Latex Pillows
We get a lot of different questions asking about latex pillows. Everything from “what is a latex pillow?” to “how do you clean a latex pillow?”
With so many questions, we thought that it would be best to create a guide to all things latex-pillow-related. So, let’s jump in and answer all your questions. Of course, if you don’t see your question answered here, you can always contact us by clicking here.
What is a latex pillow?
Simply put, a latex pillow is a pillow made from latex flakes instead of traditional feathers, or unnatural, synthetic materials.
Did you know, the use of latex as a manufacturing material goes back hundreds and hundreds of years? This is how we know that it’s 99% non-toxic to human beings because its safety has been proven over many centuries.
“…its safety has been proven over many centuries…”
Technically-speaking, latex is a colloidal suspension of very small polymer particles in water. The polymer is extracted from the Hevea brasilienesis rubber tree in the form of sap, which is the protective fluid contained beneath the bark.
The cloudy-white liquid is collected by cutting a strip of bark from the tree and allowing the sap to drain into a collecting vessel. This collection method has been the same for hundreds of years. In fact the use of latex as a manufacturing material can be credited all the way back to the days of Christopher Colombus. Legend has it that when the famous explorer first visited Haiti, he noticed that locals would often play with a bouncy ball made from the gum of a local tree. Naturally, he took the product back to Europe, and from there the usage of latex began on a worldwide scale.
Fast forward a few decades to 1770, and Joseph Priestly, an English chemist, discovered that he could “erase” pencil markings with this new coagulated rubber product. Since it “rubbed-off” the pencil marks from paper, he gave it the name “Rubber.” Thus, the modern day eraser was born.
Then, in the late nineteenth century, a Scotsman patented a garment created from both rubber and fabric. Thus, the raincoat was born (and life in rainy Scotland became a lot more bearable).
During the same period, a British coachman began to cut rubber into “strips” and consequently, the rubber band came into existence. Don’t you just love progress?
Perhaps the most significant discovery, however, came from Charles Goodyear, who introduced Sulphur “Dust” into rubber and discovered the process of “Vulcanization” back in 1844. This discovery gave birth to the tire industry as we know it today.
Fast forward to the 21st century and now we have all kinds of everyday objects made from latex, including pillows.
Traditionally, pillows were always made from feathers and down, however, this process can create a pillow that is itchy, or uneven to sleep on. For some people, it can even cause an allergic reaction. It’s also not very ecological raising livestock for this purpose. Especially when Mother Nature can provide a better solution.
“…Mother Nature can provide a better solution…”
Modern pillows can also be made from synthetic materials, such as polyester, however, this production method requires the use of petroleum. As we know, this is not very ecological, and also not the best to have close to your skin for long periods of time (such as when you’re asleep).
Synthetic materials can cause excess sweating, or even rashes in some people with sensitive skin. Synthetic materials can also produce nasty off-gassing over longer periods of time. It’s safe to say that we don’t need to explain why manufacturing plastic is bad for the environment.
This is where latex pillows come in, as they achieve the perfect balance of a non-toxic, reliable, and safe material that is also ecological to produce. It is easy to clean and lasts for decades. In fact it’s a wonder that we hadn’t discovered using latex for creating pillows a lot longer ago, because it really is the perfect material for making pillows with.
The Una Pillow™ is made from thousands of soft, organic latex flakes. Always ecologically-sourced, the Una Pillow™ has certificates for both the Global Organic Latex Standard, the Global Organic Textile Standard, and the Control Union of Fair Choice.
How to clean a latex pillow
Can you clean a latex pillow? We hear this question all the time and we are delighted to say, “Yes, you can”.
It’s a simple process, however, there are some things to be aware of. We have put some tips together for you below.
Tips for washing your organic latex Una Pillow:
- The outer cover is made from organic wool and cotton – hand wash only – the same as you would any other wool product.
- Spot-clean the foam with mild detergent and warm water only
- Vacuum-clean the foam occasionally
- Air dry at room temperature after cleaning
- Periodically air your pillow’s foam inner by removing the outer cover
- Keep the foam away from direct sunlight and heat
- Do not machine wash the outer cover – hand wash only
- Do not hand wash or machine wash the foam
- Do not attempt to dry the foam by heat or tumble drier
- Do not dry clean the foam
If you need any more tips on how to care for your latex Una Pillow™, you can contact us by clicking here.
Are latex pillows safe?
As we discussed earlier, “latex rubber”, made from the sap of the Hevea brasilienesis tree, has been proven to be safe over many centuries of usage.
Unlike synthetic polyester and plastic fibers, latex rubber has a proven track record as a product that is non-toxic to humans. Thousands of different products that come into close-contact with human skin are made from latex. It is mass-manufactured across the world to create items such as rubber gloves, medical equipment, food-grade tubing, clothing, and the list goes on and on.
Also, unlike bird feathers or down (traditional pillow materials), latex rubber is far more ecological to produce, especially on an industrial scale. It is also easier to care for and is much longer lasting than feathers or down.
Una Pillows™ are made from shredded organic latex. The latex itself comes from sustainable sources and is certified by the Global Organic Latex Standard (GOLS). GOLS has specific requirements that latex products made from organic raw materials must meet.
The standard addresses criteria for natural rubber from certified organic plantations (USDA, NOP, or EU) that is processed at manufacturing units. To achieve GOLS certification, a product must contain more than 95% of certified organic raw material.
Are latex pillows good for neck pain?
In short, yes they are! With a Una Pillow™, you can easily adjust the height and firmness by either adding, or removing, one of the two inner pillows.
The two inner pillows are in fact slightly different thicknesses. This gives you three different firmness and height options. Another great thing is that if you choose to sleep on only one inner pillow, you technically have a perfectly fine second pillow.
“…The two inner pillows are in fact slightly different thicknesses. This gives you three different firmness and height options…”
Whether you’re a side, front or back sleeper, the shredded latex flakes of the Una Pillow™ contour to the shape of your neck and head. Thousands of latex flakes provide the perfect balance between being soft and supportive, and because they’re breathable, you’ll never get too hot in the night.
We’re so sure that you’ll love it, that we offer a 100 night free trial on all our pillows.
<image placeholder for lady sleeping>
Are latex pillows suitable for people with allergies?
In very rare cases it is possible for someone to be allergic to latex. Most people already know if they have this allergy as it affects less than 5% of people.
The foam inners of Una Pillows™ are made from GOLS certified organic latex flakes.
The covers of Una Pillows™ are made from GOTS certified organic fabric made of 70% organic cotton and 30% organic wool. It’s completely non-toxic and breathable. All covers also come with a YKK premium zipper.
Are latex pillows non-toxic?
Latex Una Pillows™ are 100% non-toxic. Latex has been proven to be non-toxic by centuries of manufacturing products that have close-contact with human skin, e.g. rubber gloves, medical equipment, food-grade tubing, contraceptive products, etc.
What is a talalay latex pillow?
Talalay latex is one of the most luxurious mattress materials you can find on the market. Not only is it pressure-relieving and supremely comfortable, but it’s a natural product that’s truly worth every penny.
Talalay latex is a type of natural latex that is very breathable due to its open cell structure and is a great choice for those who tend to sleep hot. It is known for gently cradling the hips and shoulders as you sleep on your side, though any type of sleeper can benefit from Talalay.
Since Talalay is natural latex, it does not off-gas harsh chemicals. Talalay latex is a natural material that is derived from sap harvested from rubber trees while memory foam is a chemically-manufactured, man-made product. Talalay is a healthy, eco-friendly mattress material that doesn’t sacrifice comfort. If health and material purity is important to you, we strongly suggest opting for a non-toxic, natural latex mattress or topper.
While both Talalay latex and memory foam offer pressure point relief, there are some major differences between these two types of mattress cores. Memory foam is comfortable at first but it is the chemical reaction between your body heat and the foam that allows it to conform to your body’s curves. Not only is there the potential of feeling overheated while you try to sleep but eventually, memory foam may have a difficult time bouncing back, leading to dips and sags in the mattress instead of long-lasting pressure point relief.
How long do latex pillows last?
Natural latex is known to be an incredibly durable material that can last decades, even centuries. In fact, Archaeological sites in Central America have unearthed latex artifacts dating back to the 17th century.
“…Archaeological sites in Central America have unearthed latex artifacts dating back to the 17th century…”
We don’t think that you’ll need a latex pillow for quite that length of time, however, all Una Pillows™ do come with a five year guarantee against faults in workmanship or materials in the rare event that anything should go wrong.
To read more about Una Pillow™ guarantees, click here.
What is the best latex pillow to buy?
Of course, we would say our very own Una Pillow™, but aside from this, a good check-list of features to look for in a decent quality latex pillow would be:
- Breathable inner and cover
- Customizable comfort system
- A guarantee lasting many years
- Carbon neutral and ethically-sourced
- A good quality zip, such as a YKK zip
- Crafted from organic certified materials
- Free from any micro-plastics or petroleum products
You may also wish to check out our awesome blog on ‘How to choose the Bet Pillow for you’
Where can I buy latex pillows?
Take a closer look at our Una Pillow™ by clicking here.
Do Una Pillow™ really have a 100 night trial period?
They sure do! 100 nights risk-free to see if it’s the right pillow for you.
If you’re unsatisfied with your Una Pillow™ for any reason, you may return it. Please just keep your original proof of purchase and contact us to let us know that you’re returning it.
The returns process couldn’t be any more simple. It’s as easy as 1-2-3:
- Collection arranged:
Just log into your account and notify us of your return.
- Item collected:
Just choose any weekday that suits you.
- We issue a full refund:
Your original method of payment will be refunded in full and the returned item will either be recycled or donated to a charity.
To read more about our returns and refunds, click here.
Do latex pillows come with a guarantee?
It’s well known that latex is an incredibly durable material. It can last for decades, even centuries.
All Una Pillows™ come with a five-year guarantee against faults in workmanship or materials. The zip on the cover is a YKK premium zipper, which, if you know anything about zips, is about as good as they come.
To read more about Una Pillow™ guarantees, click here.
So in Conclusion …
We hope you have learned more about the interesting history of latex and its uses in many industrial applications. We also hope we have answered all your questions in this blog, however, if you have any more questions about latex pillows or mattresses, you can contact us by clicking here.
To read more about Una Pillow™ guarantees and our 100 night free trials, please click here.