Latex Free Products
What is latex?
Natural rubber latex (NRL) is a milky fluid obtained from the Hevea brasiliensis tree, which is widely grown in South East Asia, and other countries. NRL is an integral part of thousands of everyday consumer and healthcare items.
Latex Awareness
Be aware that Latex sensitivity can develop with long term exposure to latex proteins which can trigger an allergic reaction in people prone to allergies and eczema. Here at Cotton Comfort we are aware of the long term effects that exposing babies and children to NRL can have on their health and well being and endeavour to ensure all our products are Latex free.
All our products our LATEX-FREE
Here are some of our bestsellers
What causes a latex allergy?
The proteins naturally present in natural rubber latex cause the allergies either through direct contact with the skin or by inhalation of the powder Sensitivity can develop through long term or early exposure. If you have a predisposition to allergies and eczema in your family we would urge you to consider non exposure to Latex products for your babies and children.
What are the symptoms?
Most of the associated problems are skin related – hives, blisters, itching and eczema as well as nasal congestion and itchy eyes, nose and throat. Some sufferers also experience symptoms ranging from mild breathing difficulties to more severe reactions such as asthma and potentially anaphylaxis shock, although this is less common.
Latex in every-day items
Latex is more economical and easier to use in sewing than synthetic elastics. NRL yarns are commonly used in surgical gloves and fabrics, elastic bandages, underwear, socks and hosiery, raincoats, shoe fabrics, wellington boots and running shoes as well as rubber bands and party balloons. Cuffs and waistbands on clothing are a common problem.
Organic mattresses made from coir (a natural fibre extracted from the husk of coconuts) generally use latex to glue the coir fibres together, causing issues for children and adults who can or have become sensitive to it. This is commonly found in ‘Organic’ or 'Natural' baby mattresses.
Latex in food
Cross-reactions may occur between the residual parts of plant proteins in the latex rubber and proteins in foods, just like cross-reactions between pollen and foods. The most commonly reported cross-reactive foods include banana, avocado, kiwi, and chestnut together with papaya, fig, potato, and tomato. Around 30-80% of people with latex allergy experience symptoms when they eat one or more of these foods.