We spend a lot of time in bed, so when it comes to buying a mattress it’s important to get it right. That’s why, we’ve come up with a quick guide that explains how often you should replace a mattress, how to extend a mattresses’ lifespan, and highlights the warning signs that you might need to buy a new one. 

How often do you really need to replace your mattress?

The need to replace a mattress can vary based on the type of mattress you own. You need to ask yourself, how often is it used, what quality mattress is it, and what are your preferences. 

To start, understand a mattresses lifespan by solely looking at the type of mattress.There are a number of mattresses and each one has a different life expectancy. 

Memory foam mattress 

A memory foam mattress can last 10 -15 years, if it’s a mattress of high-quality. A memory foam mattress can be expensive, but the upfront cost can be worth it as they last longer. It’s worth noting that over time, it can often lose its shape and sag if it's not of a high quality.

Spring mattress 

A more traditional mattress made from springs, typically lasts 7 – 10 years. The springs are commonly known to lose tension overtime, which leads to less support. 

Hybrid mattress 

A hybrid mattress is usually made of a multi-layered material that combines foam and springs to provide the best of both worlds. It’s a good option for you if you enjoy the support of springs with the comfort of foam. 

That being said, the lifespan of a hybrid mattress is usually 7 -10 years depending on the quality of the product. 

Latex mattress

A latex mattress is the creme de la creme of mattresses. It combines either springs or reflex foam with latex foam to create a beautiful sleep environment. Latex is a natural material that comes from the rubber tree. The natural and organic properties of latex foam means that the mattress can last up to 15+ years. The foam is durable and retains its shape perfectly. 

Water mattress 

Water mattresses are not as popular as other options, and for good reason. However, they are ideal for those with back pain, helping with pressure points and muscle tensions. Water mattresses can last from 5 – 10 years and will need more maintenance than other mattress types.  

What are the signs you need a new mattress? 

There are a couple signs you need to look out for when thinking about getting a new mattress. 

Firstly, it doesn’t matter what it is, nobody likes sagging. The same goes for your mattress. If the mattress has noticeable sagging, or dips that are deeper than 1-2 inches, it’s an affirmative: you need a new mattress. Mattress sagging is the main indicator that you will need to invest in a new one. 

If you’re experiencing any sleep discomfort it might be another warning sign that you need to replace the mattress. Waking up with pain or stiffness is not normal. The feeling of springs poking out is also not normal. So, if you experience either of these things then it might be time that you got a new mattress. 

Old mattresses can also be noisy. The sound of any creaks, no matter how small or distant,  could be a sign of a worn mattress. That means, you should think about getting a new one, or at least flip the mattress, and then reassess after a few sleeps. 

If the mattress is 8 - 10 years old, then a new one is on the cards, even if it feels fine. Overtime, you’ve probably got used to your mattress without noticing its decreasing comfort levels. It might be OK, especially if your mattress is high-quality, but it’s worth thinking about. 

One last reason, or sign, that it’s time to replace your mattress, is if you notice any allergy symptoms. Mattresses can create a build up of mold and dust mites. 

How to protect your mattress and make it last longer

Looking after your mattress and ensuring it’s kept in a good condition, can extend its lifespan. So, here we’ve come up with eight tips that will help protect your mattress and make it last longer. 

Use a mattress protector

Mattress protectors not only act as another layer of comfort, but they are a perfect way to shield the mattress from sweat, spills, stains and general wear and tear. 

Flip regularly 

Rotate and,or flip your mattress every three to six months. This is a standard requirement that most forget to do, but it’s important because it helps even out the wear and tear of the mattress. Most modern mattresses are only one-sided, so you might just need to rotate it. If your mattress is older then you will need to flip the mattress. 

Make sure you have support for your mattress

A bad bed frame can have a huge impact on sagging mattresses. If the bed frame has missing slats, or is not as supportive as it should be, then it will result in an aging mattress.  

Wash your bedding regularly 

If you wash your bedding regularly, it will ensure that skin cells, oils and sweat will be prevented from reaching the mattress. It sounds simple, but it’s an effective way to protect the mattress. 

Avoid jumping on the mattress 

High impact stresses can damage the foam, springs and other materials within the mattress. So, jumping on the mattress can have a big impact on its longevity.

Clean the mattress 

Cleaning the mattress every few months should be second nature, but you’d be forgiven for forgetting. When it comes to flipping or rotating a mattress, it might be wise to give it a clean as well – kill two birds with one stone. 

To do this, you only need to vacuum the mattress and spot clean any stains with fabric cleaner.

Check for pests

Remember to look for dust mites or bed bugs – both creepy crawlies can have a big impact on your mattress, as well as cause skin rashes. Not only can these bugs be hard to remove, but they can have a long-lasting effect on your health. 

Do not allow pets on the bed

It doesn’t matter how much you love your dog, you really should keep them off the bed. Especially if you want to ensure the longevity of your mattress. Pets can attract dirt, hair and pests to the bed. They might also have an accident, if you know what I mean. There’s a reason why dogs have their own dog beds or dog sofas. 

In short, at the very earliest you shouldn’t need to replace your mattress for seven years. However, if you make sure the mattress is well looked after, you can extend its life by another seven years, if not more. We spend half our lives in bed, so it’s important you look after your mattress.