hi there,
My question is: How do I make my bed cooler without using synthetic products (no polyester fills, etc)?
I just purchased an organic latex mattress (firm) from Sleep on Latex. Consumer Reports says it “retains heat” and the vendor says it doesn’t. It definitely is getting warm after about 40 minutes of laying on it, though nowhere near as hot as my old memory foam mattress did, and I can feel the heat when I run my hands over the part of the mattress I was laying on (the other parts are cool). I am only using 100% cotton bedding (cotton sheets, cotton blankets). No synthetics whatsoever. I’m using a cotton sheet as a fitted sheet until I can find a 100% cotton pad with no synthetic fillers. The cotton I’m using is mostly a percale weave because percale breathes better than sateen or flannel. The temperature in the room is cool. I sleep in lightweight, cotton clothing.
I’m asking for non-synthetic ideas because they tend to make it hot and because it seems ridiculous to pay a lot for an organic mattress and then layer it with synthetics but if that’s the only way to make it cool, then I’d appreciate suggestions.
Welcome to The Mattress Underground ! Thanks for your question.
Congrats on your new mattress purchase from TMU trusted member Sleep on Latex ! The SOL team is deeply experienced in the latex category, I regard their product expertise, quality and value highly. How long have you had your new mattress? Regarding Consumer Reports’ product review, I was able to track it down and have added a snap of it:
The product “specs” that they provide are quite generic/ vague and can be interpreted so widely that they are not of much use. Rather than give credence to any review site’s commentary, working with a reputable, transparent manufacturer who will provide the mattress’s components’ specs, protect expertise, and decision-making guidance is the better way to purchase.
Latex foam is the most breathable of the mattress foams with its open-cell structure, allowing for air circulation and natural breathability. The materials closest to your skin, in terms of sheets and any additional mattress coverings will have the most direct effect on sleep temperature. Aside from room temperature, there could be other factors to consider such as the room’s humidity level, your personal statistics, the type pillows used, etc. all play a role in how warm or cool one sleeps. You are wise in your choice of cotton as a natural fiber for breathable bedding materials, and there are countless choices available out there. Other natural sheet materials include eucalyptus, bamboo, and linen. Did you check with SOL for their recommendations?
I don’t know what your budget is, but you may consider adding one of SOL’s toppers to your set up, they are available in 1", 2", and 3" thicknesses and are uncovered (there is an optional cover available, but it has a small polyester content). Having the open-cell natural latex topper above the mattress’s wool batting FR barrier may provide more breathability, you could consult with SOL to confirm whether that may be a suitable choice. Perhaps someone from TMU’s community will have more ideas…good luck with your research and let us know how your search goes .
hi there,
To answer your question: I’ve had the mattress for three weeks. SOL says they haven’t heard of anyone getting warm from their mattresses so they can’t advise. I am getting a 1" soft topper to add a little comfort but they said it won’t make it any cooler (if anything, sinking into the topper may make it a little warmer). I will get a cover for the topper but not from them because I don’t want any polyester on the bed, especially since it will block the flow of air and possibly make it warmer.
! Thanks for your question.
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