What Is the Lifetime of a Mattress?

Average Mattress Life Span

• According to the Better Sleep Council, the average mattress lifespan is five to seven years. After this time, most mattresses no longer provide the sleeper with the optimal support and comfort needed for a good night's rest. Some mattresses, such as guest room mattresses that are rarely used, can last longer, but others may need to be replaced sooner, especially if the sleeper's physical body has changed through weight gain or loss. To see if your mattress is up to par, test out a new mattress at the store every few years.

Elements That Affect Mattress Lifespan

• Whether your mattress is a twin or a king, a variety of factors can affect when a mattress has seen its last day. Common sense elements, like how often you use your mattress, changes in body weight, improper care and how much you move around during sleep, can affect the length of a mattresses use. However, other elements many consumers don't typically think of, such as the initial quality of the mattress and the type of mattress, can also affect mattress longevity.

How to Tell When You Need a New Mattress

• To find out whether you need to invest in a new mattress, look to your body. If you recently slept away from home and got a better night's rest far away, you probably need a new mattress. Common signs that a mattress is "used up" include poor sleep and body pain, stiffness or soreness after a full night of sleep. If you suspect your mattress might need to be replaced, ask yourself if you're sleeping better or worse than a year ago. If the answer is worse, you most likely need a new mattress. Also look for visual signs of wear and tear on your mattress, such as heavy indentations or worn corners.

Extend the Life of Your Mattress

• If you want your mattress to last as long as possible, extend the life of your mattress by giving it the proper care. When you first bring a new mattress home, ensure the bed is constructed properly so the mattress receives the right support. Do not put a piece of plywood or another board between the mattress and the frame or another object. This extra pressure against the spring can cause the mattress to wear more quickly. Give the mattress time to breathe and off-gas for a few days right after purchase. Cover the mattress with a protective pad to keep it free of stains. In some cases, a mattress may also need to be turned and flipped regularly, but this aspect varies based on the manufacturer and the type of mattress.