How Long Does A Mattress Last – The key to a good night’s sleep is a quality mattress, but making the right mattress choice can be difficult when there are so many mattress types to choose from. What makes a good mattress? How long does a mattress last? Answering these questions can help you narrow down your options.
Article at a Glance:
- The expected lifespan of how long a mattress will last can be affected by many variables. Such as the type of mattress used (all foam, hybrid pocket coil, innerspring, futon, air mattress or even waterbed).
- It’s important to understand the manufacturer’s warranty and process to ensure you get the maximum lifespan out of a new mattress.
- Use of a platform base, foundation, or boxspring can actually help to extend the life of your mattress.
- Use of an adjustable base will not shorten the life of your mattress.
- Mattresses sold in store or online have the same lifespan. This includes mattresses that are shipped as a bed in a box.
How Long Should A Mattress Last?
A mattress is an investment so it makes sense to assess the lifespan each particular mattress before you buy one. There are a lot of mattresses on the market these days, and along with quality, the lifespan of these mattresses depends on their type. Here’s what you need to know about the various mattresses on the market today.
How Long Does A Mattress Last – Memory Foam Mattresses
Memory foam mattresses are popular because they contour to one’s body to help you sleep better at night. This foam also goes by the term visco-elastic foam. Different manufacturers use varying amounts of foam. This type of mattress has a mid-length lifespan of 10 years. To maintain durability, you should flip or rotate your memory foam mattress regularly.
How Long Does A Mattress Last – Latex Mattresses
Latex is typically derived from rubber trees although there is synthetic latex as well. Synthetic latex mattresses may have a bit less bounce than natural latex mattresses. As far as lifespan, latex mattresses are far superior when compared to other types of mattresses. They can last up to 15 years especially when they are cared for properly. One reason why a latex mattress can last this long is that it has several layers that, when worn out, can be replaced with a new one. Latex is known for its durability. The nature of latex is that it degrades over time. But, instead of replacing the entire bed, many manufacturers allow their consumers to replace the top latex layer leading to greater longevity.
How Long Does A Mattress Last – Gel Memory Foam Mattresses
How long does a gel memory foam mattress last? If you are wondering how gel memory foam stacks up with the rest, you should know that this type of mattress is merely a variation of memory foam with cooling swirl or gel beads incorporated into the materials used in the foam mattress. The materials allow your mattress to redistribute heat while you sleep so you can stay cool throughout the night. Like memory foam, gel memory foam mattresses have a lifespan of 10 to 15 years
How Long Does A Mattress Last – Innerspring Mattresses
Traditional innerspring mattresses are made with innersprings tied to a wooden frame before they are covered with fabric. Although they give your bed that extra bounce, wear and tear can eventually cause your mattress to sag over time. Sagging can be hard on the body. Adding a mattress protector can add to your comfort, but you will need to give it extra care since dust mites can easily slip into the crevices of an innerspring. Innerspring mattresses can easily last up to 8 years when properly taken care of. Traditional innerspring mattresses have a lot of competition. That’s understandable as their thin coils lack durability and these mattresses usually start sagging after about 7-8 years. Consumers should realize that there is a difference between a traditional innerspring mattress and pocket coils which are individually wrapped.
How Long Does A Mattress Last – Hybrid Mattresses
A hybrid mattress is a combination of individually wrapped pocket coils as well as foam comfort layers which many customers find to be conducive for a good night’s sleep. Many hybrids make use of standard memory foam. Some beds come with cooling gel for a more comfortable sleep. Hybrid mattresses are believed to have a lifespan of 10 years but can last longer when properly cared for.
How Long Does A Mattress Last – Air Mattresses
Air mattresses are only for temporary use. An air mattress is likely to spring a leak if slept on too often. However, when handled properly, inflatable mattresses can have a lifespan of up to 5 years. Air mattresses are not known for their comfort.
How Long Does A Mattress Last – Futon Mattresses
A futon mattress is a broad term used to describe a Japanese style bed. However, Western-style futons differ quite a bit from the real Japanese counterparts. In the U.S., thin futon mattresses are often made with innerspring cores. Your quality of sleep depends on the quality of the mattress you purchase. Over time, people often complain of body aches if they choose to sleep on a cheap futon. However, with regular maintenance, you can expect this type of mattress to have an average lifespan of five years.
Factors That Affect The Life Expectancy Of Mattresses
How long should a mattress last? There are several factors that can affect their durability, comfort, and lifespan.
Firmness
Mattresses that have firmer materials tend to compress less, making their average lifespan longer compared to softer varieties.
Inner Tufting
This is a construction method where the layers, as well as components of a mattress, are secured with a tape or cord that goes through the layers at regular intervals. This precompresses and even holds the layers in place to prevent shifting so you will have a firmer bed to sleep on. It also improves the durability of the mattress.
Replaceable Layers
Latex mattresses often have several layers that can be removed or replaced, prolonging the lifespan of the mattress. These are considerably better than single layer beds.
Mattress Protector
A mattress cover doesn’t affect the durability of a mattress as much as protecting the mattress from outside irritants. Infestations like dust mites and allergens can be prevented by the use of mattress protectors. Some mattress protectors envelop the entire bed while others just cover the top. A mattress pad that covers only the top surface of the bed can help protect against spills and stains. But, those who buy a high-quality mattress should consider buying a mattress protector that covers the entire bed. There are also pillow top mattress pads that provide extra comfort for those who do not have pillow top mattresses. These can be removed and washed as well.
Also, don’t forget to check the manufacturer’s warranty for specific guarantees.
Mattress Myths Debunked
Aside from knowing the answer to the question, “How long should a mattress last?”, when shopping for a new bed, there are several myths that you should ignore.
One Size Fits All
Don’t believe a deceptive salesperson who says that all mattresses are the same. Do your homework first. Keep in mind that the support that your bed will give you depends on various factors such as your weight, sleeping position, and the size of your bed frame — just to name a few. Don’t waste your time buying the wrong fit.
You Need a Box Spring for the Best Mattress Setup
Unless you are opting for a thin mattress, you don’t really need a box spring for your bed. Today, box springs are only used to raise your bed higher from the ground — that’s it.
A Firm Mattress is Good for Back Problems
Many salespeople will recommend that you get a firm mattress for your back aches, but you need to keep in mind that your spine follows a natural curvature when you lie in bed, which means that choosing a firm mattress may accentuate pressure points. Investing in memory foam or hybrid mattress is a great choice for those who want a bed that follows the natural curves of your body while providing adequate support.
A Test Lie-Down Is Enough
If you think that lying on the mattress for a few seconds or minutes is enough to give you the best feel for the mattresses, think again. The best way to determine which bed is right for you is a good old-fashioned sleep in. This way, you will be able to test how the mattress holds up to the usual tossing and turning that you do at night.
Body Impressions are the Sign of a Poor Quality Mattress
First, there is a difference between sagging and body impressions. An indentation of 1.5 inches does not affect the support to your body. Sagging typically occurs in the middle of the mattress around the area of the person’s lower back. Sagging is one of the biggest barriers to achieving a good night’s sleep. Many foam mattresses indent to some measure. These include those which use a mattress topper or a pillow top.
All Foam Mattresses Are The Same
Many types of mattresses contain foam. Some mattresses use memory foam, while others use latex foam or polyurethane foam. Manufacturers often use polyurethane foam as a top layer of spring mattresses due to its lower cost and lack of density. Also, some manufacturers use gel-foam which is infused with a cooling substance.
Only Foam Mattresses Have A Break-In Period
Mattresses, foam or otherwise, have a 30-60 day breaking-in period. Breaking in your mattress is crucial for experiencing good sleep. However, the length of time needed depends on the mattress type. Memory foam takes longer than latex because the former is denser. Try weight and warmth to help break in your bed. Walking on your new mattress works well for all mattress, especially memory foam. For any mattress that contains foam, heat can do magic. Any increase in heat softens the foam. For spring mattresses, try moving across the bed with your hands and feet to break in the coils.
The Bottom Line On How Long A Mattress Will Last For You
When looking for a new mattress it’s essential to find out how long does a mattress last. After all, finding a good mattress for your bed is part of developing good sleep hygiene. Whether you use an all foam, hybrid, or even a waterbed mattress, the goal is always to ensure a restorative night’s sleep, so you can be at your best in the morning.
