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BLOG ONSEN® / How to choose a pillow?

Are latex pillows safe?

15 lipca 2023
Latex pillows, allergy pillow, mattresses in Toruń
Contents
How are latex pillows produced?
Why do I sweat on a latex pillow?
Are latex pillows good for allergies?
What are the alternatives to latex pillows?
Latex pillows became popular sleep products a few years ago. However, they raise valid concerns among those seeking comfortable and healthy rest. Latex pillows are made of latex, which is a milk-like substance obtained from rubber or produced synthetically. As a result, they are generally elastic and durable. However, as is often the case, these advantages also come with certain disadvantages.

One of the most common criticisms of latex pillows is their impact on temperature regulation during sleep. Latex, being a non-breathable material, can lead to discomfort caused by excessive nighttime sweating. As a result, individuals using latex pillows often complain about the unpleasant feeling of moisture around the head and neck. This can disrupt restful sleep and affect overall sleep quality.
Latex pillow, sweating at night, Polish mattresses

How are latex pillows produced?

The production process of latex pillows is complex and requires adherence to specific guidelines to obtain the final product. In the past, the main ingredient of latex pillows was natural latex, which was obtained from certain rubber trees, especially the Hevea brasiliensis species. Latex extraction involves tapping the tree's bark, which causes the release of a milky substance that is later processed into latex.

After collecting raw latex from the trees, a process of purification and blending takes place, during which various additional substances such as vulcanizers and stabilizers are added. These additives aim to provide elasticity, durability, and antibacterial properties to the latex, which are crucial for comfort and hygiene of the pillow. However, currently, the proportion of natural latex is small, usually not exceeding 10%, and it is mostly replaced by synthetically produced latex.

The next step is the molding of latex pillows. This is typically done by forming blocks from which specific pillow shapes are cut using strings. This method is relatively inexpensive but does not allow for the cutting of negative angles. As a result, such latex pillows are not fully anatomical, as they lack cervical or lumbar profiles.
Latex pillows can be produced using two methods.
Latex pillows are less commonly produced through the pouring of latex into molds. This method is more expensive, and manufacturers usually do not use it. Instead, pre-formed latex is poured into molds that have the appropriate shapes and sizes. Pillows can have various shapes, such as perforations or indentations, which affect the final product. At the same time, molded latex pillows can be customized to fit the anatomical shape of a person.

After forming blocks or pillows, they also undergo a process called vulcanization, which involves hardening the latex by heating it to the appropriate temperature. This makes the pillows more durable and, therefore, they also maintain their shapes for a longer time. Chemical additives, including potentially harmful formaldehyde (formic acid), are also sometimes added to the latex.

The final stage of production is the drying process, during which the pillows are exposed to appropriate conditions to remove moisture. Afterwards, the latex pillows are essentially ready for packaging and distribution in the market. However, it is worth noting that the production process of latex pillows may vary depending on the manufacturer and technologies used by a particular company. A manufacturer may have their own methods, and therefore, the production stages can also differ.
Allergy pillow, latex pillows, neck pain

Why do I sweat on a latex pillow?

Night sweats are indeed one of the most common issues reported by people sleeping on latex pillows. The main cause of this phenomenon is the latex itself, as it is a material that does not allow air and moisture to pass through.

Latex pillows are made of dense latex, which significantly hinders the free air circulation around the head and neck during sleep. This leads to retaining heat and moisture in the vicinity of the skin, resulting in excessive sweating and the associated discomfort. Drilling vertical holes in a latex pillow also provides little help because the air beneath the head should ideally disperse sideways, which latex prevents.

Additionally, latex has a tendency to absorb body heat, which can increase the sensation of heat during sleep for many individuals. If we are prone to sweating, especially at night, a latex pillow can exacerbate this problem and thus hinder our ability to achieve thermal comfort during sleep.
Latex pillows increase sweating during the night.
For individuals who prefer cool and breathable conditions during sleep, sweating on a latex pillow can be burdensome and affect the quality of rest. The sensation of moisture and discomfort disrupts sleep, leading to frequent awakenings and significant difficulties in falling back asleep.

However, for those who struggle with excessive nighttime sweating, there are alternative solutions. One option is to consider pillows made of other materials, such as highly elastic foam, which is breathable and provides optimal comfort during the night. It is also worth paying attention to orthopedic pillows, which help maintain proper thermal comfort during sleep.
Latex pillows, sweating during sleep, cervical spine pain

Are latex pillows good for allergies?

In the media, latex pillows are often advertised as hypoallergenic products, making them suitable for individuals with allergies. However, before choosing a latex pillow for someone with allergies, there are several aspects worth considering.

It's important to note that latex, which is the main component of latex pillows, does possess natural antibacterial and antifungal properties. This means that, in principle, latex pillows can directly prevent the growth of dust mites, mold, and allergens other than latex itself. As a result, some individuals with dust mite allergies opt for latex pillows in hopes of reducing allergic symptoms.

However, it's also important to consider that not all allergies are caused by dust mites or mold. Some individuals may be allergic to latex itself. Even those who are not initially allergic can develop an allergy over time, which is quite common with latex. Latex allergies can manifest as symptoms such as itching, redness, or swelling. People with latex allergies may also experience breathing difficulties. In such cases, using a latex pillow can be dangerous and lead to serious allergic reactions.

Not all latex pillows are made of pure latex, and even models advertised as natural usually contain only a minimal percentage of it. Some pillows may contain chemical additives or latex blends that can trigger allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. Therefore, it's important to read labels and check the composition of a pillow before purchasing, especially for individuals who are allergic.

It's worth noting that the allergenic latex protein is present in both natural latex and can also be found in synthetic latex as it typically contains a small amount of natural latex. This protein can become airborne from the pillow during sleep. As a result, latex pillows in general are not recommended for individuals with allergies.
Latex pillow, latex pillows, hypoallergenic bedding

What are the alternatives to latex pillows?

For those individuals who are not convinced about latex pillows or are looking for healthier and more comfortable alternative solutions, there are many other options available. Depending on the type of pillow, they can provide a more or less comfortable and healthy sleep.

Popular choices for sleeping pillows are those made of memory foam. Pillows made of memory foam are known for pressure reduction. This type of viscoelastic foam responds to heat and body weight, providing proper support for the neck and head without sinking. Pillows made of memory foam are also not breathable and exhibit heat reflection, which can increase sweating.

In the past, pillows filled with natural feathers or down were also used, but they are not a good alternative. Pillows filled with feathers or down are valued primarily for their softness and temperature regulation. However, these materials quickly become compressed and damaged, which disrupts their ability to conform to the body's shape, as they become flat after a short time. Additionally, they are natural materials with a porous structure, which can harbor various microorganisms and allergens.

Bamboo pillows are becoming increasingly popular and can be an interesting alternative to latex pillows for many people. They are breathable and antibacterial by nature, making them safe to use. Bamboo fibers are soft, breathable, and cooling, which makes bamboo pillows recommended for individuals who generally prefer cooler sleeping conditions. However, they do not provide support for the spine and head, making them unsuitable for individuals with spine conditions.

Individuals with neck pain or various other spine conditions should consider orthopedic pillows made of high-density foam as their first choice. Such pillows are designed specifically to provide optimal support for the cervical spine and head while maintaining the correct sleeping position.

We also encourage you to explore other articles on the best sleep and health blog, as well as the Encyclopedia of Healthy Sleep prepared by the ONSEN® team of specialists. For those who care about spine health, we recommend a set of spine exercises prepared by our physiotherapist.
Latex pillows, sleeping pillow, bedding manufacturer, Polish company

FAQ: Latex pillows

What are latex pillows?

Latex pillows are made of natural latex or synthetic latex, often in a combination of both. They are products designed to support the head and neck during sleep. Latex is a material with an elastic structure that provides adequate support and comfort while sleeping. However, it lacks the ability to allow air circulation and moisture removal, and it can also cause allergies.

Are latex pillows good for the spine?

Yes, latex pillows can be beneficial for the spine. Due to their elasticity and resilience, latex pillows adapt to the shape of the head and neck, which can help maintain proper spinal alignment during sleep. This can provide relief for individuals with spinal issues or headaches. However, they may increase perspiration and can also trigger allergies.

Do latex pillows provide air circulation?

No, latex pillows are known for their lack of airflow. Latex is a material composed of rubber tree sap and chemical substances that contribute to its solidification. Due to its structure, air cannot flow through latex pillows. This also promotes moisture accumulation and the growth of dust mites.

Are latex pillows suitable for allergies?

Latex pillows are not a good choice for individuals with allergies. Latex itself is an allergen for many people, and prolonged exposure to it can cause allergies even in individuals who were previously unaffected. Although latex is less prone to harboring dust mites, fungi, and mold compared to traditional feather-filled pillows, it is not the best material for pillows.

How does Talalay latex differ from regular latex?

Talalay latex is a special type of latex that undergoes a more advanced production process. This process involves the use of vacuum, freezing, and solidifying the latex, resulting in a more consistent structure and excellent resilience properties. Additionally, Talalay latex is more elastic. However, it does not differ from regular latex in terms of air circulation or allergen release.

Contents
How are latex pillows produced?
Why do I sweat on a latex pillow?
Are latex pillows good for allergies?
What are the alternatives to latex pillows?
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