No Products in the Cart
Last Updated September 9, 2024
In this article, we will discuss how often should you replace your mattress and give you awesome tips on extending its lifespan. Keep reading!
Key Takeaways:
To say that a mattress is an important part of your sleeping setup is an understatement. The level of comfort and support provided by your mattress can make a significant difference in the quality of sleep you get, affecting your overall physical and mental well-being. A good mattress can provide you with the ideal qualities you require for a good night's sleep. But how long can a mattress be considered "good"?
After all, even the most luxurious mattresses will perish over time. So, if a mattress stops being "good" one day, then how will you know? And once you've determined that, how often should you replace your mattress to ensure maximum comfort and support? Well, this guide will you an answer to all these questions.
There are many obvious signs that will inform you whether or not you need a new mattress. The following are the most crucial ones to watch out for:
If you notice your mattress sagging or developing indentations, it's likely that the support system has worn out and is no longer providing adequate support for your body.
Lumps or bumps in your mattress can be caused by a number of factors, including internal material breakdown or dust and debris accumulation. These may be uncomfortable and interfere with getting a restful night's sleep.
If your mattress has stains, visible wear and tear, or frayed edges, it may need replacing.
If you wake up with aches and pains or have difficulty falling asleep, it could be a sign that your mattress is no longer providing adequate support for your body.
A worn-out mattress can harbor dust mites and other allergens, causing or exacerbating respiratory issues. If you're experiencing an increase in allergies or respiratory issues, it might be time to replace your mattress.
In the mattress industry, 6–8 years is generally accepted as the answer. This rule does not, however, apply to every customer's mattress because numerous internal and external factors are involved.
The lifespan of a mattress can also be influenced by how much you paid for it and the store where you bought it. You can anticipate a mid- to high-priced mattress purchased from a reputable retailer to last longer than one purchased for less money from a store with a poor reputation. Your body weight, sleeping patterns, and mattress maintenance are additional outside variables that can shorten the lifespan of a mattress.
In the section that follows, we'll go over each of these factors in detail to help you spot any actions you may be taking that could shorten the life of your mattress.
Taking these factors into account will help you maintain a healthy mattress.
Lifespan varies depending on the type of mattress. Natural latex mattresses have the longest lifespan, lasting approximately 15-20 years with proper care. Innerspring and hybrid mattresses typically last 7-10 years, whereas memory foam mattresses can last up to 8-12 years. Airbeds usually have varying life expectancies that can be affected by things like a tear in the fabric.
Mattresses made of higher-quality materials, such as premium foam or spring coils, have a longer lifespan than those made of lower-quality materials. Material density and thickness are also important; the higher they are, the longer they will last.
In general, a cheap mattress under $300-$400 may be made of lower-quality materials, reducing its lifespan significantly in comparison to higher-priced mattresses above $500.
You can rely on a well- known retailer who has been in business for at least two years to produce high-quality mattresses with a long lifespan.
The more frequently a mattress is used, the faster it will wear out. A mattress in a guest room that is only used on occasion may outlast one in a master bedroom that is used every night.
Heavy people apply significantly more pressure to the mattress surface than light people. This may result in increased wear and tear on the mattress, reducing its lifespan. To mitigate this, buy a firmer mattress if you're heavy.
A mattress's lifespan can be increased with proper upkeep and care, including using a mattress protector, regular rotation, and refraining from jumping or standing on the bed.
The degradation of the foam and other components in a mattress can be accelerated by exposure to high temperatures and humidity.
An excellent bed frame/mattress foundation can help your mattress last longer. A sagging mattress can often be caused by a worn-out or inadequate foundation.
Five prominent mattress types are popular in the mattress world today. They are:
Innerspring mattresses are one of the most traditional types of mattresses and have a short lifespan of around 6-8 years. They have a steel coil support system and can have different comfort layers like foam or fiberfill.
Memory foam mattresses are well-known for their pressure relief and contouring properties. They have a lifespan of around 8-12 years. They are constructed with foam layers that follow the contours of the body.
Latex mattresses are almost similar to memory foam mattresses in terms of pressure relief and contouring properties, but they tend to have a bouncier feel. They have a lifespan of about 15-20 years. They are made of either natural or synthetic latex, with natural latex being superior.
Hybrid mattresses combine the benefits of innerspring and foam mattresses. They have a 7-10 year lifespan. They are constructed with a coil support system and a foam or latex comfort layer.
Airbeds are mostly temporary, have adjustable firmness, and are portable due to their inflatable nature. They have a lifespan of about 5-8 years, but this can be significantly reduced by problems such as tearing. As a support system, they use air chambers rather than coils or foam.
By using these suggestions, you can easily extend the lifespan of your mattresss by at least a few years.
Use a mattress protector - Your mattress can be shielded from dust mites, spills, and stains with the aid of a mattress protector. Additionally, it can keep your mattress fresh and clean, which can increase its longevity.
Use a mattress topper - A mattress topper is a layer of foam, usually latex or memory foam, that is placed on top of your mattress to alter its feel. With a mattress topper, you can prevent direct wear and tear on the mattress surface.
Rotate your mattress - Rotating your mattress every 3-6 months can help evenly distribute wear and tear while also preventing early sagging.
Avoid jumping or standing on your bed - Jumping or standing on your bed can compress the coils or foam, which, over time, can harm the components.
Use a good quality foundation - A good foundation will help support your mattress and prevent it from sagging, thereby extending its life. Placing your mattress on a foundation rather than the floor will also help to keep dirt, dust, moisture, and other contaminants at bay.
Keep your bedroom cool and dry - High temperatures and humidity can hasten the breakdown of foam and other mattress materials.
Clean your mattress regularly - Regular vacuuming will help to get rid of dust and allergens, and spot cleaning will help to get rid of liquid spills or stains. Do not forget to clean your mattress according to the retailer's instructions.
Consider a firm mattress - A medium-firm or firm mattress is frequently constructed with high-density foam or thick springs, which last longer than low-density foam and thin springs. Medium-firm is often recommended for the average sleeper because it can better support your spine and joints while also providing adequate contouring and comfort.
Consider a mattress with high-quality materials - While more expensive, mattresses made of high-quality materials will almost always last longer than low-quality ones.
Air out your mattress - Placing the mattress in a well-ventilated space allows any trapped moisture or volatile organic compounds (VOCs) to be released, maintaining the mattress' integrity. When putting your mattress in a ventilated area, avoid having direct sunlight hit it.
Several signs indicate a mattress is worn out, such as sagging or lumpiness, visible indentations or body impressions, a lack of support, a loss of shape, persistent discomfort, and/or noise when changing positions. Additionally, if you wake up with aches and pains or if you have trouble falling asleep, it may be time to replace your mattress.
It is estimated that the average person replaces their mattress every 7-10 years. However, the frequency can vary. When a mattress is well-maintained, and of high quality, it may last longer. But if it is frequently used or not properly cared for, it will need to be replaced more often.
Replacing your old mattress with a new one will always make a noticeable difference in the sleep quality you get. An average mattress lasts around 7-10 years, by which time it will have accumulated a lot of impurities, such as dead skin cells, dust, dirt, etc. A new mattress brings freshness into your sleep life while reinvigorating the support and comfort you get, thus offering a better night's sleep than you used to get with your old mattress.
Related blog posts:
1. How to Clean a Mattress the Right Way?
4. How to Recycle/Repurpose Your Old Mattresses and Toppers?
Disclaimer: What is said in this article has been referenced from multiple sources and is intended only for educational and informational purposes. Please note that no content in this article is a substitute for professional advice from a qualified doctor or healthcare provider. Always consult an experienced doctor with any concerns you may have regarding a health condition or treatment, and never disregard any medical suggestions or delay in seeking treatment because of something you read here.
