Mattress Truth: How Long Does a Mattress Last?
If you’re in the market for a new mattress, there are a few important questions to ask, the most important being, “How long does a mattress last?” This will help you determine which type you want to purchase, as there are quite a lot of types and brands available.
Some people only replace a mattress when it becomes a necessity (i.e., the mattress is destroyed or uncomfortable), while others buy a new mattress every 10 years. So who’s in the right?
The simple answer is: It depends on the mattress type, its use and the person. Worn and old increase the risk of back pain, so those with bad backs should stick to a regular mattress-buying schedule. Additionally, studies have shown that new mattresses can improve the quality of sleep, so those who find themselves staring at the ceiling all night should check the age of their mattress and consider buying a new one.
So how long does a mattress last? The easiest way to check is to figure out the type of mattress you have and the amount of use:
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If you have a futon or an airbed and it’s used only a handful of times a year, you can keep it until it either pops a hole or becomes unbearably uncomfortable. However, if you have a “normal” mattress, such as a hybrid, innerspring, memory foam or latex, you’ll need to keep track of its age so you know when you should update it.
How Long Does a Mattress Last If It’s Latex?
By far the most superior mattress in terms of lifespan is a latex mattress. Latex mattresses can last up to 15 years, especially if you know how to clean a mattress and do so at least twice a year. If it doesn’t have a pillowtop, make sure to flip it every six months as well.
How Long Does a Mattress Last If It’s Memory Foam?
Memory foam mattresses are the second best mattresses in terms of longevity. The foam is less apt to sag than other materials, especially if it’s well cared for and flipped on a regular schedule. Memory foam mattresses can last approximately 10 years (or more) if properly cared for.
How Long Does a Mattress Last If It’s An Innerspring Mattress?
Coil spring mattresses have been around for years. While comfortable, they unfortunately do not last long, as they quickly sag. The average lifespan for an innerspring mattress is approximately eight years.
How Long Does a Mattress Last If It’s A Hybrid?
A hybrid mattress is a relatively new concept. It combines innerspring coils with an extra layer (for comfort), such as memory foam, latex, or pillowtop. As its core is innerspring, however, it unfortunately has a relatively short lifespan and lasts just six years.
Additional Factors Impacting How Long a Mattress Lasts
In addition to the type of mattress, there areseveral other facts that can determine how long a mattress lasts.
Mattress Use
This should be a no-brainer. If you sleep on a mattress every night, it will degrade faster than the spare mattress in your guest room. Spare mattresses have a much longer lifespan as they’re rarely used.
Body Weight
A person’s body weight determines how much pressure is put on the mattress. Heavier people exert more pressure, and thus will need to change their mattress on a more regular schedule than lighter-weight people.
Activity
If you eat or drink in bed, you risk spills, which can damage your mattress and aid in the cause for a new one.
Additional Factors That Tell You It’s Time For a New Mattress
Allergies
If you have a sudden increase in allergies (outside of spring, of course), this could be due to your mattress. Mattresses store dust mites and pollen. Try cleaning your mattress to see if that helps. If not, and if your mattress is on the older side, consider getting a new one.
Quality of Sleep
If you and/or your partner find yourselves tossing and turning all night, it could be due to your mattress. Additionally, if you find you’re sleeping better in a hotel or on the sofa, this could be another sign you need a new mattress.
How often do you get a new mattress? Tell us in the comments.
