We spend a large percentage of our daily lives on our mattresses. That is why it is very important to take into account the lifespan of a mattress we use. In this article we tell you how long a mattress lasts on average, how to know when it is time to change it, and how to extend the life of a mattress.
How long does a mattress last?
First, it is worth making clear that although there is an average lifespan for a mattress, several factors influence it. On average, a mattress lasts between 5 and 10 years.
First, the materials of the mattress are decisive, and you have probably wondered whether a foam or a spring mattress is better — it is not that simple, however. According to the Sleep Foundation, the most durable mattresses are latex mattress, averaging 7 to 8 years depending on the care you give them, while viscoelastic mattresses last a little less, between 6 and 7 years. Low-density or spring mattresses, on the other hand, last only 5 to 6 years.
Second, the way you sleep can affect the lifespan of the mattress. For example, people who sleep on their side may notice indentations sooner in the areas where their hips rest.
Equally, the care you give your mattress is very important. It is essential to use a mattress cover, to turn it regularly and to clean it — but not with harsh chemicals.
How do you know when to change your mattress?
You will probably realize quite quickly that you need a new mattress when you feel you are not getting enough rest, but here are a few signs to help you gauge the lifespan of a mattress.
First, you will notice stains that do not come out. Even if you have cleaned your mattress and its covers, you will see that there are areas that do not look clean. That happens because when we sleep we leave behind fluids and dead skin cells that build up over time.
Second, you will feel that the mattress is not firm. Whatever material it is made of, they all tend to sag over time. When that happens, your back can suffer because your body is no longer resting on a level surface.
You may also notice dust mites or bed bugs. Perhaps not with the naked eye, but you will find marks or bites on your body the next day.
How do you extend the life of a mattress?
Whether you have a double mattress or a single mattress, you need to take the necessary steps to look after it.
The first and most common step is to turn the mattress. That stops the mattress wearing out on one side only; the idea is to get the most out of it and use the mattress evenly. It is recommended that you rotate it at least every six months, more often if your mattress is more than three years old. Some suppliers will give you guidance on how often to rotate it, however.
It is also very useful to use a mattress cover, which helps protect the mattress from our sweat and bodily secretions and is far easier to wash and keep clean than the mattress itself. Today you can find waterproof mattress covers or anti-dust-mite mattress covers, which are particularly useful for extending the life of a mattress.
Regular cleaning is essential too. First, you should remove your sheets and blankets, then you can simply vacuum the surfaces. If you want to clean a stain, we recommend not using harsh products as they can irritate your skin. It is also not advisable to make the mattress too wet, as it takes time to dry and can even lead to mould in the long run.
Another useful tip is to put baking soda on the mattress. It is a natural disinfectant that removes unwanted odours without using chemicals.
