What is the Lifespan of a Mattress?

We’re not sure who needs to hear this, but a mattress isn’t something you should be replacing on a regular basis. In fact, most mattresses are designed to last quite a while — approximately seven to 10 years, under normal circumstances.

Of course, mattresses aren’t like milk cartons, either; there’s no stamped-on expiration date to tell you when it’s time to throw the old one out.

The life span of a mattress is determined by a number of factors.

Let’s identify those factors, and we’ll share some of our favorite tips to help ensure that you get the most life out of your mattress. We’ll also give you the most important warning signs to look out for.

That way, you’ll know when it’s time to put your old mattress to bed for good.

What factors influence mattress lifespan?

Depending upon several major considerations, the potential lifespan of a mattress could be way off from the average. Here are the main factors that determine how long your mattress is going to last:

• Type
  It’s probably no surprise that higher quality materials, such as latex foam and gel foam mattresses, will naturally last longer than a budget innerspring mattress. Latex, gel foam, and polyfoam have been known to last as long as 12 years under typical use. Hybrid and memory foam hit the seven-to-ten-year average, and innerspring mattresses tend to give out after five to eight years.
  
  
• Bodyweight/Sleep Position
  How you sleep and how heavy you are may also play a part in determining mattress longevity. Heavier individuals can experience premature sagging in their mattresses, and those who sleep on their side may notice increased sagging around the shoulders and hips.
  
  
• Care
  Like any other long-duration investment, a mattress benefits from the right care routine. When you purchase a mattress, read the manufacturer’s care guidelines carefully. Following these guidelines will help you get the most out of your mattress.

Signs That It’s Time to Replace Your Mattress

OK, so how can you tell when a mattress is nearing the end of its life? Here are a few warning signs to keep an eye out for:

• Sagging
  Your mattress needs to be able to offer the right support for your back and spine; once it starts sagging, support goes out the window. Look out for deep grooves in your mattress or indents that don’t go away.
  
  
• Lumps
  Much like sagginess, a lumpy mattress will not be able to provide optimal support while you sleep. Run your hands across your mattress; if you feel bumps, lumps, or other inconsistencies, then it might be time for an upgrade.
  
  
• Sounds
  Some mattresses, such as coil and hybrid mattresses, will always make some noise. But the older a mattress is, the more likely you’ll notice increased squeaking and creaking. This wouldn’t be an issue with non-coil mattresses.
  
  
• Unremovable stains/smells
  Spilled wine, a potty-training child, a pet with dirty feet — accidents happen, and it’s not uncommon for mattresses to pick up the occasional stain. But when those stains aren’t coming out, or if your mattress has picked up an incurable odor, you’re probably better off finding something new.
  
  
• Allergies/Asthma
  Mattresses are wonderful inventions, but they have a habit of picking up dust, dust mites, and allergens over time. If you notice that you’re experiencing increased allergies or that your asthma is acting up more and more, your aging mattress may be to blame.
  
  
• Changing life events
  Even a brand-new mattress might need to be replaced if it no longer fits your lifestyle. Getting married, moving to a different-sized space, or other life events may force you to replace your mattress earlier than you’d otherwise need to.
  
  
• Poor sleep
  Probably the most important thing to look out for is your mattress’s effect on your sleep. No matter how old the mattress, if it’s causing you aches, pains, or insomnia, it’s definitely time to look for something else.

Think it’s time for an upgrade? Check out our Simmon’s selection of high-quality, direct-sale mattresses. Order a Simmons today!