When should you replace your mattress? If you’ve been using the same one for years, this is a question you might be asking yourself. Getting a good night’s sleep is crucial for your health and well-being. Since you spend about a third of your life in bed, it’s important to have a comfortable mattress.
Buying a new mattress can feel overwhelming. With so many brands, prices, and features to compare, finding the right one can be a challenge. If you’re pondering whether it’s time for a new mattress, chances are it probably is. There’s no precise timeline for replacing a mattress, but if it’s uncomfortable or showing signs of wear, it’s likely time for a change.
Changes in your health or sleeping arrangements can also signal it’s time for a new mattress. Allergens and dust mites can build up over time, reducing its lifespan, especially if you have allergies or respiratory issues.
While it’s typically recommended to replace your mattress every 10 years, there are steps you can take to extend its life. A mattress protector can shield it from debris, mold, liquids, and bedbugs. Stains can void your warranty, so protection is essential.
Occasionally, let your mattress breathe by removing all bedding and airing it out for about 30 minutes. This releases excess moisture which can accumulate in the layers. Exposing your mattress to sunlight can help eliminate bedbugs.
Rotating or flipping your mattress can prevent sagging and redistribute weight more evenly, extending its durability. This can be done by turning over a double-sided mattress or swapping the head and foot.
No matter the size—queen, king, or twin XL—it’s advisable to change your mattress every 8 years, as it tends to lose comfort and support over time. Heavier individuals might find their mattresses wear out even faster due to excessive wear and tear.
Visible signs, like dips or dents where you sleep, indicate your mattress is worn out. Both spring and foam mattresses can sag, leading to discomfort and disrupted sleep with aches and pains.
Proper alignment and support are crucial for a good night’s sleep. Stomach and back sleepers should maintain a natural S-curve in the spine, while side sleepers should keep their body straight from head to feet.
If your bed isn’t as comfortable as your friend’s or a hotel bed, consider replacing it. A mattress’s comfort layers break down over time, leading to poor sleep and morning aches. Sometimes a mattress is faulty right from the start, or it simply needs replacement after years of use.
An old mattress can also lose its ability to reduce motion transfer, making it hard for you or your partner to sleep through each other’s movements. Good-quality mattresses should support both partners equally.
Unexplained allergies or asthma flare-ups outside of allergy season could also be due to your mattress. Dust mites and their waste can cause allergic reactions. Flipping, vacuuming, or steaming your mattress might help, but if not, a new mattress could be the answer.
If you wake up with sore back, hips, or shoulders that improve after moving around, it might be time for a new mattress. Though you might think a firm mattress is the solution, experts suggest that a medium-firm mattress often offers the best comfort for chronic back pain.
When choosing a new mattress, look for one that provides proper body and spine support. Ensure it meets your personal preferences for comfort as well.