DIY Advice - Latex Hybrid

Im looking for guidance on a DIY mattress - my first attempt at this - and I’ve been trying to do as much research as possible over the past month (big thanks to this forum and its contributors).

Im 6ft 185lbs 50/50 back/side sleeper with a history of getting lower back pain from my beds (waking up in pain), and also with a history of right hip pain. My partner is 5’4” 150lbs and could probably sleep on anything without complaining.

Here is where I’m at:

I’ve tried out a bunch of beds in show rooms. At a bed in the box showroom the mattress I liked the most was Leesa Legend Chill Hybrid. At a natural bedding store, I appreciated the naturepedic hybrids. I thought the EOS (3” latex) was ok, and the pillow top version (6” latex) might have been overkill. So probably looking to split the difference.

I am pretty sure I want to start with coils, with a latex comfort layer on top.

First question:
What’s the difference between the TPS 8” coils and the coils for sale on APM? Im not sure how to choose between them.

Second question - for the comfort layer:

Option 1:
TPS 3” coils
2” Latex (soft? or medium? or 1" of each?)

Option 2:
2” Medium Latex
2” Soft latex

Any opinions on what the different between these would be? Or if one vs other seems like a better bet? I’m kind of assuming that a combo of soft and medium makes the most sense for me - but if you all think I should be considering firmer latex i’d be interested to know why.

Third question:
For a mattress cover — I think I’m a sucker for something that feels nice and has a little bit of cushion/pillow — but am really not sure what the best options might be. Do I stick with simple and then look for the pillowing in a topper — or is there a nice cover with a little cushion in it that will make me feel like I have a fancy mattress?

I know these are all personal preference type things - but still any opinions and advice will be much appreciated!

@Arizona_Premium
@TheCleanBedroom

Hi Jesseg.

Welcome to our Mattress Forum.

6" is definitely a lot of material in a comfort layer and unless you have pretty extreme support needs, or just really love that much material, it’s really not necessary.

Great place to start!

I’m leaning towards this arrangement for you. 2" alone is going to be very thin especially when side sleeping. Having a layer to sink into that still supports you is going to make a world of difference.

The beauty of a DIY is being able to troubleshoot and layer swap. You mentioned liking a softer feel. I think the soft latex will be a win with you.

There sure is! There are mattress encasements with wool and cotton like these options.

Hopefully this helps you kickstart. If we’re lucky some experts will chime in as well.

NikkiTMU