The traditional image of the mattress is a collection of springs covered by a tough (and we hope soft) outer layer. For years, this has been the standard but may be giving way to a greener alternative. The natural latex mattress is gaining rave reviews from even the most hardcore traditional mattress lovers. The many benefits of this material are making it more popular than ever in our eco-conscious era.Did you know that latex is a natural material? Made from Hevea brasiliensis, more commonly known as the rubber tree, this product featured in all sorts of items until it was largely replaced by synthetic latex, which is synthesized from petroleum. Today, thought, natural latex is making a comeback, as the demand for naturally and sustainably produced goods is rising.The energy it takes to make the products that go into a conventionally produced mattress is far beyond the energy it takes to tap into the resource of the rubber tree. A single tree can provide latex for 30 years, making this an extremely sustainable material. Add a cover of organic wool and you have a mattress that is naturally fire-repellant, as wool doesn’t burn well.Unlike many traditional mattress materials, natural latex is breathable, repels a variety of nasty things, such as mites, mold and mildew, and can last up to 20 years with good care. It is also extremely supportive and great for those with back pain. The lack of toxic emissions is another big advantage to buying one of these mattresses. Many conventional mattresses today are produced with the aid of toxins coming from fire-retardants and synthetic materials making up the inner core and outer covering. Examples include antimony (banned in Europe from concerns about its role in Sudden Infant Death Syndrome [SIDS]), polyurethane foam (can off-gas formaldehyde when it starts to disintegrate) and Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs), a fire retardant that has been linked to thinning Peregrine Falcon egg shells.There is a growing concern that these toxins can adversely affect the health of both adults and children. Synthetic mattresses can “out-gas” toxic fumes from the moment they are created. Years later, they can still be emitting gas from the compounds that went into “protecting” the mattress from fire, mold, mildew and mites. Children, especially, are sensitive to toxic fumes, many of which have been implicated in SIDS and proven to impair of brain function.If you’re looking at a new mattress, consider natural rubber latex. The advantages of a natural, sustainable material are only eclipsed by the health benefits of no toxic materials or fumes. A natural latex mattress is also firm, supportive and lasts a long time. All of these advantages make these mattresses more than worth the price.