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
