1. What is density?
Density of our latex mattresses is usually expressed by mass per unit volume. It is a value measured by kg / m³ and is derived through the weighing of a standardized sample (ISO 845). The densities of our latex mattresses vary between 65 to 85 kg/m³. The density simply indicates the quantity (kg) of material used in a specific area (m³). Therefore, the firmness of the mattress is correlated to density - the more material is used, the firmer the mattress is.
2. What is hardness?
When you press on a mattress, you will feel some form of resistance. This resistance is known as the hardness of a mattress. So when you press down on a latex mattress, you will feel the latex core pushing up. The more pressure you exert on the latex core, the more it pushes up and that indicates the hardness of the mattress.
Hardness is the resistance against exerted pressure. Hardness and density (mass per unit volume) of a latex mattress are related or connected to each other. Over a long period of usage, as the density of a latex mattress decreases due to repeated loading or pressure, the mattress will also lose its hardness.
There are several important factors that will determine the hardness of a latex mattress. They are;
• density of the latex
• type and mix of the latex
• height of the mattress
• size and distribution of the pin-holes
• the vulcanisation process
• use of fillers