A quality memory foam mattress can cradle you in comfort, support your body’s every curve, and is the best mattress to lull you into a deep, restorative sleep.
But even the best things in life have limits, and a memory foam mattress is no exception. So how long do memory foam mattresses last?
On average, you can expect a traditional memory foam mattress to last around 10 years. Some types of mattresses surpass this mark, while others fall short. The longevity of your mattress type depends on several crucial factors that we’ll explore in detail, along with valuable insights on how to maximize your new mattress’s lifespan.
What Affects Memory Foam Longevity?
What is memory foam? Memory foam is unique in its ability to “remember” and conform to your body’s shape and sleeping position. With this beneficial feature and many more, several factors help determine a traditional memory foam mattress lifespan. Aspects that affect memory foam mattress longevity include:
- Overall mattress quality
- The body weight of those sleeping on it
- How well the mattress is cared for
This wide variety of factors means that the life expectancy of a memory foam mattress will be slightly different for everybody. And while some of those factors are less controllable, there are a few strategies you can use to find a memory foam mattress type that will last longer.
Decoding Durability: 2 Key Factors to a Long-lived Memory Foam Mattress
A quality mattress is an investment—not just from a cost perspective, but also as a companion you’ll spend 6 to 8 hours of your time with every single day.
If you’re shopping for a new memory foam mattress, here are two important factors that can affect its quality and lifespan.
#1 Density
Density, measured in pounds per cubic foot (PCF), indicates how tightly packed the foam is within the mattress. Here is how density affects memory foam longevity and how you can use that info:
- PCF reflects the foam's ability to regain its original shape and fluffiness. Denser foam (read: higher PCF) is a general indication of a higher quality and long-lasting mattress.
- The average PCF ranges from 3.5 (low) to 5+ (high)—a handy range to keep in mind while mattress shopping.
Note that while denser mattresses tend to last longer, they often come with a higher price tag since they’re more expensive to produce.
#2 Firmness
Memory foam mattresses are composed of far more than one singular cloud, despite feeling like one. A new mattress made from memory foam is actually made up of multiple layers with varying levels of firmness. In fact, firmness is one of the major distinctions between a hybrid mattress vs memory foam. The level of firmness in a memory foam mattress is another key factor in its longevity and making a mattress last:
- Firmness is measured using a metric called indentation load deflection (ILD), a scientific term that represents how thick and firm each mattress layer is.
- Firmer mattresses typically retain their shape for longer, improving their lifespan.
- Since each layer may have different ILD values, averaging between 12 to 15, it’s not the sole deciding factor for mattress longevity.
The firmness of each foam layer and their overall density work together to create a high-quality mattress that will withstand the test of many nights of sleep.
But what if you already purchased your mattress? Thankfully, there are still steps you can take to prolong its lifespan.
Tips to Prolong the Life of a Memory Foam Mattress
Like any other investment, caring for your memory foam mattress can also help sustain its quality for longer. While every mattress is unique, here are a few tips to keep your memory foam mattress in tip-top shape and making a mattress last:
- Protect and preserve – Investing in a quality mattress protector is an excellent way to protect your even bigger investment. A mattress protector can save the day from spills, stains, dust mites, allergens, dead skin, and sweat that can build up on a mattress over time and distort its shape and density.
- Regular rotations – Combat a sagging mattress with regular mattress rotations. Many memory foam mattresses are designed to be one-sided, so flipping them isn’t always necessary. If you’re not sure, the manufacturer's instructions usually have information on how often you should rotate your sagging mattress as well as the best practices for doing so.
- Handle with care – When you’re not sleeping on your mattress, try to refrain from using it as a storage platform. For example, don’t leave heavy objects on it for extended periods of time. This helps ensure the memory foam stays plush and conforms properly to your body when it’s time for bed. Additionally, care for your mattress by keeping it clean with a vacuum or light sponge wash every few months.
- Humidity control – High levels of body heat and humidity can affect memory foam’s integrity and lead to premature wear and, thus, a reduced lifespan. Make use of a dehumidifier, or simply let the mattress air out occasionally to reduce excess moisture and humidity.
If you notice your mattress has visible signs of wear and tear, is starting to sag, or is becoming uncomfortable to sleep on, these might be signs your mattress is nearing the end of its life cycle. Prioritize your sleep quality and consider investing in a new memory foam mattress to ensure continued comfort and support.
Make Unforgettable Mattress Memories at Mancini’s Sleepworld
Picture a world where you wake up every morning feeling refreshed, revitalized, and ready to conquer the day ahead. A world where bedtime is not a source of worry or discomfort but of anticipation for the blissful sleep that awaits you.
At Mancini's Sleepworld, we believe in the transformative power of a good night's sleep, and we're here to make that dream a reality. That’s why our team of best mattress matchmakers is dedicated to helping you buy mattresses online and find the perfect mattress (memory foam or otherwise) to match your specific needs.
Because we know that when you sleep better, you live better.
Sources:
- Sleepjunkie. How Long do Memory Foam Mattresses Last? https://www.sleepjunkie.com/how-long-do-memory-foam-mattresses-last/
- MyFoamMattress.net. Guide to Visco Memory Foam Mattress Firmness. https://www.myfoammattress.net/memory/ild.html
- Eachnight. How to Clean a Memory Foam Mattress. https://eachnight.com/mattress-resources/how-to-clean-a-memory-foam-mattress/