Latex or latex topper with foam core?

[merup]

Thanks for your reply. So what is considered a medium foam? I thought 24 is on the medium side… Is 3" of soft enough for my wife to sink into and enjoy the plush layer, while I can vertically zone and end up sinking through the top layer to the middle layer and using the bottom layer as my support layer (if I understood your post correctly)…

I just don’t see the reason to spend an extra $1800 on their 10" latex mattress when I can get 3 latex 3" cores for $800 less, so I thought I’d make my own. Even if the middle core was the same as the bottom core (which is how much manufacturers do it anyway…)

I can get a custom cover made from a local shop in Boston for $80. The reason I am partial to BB is their excellent customer service and they offer 6 months interest free financing through PayPal…

[quote=“Phoenix”]
Hi merup,

I would agree with BB and I would also add that I think all three layers are much softer than I would consider using at your weight. This would be a very risky construction for you both in terms of durability and in terms of alignment and support. It seems way too soft to me for your higher weight.

You can read a little more of my thoughts in post #15 here about trying to design and build a mattress completely on your own without the guidance of an “expert” (or in many cases the exchange or refund options they make available) using components your purchase individually. In most cases I wouldn’t recommend it unless you are prepared for the time and effort and the difficulties and frustrations that can be involved in research, testing layering combinations at local stores, the possible cost of mistakes (in money and possibly sleep quality), and a very steep learning curve.

Finally, what benefits are there over a full latex bed versus a latex topper on a foam core bed?[/quote

You can read more about the differences between a latex hybrid and an all latex mattress in post #2 here. In your case, because of your heavier weight you will likely “go through” the top layer and well into the middle transition layer which means that the quality/durability of this layer would also be very important to you.

You can read more about the many factors involved in the durability of a mattress in post #4 here and the posts it links to.

Post #2 here and post #5 here may also help you with the parts of a mattress purchase that are most important.

The first part of post #2 here has some information on accommodating significant weight differences or different needs and preferences of a couple that will be sharing a mattress.

The first place I would start though is post #1 here which has or links to the basic information, steps, and guidelines that are the most important part of making the best choices.

Phoenix