I recently bought a waterproof 100% cotton mattress protector with my all latex mattress, and like all others I have tried in the past, it unfortunately doesn’t work well for me. They all seem to change the feel of all latex mattresses and/or create the dreaded drum effect.
I would LOVE some input from anyone who has had success with all natural/organic mattress protectors that are comfortable, don’t sleep hot, and most importantly do not alter the feel very much.
Also, is waterproof necessary for an adult who sleeps alone? I never eat or drink in bed, so the waterproof aspect is strictly to protect the latex from sweat over time. I understand even the most natural waterproof protectors will include a thin layer of material that is not “all natural”. That material seems to be what causes the most problems. The waterproof protector made by Avocado was very bad in that regard.
I am open to hearing any and all suggestions for waterproof and non waterproof natural options! Finally, would a thin wool pad suffice? I have never used one and am not sure how that would alter the feel…
TYIA! I am tired of spending money on products that don’t work with latex and cannot be returned
I dont think waterproof is necessary, and to ensure you dont have the drum effect you can get one thats a bit bigger than the total height of your build.
Well my build is only 9" but for some reason these queen size protects (and even sheets!) seem to be so tight all the time. I will look at non waterproof options! And maybe wool pads if they might be a good fit in this situation?
I will certainly check those out. The Avocado waterproof one did not work for me at all.
Can you answer if you think waterproof is even necessary for me? And if a thin wool pad on top of the mattress and under the fitted sheet would be a good alternative in this scenario? My mattress build is encased in a cover btw. Thanks again!
The wool option from Shepherd’s Dream is not waterproof, but wool does a very good job of managing moisture and helping keep the sleep surface dry. I would not rely on it for something like a large spill, but it is generally more than sufficient for everyday moisture and minor accidents. Wool can absorb a significant amount of moisture vapor without feeling wet, which is part of what makes it so effective in this format.
It is also naturally breathable and is commonly used in the quilting layers of latex mattresses, so the two materials tend to work very well together without trapping heat. Given that your mattress is already encased, a thin wool layer on top can be a nice way to add a bit of practical protection while maintaining the feel and temperature neutrality of the mattress.
Although you never want to get latex soaking wet, most latex mattress experts would say it is just as important to preserve the breathability and comfort that make latex appealing in the first place.
I’m just worried about sweat, I would hate to ruin an expensive latex mattress.. and I don’t think the case they are in is washable, but I will have to ask the mattress manufacturer.
You seem to have worked this all out, but I just wanted to affirm that all wool should work fine. There are different kinds (we’ve used a washable wool on our latex mattress for 5 years) but for what you are looking for, there are many options of a wool moisture pad to lay on top of the mattress. Some have straps, others are held on just fine by putting a fitted sheet over them.
If you want any recommendations, let us know.
All the best to you as you complete your ensemble!
These are our two most popular wool moisture pads:
Obasan Wool Moisture Pad It is tightly woven wool that is water resistant and flame retardant without any sprayed on chemicals. Straps to hold on mattress. Machine washable, line dry.
Savvy Rest Wool Moisture Pad The straps that hold it on are removable so that you can use them or not, as you wish. Hand washable, line dry.
This is very helpful, thank you again! Would you say either of these are better than the other when it comes to changing the feel of latex as minimally as possible?
I have one of these that I purchased on Amazon, and it’s a very nice 100% wool blanket. It’s not suitable as a mattress protector, but as a pure wool blanket, it’s quite good. I’ve seen other options, but most in this price range are wool blends, this one being 100% wool really stands out in the crowd of 100% wool blankets that are value oriented. I use mine as a throw on our couch, and when we travel, I keep it in the car just in case. I haven’t used it as a mattress blanket because our bed is already layered with protectors, toppers, duvets, and a bed scarf.
I love where your head is at! Thanks so much for sharing this ◡̈ I took off my protector temporarily and am sleeping on my bed without it for now.. just doubled up on sheets. Going to keep researching and try something in the near future!
Thanks for your take Maverick, sad to hear it’s too good to be true haha. But best to know before purchasing something else!
Wow with all the layers on your bed you don’t seem to have the same issue as I do. I have learned that I unfortunately fall under the Princess and the Pea type of folk
Any protective cover will ruin the feel of latex. I would. just put an extra sheet on it. It’s important to get the benefit of the latex. I have a latex topper and it took me forever to find a thin stretch all cotton cover. I’m happy with it.
I believe the two wool pads would be equal. One option many people have liked for their latex bed is this stretchy organic cotton knit mattress protector by Suite Sleep.
