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How Often Should You Replace Your Mattress? Types, Tips & FAQs
Ed Malaker
Last updated:
If you have difficulty sleeping or your bed isn’t as inviting as it once was, it might be time to replace your mattress. A mattress can be one of the most wonderful things in the world, but it doesn’t last forever, and no matter how much money you spend on it initially, you’ll need to replace it eventually. Most experts recommend replacing your mattress every 7 to 10 years, but the exact amount of time will vary depending on several factors. Keep reading as we look at what types of mattresses have longer lifespans and why you should replace them.
How Often Should I Replace My Mattress?
Most experts recommend replacing your mattress every 7 to 10 years. However, you may need to change it more frequently if it becomes uncomfortable or starts to look damaged. The type of mattress that you have will also be a factor because each one has a slightly different lifespan.
The 7 Types of Mattresses
1. Air Mattress
Image Credit: Maria Studio, Shutterstock
An air mattress has air chambers between two layers of padding to create a soft and comfortable surface. One big advantage of these beds is that you can adjust the firmness by increasing or reducing the air pressure in the chambers. The air mattress is also extremely durable and will often last more than 20 years. The downside of these mattresses is that they are extremely expensive.
The latex mattress is a great choice if you want something that will last a long time. Manufacturers use eco-friendly natural rubber to construct a material that forms to your body even better than memory foam. This mattress has a long lifespan, up to 20 years.
Innerspring mattresses are extremely popular, and though other kinds take a large part of the market share, most people have slept on an innerspring mattress at least once. These mattresses use coils to distribute your weight to make it more comfortable while you sleep. As long as you don’t jump on it, you can expect these mattresses to last 10 to 12 years.
Memory foam is one of the most popular modern mattress types and usually has several layers of foam that mold around your body while you sleep. This type of mattress is popular for people with back pain and can often last 10 to 12 years. The downside of these mattresses is that the foam can hold body heat, making them uncomfortable for some people.
Pillow-top mattresses are extremely comfortable because they have an extra layer of soft padding stitched to the top. This extra padding is like a whole-body pillow, and it’s perfect for people who like to sleep on extremely soft surfaces. The downside is that these mattresses have short lifespans and usually only last about 5 years.
A hybrid mattress has two thick pieces of foam separated by a layer of coils. The coils support the top layer of foam, just like an ordinary mattress, and they can be quite comfortable. However, their lifespan is typically only about 6 years.
Water beds are not nearly as popular as they used to be, but you can still find them if you look hard enough. They can be quite comfortable and started as a medical therapy device. However, they can have a short lifespan due to their tendency to leak.
Tips for Purchasing a Mattress
Tips
Never choose the cheapest brands because they typically use materials that will fall apart quickly.
It’s better to buy your mattress in person than online because you can try it out first.
Only purchase a mattress that offers a 5-year warranty or better.
The heavier you are, the thicker your mattress should be.
How Do I Know It’s Time to Replace My Mattress?
Time to Replace Your Mattress
You can see or feel the coils through the fabric of the mattress.
The bed squeaks while you’re using it.
You frequently wake up stiff or sore.
Dust in the mattress worsens your allergy symptoms.
How Can I Make the Mattress Last Longer?
How to Make the Mattress Last Longer
Use a mattress protector to prevent dust and spills from getting inside.
Rotate the mattress frequently for more uniform wear.
Keep the mattress upright when you’re moving it, so you don’t damage the springs.
Image By: mdbildes, Shutterstock
Mattress Facts and Statistics
Facts and Statistics
There are 175 online bed-in-a-box companies that all sell roughly the same product.
80% of people are happy with their adjustable air bed, while only 65% like their innerspring mattress.
All mattresses are required to withstand exposure to an open flame for at least 30 minutes.
Serta is the top mattress company in the United States, with more than $250 million in annual sales.
Summary
Most experts recommend that you change your mattress every 7 to 10 years, but that time frame can vary depending on the type of mattress. For example, air mattresses or latex mattresses can last well over 10 years. You should change your mattress anytime you feel uncomfortable sleeping, notice your allergies or asthma getting worse, or wake up with back pain.
Ed Malaker is an experienced writer who has brought his knowledge to a wide range of blogs, including home improvement, guitars, computer programming, tools, fitness, and pets. If you don't catch him writing, you can usually find Ed working in the garden or taking on DIY projects around the house. Ed’s also a talented musician, spending time composing music for independent films or helping people fix their guitars.
Ed Malaker
