How Often Should You Replace Your Mattress?

How often should you replace your mattress?  

There are several factors to consider when replacing your mattress. The age of the mattress, usage, and other factors need to be considered.

A guideline most manufacturers use in replacing mattresses is five to seven-year. However, the answer is much more complicated. Several factors can mean you need to change your mattress sooner or can wait for several more years.

Mattresses don’t last forever and can be expensive purchases. However, you do often get what you pay for your mattress. The quality of your mattress can determine how soon you will need a new one.

There are signs your mattress needs replacing. The following is a guide to help you decide when to replace your mattress. When you are ready for a quality mattress, check out our selection from Slumberfy.

 

The Myth of the New Mattress 8-Year Rule 

You should get a new mattress every eight years, according to experts. However, several factors make this an old-fashioned rule when replacing a mattress.

These factors include the number of sleepers, weight, and mattress maintenance. Your mattress's initial quality can affect how long the mattress will last.

How often should you replace your mattress? The mattress materials will help determine how long your mattress will last. A standard spring mattress usually lasts five to eight years. Memory foam, conventional foam, and hybrid mattresses will last six to eight years.

The main takeaway is that the eight-year average is just that. It is an average and is not a set rule. Proper care for your mattress will help it last longer. Inspecting your mattress every few months will help you notice any wear and tear. 

You should also pay attention to how you feel in the morning. If you are not getting a restive sleep or wake up sore, it may be time to change your mattress.

 

Signs You Need a New Mattress

 

Several signs mean your mattress is time to change your mattress. These signs will help you gauge when you look for a new mattress.

How do you know when your mattress needs replacing? These are signs that your mattress needs replacing.

 

Signs of Mattress Wear and Tear

There are apparent wear and tear signs indicating it is time to replace your mattress. These include rips, tears, or holes in the mattress cover. Springs that poke through the top or sides of the mattress are an obvious indicator. Springs can also cause bodily harm if they poke or scratch you.

Crumbling or cracking foam in a foam mattress indicates it is wearing out. Air leaks strongly suggest that you need a new mattress if you use an air mattress.

 

Noticeable Problems with Allergies or Asthma

If you notice an increase in allergy symptoms, it may be time to replace your mattress. Your mattress will absorb dead skin cells, bodily oils, and moisture. No matter how well you clean your mattress, over time, these will accumulate in your mattress.

These can attract dust mites which feed on dead skin cells. Studies show that the average mattress is host to 100,000 dust mites. Mites can cause allergic reactions in some people and aggravate asthma symptoms.

Also, when your mattress absorbs oils and moisture, it can be a breeding ground for mold and mildew. If you notice black spots on your mattress, this is a sign of mold and needs to be replaced as soon as possible. A moldy or musty smell can also be an indicator of mold growth. Mold and mildew can cause allergic reactions and other health issues.

The Mattress Springs Become Noisy

Another meaningful sign of how often you should replace your mattress is the springs. If the springs start to become noisy, they are probably wearing out. The inner springs are designed to create comfort and support without making noise. If you notice they are squeaking when you move, that is a sign they are wearing out.

Squeaks and creaks are a sign the springs are beginning to degrade. They may start to sag, break, or snap. If you see or feel springs poking through the mattress, it is past time for you to replace your mattress.

As the coils age, you may hear noise and squeaks from the box spring. If you feel or hear your partner’s movements more than before, the springs are likely wearing out.

 

Consistently Waking Up Stiff and Sore

 

Your mattress promotes better health by keeping your spine aligned. An adequately aligned spine protects you from possible long-term discomfort and health issues. A quality mattress supports your body and gives you a comfortable night’s sleep.

Waking up sore indicates how often you should replace your mattress if you have sudden aches and pain in your back, sides, neck, knees, or shoulders. This can signify that your mattress is no longer supporting your body correctly.

A good test to see if this is a problem with your mattress is to sleep in a different bed for a night. If you have a spare bedroom, try sleeping there for a night. You may stay at a friend's or relative's house or even stay at a hotel. If you notice no pain the following day, it is time to go mattress shopping.

 It should be noted that if the pain and soreness continue, you should consult your doctor. The pain could be a sign of other health issues.

 

You Don’t Feel Rested in The Morning

Your mattress should allow you to get a good night’s sleep. A worn-out mattress is an indicator of how often you should replace your mattress. It may be time for a new mattress if you get an average night’s sleep of seven to eight hours and are still tired.

A lumpy mattress is a significant factor in depriving you of a good night’s sleep. A noticeable sign of wear is dips or valleys in your mattress. Lumps or bumps can also affect your ability to find a good sleeping position.

Lumps can also indicate that the foam or mattress pad has shifted. If you notice this, it is time to get a new mattress. A degraded mattress topper will prevent you from getting a good night’s sleep.

You Have Experienced A Significant Change in Weight

Your weight can affect the longevity of your mattress and your ability to get a good night’s sleep. More weight can cause the mattress to wear out faster. Studies show that weighing over 250 pounds can wear a mattress out quicker than average.

Significant weight gain or loss can affect your mattress’s ability to support you. Your mattress may have difficulty adjusting to your sleeping position. This leads to an uncomfortable night’s sleep.

If you have experienced a significant change in your weight, this is a sign of changing your mattress. You want a mattress that will support you comfortably, no matter your body size.

 

A Noticeably Sagging Mattress

Over time your mattress will conform to your weight and sleeping position. However, large sags or grooves can affect your spinal alignment. Over time, this “hammock effect” can cause issues.

Heavier sleepers may notice the sagging sooner than others. If you sleep on your side, you may see sagging around your shoulders or hips.

These are signs that your mattress needs replacing. If you notice these signs, it is time to go mattress shopping. Slumberfy can help you find the best replacement mattress for you.

 

How to Make Your Mattress Last Longer

How often should you replace your mattress? While the general rule is about eight to ten years, there are things you can do to make your mattress last longer. You will still need to replace your mattress at some point, but you can put it off for longer with these tips.

 

Start With a Quality Mattress and Set-up

How often should you replace your mattress? One of the significant factors is the quality of the mattress. Buy a good-quality mattress that will last longer. Also, knowing what type of foundation it needs will help your mattress last longer. See if it needs a box spring or other support.

 

Use a Mattress Topper or Protector

A mattress protector or topper can help protect your mattress. It will help to shield oils and moisture from seeping into the mattress.  They also can add a layer of comfort and padding to your mattress.

Mattress toppers can wrap around the entire mattress to provide protection. You can wash them regularly with your other linens.

Do mattress toppers need replacing? Over time you may notice wear and tear on your mattress topper. Replacing a worn-out topper will keep you from replacing your mattress too soon.

 

Use the Right Foundation

You should know what type of foundation your mattress needs. Having the correct foundation affects how often you should replace your mattress.

Some popular bases are now adjustable to fit your comfort. A traditional innerspring mattress needs a basic box spring. Foam or hybrid mattresses may require a sturdier foundation.

You should follow the manufacturer’s recommendations. They will determine what type of foundation you need. Bases will last much longer than your mattress. Check for signs of wear and tear.

 

Check Your Mattress Every 6 Months

How often should you replace your mattress? Inspecting your mattress every six months can help determine when the time is. An inspection can be quickly done when changing the linens and will take only a few minutes of your time.

You want to look for signs of wear and tear. See if you notice exposed springs or lumps. Some manufacturers suggest doing so quarterly. 

While checking the mattress, you can rotate it from head to foot. Some mattresses are not designed to be rotated. Check with the manufacturer before doing so.

 

Keep the Pets Off the Bed

 

Many people love to have their pets on the bed with them. It is the most comfortable place in the house. Our pets often want to be near us, so it makes sense they would like to sleep in the same bed.

If you want your mattress to last longer, you may want to rethink this. Dogs and cats can chew or claw at the mattress. Dogs have an instinct to “make a nest” and scratch at the area they are going to lay down. This instinct keeps snakes and other predators away but can tear up your mattress. A bored pet may also chew at the mattress.

Younger pets may have accidents as they are being housebroken. Older pets may have bladder control issues or try to mark their territory. These accidents can leave stains that are impossible to get out of. Your furry friend may cause you to change your mattress sooner than you planned.

A better alternative is to get your bed a dog or cat bed. Some good-quality pet beds will keep your pet happy while saving your mattress.

 

Do NOT Jump on the Bed!

Jumping on the bed is a fond childhood memory for many of us. However, doing so can drastically shorten the life of your mattress. There is also the apparent fall risk for your little ones. 

Jumping causes a concentration of weight at one point on your mattress. Over time it can damage the mattress and the foundation below it. If the foundation becomes cracked or warped, it can affect the wear on your mattress. Your mattress and foundation are not designed for this type of impact.

 

Find the Best Mattress When It Is Time 

How often should you replace your mattress? As we have learned, there is no simple answer. Several factors contribute to how soon you need to replace your mattress.

The best answer is when you notice wear and tear on your mattress. Also, if you see a change in your sleep quality, it is time to replace the mattress.

When that time comes, Slumberfy is here to help you find the best mattress for you. Our mattresses are made of high-quality materials that will last for years.