How Often Should You Change Your Mattress?
When a mattress loses its shape and starts to sag it can have a detrimental effect on you being able to get a good night’s sleep. Mattresses that aren’t regularly cleaned can be a breeding ground for mites and bugs – combined with other allergens that can make allergies and asthma worse.
So, how often should you change your mattress? Read on…
Broad Guidelines
How often should I change my mattress?
The answer to this frequently asked question really depends on the quality and type of your mattress. And if you suffer from any health issues. The general recommendation is between seven and ten years.
How long should a mattress last?
A mattress has a lifespan of about eight years – but can last up to ten years – especially if it’s double-sided. If you care for your mattress by cleaning it properly, sleeping in a variety of positions, and rotating it often it can provide you with many years of healthy sleep.
How often should you replace your mattress?
You’ll know when its time to replace your mattress when these signs become obvious:
- Coils that can be felt through the fabric
- Springs that squeak indicating the support has gone
- Waking up stiff and aching, and feeling tired
- Symptoms of asthma and allergies getting worse
- Changes in sleep patterns due to added weight from a sleeping partner – and feeling that partner moving
Mattress Types
When it comes down to changing your mattress there are different types to choose from. These include:
- Hybrid – a mix of foam and innerspring with durability based on the grade of the base foam and the type of coils
- Innerspring – consisting of coli support systems to distribute weight evenly
- Latex – with synthetic and organic options
- Memory foam – available in different densities determining how well they perform
- Waterbed – hard-side and soft-side varieties are making a comeback
How often to change your mattress can depend on the type you choose. See recommended approximate times for how often to change a mattress below:
- Hybrid – six years
- Innerspring – 10 years
- Latex – between 30 and 25 years
- Memory foam – 10 to 15 years
- Waterbed – five to 10 years
Remember that mattress warranties don’t necessarily refer to life expectancy. The warranty will often only cover workmanship and materials.
Mattress Categories
Mattresses fall into three basic categories:
- Soft – shape-conforming but without giving uniform support to your entire body
- Medium-firm – providing equal support and helping to alleviate pressure point pain – reducing stress on backs and joints
- Very firm – offering great support but can lead to pressure point discomfort
How to Clean Your Mattress
Mattress cleaning can be done simply by following these stages:
- Vacuum to remove dust and debris
- Clean fresh spills by blotting with damp cloth
- Spot clean any stains
- Sprinkle baking soda over the mattress giving it time to absorb odours
- Vacuum the mattress again
- Once you have a clean mattress you should let it air
Get a Deep Clean
Deep cleaning a mattress needn’t be a chore. Booking experienced and trained technicians from a professional mattress cleaning service at least once a year will eliminate all bacteria, bugs, mites, and allergens. The hot water extraction cleaning methods used will ensure any microscopic organisms are removed. As well as any other pests such as fleas. This deep cleaning technique is non-toxic and will leave your mattresses hygienically clean – and they’ll be completely dry within a few hours.
How to Maintain Your Mattress
To keep your new mattress clean and fresh you should:
- Check the manufacturer’s label before you begin cleaning for advice
- Vacuum the mattress monthly – use a crevice tool to reach awkward places
- Invest in a mattress protector and wash it every couple of months
- Rotate the mattress every three to six months for even wear
- Open windows to provide adequate ventilation to reduce dust build-up
- Leave sheets and duvets off for periods of time to air the mattress
- Keep pets off the mattress and discourage children from jumping on the bed
New Mattress Tips
Bear in mind it may take you about a month to get used to your mattress replacement. Especially as joints and muscles tend to remember the comfiest spot. A good mattress will actually reduce how much you move about at night, letting you slip into a deep, healing sleep. And you’ll wake up feeling refreshed and able to tackle the day.