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

I would add, just be sure you try *both* Talalay and Dunlop if you are looking for a switch.  After a lot of hunting around, I was able to find a store that had *both* Dunlop and Talalay processed latex mattresses that I could try out, and I absolutely hated the Dunlop from the minute I laid on it.  But .  . .Catlover loves it . . . so latex is an extremely personal choice.  After reading your initial thread again, I still think your layers might be a bit too firm and dropping down to 36 could be the answer.

Two nights ago I slept again on the firm/firm/xfirm (32/32/36) side and found too soft, sinking in too much.  Last night it was back to the xfirm/xfirm/xfirm (36/36/36) and it was juuust right. (remember soft convoluted topper on top of these layers)

More importantly, I do think you need an additional layer.  6" of core with a 2" topper does not seem like enough support for your weight.  I really think you need another 3" layer.  I have three, 3" layers plus the 2" topper.

Kimberly and Catlover...thanks for your thoughtful comments. Catlover, I'm glad you are liking your new bed, but I don't plan on starting over with an all new setup from a different company. At this point I don't need additional support from "dunlop" anyway. Kimberly, I think you are probably right about my 40 ILD core being a bit TOO firm but it sure provides good support! Again, I don't plan on making another swap but will find a way to make this one work for me. So far, I am finding it pretty nice with just a 2 inch memory foam topper over the 6 inch core and 2 inch top layer (32 ILD). Although still quite firm I am sleeping better each night as I get used to the new setup. Once again you are correct Kimberly that at my weight I need more than the 8 inch layers provide. As soon as the budget recovers, I may still order another 3 inch layer of latex to replace the memory foam topper. This will require another decision on what firmness to add! Right now I'm thinking 3 inches of a medium firmness ??? Kimberly, what would you suggest for the added top layer to replace the memory foam?

Mark

markbnh1 wrote:
Sorry, Mark - I thought you were looking to go with another company...I guess I misunderstood your post.  I'll have to read more slowly next time!

I hope you find the comfort you seek, but I question going softer on your core...

Good luck

Hmm, well, I take it you've decided not to switch the 40 ILD for something a little softer?  If you're going to get another 3" layer in the future, I suggest just going with a 36 ILD, then have your 32 topper on top.

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.

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

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.

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

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

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