The question of “How long should a mattress last?” is crucial to consider, given that the average person spends a significant portion of their life asleep – roughly 236,228 hours, to be precise.
To ensure quality sleep and wake up feeling refreshed, it’s essential to have a comfortable, supportive bed. After all, your mattress plays a pivotal role in your sleep quality for various reasons.
While the average mattress lifespan is around seven years, it’s advisable to replace yours every six to eight years. This ensures that your mattress continues to provide the necessary support for optimal sleep and overall well-being.
Why Should You Change Your Mattress?
While a new mattress may not be your top priority, neglecting to upgrade your sleep setup can significantly impact your sleep quality and lead to unwanted aches and pains.
Replacing your mattress every six to eight years can enhance your overall health and hygiene, while also improving sleep quality.
Over time, our bodies shed dead skin cells and fluids, creating an ideal environment for bacteria and allergens like dust mites and mold to thrive. Although you can regularly clean your mattress, the only way to truly eliminate these potential health risks is to replace it.
If you’re experiencing allergy flare-ups or asthma symptoms, it might be a sign that it’s time for a new mattress.
How long does a memory foam mattress last?
Memory foam mattresses boast a significantly longer lifespan than their traditional sprung counterparts, often lasting 10-20 years. Their unique ability to conform to your body while sleeping and then bounce back to their original shape after you get up contributes to their exceptional durability.
Signs You Need a New Mattress
While the general guideline suggests changing your mattress around the seven-year mark, certain signs might indicate that your mattress is prematurely past its prime. If you answer “yes” to any of the following questions, it’s likely time for a replacement:
- Is your mattress saggy or lumpy? Lumps and bumps usually indicate the mattress materials have softened and are no longer providing even support.
- Do the springs make a noise? Squeaking noises often result from weakened or loose springs rubbing against each other, signaling a need for an upgrade.
- Does your partner’s movement disturb your sleep? If your partner’s movements cause you to toss and turn, it suggests the mattress is no longer distributing weight effectively.
- Do you sleep better in a different bed? Consistently sleeping better elsewhere likely means your mattress isn’t providing adequate support.
- Does your mattress have an odor? Unpleasant odors can develop due to moisture and shed skin accumulating over time.
- Are your allergies getting worse? If you notice worsening allergies, it could be due to increased bacteria, dust mites, or mold in your mattress. Consider a memory foam mattress for better allergy management.
Change Your Mattress for a Better Night’s Sleep
So, you’ve determined your mattress needs an upgrade. But where do you begin your search for the perfect replacement?
Choosing the right mattress depends on several factors, including your preferred sleep position, bed size, budget, and desired support or firmness level.
Are you a side sleeper, or do you suffer from back pain? Do you have a restless partner, or do you tend to get hot during sleep? The type of mattress you choose can significantly impact your sleep quality.
If your mattress is less than five years old but showing signs of wear, a mattress topper can be a budget-friendly solution to extend its lifespan.
However, after five years, it’s crucial to closely monitor your mattress’s condition. If it’s nearing the end of its lifespan, appears visibly worn, or no longer provides adequate support, it’s definitely time for an upgrade.
