Natural latex is an elastic material obtained from the sap of the rubber tree and is known for its high adaptability and breathability.
In the furniture industry, natural latex is mainly used in upholstered furniture and mattresses because it offers natural flexibility and excellent pressure relief.
Natural latex is a purely plant-based material known for its exceptional elasticity, breathability, and durability. It is derived from the milky sap of the rubber tree (Hevea brasiliensis) and is used in a wide range of applications—such as in the production of mattresses, cushions, and seals.
The material is characterized by a fine, uniform structure that stems from its natural origin. Depending on how it is processed, the color ranges from milky white to a light yellowish hue. Under certain lighting conditions, natural latex can also exhibit a subtle, natural sheen.
As a natural product, properties such as color, texture, and firmness may vary slightly from batch to batch—an indication of the material’s authenticity and natural origin.
Caution: Natural latex is not a protected term. Even materials that contain only a small proportion of natural rubber tree latex and are largely made from synthetic latex may be labeled as natural latex. Therefore, look for the label 100% natural latex to ensure you’re getting pure, natural latex.
Since natural latex is made from renewable raw materials and is biodegradable, it is considered a particularly eco-friendly product. But how sustainable is natural latex really?
Natural latex is obtained from the sap of the rubber tree (Hevea brasiliensis). Tapping the tree does not harm it, allowing it to be used for decades before being felled.
However, plantation-style cultivation limits biodiversity, and the loss of arable land should be critically assessed. This is why certifications are crucial to ensure that the sap is sourced from environmentally friendly and fair sources.
The entire process—from harvesting the sap to the finished product—is energy-efficient and significantly more resource-conserving than synthetic alternatives.
Because the rubber tree mainly grows in tropical regions like Southeast Asia and Central America, natural latex can only be produced sustainably on a regional level. Unfortunately, transporting it to Europe for further processing causes a high carbon footprint.
The greatest energy consumption occurs during vulcanization. Natural chemicals such as sulfur are used in this step to enhance the material’s positive properties. Despite the use of natural substances, the process avoids plasticizers and other harmful chemicals typical of plastic production. Choosing natural latex is therefore the better choice for both people and the environment.
Natural latex is known for its exceptional durability. Mattresses and cushions made of natural latex offer high elasticity and retain their shape for many years. This longevity reduces the need for frequent replacement, saving resources and preventing waste in the long term.
In theory, natural latex is highly recyclable. There are now more and more initiatives aimed at collecting and repurposing natural latex products. This is particularly relevant in the mattress industry, where reuse is gaining importance. However, this development is still in its early stages—currently, most natural latex mattresses are thermally recycled.
Natural latex is biodegradable. It breaks down in nature without leaving residues and returns to the ecosystem as nutrients. This makes it an eco-friendly alternative to synthetic materials such as foams or plastics, which are not biodegradable and harm the environment.
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Raw material | Rubber sap |
| Density (bulk density) | 1.0 – 1.5 g/cm³ |
| Elasticity | Very high |
| Hardness | Variable, depending on composition and processing |
| Durability | High resistance to wear and deformation |
| Weather resistance | Good, but sensitive to direct UV radiation |
| Color | White to light yellow |
| Workability | Good, with flexible and adaptable properties |
| Uses | Mattresses, cushions, seals |
Thanks to its excellent ecological properties, outstanding comfort, and high durability, we use natural latex as the main component in our natural mattresses and our modular couch system.
