How Often Should You Replace Your Pillow Top Mattress?

Pillow Top Mattresses

• A pillow top mattress is an inner-spring mattress, meaning it uses coils within the mattress for support. Upholstery is added on top of the coils for comfort. The pillow top is a cushioning layer of foam, cotton or other padding, resembling a comforter, that is attached loosely to the top of the mattress for added comfort. Depending on the manufacturer, the pillow top may be on one surface or on both the top and the bottom of the mattress.

Replacement

• Even the most expensive mattress doesn’t last forever. Manufacturers recommended replacing your mattress every seven to 10 years. If you are wondering whether it is time to replace your pillow top mattress, look for signs. If you wake up with aches and pains or you find you sleep better on other beds, such as at hotels, it is time to consider a new mattress. If you and your sleeping partner roll together or if the edge of the bed is no longer supportive, shop for a new mattress. Look for visual signs of overuse, such as sags, lumps or excessive wear on the upholstered covering of the mattress. Mattress and box springs that make noise when you move may need to be replaced. Expect your pillow top mattress to last the length of its warranty, but make comparisons every few years as bodies and sleep habits change.

Turning the Mattress

• Flipping and rotating your mattress promotes even wear on the surface. Flipping involves turning the mattress over, a difficult task with larger mattresses. If the pillow top is on only one side, the mattress does not need to be flipped. All mattresses should be rotated, however, turning the top end of the mattresses to the foot of the bed. Flipping and rotating a mattress allows the mattress to wear more evenly and prevents excessive sagging in one area. Many should be flipped or rotated every three to six months.

Regular Maintenance

• Proper cleaning and maintenance prolongs the life of your mattress, giving you the most for your investment. Using a mattress pad or cover adds protection against accidental spills. For spills that penetrate through to the mattress, clean the surface with upholstery cleaner or a mild soap-and-water solution. To keep the mattress fresh, sprinkle the surface with baking soda when you rotate it. After letting the baking soda sit on the surface for 15 minutes, vacuum the mattress to keep it fresh. If it is necessary to move your pillow top mattress to another location, avoid bending or folding it to keep from damaging the coils. Using a good quality bed frame provides support for the mattress. Many manufacturers recommend buying the matching box springs for your mattress set for proper support and durability.