How Often Should You Replace Your Mattress?
The question "How long should a mattress last?" is an important one to consider.
The average person sleeps eight hours a day, meaning they'll sleep for approximately 236,228 hours in their lifetime. That's a lot of time between the sheets.
As such, you'll want a comfortable time in bed. You want your bed to be cosy and inviting. You want to feel rested upon waking.
Good quality sleep is crucial for keeping your mind and body in peak condition. Not to mention keeping you alert and engaged.
And your mattress plays a huge role in your sleep. For all kinds of reasons.
On average, the lifespan of a mattress is roughly seven years, so it's recommended you change your mattress every six to eight years to make sure it's offering the support you need to get the best shut-eye possible.
Why Should You Change Your Mattress?
Investing in a new mattress might not be at the top of your priority list, but neglecting to renew your sleep setup can badly impact your sleep and cause unwanted aches and pains...and no one wants that.
Getting a new mattress every six to eight years will improve overall health and hygiene, with the added bonus of better-quality sleep.
Over time, our bodies shed dead skin cells and fluids (yeeesh and yuck in equal measures!) which create a perfect breeding ground for bacteria and allergens like dust mites and mould.
While you can regularly clean your mattress (following manufacturer guidelines) the only way to truly get rid of these potential health hazards is to change your mattress.
So, if your allergies are flaring up, or you suffer from asthma, it could be time to replace your mattress.
How long does a memory foam mattress last?
Memory foam mattresses can last 10-20 years - much longer than traditional sprung mattresses. This is because, while they mould to your body as you sleep, they're able to return to their original shape once you've got out of bed.
For further advice on how to care for your memory foam mattress, read our Mattress Care Guide.
Signs You Need a New Mattress
Although it's recommended you change your mattress around the seven-year mark, there are other signs that tell you that your mattress is past its best.
Ask yourself the following questions, and if you find yourself answering yes, you probably need a new mattress.
Is your mattress saggy or lumpy?If your mattress is showing lumps and bumps, it's likely to be because the materials used have softened and are no longer distributing support equally across the mattress.
Do the springs make a noise?Pressure over time will cause spring coils to lose strength and become loose. When the springs rub against each other, it can cause a squeaking noise. Another sure-fire sign it's time for an upgrade.
Does a partner's movement disturb your sleep?If your partner is a restless sleeper, and it's causing you to toss and turn, it suggests that your mattress is no longer able to distribute weight efficiently.
Do you sleep better in a different bed?
If you find yourself sleeping better in a different bed, chances are your mattress is no longer fit for purpose. (Don't Immediately chalk it up to 'a different environment'.)
Does your mattress have an odour?With the amount of moisture we lose and the skin we shed through the night, mattresses can begin to emit unpleasant odours.
Are your allergies getting worse?An increase in bacteria and allergens such as dust mites or mould could be causing your allergies to get worse. Check out memory foam mattresses if this is something you're suffering with!)
Change Your Mattress for a Better Night's Sleep
So, you've answered "yes" to any (or all) of the above questions, but where do you start when looking to change your mattress?
The type of mattress you choose can depend on a number of things including preferred sleep position, bed size, budget, and support or firmness required.
Perhaps you're a side-sleeper, or have back pain? Maybe you have a wriggly partner or get hot in bed? The type of mattress you choose could make a world of difference to the quality of your sleep.
If you've not quite hit the seven-year mark, but have started to notice your mattress isn't as comfortable as it once was, a mattress topper is a great - and cost-effective - option to extend the life of your mattress.
Once you've had your mattress for five years, you should pay much closer attention to it's condition. If it's coming to the end of its lifespan, looks particularly worn, or is no longer providing you with the support you need, it's time for an upgrade.
All Dormeo Memory mattresses come with a 15-year limited warranty.