Abstract: Latex foam molded articles are prepared using a plastic mold heated by means of microwave energy. The molded article can be readily released from the mold. The mold has good dimensional accuracy and a long serviceable lifetime. The walls of the mold are composed of a molding composition which has the following constituents:a) 20 to 100 parts by weight of polyphenylene ether,b) 0 to 30 parts by weight of styrene polymers,c) 0 to 30 parts by weight of impact-modifying additives,d) 0 to 40 parts by weight of reinforcing agents and/or fillers ande) 0 to 15 parts by weight of additives.The mold surface is passivated. Compared with conventional processes for the production of latex foam molded articles, the cycle time and the energy consumption are considerably reduced when this mold is used.