Last Updated on April 23, 2024 by Sandra Allens
Sagging memory foam mattresses are not only uncomfortable, but they are also bad for your health. Despite the fact that even the best mattresses can develop a pattern after a while, you can extend your mattress’ life with some simple methods. To ensure your mattress remains comfortable, supportive, and clean, make sure it is firmly supported and perform simple cleaning and maintenance tasks periodically.
What is the Lifespan of a Mattress?
A memory foam mattress’ lifespan is affected by a variety of factors. A mattress’ lifespan is largely determined by its material of construction, but quality also plays a large role. As one of the oldest mattress design techniques, innerspring mattresses used springs and padding.
A spring mattress, which is also called an innerspring mattress, was made from coils and a soft material layer on top. Wire coils are arranged in rows in continuous coil mattresses. Each row is wound continuously. A padded layer on top makes these mattresses softer and more comfortable, though they are still fairly firm. Typically, spring mattresses last between five and six years before they begin to wear out.
Memory foam and latex are common materials found in modern mattresses. It is even possible to find mattresses that are hybrid designs that combine coils and other materials. Mattresses with firmer material typically last longer before sagging or losing their shape. The lifespan of a latex mattress is usually longer than that of a memory foam mattress or a high-density foam mattress. It wears down a little faster on mattresses made of foams with a lower density.
The average mattress typically lasts between seven and ten years, depending on the details.
Is Your Mattress Due For A Replacement?
The average mattress lasts between 7 and 10 years if it is properly maintained, but this is not a hard and fast rule. It is especially important if you share an apartment with a partner to consider your body weight and sleeping position when insuring your mattress.
A new mattress may be needed if you notice these signs. You may need to replace your mattress if one or more of these signs apply:
- There are deep indentations and grooves on the mattress.
- You cannot remove the stains or smells on it.
- Your bedroom has become infested with bedbugs.
- A lump or bump has started to appear in the mattress.
- As a result of dust mites in the mattress, your allergies are acting up.
- We can hear squeaking and creaking coming from the base.
- Your body is stiff, achy, or sore most mornings.
If your mattress doesn’t feel comfortable anymore, it’s clearly time to replace it. It’s probably time for a new mattress if you wake up stiff and achy after tossing and turning all night or if you struggle to find a comfortable position for sleeping.
Tips for Extending Your Mattress’s Life
When you purchase a new mattress, you invest a lot of money, so it should last for years. Cleaning and maintaining your mattress regularly can greatly extend its lifespan.
You Can Make Your Mattress Last Longer by Following These Simple Tips:
- Ensure it is well supported
- Protect it with a mattress cover
- Keep your linens clean
- Turn it frequently
- Clean stains immediately
- Let it air out
Now, let’s examine each of the tips in more detail.
- Provide Proper Support for It.
Modern mattresses are often not attached to a box spring. However, the mattress still needs to be supported. If you have a memory foam or latex mattress, you’ll need a flat, sturdy foundation.
When using a platform bed, make sure the slats are separated by no more than three inches. The best foundations for memory foam and latex mattresses have no gaps between the slats and are good for people who prefer more firm beds. You can use a box spring as a foundation if you’re using a traditional innerspring mattress.
Click Here Full Reviews About Bed Foundations and Bed Frames
- Consider Using a Mattress Cover.
Additionally, you should protect your mattress against spills, stains, and bed bugs in addition to ensuring that it is properly supported. A mattress protector should be immediately applied to a new mattress when it is brought home.
An encased mattress is completely covered and prevents moisture from getting into the mattress. A mattress encasement is the best option for those who want to protect their mattresses from dirty or moldy surfaces. Most mattress protectors look like fitted sheets, covering the top and sides of mattresses.
Read Full Review About the Best Bed Bug Mattress Protectors
- Linens Should Be Washed Regularly.
When you sleep, your skin exfoliates, sweats, and produces natural oils that become part of your bedding. Every week – no more than twice per month – sheets should be laundered. Top layers don’t require as much washing, but they still need to be cleaned.
Click Here for Our Full Review About the Best Waterproof Mattress Protectors and Pads
- Rotate Your Mattress Often.
It is always beneficial to rotate your mattress from time to time, regardless of the material it is made from. Rotating your mattress prevents impressions from forming and can even out the wear on the mattress. It is recommended that your mattress be rotated every two to six months.
- Quickly Remove Stains.
A dog that isn’t well trained or a glass of wine spilled are just a couple of the unlikely accidents that can occur. It is important to remove stains as soon as possible after a stain occurs, as your mattress protector can keep stains from soaking in. Clean your mattress as needed following the manufacturer’s instructions.
Read Full Guide on How to Clean Your Mattress
- Allow It to Breathe Every Now and Then.
Make sure you air out your mattress every now and then by taking off all the bedding. Let the mattress breathe fresh air and receive some sunlight if the weather permits. As a result, dust mites and moisture cannot accumulate.
A Guide to Restoring Memory Foam Mattresses
Over time, memory foam can form indentations and sag, but it is very supportive. Taking the steps above may help if you have an older memory foam mattress but you may need to do more to restore it and extend its lifespan.
Memory Foam Mattresses Can Be Restored by Following These Tips:
- Mattress Pads Are Recommended. A memory foam mattress topper or pad is a simple way to restore the comfort of a memory foam mattress. If the sag is only a few inches or so, these can work well, but deeper impressions may be harder to treat.
- Support Should Be Increased. A stronger mattress foundation will prevent sagging mattresses. Pillows can be used to support the sagging areas, or plywood can be added underneath the mattress.
- You Should Rotate Your Mattress. You may have to rotate your mattress as one of your last resorts to prevent further sagging. Even if you’re not more comfortable, you will be at least more relaxed.
You can prevent memory foam mattresses from sagging by preventing them from sagging in the first place. Memory foam mattresses with a higher density have a greater resistance to sagging than regular models.
