How Long Do Mattresses Last?

Although the life of the mattresses varies according to the quality and the material it is made of, the life of an average mattress is between 7 and 9 years. 

In addition, the life of the mattresses differs according to usage. Therefore, for your health, you should change your mattress regularly.

Material and Quality

A good comfy mattress makes itself felt from the first moment you buy it. The quality of the mattress is an indicator of how long it will last. Mattresses made of good, sturdy material last longer, so our first tip is to invest in a good mattress, to begin with.

While a low-end mattress may be very short-lived, a mattress of an exceptional standard will last longer than expected.

How To Care for a Mattress Properly

The average lifespan of a mattress is between 8 and 10 years, but if you treat your mattress well you can extend its longevity. 

Your mattress needs routine care just like other items in your home. Make sure you read the manufacturer's instructions and perform routine cleaning to extend the life of your mattress.

Here are some extra tips on mattress care that can help your mattress stay in good condition for longer.

Use a Mattress Protector

Mattress protectors protect your mattress from wear and tear. They prevent material damage caused by spills and dirt, but they also protect the surface layer of your mattress from skin cells, skin oils and creams and sweat.

Mattress protectors are especially important for hypoallergenic mattresses, by protecting them from natural and chemical substances that cause the build-up of mould and dust that can trigger allergic reactions.

Get The Proper Support

You may be advised to purchase the accompanying box spring to support your mattress correctly but this isn't always necessary. However, ensuring you have the right support type for the right mattress is essential for your mattress's longevity and comfort.

Box springs are typically used for mattresses with springs, but if you have a memory foam mattress, they are best with a solid and firm support mattress.

Make sure you check your mattress support yearly to make sure that no broken springs or slats are missing.

Rotate and Flip the Mattress

Rotate and flip your mattress every 6 - 12 months, especially during the first few years while you are wearing your mattress.

Rotating your mattress is essential for preventing softening and depressions. It also keeps the springs in better condition, if you have them.

Air Your Mattress Out

Letting your mattress air out regularly helps prevent humidity from accumulating within the fabric. On a bright day, open the curtains and strip your bed completely to allow the sunlight to hit the mattress and let your mattress breathe.

Sunlight not only removes moisture but also helps to regulate dust mites and keep them at a minimum.

How Long Should You Keep a Mattress?

How long you should keep your mattress varies, depending on the mattress type and the quality. But generally, mattresses last around 8 years. It is best to assess your mattress every year and watch out for the following:

Your Mattress Is Sagging

If your mattress is starting to sag it's probably time to replace it. After a while, most mattresses start to indent and hang down due to years of supporting your body weight. If indentations are obvious then it is a sign that your mattress needs to be replaced. 

Often sagging can lead to misalignment of your bones, so if you are also feeling pain in your neck, shoulders and back when you get up every day, it's time to change your mattress.

Your Mattress Causes Allergies

As you sweat during the night, your mattress becomes a desirable home for bacteria and pests. Dust mites and other allergens seep into our mattresses over time and worsen our allergies, or trigger new ones.

If you are feeling itchy when you get into bed, or are sneezing or coughing or you experience a blocked nose while trying to nod off, then your mattress could be the culprit.

To avoid this, you should change your mattress sheets and bedding regularly, use a mattress protector and wipe the surface of your mattress, but often the damage is done, and you will need to replace your mattress before your symptoms will improve.

You Don't Feel Rested

If you wake up feeling more tired than when you went to bed, it is a sign that your sleep has been disturbed, usually by the discomfort of an old mattress.

Generally speaking, mattresses last around 8 years. After this time they deteriorate rapidly, and the quality of your sleep is the first thing to be affected.

How To Choose The Right Mattress

While looking out for a new mattress that is going to last a long time, it is important to consider the following factors:

Sleep Position

The position you sleep in affects the longevity of the mattress. There are mattresses on the market designed for side sleepers, back sleepers and those who move around in their sleep. 

Often these mattresses are designed to do a better job of withstanding the impact of your movements during the night. Side sleepers are best to consider medium to soft mattresses, while side sleepers should opt for a harder mattress and those who move around should consider a hybrid.

Body Weight

How much you weigh is a factor in finding the right mattress, no matter what position you sleep in. 

Heavier set individuals should opt for a firmer mattress with more support, whereas smaller and lighter people should look for medium to soft mattresses as firmer models may not support your limbs comfortably.

Material Quality

No matter which bed type you choose, choosing a bed that is good quality is key to ensure it lasts a long time.

You don't need to spend a fortune on a good quality mattress, some middle-range mattresses are very sturdy and durable. Either way, investing in a good mattress at the beginning saves you money on more frequent replacements over time.