Latex Foam, Memory Foam, and EVA Foam: What's the Difference?

Foam is a versatile and popular material that’s used in everything from mattresses and pillows to shoes and athletic padding. It’s also heavily used in play products for babies and children because it’s soft and perfect for cushioning. As little ones learn how to roll, sit, crawl, stand, and walk, they earn their fair share of bumps and bruises. Whether it’s a play mat, climber, blocks, or more, foam is soft and squishy for bump-free play. But, not all foam is created equal, and it’s important to know the difference between the main types of foam that are used in your little one’s play products. Here’s everything you want to know about latex foam, memory foam, and EVA foam:

What is latex foam made of?

Latex foam can be made from all-natural latex, synthetic latex, or a blend of natural and synthetic latex. Toki Mats play mats use all-natural latex foam, which is made from the sap of rubber trees and naturally processed. Synthetic latex is usually made from petroleum products, like styrene and butadiene. When these components are polymerized, the resulting material mimics the feel and support of natural latex. But, although the two may have a similar feel, natural latex is far more eco-friendly, sustainable, durable, and safe.

What is memory foam made of?

Memory foam is just another name for viscoelastic polyurethane foam. Polyurethane is a common and versatile plastic polymer that is used in a number of materials and products, but the viscoelasticity of memory foam allows it to have the viscosity of a fluid and the elasticity of a gel.

What is EVA foam made of?

EVA foam is made from closed cell ethyl vinyl acetate copolymer, and is also known as expanded rubber or foam rubber. It’s a lightweight material, it has good water and moisture resistance, and it’s effective at cushioning and absorbing shock. 

Do latex foam, memory foam, and EVA foam feel different?

Latex foam and memory foam are significantly softer than EVA foam, which is firmer and more rubbery. Its cushioned but firm structure is the reason why EVA foam is used in puzzle-piece play mats, which need to be a little more rigid in order to fit together. Memory foam is very soft and squishy, and it molds under pressure, whereas latex foam is a bit firmer and much bouncier. Although latex foam is soft, its elasticity gives it a faster response time and the ability to spring back into shape. 

(Toki Mats Sage Vegan Leather Mat in Epic size)

Which foam is the most durable?

Natural latex foam—especially Dunlop latex foam—is the most durable of the three. Thanks to its open-cell structure, high density, and natural elasticity, latex foam has a longer lifespan than memory foam and EVA foam. Although high-density memory foam can be durable, it still isn’t as durable as natural latex. EVA foam is also a durable material, but can be dented, torn, and cut by sharp objects or excessive force. 

Which foam is the safest?

Natural latex foam is considered to be very safe because of its natural composition. It is inherently free from harmful chemicals and synthetic additives. Even most people with a mild latex allergy can safely use latex foam because of the way the allergenic proteins are removed during the washing process. Additionally, natural latex foam is known for being hypoallergenic and naturally resistant to dust mites, mildew, and mold.

Memory foam is generally considered safe, but some memory foam products contain toxic chemicals like formaldehyde, polyvinyl chloride, and other types of petrochemicals. Those who have ever had a memory foam mattress are familiar with the off-gassing smell commonly associated with memory foam. Off-gassing is caused by volatile organic compounds (VOCs) being released into the air, and can cause eye, nose, and throat irritation—especially to those with weaker immune systems or allergies.

The chemical formamide is sometimes used in the manufacture of EVA foam to make it more pliable. Formamide is considered as a carcinogen, and exposure to it in liquid form has been linked to problems in a developing embryo. Because small amounts of formamide are released from EVA foam’s off-gassing, there are those who express concern about its safety for young children. France and Belgium temporarily banned EVA foam over its possible toxicity some years ago, but have since established limits of formamide release from EVA foam used in children’s play mats and toys. 

(Toki Mats Playful Posies mat)

There are many different foam play mats on the market, and it’s important to understand that they all feel and perform differently. Among its hard-to-pronounce counterparts, natural latex foam stands out as the best and safest choice. Toki Mats uses natural Dunlop foam made from 100% plant latex, and our play mats are OEKO-TEX certified free of toxins. Toki Mats play mats are uniquely flexible, and can easily be folded, rolled, and squished before springing back into its original shape. They’re soft, comfortable for children and adults of all ages, and withstand years and years of play!