MATTRESS 101: REVEALING THE TRUTH ABOUT HOW LONG YOUR MATTRESS SHOULD REALLY LAST

We spend about a third of our life in it yet often neglect the place where we sleep and don't know all too much about the longevity of our mattress nor which factors impact its lifespan. 

Generally a mattress will last for roughly 10 years before you need a replacement, however, it can definitely last for longer depending on how well the mattress if cared for by the owner. Be aware of that certain mattress types tend to last longer than others.

(Image via Pinterest)

Latex

Latex comes out on top in terms of lifespan. Their lifespan averages about 15 years if it is well looked after. The fact that the layers that tend to wear out can be easily replaced. Additionally, each of these layers can be flipped individually on their own.

Memory Foam

Memory foam mattresses have quite a long lifespan too, of about 10 years which can definitely go beyond that when its well looked after. To make sure it’s well looked after, you’ll want to regularly flip or rotate if its a pillow top mattress.

Innerspring Mattress

This type of mattress is made using thin coil springs which lose strength and sags quickly. On average even the high-end models won’t last past 7-8 years.

Waterbed mattress

The waterbed mattress have quite high durability due to the face that they don’t have any springs that can wear out like a traditional mattress does. This generally lasts about 7-9 years but can go well beyond that when it is well looked after.

(Image via Pinterest)

Factors that impact the lifespan of the mattress

Frequency of use

Mattresses that are used more frequently will definitely reduce the lifespan of the mattress. So obviously if a mattress is used much less it will last you much longer.

Body weight

People of a bigger build and a larger weight will put more pressure on the mattress and will therefore reduce the lifespan of the mattress over time. This implies that those of an average or lighter weight will have a mattress that lasts longer.

Activity

Activities such as eating or drinking can damage and stain your mattress through spillage which can weaken the foams or other materials in the under layers of your mattress.

Cleaning

Regular upkeeping and cleaning of your own mattress will result in it having a longer lifespan. As well as this, it’s a good idea to use a mattress protector from the beginning. A high-quality mattress protector is allergen-proof, dust mite proof and waterproof. These will help to keep the materials inside your mattress last longer, as no fluids can get in to break down the foams.

Proper Support

It is vital to ensure your base is properly supported and you don’t give it the opportunity to sag through the base over time. This will definitely assist in preserving the integrity of the mattress, and keep it in great shape for longer. It’s a good plan to check on your mattress’s support every year to make sure there are no busted slats or springs that could have a negative affect on your mattress’s life.

Frequent rotation

All mattresses can benefit from being regularly rotated or flipped, depending on the mattress. Rotating the mattress ensures even wear, and prevents any large dips or sags from forming over time.

Bed Bugs

One of the quickest ways to ruin the materials in a mattress is by bringing home unwanted bed bugs. And once you have them they’re extremely difficult to get rid of.