Why Should You Change Your Mattress
A 2008 study by Oklahoma State University, based on a control group of 59 people, found evidence that new mattresses have a significant impact on reduced back pain and improved sleep quality. And those initial benefits improved over time, regardless of the persons age, weight, height or body mass index.
There’s also the issue of hygiene. The average person sweats around half a pint every night and 1kg of skin cells a year, and that’s not to mention dirt, saliva, body oils, hairs and more. All of this can become nourishment for microbes, dust mites and other insects. Regular laundering, vacuuming and turning can help minimise the impact, of course, but the older the mattress, the greater the chance it will become infected.
- Get the perfect night’s sleep with one of the best pillows and the best duvet
How Often Should You Replace A Memory Foam Mattress Topper
Memory foam is a resilient material. It can indent and get back to its normal position many times over without suffering permanent damage.
Quality memory foam mattresses can easily last 8-10 years before they show any permanent indentations .
Memory foam toppers however dont last as long. Youll probably need to buy a new one after 2-5 years depending on various factors.
The reduced lifespan of toppers is mostly because they are thinner and dont have a dense foam base like memory foam mattresses.
So they are affected more by weight and frequent use.
How Often Should We Change Mattresses And Pillows
How often you replace your mattress does not really have a timetable. More than anything, it depends on whether you still have a comfortable sleeping surface or not. Many health issues can stem from a mattress that is long past its prime or is not suitable for the sleeper.
If you wake up in the morning with stiffness, or aches and pains it is possible that your mattress isnt providing the level of support and comfort it needs to. Feeling tired throughout the day and sleeping better in a hotel bed than your own bed are also signs that your mattress might be changed.
You shouldnt forget that you spend one third of your lifetime in bed. It is essential, therefore, that your mattress supports you properly and is healthy for you to live on for a third of your life.
You should check the materials used in the mattress and over the mattress. You should be conscious of springs used in the mattress or the foam the mattress made from.
The maximum time for changing mattresses is 8 years. After that term of continuous use, your mattress generally loses its support. That is your mattresss most important function: to support your body while you sleep. When it begins to lose its ability to do that then it is time for you to change it.
Is your mattress showing signs of wear and tear?
Check your mattress every now and then to see how it feels. You should definitely look into replacing yours when any one of these happens:
Is your mattress older than 8 years old?
Do you sleep better away?
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What Are The Signs That Your Mattress Needs To Be Replaced
Once you’ve had your mattress for five years, you should start to pay more attention to its condition. We would recommend giving it a quick inspection whenever you change your sheets, so you can spot any problems before they begin to cause you too much trouble. Here, we’ll outline some of the most common issues that signal your mattress could be past its best.
Mattress Myth 5 A Mattress Should Be Flipped Every Few Months To Keep It In Good Condition
Most mattresses today are made one-sided, which means they should never be flipped. So, how can you ensure maximum enjoyment of your mattress and reduce body impressions?
- Sleep in a variety of positions and places on the mattress so the entire surface compresses evenly.
- Rotate your mattress monthly for the first 6 months and quarterly after that.
Please note: when you first start sleeping on your new mattress, rotate every two weeks for the first two months. And remember that body impression is normal up to 1 ½ inch and not a structural defect. The upholstery materials are conforming to the weight and shape of your body, which is a good thing.
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Damage To The Mattress
Any mattress with visible damage such as cracking or exposed foam layers should be replaced immediately. A damaged cover leaves a mattress exposed to the environment. This can cause an accumulation of dirt, moisture, and even insects like bed bugs.
If a mattress cover is ripped or broken, consult your warranty immediately. You might be covered if the damage is considered a defect in construction or materials. In either case, you should replace your mattress right away for health reasons.
Lack Of Care And Maintenance
Like most things, mattresses reflect the kind of care they get. If you dont use a durable mattress protector or encasement, you run the risk of staining your mattress permanently or letting dust mites, allergens, dead skin cells, and bed bugs infiltrate it. Any damage to the mattress can and usually does void your warranty, inherently decreasing the mattress value.
Mattress protectors are not very expensive, and most of them are made with noiseless materials now, so you shouldnt even know the protector is there. Protectors significantly extend the life of your mattress, so we think theyre a worthwhile investment.
Taking other precautions can make your mattress last longer, such as vacuuming the sleeping surface with a hose attachment, spot-cleaning any stains using a gentle cleaning solution, and trying not to eat in bed.
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When To Toss Them: 2 Years
Sheets can be a big outlay. How long should we expect them to last? It runs the gamut very much like the price does. Most people will replace them within two years, according to a bedroom poll from the National Sleep Foundation. Co-founder of Brooklinen Vicki Fulop says that sounds about right. After regular use and wash cycles, the fibers of your bed linens can start to break down and show signs of wear and tear. But don’t tell Siri to remind you in 2020 just yet. Having said that, it doesn’t mean your sheets will all of a sudden fall apart after two years, Fulop notes, just that if they’re starting to look and feel worn out, and you want the optimal condition and comfort for your bed, two years or so is a great time for a refresh.
How do you know when it’s time for a new pillow? Fold it in half and see if it stays that way.
Your Mattress Is Showing Signs Of Wear & Tear
Especially if you havent been regularly flipping or rotating your mattress, you might find significant signs of wear and tear, even if youve only had it for a few years. If, for example, youre noticing mattress gaps, sagging, or indentations that are interfering with your comfort, it may be time to start shopping for new mattresses. Once you buy a new mattress, make sure to practice proper mattress maintenance.
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What Are The Signs Of A Bad Mattress
Any mattress is a bad mattress if you cant get a good nights sleep on it. The first thing to check for is visible signs of wear and tear, such as sagging, rips, or torn fabric. Also, any loss of shape very early in the life of a mattress is a sign of poor materials and construction. Consult your warranty immediately if this is the case.
How Do You Make Your Mattress Last Longer
Regular maintenance of your mattress and following a few key prevention principles can go a long way in ensuring it lasts as long as possible. Here are three ways to get there:
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How To Help Your Mattress Last Longer
Once youve replaced your old mattress, there are some things you should do to keep it in great condition for longer. This includes:
Rotating Most mattresses can be rotated, and doing so ensures any dips and bumps are levelled out, and that you are resting on an even surface. Aim to rotate yours every few months. Mattresses with zones that support the body at specific areas can’t be rotated, as these are designed to be used in one direction only.
Flipping A lot of new mattresses are one-sided with a sturdy foundation layer and a softer top, so check before you flip. If you can flip your mattress, flip and rotate it so that each side and end gets the same amount of time at the top of the bed.
Airing and cleaning Most beds can be kept fresh by running the vacuum cleaner over them. You could also sprinkle on bicarbonate of soda to soak up moisture and smells, leave for a few hours, then vacuum it up. If you can, strip the mattress, open the windows and place it in direct sunlight for UV rays to kill the bacteria.
Protection Using a mattress protector is one of the easiest ways to keep your mattress in good condition. Not only does they add a barrier against spills and sweat, protectors can be easily machine washed.
Your Allergies Flare Up
Every normal human sheds dead skin cells. Considering we spent 7 to 9 hours on the bed, numerous skin cells accumulate in our mattress. Dead skin cells attract dust mites, fungi, bacteria, and other indoor allergens. These allergens can trigger symptoms such as itchy throat, runny nose, watery eyes, sneezing, coughing, breathing difficulties, and skin irritation. Old mattresses may have a lot of allergen build-up. If its not allergy season and you are waking up with aggravated allergies, then its time to consider replacing your mattress.
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Signs To Replace Your Mattress
Many wonder how often you should replace your mattress. While many sources say 7 years is a reasonable estimate to replace your mattress, there are some revealing signs that your mattress might need to be replaced.
Some obvious signs your mattress need to be replaced include:
1. Age of Your Mattress
How long youve had your mattress can be one sign you need a new one. If youve been sleeping on the same mattress for years or even decades, its most likely worn out and lost its shape and comfort. If your mattress is on the older side, take a look at the next few signs to determine if its time to make a swap.
2. Body and Lifestyle Changes
As you age, your body and lifestyle might change. Whether you gained weight or gained a partner, your current mattress might not be getting the job done. Your mattress should be able to withstand pressure and keep you comfortable night after night. However, with more weight added to your bed, the shorter your mattresss lifespan will be. Not only that, but mattress technology has also probably changed from the last time you bought a mattress, which means a newer mattress may have better support and comfort to help you sleep better at night.
3. You Feel Pain
4. Sagging or Indentation
5. Increased Allergies
How Often Should You Change Your Mattress
Knowing when to change your mattress and how often can be tough, so here are some useful pointers to help you make a decision.
3 min read
In total you spend about one third of your life on your mattress, so it plays a big part in your general health and well being, not to mention your day-to-day energy levels, alertness and mood. Thats why its important to look for signs when its time to change a mattress. Here are some of the things to keep in mind.
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Wait A Second Should You Flip It First
Maybe youve heard that you should try flipping your mattress over before buying a new one. This very simple tip could save you some money and buy you some time but does it actually work?
With a two-sided mattress, flipping it every 6 to 12 months just might do the trick. It can distribute the wear so that it stays comfortable for longer. But most new mattresses today, especially memory foam and pillow top options, are one-sided, so flipping really isnt going to do anything.
You Wake Up With Pain Or Soreness
Unless you can definitively attribute muscle soreness to exercise or pain to injury, your mattress might be causing you to wake up achy. Keep an eye out for signs that your mattress is to blame: A stiff neck, sore lower back and a “pinching” pain in your joints, especially your neck and shoulders.
Also, consider whether the pain subsides as the day goes on. If you wake up with pain or soreness, but it’s gone by midmorning or afternoon, it may be time for a new mattress. You should also make sure you’re using the right kind of pillow to avoid neck and shoulder stiffness.
Don’t fret if you need a new mattress. Buying one isn’t as hard as it used to be, thanks to all of the bed-in-a-box online retailers.
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Change It If Your Mattress Is Uncomfortable
It might be common sense to know that your mattress is uncomfortable. However, some people have to adjust to the discomfort.
How often should you change your mattress depends if you get better sleep on a friends guest room, on a hotel mattress or another bed in your house. If this is the case, then your mattress might not be comfortable for you anymore.
The upper part of your mattress has comfort layers that should support your body and should provide relief. This comfort layer breaks down over time and if you dont replace it, it can result in poor sleep and health issues.
How Often Should You Change A Hybrid Mattress
Hybrid mattresses are made of foam and springs, and can last around eight years depending on the quality of the components and how durable the core is.
Some high-end brands, such as Saatva in the US and Simba in the UK, use premium materials and guarantee their hybrids for up to 10 years. So you won’t have to change these mattresses as often as cheaper foam models.
Because hybrids are built with a foundation layer and a softer top, they should never be flipped. If you do this, it could damage your mattress and void the warranty. They can be rotated though, unless there’s specific zoning support inside.
The Saatva Classic is our top pick of American hybrids. For the latest offers, use our guide to the best Saatva Black Friday mattress sales and early deals.
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When To Replace Your Mattress And Box Spring
In general, you must replace your mattress and box spring at the same time. This is especially true if you got them together and the manufacturer recommends using a box spring with their mattress. However, there is an exception with this timing if you got your box spring and mattress separately.
Considering that the average lifespan of a mattress is between five to ten years, you may need to get a new one much earlier than the box spring. On the other hand, a box spring can get worn down at the same rate as a mattress, but it can take ten years before needing replacement.
The Mattress Is Lumpy Or Saggy
If your mattress is infested with lumps, or theres a dent in the middle in the shape of your body, thats a good sign you need to go shopping. Sagging and lumps can happen with virtually any type , and these symptoms indicate that youve worn away the material within.
The deeper the sag, or the larger the bumps, the more discomfort youll experience when you try to sleep. Even if the mattress isnt lumpy or saggy yet, but youre noticing that you get a better nights sleep when you stay at a friends house or a hotel, thats a clear sign that something isnt right.
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When To Change Each Type Of Mattress
Here’s a breakdown of the best time to change each type of mattress:
Innerspring MattressThis type lasts 7-8 years with regular use. A continuous coil innerspring mattress may last as long as 10 years due to the increased stability of the longer coil.
Memory Foam MattressThe extra layer of foam helps prolong the life of the mattress, since the springs don’t get as much direct contact. Some people get up to 1015 years out of their memory foam mattress.
Latex MattressA latex mattress is one of the longest lasting mattresses available today with a lifespan up to 15 years.
Latex has the most elasticity, resulting in less premature sagging. Many manufacturers allow the replacement of the top layer of a latex mattress too, making it last even longer. It’s also the only mattress that is naturally resistant to dust mites, making it a solid choice for people with allergies.
What’s the Cost of a New Mattress?
Shopping for a mattress online can save you money. Many mattress companies offer free trial periods for all types of mattresses for as long as 100 nights to decide if you like them.
