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:
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:
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.
Thanks, Pete
Phone: 856-874-6894
