How to Fix Body Impressions on a Mattress

Body Impression Definition

• Body impressions on a mattress are not to be confused with a sagging mattress. A mattress can sag due to broken coils within the mattress, though the age of the mattress can also be a factor. Unlike with mattress sags, body impressions are not indicative of structural problems or defects, rather they are a natural part of "breaking in" a new mattress as its comfort layers settle and conform to the body. Body impressions can cause a mattress surface to look slightly uneven, particularly if the person favors one side of the bed each night.

Mattress Rotation

• Rotate your mattress on a regular basis to revitalize the mattress and help minimize body impressions. Move the mattress so the "head area" of the mattress is now the "feet area" and vice versa. Rotate a new mattress every two weeks in the first three months of ownership, then every two months to help prolong the life of your mattress. Failure to rotate your mattress regularly can result in deep body impressions depending how heavily you favor one side of the bed.

Matress Flipping

• Flip your mattress as another method of lessening body impressions and to help maintain the overall quality of your mattress. Do so by lifting your mattress up off the box spring or bed frame and pushing the side of the mattress in the direction opposite you. Have a friend or family member help you flip the mattress to avoid damage to wall decor and other potential problems. Flip your mattress every two months to minimize body impressions.

Additional Tips

• Alternate sleeping on different sides of your mattress each night to discourage body impressions. Use a detachable mattress pad that can be washed to help maintain a fluffy mattress surface, and rotate and flip the pad as you would a regular mattress to reduce body impressions. Avoid allowing children to play and jump on your bed, which can lead to further wear and tear on the mattress, and possibly indentations.