How Often Should You Replace Your Mattress?

Tired of waking up feeling like you’ve spent the night sleeping on the floor? 

The main culprit is likely your old bed. But how often should you change your mattress? Most people would say that needs to be done every eight years, but is that the case? 

We’ve got you covered! While there’s no one-size-fits-all answer, there are some telltale signs you should keep an eye out for.

Let’s get into it! 

Is It Time to Replace Your Mattress?

A few signs can quickly tell you that it’s time to replace your mattress. Here’s what you should keep an eye out for if you want good sleep. 

It’s Too Old

First, your mattress is just too old. 

Innerspring mattresses usually last 7-10 years, while memory foam or latex ones can last up to 10-15 years. 

Old mattresses are more likely to harbor dust mites and are less comfortable. Say goodbye by donating, recycling, or using a mattress disposal service. Just don’t let an old bed ruin your sleep and mental health! 

Wear and Tear

If your mattress looks like it’s been through a battlefield—with rips, dents, or worn spots—it’s probably time for a replacement. Even stubborn stains that won’t go away and a musty smell that comes with them are red flags. 

Things like broken springs, rips, holes in the cover, crumbling foam, or leaks in an air mattress mean it’s time to consider a new one. These are all obvious signs of wear and tear. 

Sagging and Lumps

If you notice sagging or body impressions, it’s a sure sign that you should replace your mattress. 

Lumpy and saggy mattresses lose support over time, and sleep support is crucial for your body. If your mattress feels too firm or too soft, you’ll get back pain, which has a negative impact on your overall health.   

Noise

Next, did your mattress also become noisy? Mattresses with springs often become squeaky the more they are used. This is a common occurrence because springs don’t last forever. 

Also, if you feel or see springs poking through the mattress cover, it’s time to replace your mattress. Not only are springs like these unsupportive and annoying, but they can also be very dangerous. 

Bad Sleep Quality

Do you have trouble sleeping? Do you often wake up stiff or in pain? Bad sleep doesn’t necessarily need to point to your mattress. 

But what if your sleep quality is better on other beds? 

This is a sure sign that it’s time to replace your mattress because it can’t provide you with the comfort you need anymore. It’s time to get a new mattress and get that good night’s sleep your body needs. 

Different Sleeping Styles

You should also change your mattress if you have a different sleeping style, or at least find a way to adjust it better. 

Any weight and body shape changes can impact how comfortable a mattress is for you. For example, if you’ve gained or lost a lot of weight, a mattress can feel softer or firmer and won’t be able to support you properly. The same goes if you’re pregnant or sharing your bed with a partner. 

Sometimes it’s easy to get a mattress topper, mattress pad, or similar way to upgrade your sleeping space, but other times you need to invest in an entirely new mattress. 

Allergies and Asthma

And finally, if you get allergies or asthma symptoms, or if you had them and they suddenly got worse, a mattress could be to blame. 

Old mattresses collect a lot of dust, dirt, and other allergens, as well as body oils and dead skin cells, which can significantly affect your lungs. If you notice these symptoms worsening, it’s time to get rid of your older mattress and go mattress shopping.

Mattress Lifespan

As mentioned before, there are no rules. The lifespan of a mattress can depend on a couple of things. Here’s what you should know. 

Mattress Type

How long your mattress lasts depends on what it’s made from and how it’s made. 

Memory foam mattresses can last for 10-15 years, while a typical innerspring mattress is good to go for around 7-10 years. And natural latex mattresses are the real marathon runners, lasting up to 15 years. Hybrid mattresses blend it up, going strong for 8-10 years.

One of the biggest factors is the material of the mattress and its quality. Durable components and high-quality materials like natural latex and organic cotton lead to longer lifespans. A memory foam mattress with foam densities above 5 PCF or an innerspring mattress with thicker coils and a stronger coil system score also have a higher durability rating.

Frequency of Use

The lifespan of most mattresses also depends on how often you use them. Even a good-quality mattress will have a shorter life span if it’s used a lot. This is why guest room mattresses last way longer. 

Body Weight

Your weight plays a part in your mattress’s story. If you’re heavier, the sagging saga might start earlier. Lighter folks? They put up with less wear and tear. Couples? Your mattress may retire faster. Pressure impacts the mattress materials significantly, and not all beds are built to handle heavier people. 

Children and Pets

If your children or pets like to hang out on your bed, you should replace your mattress more often. It’s not just that they add extra weight; children and pets are more likely to cause stains and damage. And make sure not to let them jump on the bed! 

Mattress Care

And finally, how long your bed lasts also depends on how you take care of it. This involves cleaning, flipping, rotating, and protecting it overall. And we have some tips for that, too, so stay tuned!

How to Make Your Mattress Last Longer

A mattress can be a significant investment, especially if sleep is important to you, so you opt for more luxurious versions. And if you’ve already invested too much in it, you’d want it to last. Here’s how to do that. 

Proper Cleaning and Maintenance

Please clean your mattress at least twice a year and tackle stains ASAP. Vacuuming your mattress regularly and using baking soda to absorb odors can work wonders. Just sprinkle, let it soak, and vacuum after a couple of hours.

If you want to know more about how to clean a mattress, check out our guide! 

Support Your Mattress

Give your mattress a solid foundation. Different beds have their bases, like adjustable platforms or a box spring. A traditional box spring is best for innerspring mattresses, while hybrid mattresses and foam mattresses opt for a sturdier setup. Make sure to check the manufacturer’s instructions to choose the best option that won’t void your warranty! 

Use a Mattress Protector

Getting a waterproof mattress protector is one of the best things you can do for your mattress. This will protect it from dust mites and prevent stains. Plus, it’s easy to wash, so you can keep your bedding fresh and clean. 

Rotating or Flipping the Mattress

Give your mattress a balanced workout. This means rotating or flipping it every couple of months. Different beds have different preferences, so follow your mattress’s manual for guidance. Think of it as giving your mattress a little break so it can readjust and stay in great shape. 

Food and Pets

Having breakfast in bed seems like a beautiful idea, but any traces of food or drink can harm your mattress in the long run, so you should avoid eating and drinking in bed. The same goes for a little cuddle with your pet! Make sure to be careful and keep these things to a minimum. 

How to Choose a New Mattress

So, you have to get rid of your mattress and get a new one. What should you keep an eye out for? 

When choosing a new mattress, consider your preferred firmness level—whether it’s soft, medium, or firm—to ensure comfort and support. 

Next, take your sleeping position into account. Side sleepers lean towards softer options, while back or stomach sleepers might go for medium to firm mattresses. 

Your body weight matters, too; heavier folks might opt for a high-quality mattress with more durable materials. Look for higher-quality materials like high-density foam or coils with lower gauges for longer-lasting support. Remember, your mattress is a long-term investment, so choose wisely.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Should I Do With My Old Mattress?

When it’s time to say goodbye to your mattress, consider donating, recycling, or using a disposal service. Many charities accept gently used mattresses, and recycling centers can break them down responsibly. Also, local disposal services often offer mattress pickup. Make sure to research the options in your area. 

What Is the Average Lifespan of a Mattress?

The lifespan of a mattress varies by type. Innerspring mattresses usually last around 7-10 years, while latex and memory foam mattresses can stretch to 10-15 years. 

However, you must take proper care of your mattress if you want it to last. 

Is It True That You Should Replace Your Mattress Every 8 Years?

Not necessarily. The “every eight years” rule is a guideline, but it’s not set in stone. Different mattress types have varying lifespans. The only rule you need to follow is to always remember your comfort! 

Final Thoughts 

So, how often should you replace your mattress? It depends on which mattress type you have. Innersprings might need swapping every 7-10 years, while memory foam or a latex mattress have an average life span of 10-15 years. 

But here’s the secret: the better you care for your mattress, the longer it will last. So clean it, use a box spring, and keep it protected, and you’ll get a better night’s sleep in return. 

We wish you a good night’s sleep!