The Mattress Expert

Itchy Hives on a Serta iComfort Mattress?

Kim writes:

Hi Pete,

I bought a Serta icomfort mattress and I think I need to exchange it.  

I started getting itchy, and now I get hives.  

What could be in this mattress that I should avoid in my next bed?

Thanks Kim

 

Hi Kim,

Memory foam is the thing to avoid....causing all sorts of negative physical reaction in people. Unfortunately, most mattresses have some. 

You will have to specifically ask for a mattress with no memory foam.

However, your problem isn’t common among the many complaints I hear about memory foam.

Other sources of your particular complaint may be:

1) New sheets that hadn’t been washed before using.

Many new sheets are chemically treated.

2) A new laundry detergent, to which you may be reacting.

 

The Mattress Expert specializes in Mattresses with NO Memory Foam 

 

Thanks, Pete - TME

 

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Head to Toe Hives on a Tempur-Pedic Mattress.

Sophie writes:

 

Hi Pete,

My mattress was delivered yesterday, a Tempur-Pedic Mattress, and slept the first night last night. 

I awoke all night with head to toe hives. Extreme rash all over my body, itchy, hot, scalp, legs, hips, back. 

The only place it wasn’t red was where my underwear sat. 

I'm devastated, as it has taken us years to find the money to purchase a new mattress. 

I used no new products that day, nothing odd eaten. Will try again tonight but looks like it’ll be going back.

Thanks, Sophie

 

Hi Sophie,

Tempurpedic mattresses are made with memory foam.

The memory foam they use consists of 61 different chemicals.

Some of which, are highly toxic.

It’s those chemicals causing your body to react as it is.

 

In future, avoid any mattress upholstered with memory foam.

Most are, so they won’t be easy to find in stores.

We specialize in mattresses that have no memory foam in them.

You’ll want to check them out.

Here’s the link to our website.

https://themattressexpert.com/

 

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Thanks, Pete - TME

 

VERY IMPORTANT:

Keeping your mattress clean and dry will increase its longevity.

We recommend our Organic Cotton Waterproof Mattress Protector. 

https://www.themattressexpert.com/store/p169/Organic_Cotton_Waterproof_Mattress_Protector.html#/

 

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Anaphylactic and Topical Allergic Reactions to Mattresses with Latex.

Anaphylactic and Topical Allergic Reactions to Mattresses with Latex

An anaphylactic allergy to latex is rare. 

With this type of allergic reaction, you should avoid buying a mattress with latex in it.

The most common allergy is topical. For this type of allergy, latex mattresses are NOT a problem.

Not only is latex foam, hypoallergenic, your skin never comes in direct contact with the latex.

The mattresses, toppers, and pillows have a covering. 

 

Unlike other latex products, like gloves and bandages, the latex foam in mattresses is hypoallergenic…having gone through a 5-stage washing that removes 90% of the protein, (the allergen in latex), that is naturally found in the sap from the rubber tree.

 

Some people have a severe allergic reaction to the other two major foams, poly, and memory foams.

Unfortunately, the negative reactions to the toxic chemicals used to make memory foam, are far more common.

 

There are now, plant-based poly and memory foams available, but not widely used.

Latex foam is also available with no allergens, made synthetically, using the SAPSA process...also hard to find.

 

The mattresses we carry, which are all latex or a latex hybrid, are among the highest-quality mattresses on the market. Those who do not have your particular problem can benefit greatly by using a mattress, mattress topper, or pillow made of/with high-quality latex...All Hypoallergenic.

All of these items can be found on our website.

https://themattressexpert.com/

 

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Thanks, Pete 

 

A waterproof mattress protector will extend the life of any mattress, keeping it clean and dry.

https://www.themattressexpert.com/store/p169/Organic_Cotton_Waterproof_Mattress_Protector.html#/

 

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An All Latex Mattress from the 1960s.

David writes:

 

Hi Pete,
I feel so lucky to have found your site.

I'm having trouble finding info on my 99 year old mother’s mattress. 

I believe it was purchased in the late 1960s when we moved to a new home. 

Being depression era children, my parents never threw anything useful out and this mattress seems to be as firm and comfortable as ever. 

It is over a matching box spring. I am wondering specifically what the mattress makeup is? 100% latex? 

It is a queen size and heavy as all get out. A two person job, at least. 

Do you have any insight or, if not, can you point me in a direction? 

I haven’t reached out to Sealy yet. Perhaps they have a historical department?

Best, David

 

Hi David,

That is an all latex foam mattress.

Latex is heavier than anything else…and lasts an extremely long time.

The prices on that mattress are unbelievable.

Here is a link to a firm, all latex mattress that we sell. The Natura of Canada Blossom Mattress

https://www.themattressexpert.com/natura_mattresses.html#/

Sealy was purchased by Tempurpedic in 2013...and no longer makes that kind of mattress.

Thanks, Pete

 

Hi Pete,

Okay, so now the 6 million dollar question. 

Could that mattress, always covered by it’s own Sealy fabric covering, which is fraying a bit at the edges,  exposing the latex, but then covered by a basic, non waterproof bed pad protector (not sure what you would call it), then a sheet, contribute in any way to a latex allergy? 

Does the latex ever really get airborne either with particulate or odor?

(not sure if that would be a problem…odor)?

Thank you, David

 

Hi David,

Yes…due to how it wears.

Latex starts as the sap from the rubber tree.

Included in that sap is the allergen…the protein that is naturally present.

When processed into foam, about 90% of the protein is removed, rendering it hypoallergenic. 

(Not so with latex gloves and bandages)

When new, there’s nothing about it that you could react to, as it’s covered.

As it ages, latex dries out…crumbling into dust, eventually.

 

Latex foam has holes in it, from the pins in the mold used to make it.

As it ages and crumbles, those holes fill up, making it firmer.

The particles can escape from a worn cover.

 

That mattress has long exceeded its life span.

Thanks, Pete

 

Hey Pete,

So, my mother has a latex allergy, I believe. She has been wheezing for years. 

And because she recently, noticeably reacted to eating bananas with wheezing and labored breathing, I stopped the bananas, but she was still reacting. 

Found out about the connection with latex and some foods, so stopped the avocados and things improved dramatically.  

But then it hit me last night about that damn mattress she has been sleeping on for 50 years! 

The mattress is good in terms of its comfort level as my parents were not large people etc. 

Is there a zip around cover you can recommend that can essentially encapsulate this mattress to keep what’s inside, inside and make the latex, for sure, a non issue?

Thanks, David

 

Hi David,

That would be a logical next step.
We have zipper-on mattress encasements available from Pure Care and Sleep& Beyond.

Available through this link:

https://www.themattressexpert.com/protectors_and_encasements.html#/

 

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Thanks, Pete

 

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VERY IMPORTANT:

Keeping your mattress clean and dry will increase its longevity.

We recommend our Organic Cotton Waterproof Mattress Protector.

https://www.themattressexpert.com/store/p169/Organic_Cotton_Waterproof_Mattress_Protector.html#/

 

Website: http://themattressexpert.com/

Email: [email protected]

Voicemail: 1-856-874-6894 

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Natura of Canada Greenspring Ultra Plush Mattress.

Dylan writes:

 

Hey Pete,

I've been looking around on your website from your blog posts. 

I'm often seeing you suggest the Natura of Canada Greenspring Ultra Plush mattress.  

https://themattressexpert.com/liberty-ultra-plush/

That'd certainly be the most I've ever spent on a mattress. 

But given the lower back pain I've been having in the mornings, recently, I might be able to get my wife to go for it.  One problem though, I'm allergic to wool.

If I breathe in the fibers for too long, it can cause an asthmatic attack.

this is especially so in the evenings, when allergies and such hit me harder.

So, is it possible to order the Natura Greenspring without wool at all? 

 

I'm 51, 5'9", 235.  My wife's 52, 5'3, 135.

We are, both, stomach sleepers. My wife occasionally sleeps on her side.

We currently have a 22-year-old Sealy Posturepedic Winfield II Plush, which we've loved for all this time.

Almost every night, my wife gets into bed and says how good it is. 

Knowing I need a new mattress makes me a bit sad, knowing she still likes this one so much.

I have flipped or rotated it every month/every other month for most of these 22 years. it's held up really well.

It has a .5" depression, tops, on 2 of the 4 areas that I sleep on.

Only that with 22 years of sleeping and my sitting on my bed, working with a laptop for most of that time.

If it weren't for this lower back pain in the mornings, I'd be perfectly happy to continue using it.

Honestly, it makes me nervous to giving up this mattress, knowing they don't make them like this anymore.

Thanks, Dylan

 

Hi Dylan,

The little bit of wool is a natural fire retardant.

The factories don’t change the specifications upon request.

The wool is under the cover.

You’ll add, or should, a waterproof mattress protector.

And then a fitted sheet.

 

Since the mattress protector is waterproof, it’s hard to believe that the wool fibers will make their way into the air.

Also, you can get a zipper on allergy cover for it, which should totally solve the problem.

Like the ones you can order online, shown here:

https://www.natlallergy.com/allergy-bedding-1/mattress-covers?gclid=CjwKCAiAjp6BBhAIEiwAkO9WuiCiVBSqmDnWHEGYxYaige1DeZQuvvVbRt3Fuso7s1BXnioyyFVkHhoCbQcQAvD_BwE

 

 

It’s not likely that your mattress would now need replacing if you hadn’t spent so much time sitting on it. 

Mattresses aren’t made for that, especially for someone your size.

I suggest that you find an alternative solution moving forward....like a chair.

 

I'm not surprised that you find this so expensive, given how long it's been since you last bought a mattress, 

As you shop, you’ll be surprised at how the over-all quality of mattresses has so dramatically reduced.

All the name brands have been sold to investors. They are all using memory foam upholstery.

Memory foam is specifically designed to cause a mattress to need frequent replacing. 

It’s the absolute worst upholstery material ever invented.

Mattresses upholstered with memory foam are a waste of money.

And you'll be equally surprised at how much more you can spend on what is, essentially, a piece of junk.

 

Quality is always less expensive in the long run. 

The Natura of Canada Greenspring Mattresses come with White Glove delivery.

Delivery includes set-up in your bedroom and removal of your old mattress set.

Delivery is free and there's no sales tax.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Thanks, Pete

 

VERY IMPORTANT:

Keeping your mattress clean and dry will increase its longevity.

We recommend our Organic Cotton Waterproof Mattress Protector. 

https://themattressexpert.com/bedding/sleepbeyond/sleep-beyond-bedding/sleep-beyond-mattress-protector/

 

Website: http://themattressexpert.com/

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 1-856-874-6894 

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A Mattress that will hold a 300 lb. woman with Fibromyalgia and a Latex Allergy.

Tammy writes:

 

Hi Pete,

I am big woman, 300 lbs.

My husband bought me a new mattress for Christmas. Now, it's totally shot.

I need something strong enough to hold me and comfortable enough for my fibromyalgia.

I have read, on your blog, that latex wears the best. But, I'm allergic to latex.

My brother has a latex mattress and tells me that it won't be a problem, since it doesn't touch the skin.

But, I'm still afraid of having an allergic reaction.

What words of wisdom do you have for me?

What can I buy that will work?

Thanks, Tammy

 

Hi Tammy,

There is more to this latex allergy thing...something you may not know and haven't taken into consideration.

Latex used for gloves and bandages have not had the allergen removed.

The allergen is the protein that is naturally present in the sap of the rubber tree...the source of latex.

When processed into foam, the process includes a 5-stage washing that removes the vast majority of the protein...rendering it Hypo-Allergenic.  

Add to that, the cover, a waterproof mattress protector, and your sheets...and your skin doesn't even come close to coming in direct contact with the latex.

Your latex allergy won't be a problem for you.

 

Latex is, by far, the most resilient upholstery material on the planet...and has been for the last 100 years.

Many of today's mattresses are upholstered with memory foam. 

Memory foam is worthless, and why your mattress didn't wear well.

You only got a few months form your, due to your size.

Average weight people don't get more than a couple/few years...so, you're not alone in this.

 

Latex, high quality latex, NOT processed in China, is kind of expensive.

However, if you had to buy a new mattress twice a year, a long-lasting latex mattress is far less expensive in the long run.

Given you size and fibromyalgia, I suggest starting with a plush latex mattress.

The Natura of Canada Bourdolay Plush is the latex mattress I'm recommending to you.

Shown here:

https://themattressexpert.com/canada/natura-mattresses/natura-latex-level-2-mattress/

Fibromyalgia tends to be progressive.

The degree of softness need at the surface of the mattress will depend on the severity of your fibromyalgia.

If you need more surface softness than this mattress provides, that can be adjusted.

The next step, should it be necessary, is to add a Pure Bliss 3" Plush Natural Talalay Latex Topper.

Shown here:

https://themattressexpert.com/pure-latexbliss-toppers/

The latex topper is extremely comfortable and very long lasting.

What's more, the latex topper absorbs a great deal of your body weight, saving the mattress from wear.

The topper can be replaced in the years to come, at far less expense than a new mattress.

 

Should your condition worsen, then you may need to add a comforter top.

These are extremely soft...requiring daily fluffing and frequent replacing.

This is why we recommend not starting with one of these.

When and if this becomes necessary, you're better off with a comforter made of synthetic down.

Synthetic down wears better that real down.

Bed Bath and Beyond is a good place to look for that.

 

The recommended mattress comes with white glove delivery.

Deliver includes set-up in your bedroom and removal of your old mattress.

The latex topper arrives via UPS.

Delivery is free and there's no sales tax. 

 

 

 

 

We recommend using a waterproof mattress protector with every mattress.

Keeping the upholstery materials clean and dry will extend the life of the mattress.

https://themattressexpert.com/bedding/gotcha-covered/

 

 

Thanks, Pete

Phone: 856-874-6894

Website: https://themattressexpert.com/

Email: pete.themattressexpert@gmail.com

A Mattress for a Light Sleeper with DDD and Insomnia.

Adrienne writes:

Hi Pete,

I hope you can help me.

I have a lot of sleep issues and need help choosing the right mattress. 

I've had insomnia for more than 25 years. 

I am the lightest sleeper on the face of the Earth! 

If my boyfriend slightly moves a foot, I wake. 

Also, I have DDD, degenerative disc disease in my low back. 

If a mattress is not firm enough, my lower back kills the next day. 

I prefer to sleep on my stomach, but I toss throughout the night because of my back. 

I also have severe airborne allergies.

My doctors have recommended that I get a new mattress.

He said to encase it in a product that keeps allergens and critters from entering and staying in the mattress. 

Can you recommend a product? 

In the 3 years I've been with my boyfriend I've only been able to successfully sleep with him when we stay at very nice hotels on very nice king beds. 

This is hard on a relationship when you can't sleep in the same bed! 

So, I have a lot of issues, please give me some recommendations for an appropriate king size bed. 

Thank you, Adrienne

Hi Adrienne,

I have a couple of tips and solutions for you.

Let's start with the mattress...one that uses an individually pocketed coil mattress, which provides the best degree of motion reduction....like the coil system used at most hotels.

This will address your DDD by giving your back the proper support it needs.

This coil system maintains the natural alignment of your spine.

 

In this mattress, there is no memory foam. 

Memory foam is made of toxic chemicals that off gas in the home. 

This will greatly reduce your allergy problem.

The mattress, to which I refer, is made by Natura. 

It's the Natura of Canada Greenspring in Luxury Firm, Shown here:

https://themattressexpert.com/canada/natura-mattresses/greenspring-liberta-luxury-firm-mattress/

Natura Greenspring Liberta Luxury Firm Mattress | The Mattress Expert Natura Greenspring™ mattresses feature a 5 zone pocketed coil system for targeted support. Alternating layers of plant based CertiPUR® foam with All-Natural Talalay Latex, topped with NaturaWool™ and Tencel blend stretch-knit fabric, deliver the latest in sleep technology. themattressexpert.com

 

To protect your mattress from dust mites and dampness, use a "Gotcha Covered" Organic Waterproof Mattress Protector. It does a fantastic job, sleeps cool, and doesn't shrink.

Shown here:

https://themattressexpert.com/bedding/gotcha-covered/protectors/

Protectors | The Mattress Expert Our fitted sheet style mattress protector is designed to be undetectable under your fitted sheet. First, we started with an incredibly soft 100% GOTS certified organic cotton jersey sleeping surface. themattressexpert.com

 

The Mattress comes with White Glove Delivery, which includes set-up in your bedroom and removal of your old mattress. The Mattress Protector arrives by mail.

The prices, shown, are complete...including shipping and tax.

 

And finally, something that perhaps you've never considered. 

I, too, am a light sleeper. One of the things that has helped me, greatly, is to block out all sounds.

I buy the child size round opaque ear plugs that you can buy at any pharmacy. 

The depth and length of sleep I get when using them, is more than I would have thought.

Also, take some melatonin at bedtime. It helps.

 

 

Thanks, Pete

856-874-6894

www.themattressexpert.com

Email: pete.themattressexpert@gmail.com

Replacing a Toxic Memory Foam Mattress with Natural Latex.

Paula writes:

Hi Pete,

Thank you so much for your taking my call. 

You made it very clear, and I understood what you were saying about my memory foam being toxic. 

Yesterday, I had to go to the doctor because I couldn't stand both my ears hurting. 

The doctor told me I had a double ear infection due to an allergen. 

When she started to question me about my symptoms and what did I do new this week. 

I told her that everything was normal. The only thing was that I got a new mattress.

She then said, that's it, based on all of the other symptoms. 

She even wrote me a note for the manufacture.

 

The store called me, telling me that there is a delay on delivering my new mattress. 

This whole thing is just getting to be too much, and now I've gotten sick from it. 

I've had 3 new mattresses delivered to my house in 5 months, and only this one made me sick. 

 

So, I want to ask you if you could please help me find a natural mattress. 

I know they cost more than our budget allows, but I think that's what I have to do?

Could you please recommend one from your website?

 

I think I can return this one tomorrow, because it was defective initially and now it's being delayed.

Thank you so much for helping me with this. You are, truly, the expert!

Thanks again! 

Paula

 

 

Hi Paula,

I'm very sorry to hear about all the trouble you're having.

At this point, it might be a good idea to move the mattress out of the house...or closed in another room. Sleep on the sofa until this all straightens out.

 

Natural latex is going to be the way to go. It's 100% non-toxic.

The most popular of our all latex mattresses, is the Natura of Canada Bourdolay Plush. 

Here is a link to that mattress:

https://themattressexpert.com/xcart5/NaturaLatex-Blossom-Plush-Mattress.html

 

This mattress comes with white glove delivery.

Delivery is free and there's no sales tax.

 

 

VERY IMPORTANT:
Keeping your mattress clean and dry will increase longevity.
Use our Organic Cotton Waterproof Mattress Protector. 
https://themattressexpert.com/bedding/gotcha-covered/protectors/

Thanks, Pete
Website: http://themattressexpert.com/

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Should I be worried an allergic reaction to the latex topper?

Judy writes:

Good Morning Pete,

I am so looking forward my new latex mattress topper.  

https://themattressexpert.com/pure-latexbliss-toppers/

I did forget to mention to you that I think I am allergic to latex, only because of my last trip to the dentist. 

He put this latex guard in my mouth for a couple of hours as he was working in my mouth.

I broke out into a rash on my face and neck.  

I have never been allergic to anything in my life, never. 

Should I be worried an allergic reaction to the latex topper?

Thank You, Judy

 

 

Good Morning Judy,

No need to worry.

Latex foam rubber is processed differently from other latex products.

The allergen in latex, is the naturally present protein from the sap of the rubber tree.

This allergen is removed during the process of making latex foam, to the point of rendering it hypoallergenic.

And, unlike that guard the dentist used, the latex in the topper never comes directly in contact to you. 

The allergic reaction to latex, almost always manifests itself topically.

 

 

Thanks, Pete

 

Phone: 1-856-874-6894 
Email: [email protected]

Website: http://themattressexpert.com/

Factory Direct to You....

All Items Made Factory Fresh to Fill Your Order

Free Delivery Nationwide....NO SALES TAX.

 

IMPORTANT INFORMATION:

Protect and maximize your mattress investment. Use a waterproof mattress protector.

https://themattressexpert.com/bedding/gotcha-covered/protectors/

Latex Allergies? Vytex Dunlop Latex Mattress Toppers are Virtually Allergen Free.

Cathy writes:

 

Hi Pete,

I was reading your blog, and you are saying some of the things I've suspected about memory foam for a while. 

The only thing I ever bought made of memory foam was a pillow and it was awful, so there is no way I'd buy a topper made of it.

My best luck so far has been a 4" down topper, but that required constant 'fluffing' to keep it comfy for me...as I see you've mentioned. 

I can't do that, and I got tired of bugging my husband to do it. 

I have RA, FMS, and a host of comorbidities and injuries, so sleep is extra important for me, and hard to get. 

I'm desperate. 

I've seen the topper you recommend, but I am allergic to latex. Do you have any other suggestions?

Thanks for your blog!

Thanks, Cathy

 

 

Hi Cathy,

You're allergic to the protein that is naturally present on the sap from the rubber tree.

The protein remains when made into gloves and bandages, which is what most people react to/

But, when made into latex foam rubber, enough of the protein is removed to render it hypoallergenic.

It is very rare for anyone to react to latex foam, since the react is manifest topically.

This have been so for the last 100 years.

 

Hypoallergenic does not mena allergen free.

For that rare number of people who react to the hypoallergenic latex, there is relief.

Today, there is Vytex Dunlop Latex. The Vytex process removes the small remaining protein from the latex, making it, virtually, allergen free.

 

For totally maintenance free and long lasting comfort, there nothing like a soft latex mattress topper. 

Here is a link to the EverEden Soft Vytex Dunlop Latex Toppers.

https://themattressexpert.com/talalay-dunlop-latextoppers/

100% All Natural Talalay and Dunlop Latex Mattress Toppers. | The Mattress Expert 100% All-Natural Vytex Dunlop Latex Mattress Toppers. Ever-Eden’s Vytex Dunlop is, virtually, Allergen Free. And while the Vytex Dunlop comes in the same 2 choices of comfort levels, Dunlop is a more dense material and does not have as supple a feel as the Talalay Latex Toppers. themattressexpert.com

 

Delivery is free and there's no sales tax.

 

 

 

Thanks, Pete

 

Phone: 1-856-874-6894 
Email: [email protected]

Website: http://themattressexpert.com/

Factory Direct to You....

All Items Made Factory Fresh to Fill Your Order

Free Delivery Nationwide....NO SALES TAX.

 

IMPORTANT INFORMATION:

Protect and maximize your mattress investment. Use a waterproof mattress protector.

https://themattressexpert.com/bedding/gotcha-covered/protectors/

Protectors | The Mattress Expert Soft and comfortable enough to be used as a sheet. 100% GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard) certified organic cotton jersey, that feels just like your favorite t-shirt! themattressexpert.com