Peace Lily Latex Mattress Review: How It Helped My Back Pain
Designed for “cushioning support,” this clever mattress features gives you the best of both worlds when it comes to firmness levels.
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Growing up with two older sisters, I always got their hand-me-downs. Now that they’ve both moved out, I inherited everything they left behind, including an old lumpy mattress and rickety king single bed frame.
In my late teens and after I made the bed my own, I was diagnosed with scoliosis – curvature of the spine. This led to lots of stretching and pain management throughout the day and regular physiotherapy. But thanks to my god forsaken mattress, I still woke up sore and sorry.
After years of poor sleep and a bad back, I finally made the decision to upgrade, but I didn’t know what type of mattress and firmness would be best for my back.
That’s where the Peace Lily Latex Mattress comes in, and boy I’m glad it did.
1 MINUTE REVIEW: PEACE LILY LATEX MATTRESS
Peace Lily Latex Mattress, from $999
Peace Lily Latex Mattress
What You Need To Know
With two firmness levels to switch between, the Peace Lily Latex Mattress ticks all the boxes for any type of sleeper.
After ordering it on a Monday morning, it was at my door on Wednesday evening. The mattress arrived in a single box with wheels and a handle that allowed me to move it into my bedroom without too much hassle. Once open and unrolled, I could definitely tell the difference between the firm and medium side.
The firm side was less cushiony and has reduced movement and flexibility. When sleeping on my back, I had a really supportive sleep and like that it kept everything in place without poking in my sides. However I mainly sleep on my side, and the firm side wasn’t as comfortable, but it was still a lot better than my old mattress.
After a week I flipped it over to the medium side, and I don’t think I’ll be flipping it back. When laying down for the first time, it felt so soft and cushioning, it was almost like the mattress was giving my back a hug!
The medium firmness is perfect for side sleeping, keeping my back aligned while being extremely comfortable. It was also comfortable when sleeping on my back, but it didn’t offer the same level of support as the firm side.
Nevertheless, this side was the winner.
It didn’t take long for me to adjust to either side, because they were both so much better than what I had been sleeping on previously. After testing it during the middle of autumn, I also felt consistently warm and toasty without being overheated, which is great for the winter that’s to come.
Retailing at $1199 for a king single ($1599 for a queen mattress), I believe it’s definitely worth the investment for all types of sleepers, and especially those who can’t decide on the firmness levels even after a test drive at a mattress shop.
HOW WE TESTED THE PEACE LILY LATEX MATTRESS
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Along with putting the products through the ringer in our personal tests, we also scour through hundreds of customer reviews, ratings and articles to ensure you know exactly what you’re buying and if it is suitable for you.
I tested the Peace Lily King Single Latex Mattress from beginning to end, starting with the customer service experience in the order and delivery, to unboxing and set up. I then used the mattress for more than two weeks to develop a genuine opinion and review of how well I slept on it and how comfortable and supportive it is.
My personal goal was to determine how well this mattress would support my back, which is crucial for my medical condition. I reviewed this mattress in the middle of autumn, with cooler and rainy weather early on and warmer temperatures towards the end. I am also predominantly a side sleeper (mainly on my left), but when my back is feeling a bit sore, I will typically sleep on my back.
HOW WE EVALUATED THE PEACE LILY MATTRESS
FULL REVIEW OF THE PEACE LILY KING SINGLE LATEX MATTRESS
Boasting a 4.9-star rating online and promises of “cushioning support” from the natural and organic materials, I was more than keen to give this Peace Lily mattress a go, and it lived up to the hype.
DELIVERY AND SET UP
I ordered my mattress on a Monday evening, and immediately got a confirmation email from Peace Lily. Over the next two days, I received plenty of reminders and notifications about the shipping and delivery process, so I was confident it would arrive safely. What I loved most was the free shipping, which is available to most areas in Australia (regional and rural locations may incur a delivery fee).
On Wednesday evening at about 5pm, a large box was delivered. Living in Western Sydney, it arrived during the brand’s targeted delivery period of one to five days from ordering. I was not home, but it was accepted by my parents without a worry. Super fast and easy delivery to my door gets ticks all around.
Considering it was all inside a single box, I was worried about getting it up the stairs and into my room, but the handle and built-in wheels made it much more easy to manoeuvre than I expected. It was still pretty awkward and difficult to get up the stairs and it is definitely a two person job (but the box says it is, so no surprises there).
Aside from the instructions on the box, there was a leaflet inside with clear instructions that anyone can follow.
The removal of the mattress from the box was tricky and awkward, but that is to be expected from most boxed mattresses. Once out of the box, it was still rolled up very firmly.
To unroll it, you have the pull the covering sheet from under it for it to unravel. Getting it the right way and pulling it in right direction wasn’t 100 per cent straightforward, but once we got it the correct way it was easy to do.
After unravelling, it was facing firm side up, with the medium firm side underneath. When it was time to flip sides, it was easier than expected thanks to the two handles on both sides of the mattress. But again, this was a two person job.
FIRMNESS AND SUPPORT
FIRM SIDE
I noticed an immediate difference from sleeping on the firm side compared to my old mattress. It was certainly not soft, but it was much more cushioning and not rock hard as I expected a firm mattress to be. There was very little give and no sagging to speak of – every time I sat or laid on it, it bounced right back.
My first night I slept on my back, as it was a bit stiff and feeling a little twinge-y from the night before on my old mattress. Usually when I wake up I have to stretch straight away to get some cracks out and move more freely. I was halfway down the stairs when I realised I didn’t stretch, and didn’t need to!
The firm side supported my back the entire night and left me with close to no pain in the morning – something I am not familiar with. It was amazing.
Throughout the week as my back was feeling better, I started to sleep in my preferred sleeping position: on my side. But when I slept like this, my back started to slightly stiffen up again. I believe this was because the mattress was too firm for this position, and it didn’t have enough softness for me to lay like this while keeping my back supported and aligned.
It was a bit of a back and forth between sleeping on my side and on my back. So after a week I flipped it over.
MEDIUM FIRM SIDE
You can absolutely feel the difference between the firm and medium firm. It’s almost worlds apart. This side was so much softer and cushioned.
The first night using the medium firmness, I slept on my left side and it was one of the most comfortable sleeps I can remember having in a long time. While it was generally less supportive, the extra cushioning made it feel like my shoulders were aligned and everything was placed how it should be.
Sleeping on my back was also less supportive, but again, so much comfier. And this comfort made it feel better. Yes, I did have to stretch, but I certainly wasn’t sore or in pain. And the consistency of feeling comfortable and well aligned won it over for me.
Both sides had their benefits. I could sleep on either without a worry and get by with a decent sleep and a better feeling back. But I would rather the comfortability and overall alignment of my shoulders and back, and the ability to sleep on my side over the greater support but lower comfortable levels of the firm side. So I won’t be flipping it back over soon.
ADJUSTMENT PERIOD
Some people take a little while to get used to a new mattress, but after coming from a dodgy mattress, it didn’t take long for me to adjust to this one.
I don’t remember waking up during my first night’s sleep on the firm side which I often do, but I did awaken tired. After the second night I felt so refreshed and without back pain, I believe the first night was the first time I had such a good quality sleep my body wasn’t used to it and that’s what made me feel so tired.
Since sleeping on this mattress, including on both sides, I am feeling generally more refreshed and with less pain. You can’t ask for much more than that.
EDGE SUPPORT
It is a bit embarrassing for someone in their late 20s to still be sleeping on a king single, but living in the Sydney region, I can’t afford to move out of home just yet, so I make do.
With this comes less wriggle room to roll over. Despite the lack of space, I never felt like I was teetering on the edge of either side and was consistently in the middle of the mattress.
TEMPERATURE CONTROL
I am the type of person that is perpetually cold. This Peace Lily natural latex mattress is designed to be more cooling than a memory foam mattress. This made me worry I’d be shivering through the first night, which was a chilly one.
To my surprise, I remained at a really reasonable temperature throughout the entire night. In the past I was waking up a couple of times a night needing an extra blanket and then waking up again to kick it off. But with this mattress, I slept soundly without waking up being too cold.
PRICE AND VALUE
$1199 is certainly a lot of money and something not many people have handy to spend on a splurge item like a new mattress. It’s even more expensive if you’re purchasing for a couple, with a queen mattress coming in at $1599.
However, now that I’m sleeping so much more soundly and with less aches and pain, I think the Peace Lily Latex Mattress is more than worth the price. Considering it covers different firmnesses, those who are unsure of what level they sleep the best on will get the option to try both of them out with a single purchase.
Those who want more support and are normally back sleepers, I’d recommend the firm side. If you sleep on your side and want something more cushioning and soft, the medium firm side is the way ti go. Either way, you’ll get a high quality mattress that will see you through many of your 40 winks for years to come.
OTHER FEATURES OF THE PEACE LILY LATEX MATTRESS
Structure and build: This mattress has three core natural latex foam layers, with a main centre layer and the density varying depending on the firmness of either side. Above both layers is an organic cotton wadding protection layer. This wraps around the entirety of the mattress to maintain its shape when flipping. There’s also a cotton cover above the medium firm side for added softness.
Around the sides of the mattress is a tape edge to make it more durable and maintain its shape. On either side of the mattress are two reinforced handles so flipping from one side to the other is easier and less strenuous.
Non-toxic materials: The natural latex is made from pure rubber tree sap. Additionally, the mattress has no added toxins, chemicals or polyurethane foam and is surrounded by organic cotton which prevents off-gassing so you’ll be sleeping cleanly and safely.
Cooling: In comparison to the popular memory foam mattresses, natural latex is a cooler material due to is open cell structure. Working alongside the cotton covering, it is breathable and prevents heat trapping within the mattress and materials. This then dissipates the heat and allows for a cooler and comfortable sleep.
Antimicrobial and great ventilation: The open cells of the natural latex are also known to prevent the build-up of mildew, mould and dust mites. This creates greater ventilation and prevents moisture building up within the foam or cotton.
Eco-friendly: The rubber sap used in the latex comes from hand tapping rubber trees, which is a sustainable sourcing practice. And while it is durable and tough (and backed by a 25 year warranty), it is also biodegradable.
Price: The Peace Lily Latex Mattress starts at $999 for a single and costs up to $1849 for a king bed. Here are all the prices for each size available:
- Single – $999
- Long Single – $1099
- King Single (size reviewed) – $1199
- Double – $1449
- Queen – $1599
- King – $1849
HOW OTHER MATTRESSES COMPARE
While latex is not the most popular mattress material, there are a few high quality latex mattresses available in Australia in addition to the Peace Lily Latex Mattress.
The most similar to the Peace Lily Latex Mattress is the Ecosa Pure Mattress. Both share a flippable firmness design with side handles for easy manoeuvrability. The latter is also infused with memory foam for more bounce, uses internal coils for even weight distribution and has a removable cover made from recycled plastic rather than cotton. This mattress is more expensive than Peace Lily and is only available in double, queen and king sizes.
Ecosa also sells the Align Firm Mattress, but it is extra firm and not flippable. However, it is cheaper than Peace Lily and has more sizes than the Ecosa Pure Mattress, ranging from king single to super king.
Another option is the Origin LumbarCloud Mattress, which also uses natural latex, but it is infused with graphite to increase its cooling capabilities. It also uses up to 2400 springs for greater spinal alignment and support. This is one of the most premium latex mattresses available and is significantly more expensive than other mattresses available, retailing for $3159 for a queen.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
HOW OFTEN SHOULD YOU REPLACE YOUR MATTRESS?
The general rule of thumb is that mattresses should be replaced every six to 10 years, but this will vary depending on the type on mattress you’re sleeping on, it’s overall quality and how well you maintain it.
An innerspring mattress will likely not last as long as others, and will need replacing after about six years. Memory foam and hybrid mattresses (which combine foam and coils) can last up to 10 years.
The most resistant material is latex, which if maintained properly can last you around 10 years, but some can comfortably get past a decade.
HOW DO I MAKE MY MATTRESS LAST LONGER?
There are a few ways to improve the longevity of your mattress so you won’t need to replace it as often:
- Use a mattress protector: This will prevent sweat, dust mites, allergens and other degrading substances infiltrating the mattress. Plus, protectors can be easily removed and washed.
- Rotate it: Flipping and rotating your mattress every three to six months can minimise body impressions from developing. Some mattress manufacturers may recommend otherwise, so always follow the directions.
- Sleep on a quality bed frame: Sleeping on a good bed frame will minimise mattress sagging.
- Regular cleaning: Vacuuming the mattress removes dust, pet fur and hair. You can also add some baking soda prior to vacuuming to remove any odours.
- Air it out: Taking the blankets and sheets off for a little bit to give it some air will minimise moisture building up and mould developing.
- No jumping: This one might be self explanatory, but jumping on your mattress can damage the springs and foam.
WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A LATEX, HYBRID AND MEMORY FOAM MATTRESS?
Memory foam, hybrid and latex mattresses each have their own pros and cons that will help some to get a restful and healthy sleep more than others.
Latex mattresses: Pure latex mattresses are naturally cooling and breathable compared to other varieties. They typically have a bouncier feeling when sleeping, but don’t contour or hug your body as much as memory foam.
They are usually firmer than other types of mattresses and are more durable with some lasting well over a decade before needing replacing. If the latex is natural, it’s also more eco-friendly and hypo-allergenic.
Memory foam mattresses: Memory foam is a great material for couples who share a bed, as it contours to both sleeper’s bodies and helps absorb movement and motion so you don’t disturb the other sleeper.
The softness is also ideal for relieving pressure – especially for those who sleep on their side. They can however easily trap heat, which is not great for hot sleepers or during the summer.
Hybrid mattresses: A hybrid mattress is a combination of both latex and memory foam while incorporating innerspring coils. It gives you the best of both worlds by supporting and cushioning the sleeper and is ideal for those who change position regularly in their sleep.
These type of mattresses normally come in medium firm and provide a decent amount of airflow. However, the coils are not especially durable and can wear easily.
DO YOU NEED A MATTRESS TOPPER?
The short answer is no, you don’t really need to use a mattress topper. If you are already sleeping comfortably, are getting a supportive sleep and are not too hot or cold, then you’re all set with your mattress.
However, there are a few circumstances where a mattress topper may be needed:
- If you have any aches or pains: A topper can add some support and help with spinal alignment.
- If you’re a hot sleeper: Some toppers are made with a cooling gel, and latex toppers are more breathable which can help regulate your temperature.
- If the mattress is a bit too firm: A plush topper can add some much needed softness and help relieve pressure.
- If you don’t want to replace your old mattress: Mattress toppers are significantly cheaper than a mattress and they can take more of the daily wear and tear. This will help make your mattress last longer before needing to save up and buy another.
More mattress content:
More Coverage
- Foam vs. Latex Mattress: We evaluate comfort and price for you
- Best mattresses for back pain and spinal issues
- Best innerspring mattresses in Australia
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*This product was supplied by Peace Lily for a 100 per cent independent, honest review.
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