How Long Does a Mattress Last?
- By Jessica
- Last Update: Jan 31, 2023
The average lifespan for mattresses is about 7 to 10 years or more.
Table of Contents
How Long Does a Mattress Last?
The lifespan of the different mattresses depends on various factors. Out of them, the quality of the material is the major factor that affects the efficiency of the mattresses. Mattresses having different materials show varying lifespans. Let’s have a look at the mattresses and their average lifespan.
Memory Foam Mattresses
The life expectancy of a high-quality memory foam mattress can be about 10 to 15 years. But it demands a lot of care. The memory foam mattresses need to be rotated regularly. So, if you keep rotating them for some time, you will be satisfied. Moreover, the higher the quality of the foam material, the more durable your memory foam mattress is.
Hybrid Mattresses
As the name implies, hybrid mattresses combine foam and innerspring mattresses. Thus, their lifespan is determined by the quality of both the foam and the coils. An excellent quality hybrid mattress efficiently works for 6 years. Poor quality material and unhygienic habits can reduce its lifespan.
Spring Mattresses
The average lifetime of spring mattresses is 10 years. But it is possible under the conditions when your spring mattress is two-sided, which means you can use both sides. If you keep using a single side for a long time, it leads to sagging. So, for long-term usage, you must flip the mattress to avoid sagging and any other possible damage.
Latex Mattresses
The longevity of the latex mattresses is more than 20 years. Their lifespan is mainly decided by the types of latex used in the mattress. The mattress with organic latex shows more lastingness than synthetic latex ones.
Polyether Mattresses
Polyether mattresses only last for a maximum of five years or more if properly handled. They offer the least durability as compared to other mattresses. The reason behind this is their closed structure of cells which causes wear and tear quickly.
Factors Influencing the Mattress Lifespan
A wide range of factors is responsible for the total lifespan of mattresses. Some common factors that directly affect their longevity are discussed below.
Material
The material of the mattress is among the main factors that decide whether or not it will offer long-term performance. The mattresses made with high-quality material last longer and are more durable than those made with cheap quality. The latter also easily undergoes sagging or wear and tear after several times of usage.
For example, in the case of a polyfoam mattress, the high-density polyfoam will last longer and offer greater durability than the low-density polyfoam.
Original Quality
The original quality of the mattress has a greater impact on its lifespan. A mattress’s quality is determined by the parts used in its manufacturing. The finest quality parts will automatically improve the original quality of the mattress and enhance its lifetime.
In contrast, if the original quality of the mattress is poor, they are not worthy of long-term usage. They may easily get damaged and unable to provide desirable sleep and required support. The original quality mattresses are often found at higher rates than others. But, overall, they help save money as you don’t have to regularly replace your mattress.
Mattress Type
Mattress type greatly influences the lifespan of a mattress. For example, latex mattresses have a longer lifespan than other mattresses. Similarly, in the case of memory foam mattresses, high density mattresses are more long-lasting than low-density memory foam.
Sleep Position & Body Weight
Sleep position & body weight of the sleeper has obvious effects on the lifespan of mattresses. Side sleepers are usually known to exert a greater force on the shoulder and hip areas of mattresses. So these areas may easily sag, resulting in an imbalanced surface. It will reduce the mattress’s lifespan, causing disturbed sleep. Therefore, memory foam is the best recommendation for such sleepers because that can last longer for a long time.
Along with the sleep position, body weights also influence the durability of mattresses. Sleepers with high body weight may cause sagging of the mattresses easily compared to those with low body weight. It ultimately results in a reduced lifespan of mattresses.
Therefore, using mattresses that can automatically withstand higher body weight can prevent sagging and any other possible damage. It will provide long-term work without needing to replace the mattress after several uses.
Care Routine
Proper care of the mattresses is of utmost importance for maintaining your mattress in good condition. Unhygienic habits can result in permanent damage to the mattress. It can badly affect its working, leading to reduced longevity. It would be helpful if you kept your mattress clean for good maintenance.
For this purpose, regularly clean your mattress by following the instructions mentioned by the manufacturer. Moreover, it is also recommended to rotate and flip the mattress to maintain balance in the mattress. Keeping the mattress clean will ensure you can use it for many years without wasting money on another.
How to Care for Your Mattress so it Lasts Longer?
Taking care of a mattress is necessary to take its long-term advantage. The following are the main caring tips that can help keep your mattress in good condition, making it suitable for long-lasting use.
Cover your Mattress with a Protector
Covering your mattress is an admirable way to protect your mattress from any harm. The protector provides the mattress safety from any external damage. It is commonly waterproof and a barrier between the mattress and the surrounding environment.
The protectors only work well when they perfectly fit your mattress size. The quality of the mattress also plays a vital role in enhancing the efficiency of the protector. A high-quality well-sized protector guarantees the long-lasting use of your bed mattress. Two types of mattress protectors are commonly available in the market. They are discussed below.
Encasement Protectors
Encasement protectors entirely cover your mattress from all sides. It possesses an additional zipper system that prevents the entrance of any object or even hitchhikers. Thus, your mattresses remain unaffected by any damage and work long-lasting.
Fitted Protectors
The fitted protectors don’t cover all sides of the mattress. Instead, they are placed on the top of the mattress like a bed sheet. Thus, they only protect the upper surface of the mattress and are more cost-effective than encasement protectors.
Regularly Flip or Rotate Your Mattress
Flipping and rotating your bed mattress can prevent it from wear and tear and ensure longevity. You must flip or rotate your mattress regularly to maintain a balanced surface of the mattress and to prevent discomfort in sleep. But it is optional for all types of mattresses.
Nowadays, most mattresses are designed, so they don’t need to be flipped or rotated over time. Therefore, you must check the information properly before making a decision.
Do not Bounce on the Bed
Bouncing on the bed can cause permanent damage to your mattress. Usually, mattresses are designed for sleeping purposes. So they are unable to withstand greater pressure. Thus, the pressure caused by bouncing can badly damage your mattress. To keep your mattress in a good position, avoid bouncing on it.
Keep the Pets Away from Your Bed
Allowing the pets to sleep with you on your mattress can be a welcoming gesture for a wide range of harmful microorganisms such as viruses, bacteria, etc., and parasites. They can enter the mattress and damage it slowly. So, it is better to keep the pets away from your mattress to keep it in better condition.
Regular Cleaning of Bed Sheets and Mattresses
The maintenance of the mattress is affected greatly by your adopted hygienic habits. If you expect long-term use of your mattress, you must keep it clean. For this purpose, you are advised to clean your bed sheet and protector after some time. It will wash away all the stains and germs and prove helpful for the longer lifespan of the mattress.
Carefully Move Your Mattress
Any mishandling during moving your mattress can result in permanent damage to the mattress. Do not bend and fold your mattress at any cost, as it will affect its original shape, and your mattress may become unable to maintain a flat surface. Moreover, it is also recommended to cover your mattress in plastic for additional protection and ensuring lastingness.
6 Signs It is Time to Replace Your Mattress
A mattress is specifically designed to provide you with a perfect sleep time. But you may need to replace the mattress if it cannot maintain its comfort. Here are some common signs that will automatically give you hints that you need to replace your mattress as soon as possible.
Waking Up Tired
Bed mattresses are the first thing to go whenever you end up with a tiring day. A good mattress is beneficial for pleasant sleep and beating fatigue. But if you wake up in the same tiring condition even after a good sleep, it is a clear sign that your mattress needs replacement. Replacing it will help you to start a fresh day without feeling tired.
The Mattress is Sagging
An ideal mattress is always flat and perfectly supports your body. But if your mattress loses its flat shape and becomes sagged, it is clear that it has lost its natural balance. You may rotate or flip your mattress, but it just works for a temporary time. It can cause uncomfortable sleep and can cause body pain. Therefore, if your mattress has sagged, you must replace it to avoid disrupted sleep.
You Feel More Body Pain
If you wake up with body pain after sleeping, there are chances of bumps in your mattress. You can check their presence by running your hand along the surface of the mattress. If you feel any lumps or bumps, then make sure you have no option other than to replace your mattress. Replace it for sleep free of body aches.
Experience Night Sweats
If you are regularly experiencing sweating during sleeping, then your mattress can be a major reason behind it. Most mattresses are designed in such a way that they may contain heat-trapping chemicals such as viscoelastic chemicals. So, you must invest in mattresses containing no heat-trapping chemicals to avoid excessive sweating during sleep.
The Mattress Moves or Shakes
If your mattress shakes or moves whenever you sit or sleep on it, then it means that it is no longer able to withstand your weight. Such mattresses lose their sturdiness and cannot maintain a balance that is essential for keeping them in a position. The only solution to this problem is replacing the mattress with perfect sleeping conditions.
You have Frequent Allergies
Mattresses are considered a home for various allergens when they are not properly cleaned. But even a cleaned mattress may contain allergy-causing agents such as dust mites causing watery noses and sneezing. Some allergens may lead to asthma problems.
Similarly, different allergens trigger different allergic reactions. If you continuously suffer from allergic reactions after sleeping, then understand that the main problem is your mattress. Replace it to prevent allergies and healthy sleep.
How to Select The Best Mattress?
Selecting the best mattress is vital to enjoying the perfect sleep. The Following are some main points you must consider while investing in a suitable mattress.
Select the Ideal Material
You must select an appropriate material for the mattress to prevent body aches during sleep. Mattresses are available in various materials, and you can choose any of them according to your requirements. Selecting an ideal mattress material contributes to enjoying comfy sleep hours.
Choose the Perfect Mattress Size
While selecting the mattress, you must choose the one that perfectly fits your bed. If you have a mattress smaller or larger than the bed size, it only results in your loss. You cannot be able to sleep peacefully because of the wrong size. Better to take measurements of your bed before investing in a mattress.
Consider Your Sleeping Position
You must consider your sleeping position while selecting a mattress. If you are a back sleeper, you must go for a firm mattress with a firmness level ranging from 5 to 7. A soft mattress will be the best option if you are a side sleeper. In contrast, if you are a stomach sleeper, medium to firm mattresses are best for you. Selecting the right one will provide you with good support during sleeping.
FAQs
What mattress types last the longest?
Memory foam mattresses typically last the longest and are known for their durability. They are ideal for sleepers who prefer a mattress surface that contours to their body shape and offers slower, deeper compression support over a longer period of time.
Is a mattress still good after 20 years?
It depends on how the mattress has been used and stored over those 20 years. If it’s been used a lot or hasn’t received proper care and protection, then it’s likely suffered wear and tear by now. A mattress should be changed regularly to prevent health issues.
However, if a mattress has only been lightly used or taken good care of, then it can still be considered usable even after 20 years but may not provide an ideal level of comfort given the wide range of improved mattresses available today.
How often should I replace my mattress?
The general rule of thumb for replacing a mattress is to replace it every 7-8 years. However, depending on the quality and condition of the mattress, you may need to replace it sooner, as mattresses lose their integrity over time. Signs that your mattress needs to be replaced can be sagging, uncomfortable sleeping surfaces or an overly worn surface.
If your sleep quality has decreased over time and no other cause can be identified, then a new mattress may be necessary.
How long do mattresses in a box last?
Mattresses in a box typically last anywhere from 5 to 10 years, depending on the type and quality of mattress. For example, a foam mattress may last up to 10 years, while an innerspring or pocket coil mattress may only last for about 5-7 years.
The better quality and higher density of the mattress will lead to longer lasting support, but it’s important to inspect your mattress regularly and look out for sagging or broken coils that could indicate excessive wear and tear. Additionally, rotating your mattress every few months can help even out any weight distribution issues that may cause it to wear unevenly over time.
How long should a mattress last before sagging?
A good quality mattress should last between 7-10 years without sagging. It is important to rotate your mattress at least every six months and use an appropriate base such as a box spring or adjustable bed frame to help ensure the longevity of the mattress.
The quality of construction, materials used, and manufacturing standards are key factors in determining the lifespan of the mattress; therefore, purchasing from a reputable manufacturer can help extend its life span. Additionally, making sure to provide ventilation to prevent bacteria and moisture buildup can further prolong its life.
Summary
Mattresses are commonly designed to work for several years, but various factors, such as material, original quality, types, etc., can negatively affect their lifespan. But their proper maintenance and cleaning can guarantee their longevity.
If your mattress has sagged or shaken or you wake up tired with body aches or allergies, these are clear signs that you need to replace your mattresses. But before selecting a mattress, you must choose the one that is appropriate for you and your sleeping conditions.
Jessica is a lover of both life and gardening. She loves to share his passion for both on social media. He often posts about his latest gardening projects, as well as tips and tricks for others who might be interested in starting their own gardens. She also frequently posts about the different aspects of his life that he enjoys, from spending time with friends and family to exploring new places.
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