Shopping for a new mattress? Chances are, if you're searching for a new mattress, you'll find plenty of options related to latex foam. While it has been a preferred material for some time, latex has experienced a sort of renaissance within the mattress industry—and for good reason. Latex foam offers plenty in the way of health and comfort benefits.

So what exactly should you know about latex mattresses before you decide on the perfect bed? These 5 things should be top of mind during your mattress search.

1. Latex foam is more responsive than memory foam.

Foam mattresses are generally popular because they contour to the curves of the body while either reducing or eliminating pressure point pain (you know, those uncomfortable spots on your shoulders or hips that you feel when you sleep on a surface that's too firm). That's important because pressure point irritation is a top cause of morning aches and pains.

Both memory foam and latex foam offer superior contouring properties, but there's a reason why some sleepers prefer latex. While memory foam is generally considered a slow response foam—meaning that it may take a few seconds to return to its natural form after pressure is released—latex foam is a fast-response foam that almost immediately returns to its shape after weight is removed. The pros? A bed that gently relieves pressure points, but avoids the quicksand feeling of memory foam.

2. Latex foam can be either natural or synthetic.

You can get latex mattresses that are 100 percent natural, made from the sap of the rubber tree—a renewable, eco-friendly source—or you can opt for a synthetic latex mattress which offers many of the same properties at a lower price. Some mattress manufacturers blend both natural and synthetic latex foam, either by creating a composite material or layering a 100 percent natural latex layer on top of a blended or fully synthetic layer to reduce cost. Regardless of which type of latex mattress you choose, you'll still enjoy the sleep benefits of latex construction.

3. Natural latex foam options can be affordable.

Latex mattresses are not one-size-fits-all. Depending on your budget and your sleep needs, you can find a latex mattress that fits you just right.

Under the natural latex umbrella are two types of highly durable, natural latex: Talalay and Dunlop. Dunlop latex, generally considered the firmer and more affordable of the two types of latex foam, is created with a simplified production process. Talalay latex comes in a variety of firmness levels and has a decidedly more contouring feel, an attribute that also helps decrease motion transfer between sleep partners. Talalay manufacturers ILD test every core in nine locations, accounting for its consistency. The process also involves a five-step washing cycle, making it one of the most hypoallergenic foams on the market and safe, even for those with latex allergies.

A recent but important trend among mattress manufacturers is to combine latex with an innerspring, often using individually encased coils. Referred to as a hybrid mattress, this combination of materials adds deep compression support to any bed but effectively lowers the cost of an all latex version. 

4. Latex foam provides distinct comfort options for different sleep styles.

Latex mattresses are often offered in a choice of comfort levels, including soft, medium or firm. Varying firmness levels allows you to choose the sleep surface that works best for your particular sleep style. (If you've done your research about the best type of mattress for your sleep style, you'll appreciate the adaptability of latex foam). Most sleepers will agree that the combined responsiveness and contouring of latex foam is one of the best choices for those who suffer from chronic back pain, as long as you choose the right comfort level for your body type and sleep position.

5. Latex is hypoallergenic and antimicrobial.

If you suffer from skin sensitivity or seasonal allergies, rest easy: latex is naturally anti-microbial and hypoallergenic. That makes it a great choice for any allergy sufferer, and an especially good choice for those who suffer from asthma or other breathing problems that can be aggravated by allergies. Even latex allergy sufferers can usually sleep on a latex mattress with no risk of an allergic reaction. The Talalay latex used by Brooklyn Bedding is certified as Oeko-Tex Class I, the highest rating possible. This certification verifies that each latex product safe for human use.

Overall, latex offers premium comfort with a number of options to help you get your best sleep ever. If you'd like additional information on choosing the perfect mattress, sleep experts are available online and over the phone to help.