Based on your recommendations from “reply #2” I found a small manufacturer that can build me a mattress using talalay latex from Latex International They offer a 6 inch core of 36 or 44 and a topper of 2 inch 19 (and two other firmer options) all talaly latex. The do not offer a quilting layer and their ticking is fireproofed but they don’t know the chemical. They would use a material I provide. Joann’s has 100% cotton ticking I can use without chemical additives. I would then add a breathable mattress cover/pad. The manufactureer will also build a plywood box support. Their prices are very reasonable and fall comfortably within your price suggestion ranges. Does this sound like a quality product? Is there something else I need to be thinking of? Thank you so much for your help!
Hi nancyrent,
That’s good news 
Do you have a link (or their name) so that others in the area can benefit from your experience as well?
Talalay latex is certainly a high quality material so from that perspective it would be good quality yes. I would also make sure that any cover you use is suitable for a mattress ticking so that it stretches enough, wears well, and the latex is protected from exposure to ozone and ultraviolet light which can oxidize latex and cause it to break down faster than it should.
Besides quality and value … it would also be important to make sure that the design of the mattress matches your specific needs and preferences in terms of PPP (Posture and alignment, Pressure relief, and Personal preferences).
If you haven’t tested the mattress personally then your ability to make adjustments to it after your purchase if it doesn’t match your needs and preferences and the costs involved would also be an important consideration for me.
If you haven’t had the chance to test it in person … it may be worth testing a Pure latex Bliss Pamper which has a similar layering (2" of 21 ILD Talalay over 6" of 40 ILD Talalay) to use as a guideline to see how the mattress feels and performs for your body type, sleeping positions, and preferences. You can find the nearest PLB dealer on their retail finder here.
No matter how good the quality or value of a mattress based on the price and materials … if it isn’t suitable for your specific needs and preferences then it would have little value to you so it’s suitability is just as important as its quality and value.
Phoenix
…suitable for a mattress ticking so that it stretches enough, wears well, and the latex is protected from exposure to ozone and ultraviolet light which can oxidize latex and cause it to break down faster than it should…<<
What ticking material would you recommend? I was going to buy the 100% cotton ticking from JoAnn’s (a fabric store).
… if you haven’t had the chance to test it in person… <<
I am going to test (PPP) different layer combinations Friday. Once I have the mattress I will post my experience and their link.
Thanks!
Hi nancyrent,
I’m not an expert in fabrics or mattress ticking so I would consult with them about your intended use but something along the lines of denim or in the range of about 10 oz/yd or better would probably be fine. The best choice of all would be a good stretch knit fabric which will conform to the latex better than a woven fabric.
I’m looking forward to your feedback.
Phoenix