If your old mattress no longer offers you the nightly comfort and support it once did, it may be time to consider getting a new mattress.
Many mattresses have a lifespan of 7-10 years, and then quickly begin to show signs of wear.
Both natural latex and synthetic latex mattresses last longer, and may last upwards of 20 years.
Buying a new mattress is an opportunity to learn more about changes in mattress technology that might better suit you. Between gel memory foam mattresses and hybrid mattress options, there are a lot of different high-quality mattress products to suit various sleeping styles.
5 Signs that it's Time to Replace Your Mattress:
Even before you begin to notice gradual changes that signal that your mattress is getting old, you may realize that you're tossing and turning more often, leading to changes in your overall health.
Don't endure years of poor sleep before you get a new mattress! Consider these warning signs.
- Sleep Deprivation
Waking up tired? Tossing and turning? Many factors can cause poor sleep. But if it's happening routinely, it might be due to degradation of the comfort layers in your mattress, such as the pillow top or innersprings. Better sleep quality leads to fewer health issues, and the best way to get a good night's sleep is to have a mattress that's in good condition and properly suits your needs. - Body Pain
Back pain, shoulder and neck pain, and sciatica pain are common indicators that your mattress doesn't work for your sleeping style, especially if you're a side sleeper or stomach sleeper. If you've recently changed sleeping styles and find that your mattress doesn't support your body, consider getting a new bed that'll meet your needs. Likewise, if you've never had a problem with your mattress and haven't changed sleeping styles, realize that it might be the comfort layers of your mattress that lack the durability they once did. Body pain is often remedied by a mattress that allows you to sink in, enabling the foam layers to comfort your body, but if a bed's too soft, it can be problematic, too. - Innerspring Sagging
Innerspring mattresses or hybrid mattresses with coils will experience some degradation over time. It's one of the main reasons you may begin to see indentations on the surface. You can help to correct premature sagging in the springs and help your firm mattress last longer by rotating or flipping your mattress to redistribute where your weight lies.However, if your mattress is upwards of 10 years old, the springs themselves will begin to lose their ability to “spring back.” At that point, it's time to buy a new mattress.
Box springs can also degrade over time in your bed frame, so be sure to rotate them as often as you rotate or flip your mattress.
- Dust mites, Germs, and Allergens
Routine vacuuming and washable mattress protectors can keep dust mites, bed bugs, smells, and other allergens at bay, but over time, buildup from dead skin cells makes it anything but fresh and new. Mattress toppers may need to be cleaned and replaced often if you are sensitive to allergies. But if, despite those cleanings, you begin to wake up feeling like you consistently have an allergy or cold symptoms, consider buying a new mattress. - You Sleep Better on Vacation
Sure, you might just be relaxed when you're on vacation. But if you're getting grass-is-greener syndrome after you sleep well in a hotel bed or guest bed, it might be time to get a new mattress.
Know when it's time to get a different mattress
Know that your body and sleeping needs may change over the life of your mattress. When you're ready to replace your mattress, focus on your well-being, and be aware of changes related to back support and pressure points. We're available to help you learn more about the types of mattresses available.
New mattresses tend to roll out over the summer months, so if you want the best pricing on last year's new mattress models, start shopping in May. Pay attention to your warranty on any new mattress you purchase, and consider agreeing to a trial period to see if the mattress you choose is really the best mattress for your needs.