Replacing a Mattress

When to Say “So Long” to Your Mattress

You know you need to get a new stove when yours suddenly stops working. The burners or the oven won’t turn on and that’s the end of that. Mattresses are sneakier when it comes to replacement. A mattress and box spring or foundation gradually wear down over time so that you don’t easily notice the changes.

A mattress is like an old armchair or pair of shoes. They feel comfortable and fit your body even though the chair’s foam and springs may be worn or the shoes have lost all arch support. It isn’t always obvious that a mattress has outlived its lifespan just by looking at it.

The seven-year itch

How long your mattress lasts depends on how often it’s used and what level of quality it is, but in general a mattress set that is seven years old has reached the end of the line and needs to be replaced. While this is a good rule of thumb, everyone’s body changes over time and your need for comfort and support increases as you age. Your body may be ready for a new mattress before the seven-year mark, so listen to what it’s telling you. It’s a good idea to compare your mattress and foundation to newer models every few years to see if there is a set that feels better to you and offers features you may not have needed or looked for in the past.

Put your mattress to the test

Good sleep is so important for your health, productivity and ability to feel your best. Check in with your mattress regularly to find out if you need a replacement. You may not even be aware your mattress has gotten old and worn until you think about it. These are the signs that you may need a new mattress and foundation:

  • You wake up with stiffness, numbness, aches and pains
  • You realize you got a better night’s sleep somewhere other than your own bed (such as at a hotel)
  • Your mattress shows visible signs of overuse (it sags, has visible tearing, ripping, holes, staining or damage)
  • You are usually tired despite getting a full night’s sleep
  • Your mattress is seven years old or older
Tip: Evaluate the condition of your mattress for comfort and support twice a year when you adjust your clocks for seasonal time changes. You’re already thinking about gaining or losing sleep, so use this to jog your memory.

Related Posts