How Long Do Mattresses Typically Last?
Mattresses are an essential part of our daily lives, providing us with the comfort and support we need for a good night’s sleep. However, like any other product, they have a limited lifespan, and understanding how long your mattress will last can help you make an informed decision when it comes to replacing it.
There are several factors that determine the lifespan of a mattress, including the quality of materials, usage, and maintenance. In this sleep guide, we will delve deeper into these factors and explore how they impact the longevity of a mattress. We will also provide some tips and recommendations for prolonging the life of your mattress.
Whether you’re in the market for a new mattress or simply curious about the lifespan of your current one, this guide is for you. So, let’s dive in and find out how long mattresses typically last!
- Last Updated: February 15, 2023
Signs that say it’s not meant to be…
Your mattress has begun to sag, especially in the areas where you normally put most of your weight. This primarily comprises the side of the bed you sit or sleep on.
Additionally, body impressions are becoming a common issue as the surface of the mattress deteriorates, leading to a semi-permanent imprint of your body.
Finally, while most mattresses get soft after they’ve been used for a while, excessive softening can quickly lead to the formation of indentations and aren’t a good look on your mattress.
But before you head out to find a new soul mate, you might want to ask yourself if the new relationship will last as long as the old one. Let’s discuss some of the things that affect the longevity of a mattress.
Which mattress lasts the longest?
The general lifespan of a high-end mattress is between seven to ten years. Take a look at which type of mattresses will last you the longest:
Foam mattresses
Memory foam is one of the most popular types of foam mattresses. Made from multiple layers of polyfoam, the density of the mattress ranges from two to five pounds. Mattresses with a density of 1.5 to 2 pounds last up to a maximum of four years. This is so because over time, the spaces between the layers of foam compress and stop expanding.
Any depressions or signs of sagging indicate that your mattress’s low density has caused the layers of foam to compress. Hence, the denser the foam, the longer the mattress will last. A mattress with a high density can last eight to ten years.
Innerspring mattresses
Known for their durability, the long lifespan of innerspring mattresses can be credited to the coiled springs that are inside them. The springs are wrapped in layers of various materials to build up the thickness of the mattress for comfort.
A high gauge wire in the spring can prolong the durability of the mattress. A lower gauge wire will cause the mattress to get bumpy over time, and you will feel the springs poking at you as you lie down. As such, lower gauge mattresses only last for about four years.
Hybrid mattresses
Hybrid mattresses combine the mechanisms of foam and innerspring mattresses. They include individual wire pockets that are covered in layers of foam.
The longevity of the mattress depends on the gauge of the wire as well as the density of the foam used. Higher gauges, combined with higher densities, will make the mattress last for a significant amount of time, which can even exceed eight years.
What factors affect your mattress’s longevity?
A handful of factors can cause your relationship with your bed to come to a standstill. Take a look at some of them.
Weight
This is one of the most prominent factors. Our bodies exert pressure on the mattress, causing the springs and spring coils to compress. Heavier people being on a mattress for long periods of time will lead to indentations, and eventually, permanent sagging.
Related: Best Mattress For Heavy People
Usage
How often you use the mattress is another contributing factor. If you have placed your mattress in a spare room where it’s used once in a month, it’s likely that your mattress will last for more than ten years. But if you sleep on it every day, the pressure from your body’s weight is likely to cause the mattress to expire much more quickly.
Environment
Exposing your mattress to certain harsh environmental conditions can have an impact on its longevity. Spillage or sunlight constantly falling on the bed is likely to affect the texture of the foam and influence its density for the worse. Other than that, if you have children in the house that use the bed as a trampoline, it’s also going to cause the springs to malfunction.
How can you keep your mattresses in good shape longer?
There’s a multitude of factors that can contribute to the demise of your mattress before its time. Take a look at some ways to help you increase the lifespan of your mattress.
Get proper support for your mattress
It’s essential to invest in good support for your mattress, as it helps preserve the integrity of the materials that go into making it. Bed frames should have a center bar which enable them to support the weight of the mattress. Platform beds with wide slats may require more support, depending on the weight and density of the mattress. Check your bed’s support every year to ensure that there are no broken slats that need repairing.
Be careful when moving the mattress
Very often, people make the mistake of bending or folding their mattress while transporting it. It’s vital to protect your mattress from getting damaged like this, as it can significantly influence its durability. It’s best to keep the mattress upright on its sides so that it doesn’t sag. Moreover, encasing your mattress in plastic is also a good idea to avoid anything from spilling and ruining it during transit.
Wash bed linens frequently
During sleep, your body excretes sweat and oil, in addition to shedding skin cells. All of these things lead to a build-up of bacteria that can seep through the surface layer of the mattress, encouraging the production of dust mites. Washing bed linens and using fresh bed sheets every week is a good way to prevent this from happening.
Follow the cleaning directions
Mattresses come with an instruction manual which guides users when it comes to stain removal, vacuuming, and general cleaning. Most manuals advise users to clean stains using a mild soap solution and letting it dry to prevent moisture from getting trapped in the mattress. Vacuuming should be done every one to three months to put a stop to dust buildup as well. Performing these actions in moderation can extend the lifespan of the mattress to a great extent.
Rotate your mattress regularly
Rotating can reduce the likelihood of wear and tear in a mattress. Every two to six months, you should rotate your mattress by 180 degrees so the weight of your body doesn’t cause indentations and sagging on one side.
Let some sunlight in
While exposing your mattress to sunlight can drastically impact its durability, occasionally, letting the sun in can actually increase its lifespan. This is because mattresses get damp from spillages, sweat, or oil, and sunlight can help with the drying process. The mattress also gets aired out if there’s excess moisture and humidity in the air, or dust mites on the bed.
The bottom line is that if you take into account the dos and don’ts we’ve mentioned, and follow them religiously, you and your mattress should be good for a while!
If you’re looking for a mattress that is built for maximum comfort and durability, head over to ASL Reviews and find out which one is most suited for your requirements. Our mattress review page has nectar mattress reviews, foam mattress reviews and much more!
Conclusion
The lifespan of a mattress depends on several factors, such as its quality, usage, and maintenance. It’s essential to know when it’s time to replace your mattress to avoid any discomfort, pain, or even health issues. Investing in a high-quality mattress can pay off in the long run by providing you with comfortable, restful sleep for years to come.
Are you just getting started on your hunt for the perfect mattress? Browse our mattress reviews for honest, in-depth information on today’s biggest mattress brands and fast track your journey to better sleep.
