The Durability of Hybrid Latex Mattresses

March 01, 2023

You'll likely encounter a hybrid mattress when shopping for your new ideal bed. This mattress is popularly known for its many sleep benefits, including temperature regulation, motion isolation, and pressure relief. For these reasons, you may want to try sleeping on a hybrid mattress for a change.

But because a mattress is a long-term investment, you'd also want to know how long a new hybrid mattress lasts. So, we've gathered everything you need to know about this mattress type, and compared it with some of the most common mattresses on the market to help you determine its durability, and find your ideal bed.

What is A Hybrid Mattress?

Hybrid mattresses are unique multi-layered beds. They combine the superior support system of traditional innerspring mattresses, and multiple comfort layers of different materials, such as latex, gel, and memory foam.

Parts of A Hybrid Mattress

A typical hybrid mattress consists of the following layers:

Support Layer

This layer comprises fabric-encased coils that provide the sleeper superior support.

Comfort Layer

This may be single or multiple layers of cushioning materials, such as memory foam, latex foam, and gel-infused memory foam.

Pillow Top

The pillow top is the topmost layer of the hybrid mattress. It's usually made of soft padding sewn in place to cover the mattress and provide extra cushioning.

Key Features of a Hybrid Mattress

Some of the notable features of a hybrid mattress include the following:

Temperature Regulation

Sleeping hot is one of the most common causes of sleep disruption. Usually, it results from sleeping on a heat-trapping mattress, such as a traditional memory foam mattress. Luckily, a hybrid mattress solves this problem, thanks to its unique, multi-layered design.

For example, the metallic coils form the base and support layer of a hybrid mattress, and also act as ventilators to optimize air circulation. Additionally, most hybrid mattresses contain other breathable materials, such as latex foam, wool, and cotton to dispatch heat away from your body while sleeping.

Superior Support

Support is a vital factor to consider when searching for an ideal mattress. This is because you must keep your spine in its natural S-shaped curve to sleep comfortably, and avoid developing complications, such as lower back pain. Fortunately, a hybrid mattress has special support features that set it apart from other mattresses.

For example, Eco Terra's Hybrid Latex Mattress contains heat-treated and stress-relieved quantum coils that absorb pressure from your body, and prevent the mattress from sagging. Additionally, these coils have individual fabric cases, allowing them to move independently, and contour the shape of your body while sleeping. As a result, your spine aligns perfectly all night long.

Pressure Relief

Sleepers with health conditions, such as arthritis and fibromyalgia, often have challenges finding a comfortable sleeping position because of the constant body aches and pains. As a result, these sleepers end up not enjoying bedtime, losing sleep, or developing other sleep-related conditions.

Besides seeking treatment, lifestyle changes, such as sleeping on a pressure-relieving mattress, may help improve such conditions. For example, an excellent hybrid mattress has sufficient give to contour a sleeper's body, and ease pressure on contact points, such as the knees, hips, neck, and back.

Comfort

Hybrid mattresses are ultimately comfortable to sleep on because they naturally contour the shape of your body, and cuddle pressure points. They are also known for their superior support that keeps the spine properly aligned, easing body aches and pains.

Other comfort features of most hybrid mattresses include:

• Covers made of moisture-wicking materials
• Extra cushioning layer made of soft materials, such as cotton and wool
• Breathable comfort layers consisting of latex, or gel-infused memory foam

Edge Support

Edge support prevents you from feeling stuck while sleeping, and allows you to sleep closer to the edge of your bed. It's a vital factor to consider when shopping for a mattress, especially if you have mobility issues, and need support getting in or out of bed.

Fortunately, a hybrid mattress has reliable edge support because of the metallic coils it comes with. Additionally, the springs don't poke through the mattress, due to tension. This is because each spring has individual fabric cases that allow them to move freely. As a result, they absorb and distribute pressure evenly around the edges of the mattress.

Motion Isolation 

Although hybrid mattresses are relatively bouncy, they don't transfer motion from one side of the bed to the other. This is because the coils respond individually to pressure from different parts of your body. As a result, they move independently, without denting the surface of the mattress.

Who can Sleep on a Hybrid Mattress?

If you're looking for a comfortable mattress, you can't go wrong with a hybrid one. But, because this mattress is versatile, it can also be your best pick, if you're a:

• Hot sleeper
• Side sleeper
• Plus size sleeper
• Back sleeper
• Combination sleeper
• Couple

Hybrid Mattress vs. Other Mattresses

Before shopping for a new mattress, you must know how different mattresses perform. Here's how hybrid mattresses compare to other mattresses on the market.

Hybrid vs. Memory Foam Mattresses

Memory foam mattresses are famous for their body pressure-relieving advantages. This foam gently cuddles pressure points to ease pressure buildup. Additionally, it contours the shape of your body to keep your spine correctly aligned while you sleep.

On the downside, memory foam mattresses sleep hot due to their closed-cell structure. They trap body heat in these cells, causing you to feel too hot when sleeping. On the other hand, hybrid mattresses made with natural materials allow air to flow freely through the mattress, carrying away hot air to keep your body cool.

Hybrid vs. Innerspring Mattresses

Both innerspring and hybrid mattresses have metallic coils, but don't look alike. In innerspring mattresses, the coils form the support core, and often take up more than two-thirds of these mattresses.

They also have thin comfort layers, usually soft materials like cotton and memory foam. On the other hand, the coils in hybrid mattresses form the base layer of these mattresses, while their comfort layers consist of thick foams, such as natural latex and memory foam.

Innerspring mattresses comprised of synthetic materials and hybrid mattresses made with natural materials also feel differently. For example, if you want a firm but bouncy bed, the traditional innerspring mattress would work best for you. However, a hybrid mattress would be a better option if you need a body-contouring sleep surface, and love the bouncy bed.

An innerspring mattress tends to have a shorter lifespan than hybrid mattresses. This is because an innerspring mattress has thin comfort layers that wear out faster than hybrid mattresses.

Hybrid vs. Natural Latex Mattresses

Hybrid and latex mattresses share a lot of similarities. For example, both are breathable, supportive, and great for pressure relief. However, these mattresses differ in durability. Usually, latex mattresses last longer because latex is made of natural materials from rubber tree sap. In addition, their responsiveness allows them to retain their shape for many years, and avoid premature sagging.

Fortunately, some manufacturers use latex foams to create high-quality, durable hybrid mattresses. Latex hybrid mattresses combine all the benefits of latex foams made from rubber tree sap, and the exemplary support of metallic coils, making them worth the investment.

Factors to Consider When Purchasing a Hybrid Mattress

Now that we've compared how hybrid mattresses perform against other mattresses, let's discuss the factors to help you choose the right one.

Firmness Level

The firmness level of a latex bed mattress is how soft or hard its surface feels. For instance, some manufacturers describe their mattresses with words such as Soft and Firm, while others use the firmness scale to rate them out of 10.

Sadly, these descriptions may complicate your shopping experience. To avoid this, consider other factors that influence your choice of ideal mattress firmness, such as your preferred sleeping positions, and body type.

Additionally, the materials of the mattress also determine how soft or firm a mattress feels. For instance, a memory foam mattress often feels soft, and conforms to the shape of your body, while a natural latex mattress is firm, but responsive.

Generally, hybrid mattresses range between Medium and Medium-Firm firmness levels, making them ideal for most sleepers. This is because hybrid latex mattresses tend to perfectly balance comfort and support, and don't feel too stiff or soft.

Thickness 

The ideal mattress measures at least nine inches thick because a thick mattress has thicker comfort and support layers, and is more resilient to pressure and body weight. On the other hand, a thin mattress lacks adequate support to align the spine, and cushion pressure points. This makes it prone to sagging and dipping after a few years of use, making it less durable.

Hybrid mattresses are generally thick because of their construction. For example, Eco Terra's Hybrid Latex Mattress measures 11 inches thick, and contains 3 inches of seamless natural latex foam as its comfort layer. This makes many latex mattresses of this type more comfortable and durable.

Body Type

Medium to Medium-Firm hybrid mattresses work well for plus-size sleepers because they effectively sustain the pressure exerted by the weight of their body. Additionally, they prevent the sleepers from sinking too deep into the bed, or misaligning their spine while sleeping.

On the other hand, petite sleepers are more comfortable on softer hybrid mattresses because they don't sink too deep into the mattress. These latex bed mattresses also cushion their contact points to ease pressure buildup.

Materials

Hybrid mattresses contain varying materials, such as latex, polyurethane, memory, and gel-infused foams, and whether or not they are derived from materials from a rubber tree. However, these materials differ in performance and durability. For instance, latex foams last longer than memory foams because of their responsiveness. It’s also wise to avoid synthetic latex mattresses, and choose organic latex mattresses whenever possible.

Pros of Hybrid Mattresses

Hybrid mattresses have many advantages, including the following:

Breathability

These mattresses contain cooling materials that improve air circulation through the mattress to keep you cool.

Durability

Most hybrid mattresses contain durable materials, making them last longer than average mattresses.

Support

Hybrid mattresses have a complex support system that contours the back, and supports the sleeper's body weight.

Cons of a Hybrid Mattress

Hybrid mattresses also have their cons, as highlighted below.

Weight

Most hybrid mattresses are heavy, due to the metallic coils in their base layer.

Price

Most hybrid mattresses cost more than average mattresses because of their superior quality.

Factors Affecting the Lifespan of a Hybrid Mattress

Every mattress becomes old at some point. However, some factors can cause your hybrid natural latex mattress to wear out faster than it should. These factors include the following:

Poor Maintenance

Hybrid mattresses are generally low maintenance. However, it's good practice to take care of your mattress regularly. For example, you may follow the cleaning directions of your mattress to clean your mattress once in a while. This prevents dirt from accumulating, and destroying your mattress.

Weight

Although hybrid mattresses have firm structures, they may not withstand more weight than they can carry. Excessive weight puts too much pressure on the coils, causing them to lose elasticity. As a result, the coils break, poke through the mattress, or cause it to sag, wear, and tear prematurely.

Poor Usage

Poor habits, such as jumping on the bed, can also cause your natural latex mattress to age faster than it should.

Tips for Improving the Durability of a Hybrid Mattress

Your hybrid mattress can last longer than its warranty or lifespan, if you take good care of it. Here are some tips on improving the lifespan of your hybrid mattress.

Protect Your Mattress

A proper mattress protector will prevent dirt, spillages, sweat, and dead body cells from accumulating, and staining your perfect mattress. As a result, you won't have to clean your mattress regularly, allowing it to remain fresh and clean for a long time. A high quality latex mattress will last as many as 20 to 25 years with proper care.

Reduce Pressure on Your Mattress

Sleeping on a mattress topper reduces direct pressure on your mattress. This prevents your all natural latex mattress from sagging, and losing shape faster.

Use a Sturdy Support Base

You must use your mattress with a sturdy foundation bed to avoid destroying its support base. It's best to follow the manufacturer's recommendation on the ideal base for your mattress, or inquire whether you can use it without a base, if you prefer a lower bed.

Signs That You Need a New Mattress

Sleeping on an old mattress may be harmful, especially if you have health issues like allergies, chronic back pain, or arthritis. In addition, such a mattress may worsen these conditions due to discomfort. Here are some telltale signs that your old mattress needs to go.

Visible Wear and Tear

Sometimes, it may be evident that your mattress is old. For example, the mattress may have open seams, broken coils, torn edges, or stained surfaces. If you can't fix such damages, it may be time to replace the mattress with a new one.

Unpleasant Odor

An old mattress may produce an unpleasant odor after many years because of the accumulated dirt, moisture, and the natural breakdown process. If you can't seem to get rid of this odor after cleaning your mattress, or changing your bedding, it may be time to change the mattress.

Sagging

An old mattress loses its shape and support system, even if it doesn't appear deformed. You can tell your mattress is sagging if it no longer supports your body weight when you sleep on it. Instead, it forms a huge dent that traps you, and makes it difficult to get out of bed.

A sagging mattress may also cause body aches and pain due to discomfort and lack of support, regardless of your sleeping positions, and this may signal it’s time for a new organic mattress.

Noise

An old hybrid mattress may begin to make squeaky noises because of the deformed and broken coils. This may be uncomfortable for intimate couples, or sleepers sharing a bed with light-sleeping toddlers or partners. In such cases, it's best to replace the mattress, as there may be no possible solution to eliminate the noise.

Discomfort

Another indication that you need a new mattress is when you no longer feel good sleeping on your old one, and find you can’t get comfortable, despite your preferred sleeping position.

For example, if the mattress dips, and causes your back to bend excessively, you'll experience recurring lower back aches when you wake up. This may be your sign to get a new supportive mattress to reduce your back aches, and constant trips to the doctor's office for treatment.

Severe Bed Bug Infestation

Bed bugs and other bugs may be difficult to remove if they severely infest your mattress. They multiply quickly, and become a nuisance when you sleep on your bed. They often infest an old mattress, as they live in its cracks and folds. Additionally, they can stain the mattress with their urine, droppings, and dead bodies. As a result, you may have to let go of the mattress, if fumigation doesn't solve the problem.

FAQs 

How Long Does a Hybrid Mattress Last?

Generally, hybrid mattresses can last several years. However, their materials also play a significant role in determining their longevity. For example, hybrid mattresses with high-quality latex foams have a longer lifespan than traditional memory foam mattresses. This is because latex foams are more responsive that that of a memory foam mattress, preventing them from premature wear and tear.

Can I Flip My Hybrid Mattress?

Most hybrid mattresses are one-sided mattresses that don't need flipping. This is because the base of these mattresses contains heavy metal coils that may damage the comfort layers when flipped. Besides, the bottom sides of most hybrid mattresses don't have the same cushioning layers as their top side.

Can I Store My Hybrid Mattress on its Side?

You shouldn't store your hybrid mattress on its side. This is because the coils may put too much pressure on the side of the mattress, causing it to sag and wear out. Additionally, you must ensure that your mattress is clean, and free of moisture before storing it to prevent molds and mildews from growing on the mattress.

About Eco Terra Bed's Hybrid Latex Mattress

The Eco Terra Hybrid Latex Mattress is one of the purest and most durable hybrid mattresses. In addition, this mattress contains all-natural materials to ensure that you sleep on a clean and comfortable bed for many nights. But don't just take our word for it. Here's the proof.

This mattress consists of four materials; quantum coils, latex foam, cotton, and wool. The quantum coils are unique heat-treated and stress-relieved steel coils that provide the mattress with lasting support. This treatment makes the coils resilient, absorbing pressure, without losing elasticity. As a result, you don't have to worry about the coils sagging, deforming, or poking through the mattress within a few years. This enables the mattress to remain supportive throughout its lifespan.

The comfort layer of this mattress is also designed to last longer than most hybrid mattresses. First, all the materials are all-natural, and certified by several quality assurance organizations. Secondly, the comfort layer consists of a three-inch seamless latex foam, instead of multiple layers of foam. This reduces friction between layers, which causes most mattresses to wear and tear faster.

Lastly, this hybrid latex mattress has a 15-year warranty covering manufacturing defects. However, this mattress can last longer than its warranty with proper care and use, making it a very worthwhile investment.

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