Buying a new mattress can be a significant expense, so many sleepers may use their bed beyond the point that it can provide adequate comfort and support. But trying to sleep on a worn-out mattress may result in low-quality sleep or waking up with aches and pains.
So when is it time to throw out your mattress? We’ll explain the typical lifespan of a mattress, what contributes to a bed’s durability, as well as a few tips to make your bed last longer.
What's the Average Lifespan of a Mattress?
The general lifespan for most mattresses is around 7 to 10 years, though it can vary depending on your mattress model. Certain mattresses may need to be replaced sooner, while others may last beyond the 10-year mark.
Between usage, materials, and the environment, there are many factors that contribute to the overall lifespan of a mattress. Even the best mattress on the market will eventually wear out.
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What Impacts the Lifespan of Your Mattress?
The average mattress has a lifespan of up to 10 years. But every mattress and every individual is unique. Your bed, sleep habits, and bedroom environment determine how long your mattress may last. We’ll explore the most common factors that can decrease the lifespan of your mattress.
Mattress Type and Materials
The most significant factor impacting mattress lifespan is the materials used in its construction. Generally, mattresses made with thick layers and denser materials tend to last longer. For example, latex mattresses tend to be dense and highly durable. On the other hand, some materials such as polyfoam are more prone to absorbing sweat and dirt, which can cause the material to degrade more quickly.
Who is Using the Mattress (and How Often)
Heavier sleepers have a greater impact on their sleep surface and experience mattress sagging sooner than lighter sleepers. Sharing your bed with pets, especially large dogs or pets with sharp claws, can also reduce the lifespan of your mattress.
Another factor that affects mattress lifespan is how often you use your bed. A mattress in a seldom-used guest room will last much longer than your primary mattress that you sleep on every night.
Cleaning & Care
Caring for your mattress properly can add years to its lifespan. Use a protective mattress cover to shield your mattress from sweat, body oils, spills, and tears. Rotate your mattress from head to foot about every 6 months to prevent deep indentations from forming. And if your mattress is two-sided, consider flipping it periodically to spread out the wear and tear.
Clean your mattress from time to time to remove buildup from dead skin cells and dust, as well as small stains. If a larger spill occurs, clean it right away so it doesn’t seep into the bed’s layers.
Sleeping Environment
Where you place your mattress can also impact its longevity. If your bedroom is generally unclean, your mattress is more likely to collect dirt and stains. If your bedroom is too warm, it can cause excess sweating that absorbs into your mattress.
Mattress Quality
Lastly, consider the overall quality of your mattress. This includes the quality of the materials, construction, and its condition when purchased. Mattresses made with higher quality materials tend to last longer. And if you buy a used mattress, you’ll need to replace it sooner than a new one.
When to Replace a Mattress
While a bed’s lifespan is important, it’s not the only factor you should consider when deciding to replace your old mattress.
Most beds can take up to a decade before they begin to break down and become an unsupportive sleep surface. When deciding whether or not it’s time to replace your mattress, consider asking yourself the following questions:
- Do you wake up feeling tired?
- Does your mattress sag?
- Do you experience aches and pains when you wake up?
- Does your mattress show obvious signs of wear and tear?
- Has it been over 7 years since you bought your mattress?
If you answered yes to any of the questions above, it may be time to consider choosing a new mattress.
About The Author
Certified Sleep Science Coach, Director of Product Testing
David is a Certified Sleep Science Coach with a lifelong passion for well-being and health optimization. His interest in sleep developed with the arrival of his son, when sleep suddenly became a precious commodity.
- POSITION: Side Sleeper
- TEMPERATURE: Hot Sleeper
- CHRONOTYPE: Lion
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