No matter how good quality your mattress is, there comes a time when you’ll have to part with it and get a new one. By knowing when it’s time to replace a mattress, you’ll lessen the likelihood of restless nights spent tossing and turning caused by an old and degrading mattress.
In this article, we’ll reveal the expected lifespans of popular mattress types, provide a helpful breakdown of the major factors that impact mattress longevity, point out the key signs it’s time to replace your old mattress, and even point you in the right direction for a new mattress!
Jump in to learn all you need to know about how long a mattress should last.
How Long Should a Mattress Last?
On average, you can get anywhere between 5 and 10 years of good sleep out of your mattress. However, each type of mattress has its own lifespan. Here’s an overview of how long each mattress type can last:
- Innerspring Mattress: 5 – 7 years
- Natural Latex Mattress: 7 – 8 years
- Memory Foam Mattress: 6 – 10 years
- Hybrid Mattress: 8 – 10 years
The Biggest Factors Influencing Mattress Lifespan
There are a few major elements that will determine how long your mattress will last. Here’s an overview of the most prominent factors influencing mattress lifespan:
- Materials: The materials your mattress is made from will differ depending on the type of mattress you have. Each material has its own lifespan, which is why it’s super important to choose a mattress that has been crafted from high-quality, long-lasting materials, like high-density polyfoam and natural latex.
- Care: Proper mattress care will undoubtedly prolong your mattress’s lifespan. Things like regular cleaning, using protective covers, following manufacturer guidelines, routinely flipping your mattress, and so forth will keep your mattress in tip-top shape for many years to come.
- Body Weight: Body weight can affect how quickly a mattress gives in, which is why it’s essential to choose a mattress with an appropriate weight capacity. Heavier sleepers should opt for a firm mattress, such as an innerspring mattress, whereas lighter individuals are best suited to medium-soft mattresses, like a memory foam mattress. Choosing a mattress according to your body weight won’t simply promote longevity but will also ensure proper support and a good night’s sleep!
- Sleeping Habits: Your go-to sleep position could also influence your mattress’s lifespan. For example, if you’re a back or stomach sleeper, your body weight is more evenly distributed and, therefore, should help lengthen your mattress’s longevity. Whereas side sleepers tend to create pressure points in the mattress, which, over time, will wear out a mattress faster.
6 Key Signs It’s Time To Replace Your Mattress
Here are the six key signs that it is time to swap your old, worn-in mattress for a brand-new one:
1. If Your Mattress Is 10+ Years Old
Once your mattress has hit its 10 year mark, you should start looking into finding a new one, even if it’s yet to show signs of wear and tear. This will ensure your bedroom stays fresh, while avoiding the inevitable: uncomfortable sagging and restless sleep.
When you’re looking for a new mattress, consider factors like weight capacity, hypoallergenic qualities, level of support, and of course, longevity!
2. When You Experience Sleeping Discomfort
If you start waking up with stiffness, aches, and pains, your mattress could be a culprit. If you’re unable to get a good night’s sleep in your bed, ensure you swap out your mattress for something that’s better suited to your sleeping needs and preferences.
For example, if you are prone to muscular tension and/or joint pain, choose something ergonomic, like a memory foam mattress. Or, if you often find yourself waking up in a sweat, go for a temperature-regulating model, such as a cooling gel mattress.
3. If Your Mattress Feels Uneven
When you start to notice drooping or lumpiness in your mattress, you should promptly get a new one. With continued use, an uneven mattress will continue to get worse. If you leave it too late, you might end up experiencing restlessness and pain when you wake up. If your mattress sags too much, you might even fall out of bed and hurt yourself, so be sure to order a replacement as soon as possible!
4. When You Notice Excessive Squeaking
If your mattress is creaking or squeaking, it probably has worn-in or loose components. Constant noises from your mattress can wake you from a good night’s sleep, causing restlessness. It is also a sign that something is about to give way, such as the internal structure, so it’s wise to get a new mattress once those pesky noises start.
5. If There Are Holes and Stains On Your Mattress Surface
When you start noticing tears and holes in your mattress fabric, you should start shopping for a new one.
While minor snags can be sewn up and repaired, larger holes will just get worse over time and risk the inner support of your mattress to come out, causing uneven support and uncomfy sleep. Also, if you have a bunch of stains that you can’t get rid of, it’s definitely time to say goodbye to your old mattress, as this can be a sign of mold, bacteria, and dust mites.
6. When You Develop Allergic Reactions
If you notice asthma symptoms or skin, eye, or nose irritation when you wake up and go to bed, your mattress might be the thing triggering your allergic reactions.
This can either be because you’ve chosen a mattress that isn’t hypoallergenic, such as an old school innerspring mattress or latex mattress (if you have a latex allergy), or because your mattress has gotten old and developed allergens, like dust mites.
Either way, you should start your search for a new, hypoallergenic, and long-lasting mattress, such as a memory foam model.
Time To Replace Your Old Mattress? Shop With Best Pillows Australia!
If you’re experiencing most, or all, the signs that your mattress is worn in or not suited to you, it’s a good time to get a new one!
Best Pillows Australia is your go-to site for all the best mattresses and bedding. All the products showcased on our site have been assessed and reviewed by our experts, to ensure we only recommend the best quality mattress types.
Whether you’re after the ergonomic support of memory foam mattresses, the blended benefits of innovative hybrid mattresses, or the classic comfort offered by traditional innerspring mattresses, we have you covered!
Discover the best match for your bed in our curated Mattresses range!
FAQs
If you’ve got questions relating to ‘how long does a mattress last?’, you can find helpful answers below:
How Do I Know When I Need a New Mattress?
There are a few major tell-tell signs that your mattress needs replacing. If your mattress has become uneven and lumpy, keeps squeaking or creaking, is causing allergic reactions, and is more than 10 years old, it’s a good time to refresh your bed with a new mattress. Find your next long-lasting, supportive mattress with Best Pillows Australia!
What Type of Mattress Will Last the Longest?
Memory foam mattresses, natural latex mattresses and hybrid mattresses are among the longest-lasting mattress models you can get. These mattresses can maintain their shape, comfort, and support for around 7 to 10 years, making them worthwhile investments.
If you’re on the hunt for a comfy and durable mattress, head over to Best Pillows Australia and find your dream match!
How Do I Get More Life Out of My Mattress?
Ensuring proper care, such as routine cleaning, and placing a mattress protector (also called a mattress cover and mattress topper) on your mattress are the best ways to keep it looking and feeling its best for many years.
If you’ve noticed your mattress has given in and is showing signs of wear and tear, find your next comfy mattress at Best Pillows Australia!
