How Often Should I Change my Mattress?
We recommend that you replace your mattress every seven years, in line with advice from the National Bed Federation. You may be wondering ‘how long does a mattress last?’ Well, we recommend that you replace your mattress every seven years, in line with advice from the National Bed Federation.
On average, we spend a third of every day asleep. Over seven years, this equates to over 20,000 hours of sleep! During this time, your mattress undergoes a lot of wear and tear.
Good quality sleep is an essential part of a healthy lifestyle and overall wellbeing. The key to sleeping well is a comfortable bed and mattress. Read on to discover how long a mattress lasts and why you should replace your mattress regularly for optimal comfort, support and a better night's sleep.
Why should I change my mattress?
There are many reasons why you should replace your mattress every seven years. The main benefits of changing your mattress are improved health and hygiene, along with better sleep quality. The life of a mattress is often very long, so you want to make sure that you’re still getting the sleep you deserve.
For good hygiene
We lose around half a pint of fluid every night and shed about a pound of dead skin cells each year. This creates an optimal environment for bacteria and mould to grow. Dust mites also thrive in these conditions, and the allergens they produce can build up to create an unhygienic sleeping environment.
For improved sleep quality
Over time, your old mattress loses its shape and the ability to provide the comfort and support that it once did. Sleeping on an old, uncomfortable mattress can cause neck and back pain, reduce your overall sleep quality and prevent you from feeling properly rested the next day.
How do I know it's time to replace my mattress?
Aside from changing your mattress every seven years, there are other ways you can tell that your mattress is past its best. The life of mattresses can depend on the type of mattress you have or how much wear and tear it has been through. How often you should replace your mattress also depends on the below factors. Do any of the following apply to you?
My mattress is lumpy
Is your mattress showing visible signs of deterioration such as lumps, bumps or dips? Whilst a degree of settlement is completely normal, if your old mattress sags excessively or you can feel the springs poking out, it's time to replace it.
I wake up feeling stiff or sore
Your mattress should support your body correctly. If you wake up with a sore back, or you feel stiff or achy, your mattress may no longer be providing the support you need.
I toss and turn more than usual during the night
A degree of tossing and turning is normal bedtime behaviour. However, changing position more than usual during the night could indicate that your mattress no longer provides the comfort it once did.
I'm tired all the time
There are many factors that can contribute to feeling tired. However, taking a look at your mattress is a good first step. A good quality mattress should be comfortable, support your body correctly, prevent aches and pains and help you achieve deeper sleep. This all helps you to wake up feeling rested and ready for the day ahead.
My partner doesn't get a good night's sleep
Older mattresses don't reduce the transfer of movement very effectively, so your partner's tossing and turning could start to wake you up. If either one of you aren't getting a good night's sleep, your mattress could well be to blame.
I'd be embarrassed if someone saw my mattress
Is your mattress dirty or stained? Does it look old and worn? If you wouldn't let your guests sleep on your mattress, you shouldn't sleep on it either.
I get a better night's sleep anywhere but in my own bed
Do you love the comfort of a hotel bed? Perhaps you get the best night's sleep when you stay with friends or family. If you sleep well anywhere but in your own bed, it's time to invest in a good quality, comfortable mattress of your own.
What mattress replacement should I choose?
We understand that it can be a little daunting to shop for mattresses. Here at Mattress Online, we're on a mission to change that! Why not start with our three top tips for choosing a replacement mattress.
1. Pick the right size
The size of your mattress affects how well you sleep. Can you lie next to your partner, side-by-side with your elbows out - without touching? If you can't, we recommend a bigger mattress. Our king size and superking size mattresses are more affordable than you might think!
Not sure what size to choose? Head over to our guide, 'What Size Mattress Do I Need?' for more information.
2. Choose your firmness
Do you love a sturdy, firm mattress? Maybe you prefer a plush, softer feel. Perhaps you like the best of both worlds! Our mattresses are available in a range of firmness ratings - from soft right up to extra firm.
Take a look at our firmness guide, 'What Mattress Firmness is Right For Me?' for more help and advice.
3. Find the perfect comfort
Your mattress can include many different materials, all of which are designed to offer a comfortable and supportive sleeping surface.
Mattress comfort layers can include memory foam, latex and gel. It's possible to choose a mattress made from natural fillings - such as cotton, wool or silk - too.
Want to know more about mattress comfort and support? Read our guide, 'What's Inside a Mattress? for more information.
What should I do with my old mattress?
Disposing of your old mattress shouldn't be a chore!
We offer a recycling service for your old mattress, for only £25. A simple, hassle-free way to get rid of your old mattress, our recycling service helps you to take care of our environment, too.
To add mattress recycling to your order, simply select "recycle my old mattress" at the checkout.
At Mattress Online, we believe that a good night's sleep starts with a comfortable, good quality mattress. If your mattress is more than seven years old, lumpy, sagging or uncomfortable, it's time to replace it! Not sure which new mattress to choose? Give us a call, and let us help you get a better night's sleep.
