How long should a mattress last? And 5 signs you definitely need a new one
Ever wake up in full zombie mode after a sleepless night? If you’re struggling to get comfy in bed, it may be a sign that your mattress needs a serious upgrade.
A quality mattress is an absolute must for a solid night of sleep. While it can feel like a splurge, a cushy mattress is an investment in your health and wellbeing. It’s totally worth waking up feeling refreshed and rejuvenated. The best mattresses may be a long-term purchase but it won’t last forever.
Over time the materials degrade, and it no longer offers the same support. Typically, you can expect a mattress to last 7 -10 years, but it depends on factors like the material and who is sleeping on it.
Here, we’ll dive into how long you can expect your mattress to last and the factors that influence it. No idea how old your mattress is? We’ve got you covered with the telltale signs it’s due for replacement. Plus, we ask the experts for their top tips to maximize the lifespan of your mattress and make the most of your investment.
How long should a mattress last?
So why is it important to know how long your mattress will last, and when it needs replacing? 'Having a supportive mattress allows your spine to rest properly. If your mattress is too soft or too hard you will not be able to get comfortable and relax. Giving your musculoskeletal system a chance to rest allows soft tissue structures like tendons, ligaments, and muscles to recover and rehydrate,' says Christopher Anselmi, chiropractor and director at the Center for Spine Care and Mobility.
So how long can you expect a mattress to last? 'The average lifespan of a mattress is about 7-10 years. However, this can vary depending on the type of mattress and how well it is cared for,' adds Jeff Kahn, co-founder and CEO of Rise Science.
Materials and the type of mattress are a big factor, with some lasting longer than others. Let’s break it down.
How long does an innerspring mattress last?
Innerspring mattresses are ideal for traditionalists – this design has stood the test of time. They are filled with coils, giving these mattresses their distinctive bounce. But it means they wear out more quickly. 'Innerspring mattresses generally have a shorter lifespan, averaging around 6 years,' says Jeff.
How long does a memory foam mattress last?
Next up is memory foam mattresses, which tends to have a slightly extended lifespan. 'Materials such as foam claim a longer lasting product with better resilience,' says Christopher. '8 to 10 years is a typical lifespan'.
How long does a hybrid mattress last?
'Hybrid mattresses, which combine different materials such as foam and coils, can last anywhere from 8 to 10 years,' says Jeff. Their endurance varies depending on what exactly the layers are made of.
How long does a latex mattress last?
Latex mattresses offer ultimate durability. 'Latex mattresses can last up to 12 years,' says Jeff. If you opt for natural latex that can survive even longer. Some manufacturers claim they can live to the ripe old age of 20 years.
Other considerations that effect your mattress
The material is just one factor that affects durability. Wear and tear is often overlooked. 'The weight of a person sleeping on a mattress can affect its lifespan. One study suggests people who weigh more than 250 pounds may need to replace their mattresses more frequently than those who weigh less,' explains Jeff.
Another obvious one is whether you share your bed with a partner, which puts more strain on the mattress. Plus, if your furry friends snuggle up in your bed it adds extra weight, not to mention the risk of claw damage.
And of course, the longer you spend in bed, the shorter the lifespan of your mattress. If you devote every Sunday to curling up with boxsets in bed, you may need to replace your mattress more often.
How do you know if your mattress is worn out?
Unsure how old your mattress is? Here are five clues you’re due an upgrade...
1. You can’t get comfy
'When you lie down at night, can you settle in quickly, or do you toss and turn a lot? If the first few minutes of going to bed are a struggle, you need a new mattress.' says Lauri Leadley, president, clinical sleep educator, and founder of the Valley Sleep Center in Arizona.
2. You wake up feeling achey
Another classic sign? 'Listen to your body. An old mattress can cause pain in your hips, low back, mid back, neck, and even your shoulders.' says Matthew Cavanaugh, Chiropractor at Cavanaugh Chiropractic in Louisiana.
3. You don't wake up tired
'How are you feeling during the day? Are you rested and energized? Or do you ‘hit the wall’ rather early?' says Lauri. 'Your old mattress could be stopping you from enjoying a restorative sleep.'
4. You can feel lumps and bumps
That’s the mattress, not you. Any visible signs are a huge no-no and an indicator that you’re due a new one. 'If your mattress has rips, lumps, or springs poking through, those are clear signs it's time for a replacement.' says Dr. Chris Tomshack, CEO of HealthSource Chiropractic.
5. You sleep better everywhere else
'If you notice that you are sleeping better on other mattresses (such as when staying in a hotel or visiting friends), it may be time to consider getting a new mattress.' advises Jeff. Insider tip - consider trips away from home as an opportunity to figure out your mattress preferences.
Mattress FAQs
How long will a mattress topper last?
Because they're thinner than a mattress, mattress toppers tend not to last as long. On average, they last between 3-5 years, but they can last longer with proper care.
How long does a bedframe last?
A good bedframe should last at least a decade. High-quality bedframe made from hardwoods or metals should last you a lifetime.
All of these are rough guidelines. If your bed has started feeling uncomfortable before it should, there's no point waiting for it to improve. You should replace your mattress as soon as you're able, or get a mattress topper to tide you over if you don't have the money right now.
