Latex Allergy Facts
Lately we have been getting a lot of inquiries about latex allergies and how they may relate to latex foam mattresses, latex pillows and latex mattress toppers. Here are some facts that everyone should know about latex allergies:
The protein in rubber can cause an allergic reaction in some people. The thin, stretchy latex rubber in gloves, condoms and balloons is high in this protein. It causes more allergic reactions than products made of hard rubber (like tires). Also, because some latex gloves are coated with cornstarch powder, the latex protein particles stick to the cornstarch and fly into the air when the gloves are taken off. In places where gloves are being put on and removed frequently, the air may contain many latex particles. These items are all produced using the "cold-dipped" method.
Non-skin contact products, such as mattresses and pillows, that may contain some natural rubber latex, undergo a five stage washing process which removes reaction-causing proteins while enhancing the over quality of the product. The openness of latex foam cells, allows for thorough washing. In addition, latex mattresses, toppers and pillows are manufactured by super heating the mold which vulcanizes the latex inside. These proteins cannot survive the high heat.
Complaints for allergic reactions to natural rubber latex are monitored by the FDA. To our knowledge, there has never been a single complaint over our more than 30 years of experience in the mattress business stemming from the natural rubber found in mattresses and pillows. These products have been tested by outside facilities and are shown to be inherently hypoallergenic for sufferers of mold, mildew or bacterial allergies. In addition, latex mattresses, toppers and pillows are resistant to dust mites and are naturally resistant to mold and mildew which are contributors to asthma and pulmonary function allergies.