The latex used to make latex gloves are made of closed cell structure. Having closed cells makes it impossible to wash out the proteins, which some people can be allergic to. The latex used in the Ironman Pure Energy Mattress is a foam with open cells. The latex foam used in our mattresses is washed several times to wash out these proteins. This process is called vulcanization. Vulcanization of a 5-stage high temperature sterilization and washing process that denatures and removes all impurities and proteins that may cause allergic reactions.