How Often Should You Change Your Mattress?
When to Replace Your Mattress
A simple Google search of how often you should change your mattress yields a variety of answers and quite frankly, doesn’t really answer the question! While you may be looking for a magic number, the truth is there are so many more factors to take into consideration other than just the age of your mattress. If you notice that your sleep has recently been affected, it may actually be a sign that it is time to change your mattress.
As a general rule of thumb, it is recommended that you change your mattress anywhere between 5 and 10 years. However, in cases where a mattress is not used every night, such as in a guest bedroom, they may last double the time. Depending on the type of mattress, the general rule of thumb can change:
- Innerspring: up to 10 years
- High density memory foam: 10-15 years
- Latex: 10-20 years
- Hybrid: 6-8 years
When you begin to notice persistent aches and pains, it may be a sign that your mattress is no longer performing as it should. For this reason, you may need to change your mattress sooner than the general rule of thumb. Typically, the mattress materials will help determine its longevity as well the quality of your sleep. Innerspring mattresses that have cheap springs or foam mattresses that use low density foam are far more likely to deteriorate in just a few years compared to those used with high quality, premium materials. To help ensure the durability of your mattress and to help extend its life, always look for low gauge coils in an innerspring or hybrid mattress – the lower the gauge, the thicker the coils, thus the more durable they become. Likewise, when shopping for a hybrid with foam or a full size memory foam mattress, always opt for those with high density foams.
Mattresses that are made with premium, high quality materials may actually defy the odds of the general rule of thumb. In fact, some luxury mattresses may last up to 20 years!
In addition to looking for high quality materials when shopping for a mattress, it is important to follow proper care instructions. Generally speaking, you should rotate your mattress every three months or so. Do always check your care instructions carefully, as the mattress manufacturer will specify how often you should rotate it. Pairing your new mattress with a mattress cover will also help with your mattress’s lifespan. It is equally important to make sure that your mattress is supported with the right type of bed frame. Vacuuming your mattress often will also help to keep it free from dust mites and other allergens. For a deep clean once a year, sprinkle your mattress with baking soda and then vacuum it up after 24 hours – this will help to keep your mattress smelling fresh and absorb any moisture hidden within your mattress.
The type of sleeper using a mattress will also affect how long the mattress will last. For example, a heavier sleeper is likely to notice their mattress sag in a shorter amount of time than a lightweight sleeper. Similarly, a couple using a mattress will notice it sag much more quickly than an individual sleeper. If you do sleep with a partner, it is worth asking them if they have also been experiencing problems sleeping. Chances are, that if both of you are sleeping poorly and wake up feeling achy, it is time to change that mattress.
So, how will you know when it is actually time to upgrade your mattress? Remove all of your bedding and inspect your mattress to look for signs of deterioration. Look out for any lumps that may appear in the mattress as well as areas that are sagging. If you do notice any of these, it is a sure sign to start mattress shopping! If you have a mattress that is covered by a warranty, check its details as some mattress manufacturers will be able to repair or replace your mattress if these issues occur within the warranty period!
If you are ready to replace your mattress, do remember that your mattress is an investment. On average we spend 26 years of our lives sleeping! When you put that into perspective, you realise how important it is to choose a mattress that will make those 26 years of your life relaxing and comforting, giving you the best sleep every night.