How Long Should a Mattress Last?

Have you ever wondered how long your mattress will last? Buying a quality mattress is a huge expense that no one would willingly love to spemnd every other year.

As a result, shoppers spend time researching the best quality mattress in the market to avoid such disappointments. Generally, a good mattress lasts between 7 and 10 years, although this depends on many factors.

A bad mattress can cause several health issues, including sleep deprivation, body aches, and pains. In fact, a study published in the Journal of Chiropractic Medicine concluded that a mattress should be replaced every eight years to reduce back pain and stress, and also improve sleep quality.

However, some mattresses have a shorter lifespan, which means you need to replace your mattress earlier than you might want to, while others last beyond eight years. In general, the lifespan of a new mattress depends on several factors, such as its quality and how well the sleeper takes care of it.

This guide will let you know everything about the longevity of a mattress, and how to get the most out of yours.

Signs it's Time to Replace Your Mattress

Normally, you get used to your mattress after several months of use. During that period, the mattress contours and conforms to the shape of your body. However, that does not mean that the mattress may be comfortable for you.

For instance, it may lack sufficient support, causing several issues, such as pain in your back, neck, and joints. At first, you may not suspect your mattress as the cause of such discomforts, until you seek medical advice.

Like any other product, a mattress is bound to grow old and worn out in the long run. These are some of the common signs you need a new mattress.

Sagging

Sagging is the most common sign of an aged mattress. You will notice indentions, lack of bounce capabilities, and dips.

The edge of your mattress will also appear creased, and less firm. An innerspring type of mattress may have some of the coils broken as well. At this point, the mattress lacks support, and may feel lumpy on the surface because of the inner materials falling apart.

Some sleepers use a mattress topper to add cushioning, comfort, and support to their saggy mattress. However, this solution is only temporary, and cannot completely fix the problem. Eventually, the mattress will need to be replaced.

Bugs-Infested Mattress

Bed bugs and dust mites hide in the creases and corners of a mattress, protecting them from fumigation. These bugs then disappear in floor cracks, floor rugs, sofas, and pillows during the day.

Unfortunately, a mattress cover or protector can't save a bed bugs infested mattress. The only solution is to replace the mattress, and have your whole residence fumigated, to destroy the bugs and their nests.

Large Stains

Some stains can be easily cleaned off a new mattress, but larger stains, such as a bowel movement, may become permanent, not forgetting the foul smell. Even though you may easily clean the top of the mattress, such a mess can penetrate deeper into the mattress, and cause damages to the inner materials.

If you share your bed with an infant or pet, you may need a mattress protector to prevent such accidents from destroying your mattress too soon. Otherwise, a heavily stained, soggy, and smelly mattress is no good.

Lump and Bump Rolls

The surface of a mattress is supposed to be flat and evenly cushioned. If your mattress feels lumpy and bumpy on the surface, it's a sign that the inner materials have fallen apart, probably from wear and tear.

This situation is especially common with an old mattress, as it is a sign of aging. In addition, such a mattress can cause body aches and pains, or further health complications with prolonged use.

Even though a mattress topper may make the mattress feel better, it will still lack support, and your mattress may remain uneven on the surface. If you wake up feeling tired even after fixing your mattress with a topper or new bedding, then it's definitely time to replace it.

The Age of the Mattress

The lifespan of a conventional mattress lies between 7-10 years. However, some mattresses last longer depending on the care, quality, and how often it is used, as well as the type of mattress.

By its 7th year, a traditional mattress will have started wearing out, showing signs of aging, such as sagging and lumps. Additionally, If the mattress has been used regularly for all those years, it may not be hygienic to sleep on anymore. This is because of the accumulation of sweat, body oils, dust, and other particles.

An old mattress may also begin to disintegrate, and produce dust-like particles. You may notice these particles on the base of your bed where the mattress sits, or when you dust the surface of the mattress.

Such particles can become a nightmare for sleepers who are asthmatic or allergic to dust. If your mattress has these signs, you should consider replacing it as soon as possible.

Surprisingly, many sleepers do not notice that it is probably time to replace their mattress, because their bodies get used to the way their mattress feels. Some may ignore their fatigue and pain, or blame it on something else other than their old mattress.

Most sleepers only realize their old mattress could be harmful when they wake up feeling more relaxed and energized after a good night's sleep on a new mattress.

If you have had your mattress for over seven years, you may need to assess it closely to note any signs of wear and tear. That way, you will decide whether to keep your mattress or let it go.

What Affects the Lifespan of a Mattress?

Many mattress manufacturers guarantee that their mattresses last for many years. The average traditional mattress lasts 10 years, although some last longer.

In fact, some high-quality mattresses have lifetime warranties. Unfortunately, however, some don't live up to their life expectancy.

Here are some of the factors that would reduce the life expectancy of a mattress affecting your good night’s sleep.

Low-Quality Mattress

Mattresses are made of different materials that differ in quality. Some of these materials last longer than others.

For example, organic latex, cotton, and high-density memory foam mattresses last longer than mattresses made of synthetic latex and low-density memory foam.

Even though you may be keen on taking care of your mattress the right way, its quality will determine how long it lasts. A low-quality mattress may begin to sag too soon, losing its shape, support, and comfort because of wear and tear.

Low-Quality Base

The mattress base, also known as the mattress foundation, is the surface on which your mattress is placed. This surface provides support and elevation for your mattress.

These bases can be made from wooden boards, springs, slats, metal, or a combination of these materials. If your base is not firm enough to evenly support a mattress, it will cause uneven weight distribution on the mattress while you sleep. As a result, your mattress will begin to wear and tear faster on the side that frequently carries too much weight.

In addition, low-quality bases can cause dents at the bottom of the mattress, reducing the life of your mattress.

On the other hand, placing your mattress directly on the floor can expose it to moisture, dirt, and fungi, leading to faster deterioration.

Heavy Sleeper

A heavy sleeper requires a mattress that offers excellent back support and cushioning.

Also, if you weigh over 230 pounds, your mattress is likely to give in faster than that of a lighter sleeper.

The longevity of your mattress as a heavy sleeper may be affected by its quality. As a general rule, the ideal mattress for a heavy sleeper should be at least 12 inches thick, and be made from durable materials.

If yours falls short of these requirements, you may need to start shopping for a new mattress sooner than expected.

Preferred Sleep Position

Your preferred sleeping position may also affect the longevity of your mattress because of the pressure your weight exerts on it. For example, back sleepers and stomach sleepers evenly distribute their weight on the mattress.

On the other hand, side sleepers exert more pressure on the mattress around their shoulders and hips. As a result, the mattress easily forms dips around the pressure points, and ends up sagging faster than expected.

Heavy Use

If your mattress is your go-to chilling spot around the house, then you most likely spend longer than average time on it. For this reason, the mattress may not last longer than that of a person who spends only a few hours at night on their mattress.

Not Properly Caring for the Mattress

Taking care of your mattress is probably the most important factor that determines how long it will last. Several steps, such as using a mattress protector and keeping your mattress clean every day, can tremendously increase the lifespan of your mattress. Failure to do so will ruin the mattress, causing premature sagging and general aging.

How Long Does a Mattress Last?

Typically, a mattress should last as long as its warranty period. Besides, the warranty of a mattress is determined by the quality of materials it is made of.

How long does a mattress last? Here are different types of mattresses and their expected lifespan.

Innerspring Mattresses

Innerspring mattresses have a central core made of metallic springs, covered in cushioning material such as cotton. In addition, its surface may be covered in layers of memory foam for cushioning. The metallic coils provide support for the mattress, while the surface provides cushioning.

Since innerspring mattresses lack several layers of foam or latex, they don't usually feel as comfortable as other mattresses. However, they are bouncier and have great support, although the coil springs may break or lose elasticity with constant use. Therefore, innerspring mattresses last for about seven years on average.

Memory Foam Mattresses

The average lifespan of a high-density memory foam mattress is 10 years. The memory foam material is soft, and easily contours the shape of a sleeper's body. However, the longevity of a memory foam mattress will depend on the density of the memory foam and the type of foam used.

Gel foam mattresses combine gel beads or layers into the memory foam mattresses to add the cooling effect and improve the quality. Therefore, gel-incorporated foam mattresses may last longer than pure memory foam mattresses.

Latex Mattresses

Latex mattresses are known to last longer than most mattresses, with an average lifespan of 15 years or more. A latex mattress made of organic latex may even last longer than those made of synthetic latex, or blend both organic and synthetic latex. Additionally, Dunlop latex mattresses may feel too firm, but last longer than Talalay latex mattresses.

Waterbeds and Airbeds

Waterbeds are vinyl mattresses filled with water instead of cotton or layers of memory foam and latex as standard mattresses do. However, these mattresses aren't so popular in the market today.

Waterbeds come in two forms, namely the hardside and the softside waterbeds. Here’s all you need to know about them.

Hardside Waterbed

The hardside waterbed is made of a wooden frame that retains the frame of the mattress.

Softside Waterbed

The softside waterbed comes with a layer of foam for cushioning. It usually looks like a regular mattress.

Both types of waterbeds have an average lifespan between 8 to 10 years. However, these types of beds can easily get destroyed by a puncture or a tear.

Additionally, they may not be the best choice for heavy sleepers because of the amount of pressure caused by increased weight. As a result, most waterbeds do not last long enough into their projected lifespan.

Airbeds are air-inflated mattresses often used for camping, or as temporary beds. Most airbeds have short warranties of between 12 months and 24 months. However, since they are also prone to punctures, airbeds may not last as long, depending on how often they are used.

Hybrid Mattresses

Hybrid mattresses incorporate innerspring and foam to produce mattresses with the best support and comfort. Depending on the quality of the materials used, a hybrid mattress can last well over their average mattress lifespan of 8 years. These types of mattresses are bouncier, and very comfortable. However, on the downside, the springs can break, and the foam may sag easily, depending on the quality materials and frequency of use of the hybrid mattress.

How to Prolong the Life of Your Mattress

Here are a few tips to prolong the life of your mattress.

Use a Mattress Protector

A mattress protector will ensure your mattress remains clean and unstained. It is also easier to clean and replace than a standard mattress.

Change Your Bedding Often

Clean bedding also reduces the amount of dirt that transfers to your mattress, including dust, sweat, and body oils. This saves the mattress from appearing old and dirty before the end of its lifespan.

Use a Stable Base for Your Mattress

A stable base will ensure your mattress has adequate support. Additionally, a good base will keep your mattress from growing molds caused by moisture and dirt trapped on the base. When shopping for a new mattress, ensure that you inquire about the best base for the type of mattress you intend to buy.

Flip Your Mattress Often

Flipping your mattress can be a great way of evenly using the mattress to avoid causing dips and dents on one side. However, Plushbeds 100% natural latex mattresses are uniquely designed such that they don't need to be flipped over from time to time.

Mattress Longevity FAQs

Here's some additional information about how long does a mattress last you need to know.

Does Flipping a Mattress Make it Last Longer?

Double-sided mattresses need to be flipped at least twice a year, and be rotated quite often. This prevents such mattresses from thinning out on one side. However, that's not a problem you'll encounter with PlushBeds mattresses made of 100% organic latex.

What is the Lifespan of a Good Mattress?

It's advisable to change your mattress after 8 years of use to avoid health complications such as back aches caused by a bad mattress. However, the quality of your new mattress and how well you care for it will determine its longevity. A good mattress will last way over 8 years with good care and proper use, and a latex mattress will last significantly longer

Why Should You Replace Your Old Mattress?

Your overall health depends on many factors, including how well you sleep at night. You will most likely develop several health problems if you sleep on an old mattress lacking adequate support and comfort.

Sleep deprivation has been linked to several health issues. Unfortunately, you won't be getting a good night's sleep on an old mattress, because of the body pains and discomfort you'll be subjected to all night. Besides feeling too tired after waking up, you should be concerned about many other risks your mattress poses to your health.

Why You Need a PlushBeds Mattress

PlushBeds mattresses offer a variety of natural latex mattresses, hybrid latex mattresses, and memory foam mattresses to choose from. They are long lasting, which means you won’t have to replace your mattress frequently.

For example, the Botanical Bliss organic latex mattress is made from 100% natural latex with a unique design to help you take proper care of the mattress. With a warranty of 25 years, this type of mattress requires minimal maintenance with no regular flipping required, and a long mattress lifespan. But, if you wish to flip it anyway, all you need to do is uncover the zipped cotton cover, and flip the layers of latex one by one.

So if you're looking for quality, comfort, support, and longevity, PlushBeds is the right place to shop for a mattress that meets all these conditions.

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