Advice: constructing a latex/foam hybrid mattress

[phoenix]

Hi Matt ress,

I have run in to an issue in my mattress search that seems to be a common occurrence for many members of this forum - I am not comfortable with the lack of product knowledge coming from many of the people I have dealt with at the majority of retailers I have contacted or visited. I have a fairly high comfort level in the overall quality of the products that I am considering purchasing, but I am not confident in the advice coming from the sales associates about which is best for me. This “problem” seems to have been exasperated even further while exploring the option of designing a mattress to my specs or building one from a variety of components.

Outside of the general lack of knowledge in the mainstream part of the industry, part of the problem is that only you can know for certain which mattress or design is best for you. Nobody else can feel what you feel on a mattress. Post #2 here has some links to some generic information on the site that may be helpful but this is only generic and there are too many unknowns, variables, and personal preferences involved to use a formula, specs (either of a person or a mattress) or “theory at a distance” to choose a design that will work best for a specific person with any certainty.

Like diynaturalbedding mentioned … a 2" comfort layer would often be a little on the thin side for a side sleeper although this isn’t a “rule” … only based on averages.

Lastly, any opinions on the firm border? In theory it seems like it makes sense, but I don’t know if there’s validity to this or if it’s merely a gimmick. Elimination the option would reduce the cost. Please advise if you feel there’s value to addressing this last question as a new topic/thread altogether.

You can read a little more about edge support in a foam mattress in post #33 here. If the support core is firm enough it normally wouldn’t be necessary but for those who tend to sleep with more concentrated weight on the very edge or their mattress or who prefer a firmer edge for sitting or who have a softer support layer or thicker/softer comfort layers then it can be a worthwhile option as long as your testing confirms that the edge support is “in balance” with the rest of the mattress and that it uses good quality and durable materials (especially if you use the edge of the mattress for sitting). 2 lb density polyfoam would be a good quality material for edge support and it’s slightly firmer than the inside of the mattress so it would probably be “in balance” with the rest of the mattress but your own testing and knowledge of your own sleeping habits will be the best way to decide whether it’s necessary.

Phoenix