How Long Does A Mattress Last?
Yurii Brown
on
It's no secret that mattresses aren't cheap. In fact, they can be quite expensive, especially if you're in the market for a quality mattress. Consequently, it's important to ensure you're getting your money's worth by choosing a mattress that will last for years.
So, how long does a mattress last, and how often should you replace your mattress? If you are one of those asking, this article has you covered!
This article will discuss the factors influencing mattress lifespan and valuable tips to make it last even longer.
How Long Does a Mattress Last: What you Should Know?
Mattress manufacturers claim their products last between 7 and 20 years. In reality, however, this number varies widely depending on the type of mattress you choose. For example, memory foam mattresses in Canada tend to last longer than other types.
When answering, "how long does a memory foam mattress last?" One has to consider various factors. According to Consumer Reports, the average lifespan of a mattress is around 8 years. This means that you can expect to replace your mattress once every eight years.
In addition to your age and budget, knowing your sleeping position is another thing to consider when buying a new mattress. As you grow older, your muscles lose strength and coordination, leading to sagging and pain.
As a result, the best mattresses for back pain in Canada usually consist of latex and memory foam mattresses, as these are often considered the perfect choice for back pain sufferers.
Mattress Type | Lifespan (yrs) |
Innerspring | 10 |
Memory Foam | 8-10 |
Latex | 7.5-8.5 |
Hybrid | 6.5-7.5 |
Futon | 10 |
Factors Influencing Mattress Lifespan
The following factors influence mattress longevity and answer the question: how long does a memory foam mattress last?
Material
The type of material your mattress is made from will significantly impact how long it lasts. Most mattresses contain polyfoam or latex layers, as well as spring coils. Using a mattress material that has been tested for stability and longevity will help extend its life.
Weight
Your weight has an impact on how long the typical mattress will last. Like most of what you find on the market, low-density foam mattresses are not designed to withstand years of heavy use. They become more compressed as your weight bears down on them, and it will eventually lose much of its ability to provide comfortable support (1). If you weigh 250 lbs. or more, it's not a bad idea to invest in a mattress made with denser foam or one with springs for support.
Sleeping Position
Sleeping on your side can be better for your back, but the angle at which you lie will have an impact on the lifespan of your mattress. If you're a side sleeper, some mattresses are designed specifically with this in mind. A good rule of thumb is to select a mattress made specifically for your sleeping position.
Storage
Before you can effectively select a mattress, you must determine whether you need something that fits in the closet or if you're going to use a bed frame. If you want to maximize its capability for use, look for the best mattresses in a box or those with storage bags and waterproof covers. There are many different storage bags available that allow you to protect your mattress properly and keep it free from odours and stains.
The best type of cover for your mattress is one that fills the entire length of the mattress and is secured with a zipper to prevent spills from escaping during transport.
Tips to Lengthen The Lifespan Of your Mattress
Here are a few tips to help lengthen the lifespan of your mattress:
Use a protective cover: A mattress protector helps keep dust and dirt from accumulating on your mattress, which can cause wear and tear over time. It's also a good idea to wash the protector regularly to keep it clean.
Rotate your mattress: Mattresses tend to wear down more evenly when they're rotated periodically. Try rotating your mattress every six months or so to help prolong its life.
Avoid excessive moisture: Excessive moisture can cause mould and mildew to form on your mattress, which can harm your health. Make sure you avoid sleeping in a room that's too humid and use a dehumidifier if necessary.
Keep it clean: It's important to clean your mattress by regularly vacuuming it and wiping it down with a damp cloth. This will help eliminate any dust or dirt that may cause damage over time.
FAQs
Does removing the zipper increase longevity?
Removing the zipper increases air circulation and reduces heat build-up inside the mattress, but this will not reduce its lifespan.
Can a Mattress last 15 years?
The average lifespan of a mattress is 7 – 10 years. By then, the mattress might already have some sags, cracks, stains, and other issues that make buying a new mattress worthwhile.
Conclusion
Mattresses play a crucial role in our lives, especially those who spend a lot of time lying either awake or asleep. While we all know that investing in a quality mattress is worth the cost, we often overlook simple ways to extend their life span. The tips above can help increase the lifespan of your mattress; it'll pay off tenfold after a year or two!
References:
- Sleeping mattress determinants and evaluation: a biomechanical review and critique Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6348954/
Yurii Brown
Yurii Brown is the Founder and Sleep Content Writer at SleepingNorth. Within his first year running the website, he has published over 50 articles that educate readers on sleep and help them find the most suitable sleep products. He pays more attention to analyzing each mattress construction, the different materials used within it, the feel each material contributes, and the best sleeping position they would work for. Having properly examined each product, he provides in-depth reviews that cut to the chase and provide readers with the value they need for more restorative sleep hygiene.