laid claim to the soft and bouncy texture of the latex foam that we know today.
Latex pillows have a speedy recovery time and a lot more bounce. If you press your body into a pillow made with latex and then raise it off, the pillow will quickly assume its original shape.
There are various types of latex that can be used for pillows, including natural latex which is the purest form of its kind, and is economically made. Natural latex pillows are a preferred choice for those who need an all-natural and breathable option.
Memory foam
Memory foam pillows are made from polyurethane foam and other materials, are durable and have been recognised for their ability to absorb impact. Memory foam is also known for its heat moulding capabilities, creating an excellent and customised cushion for your sore neck and back pain.
The cushioning feeling that memory foam neck pillows provide comes from their ability to adjust around certain pressure changes/points. It takes time for memory foam pillows to bounce back into shape.
What’s the difference between latex and memory foam?
The main difference between memory foam and latex foam pillows is how they conform to your body. Memory foam will conform to the exact shape of each person’s body. However, latex will compress and bounce back and will conform to the general shape of the head and neck, offering adequate, all-night-long support. Whichever option you prefer depends entirely on your personal preference, needs and sleeping style.
A memory foam pillow is known for its neck support, which helps in even weight distribution and contouring to your neck and head, which helps ease neck pain. Memory foam pillows are considered the best pillow for neck pain as it brings about the best relief.
When it comes to price range, it varies, as memory foam is available in many ranges and qualities. On the flip side, latex is priced as a premium product, but the quality depends on the pillow brand and manufacturing company. If you are looking for the best pillow for neck pain in latex foam, you may be spending more money in comparison to the best pillow for neck pain in memory foam.
Is a latex pillow good for my health?
Having a proper pillow that suits your sleeping style and conforms to your body is always the best. Whether you prefer latex or memory foam pillows, both are good for your overall health and quality of sleep, with latex pillows having a few more benefits.
Latex pillows can last longer than memory foam- they mould to the contours of the neck and head but are not constrictive. A latex pillow also feels softer to the touch and is an excellent choice for people who like the feel of memory foam, but not its firmness.
Latex pillows are naturally hypoallergenic and anti-fungal, making them the most hygienic and obvious choice for anyone who suffers from dust allergies. It eliminates heat and has better moisture-wicking material than memory foam pillows; you can sleep comfortably, even in hot weather.
What is better — latex or memory foam?
Do you prefer a bouncy pillow that works best in hot weather, or would you instead opt for a pillow known for support that conforms to your shape? If we compare the two purely on cost, latex tends to be more expensive than memory as it comes from a rubber tree and is labelled as 100% natural.
Regardless, memory foam pillows can conform to your body shape and are a more popular choice for consumers. This is likely because memory foam is suitable for any sleeping position; it contours and moulds to your natural body shape. By comparison, latex is generally better suited for people who sleep on their side or stomach as it’s bouncier. It also has greater elasticity, meaning it will return to its natural form more quickly.
So, which to choose — latex vs memory foam pillows? Ultimately, there isn’t a right or wrong answer. It’s a case of what works best for you and your sleeping style.
Visit your local bed and pillow provider to feel the different pillow materials and discuss with the sleeping experts on your pain points so they can best direct you to your best choice. Here at SwissAire, our brand promise has always been about providing our customers with the highest quality mattresses and pillows to ensure you get a good night’s rest, in addition to improving your overall health and well-being. If you have any questions on latex vs memory foam pillows, feel free to reach out to our team today.