Hi Jennamatty,
Dunlop latex can be made in different ILD (softness ranges), the same that can be done with Talalay latex. There is a difference in “feel” between the two styles of latex, and this is described in a bit more detail in post #7 here.
I’m thinking that you meant to say that you’re considering a mattress that uses Dunlop and Talalay latex layers combined? When you say “blended” in the same sentence with latex, it usually refers to the amount of natural and synthetic latex used in the production process of a piece of latex foam, so I wanted to be sure!
If you’re considering mixing Dunlop and Talalay latex pieces, this is quite common and more of a matter of personal preference versus a right/wrong choice. Here’s a bit more detail about the difference between these two versions of latex in post #6 here.
It is common that people have a preference for one style of latex versus another. Dunlop is commonly used in the deeper “primary support” layers of a latex mattress, and Talalay is commonly used in the upper “surface support” layers. Dunlop can be a bit more cost-effective than Talalay (depending upon the blend), so this may also enter into your personal PPP.
If you are still considering the latex route, I would use the expertise of the members listed in my previous reply. You can also look at the latex section of this component supplier list for a few more choices, as many of those companies also create finished latex mattresses.
When you can’t test a mattress in person then the most reliable source of guidance is always a more detailed phone conversation with a knowledgeable and experienced retailer or manufacturer that has your best interests at heart and who can help “talk you through” the specifics of their mattresses and the properties and “feel” of the materials they are using (Dunlop or Talalay latex, resilience, firmness etc.) and the options they have available that may be the best “match” for you based on the information you provide them, any local testing you have done or mattresses you have slept on and liked (like the Posh + Lavish) or other mattresses you are considering that they are familiar with, and the “averages” of other customers that are similar to you. They will know more about “matching” their specific mattress designs, options, and firmness levels to different body types, sleeping positions, and preferences (or to other mattresses that they are familiar with) than anyone else. You can also learn about any exchange, return, or any options they have available to customize a mattress after a purchase can help lower the risk of an online purchase. Many of these manufacturers have been successfully doing this for decades.
Hopefully this will help you bypass most of the misleading information, confusion, and frustration of mattress shopping, connect with people who put your long term interests above their own, and of course … you are always free to post on the forum if you have any questions along the way.
Phoenix