Signs your old mattress may have overstayed its welcome

Sleep is an essential component of our daily lives, and the quality of our mattress plays a pivotal role in ensuring a good night’s rest.

However, just like any other product, mattresses have a lifespan, and knowing when it’s time to bid farewell to your trusted sleep companion is crucial.

With that in mind, Rachel Beard, the Sleep Wellness Manager of A.H. Beard’s Sleep Wellness Centre, provides Starts at 60 with valuable insights into the signs and factors that indicate when it’s time to replace your mattress.

According to Beard, most mattresses have a lifespan of around 7-10 years. Beyond this timeframe, the structural integrity, materials, and hygiene of the mattress can be compromised, potentially leading to a restless night’s sleep.

Therefore, investing in a new mattress at the right time is not just about comfort but also about prioritising your health and well-being.

Signs it’s time for a replacement

Over time, a mattress may lose its quality, resulting in a lack of support and comfort.

Signs such as tossing and turning or waking up with aches and pains may indicate that your mattress is no longer meeting your needs.

If the decline in sleep quality occurs before the 7-10-year mark, it’s advisable to reassess your mattress to ensure you continue enjoying premium sleep.

“Premium Sleep should always be a priority, so if you notice declining quality of sleep before your mattress hits the 7-10 year mark — you may need to review your mattress as it may no longer serve your needs,” Beard explains.

“Changes to our bodies, age, health or sleeping environments can change the type of mattress we need.”

Factors impacting mattress longevity

Taking care of your mattress is crucial for its longevity. Following guarantee guidelines, rotating the mattress, and using a mattress protector are essential maintenance practices.

“You should also make sure that your mattress is as hygienic as possible through the use of a mattress protector and frequent cleaning,” Beard says.

“Our mattresses are exposed to a number of different particles, from pollen to debris, dust, and more. Consider cleaning and airing your mattress topper regularly and vacuuming your mattress at least once every six months or once every two to three months. Most mattresses are designed to be one-sided, so it’s best not to flip the mattress at any stage of its life.”

Additionally, using the entire sleeping surface of the mattress is another important factor when ensuring the longevity of your mattress.

“While we might have a favourite side of the bed to sleep on, it’s important that the full sleeping surface of the mattress is used to ensure structural integrity for comfort and support,” Beard explains.

Even our beloved pets can contribute to whether a mattress stands the test of time.

“A big factor that can impact the longevity of our mattress is our furry friends. We love our pets, but pet dander (or shedding) isn’t so great for a mattress,” Beards states.

“Pet dander is made up of tiny particles that have been shed from animals with fur and it’s a huge trigger of allergic reactions like sneezing, itching or hives.

“Cleaning your mattress regularly can reduce this having an impact on your mattress but it’s still a factor to consider when working out when it’s time for a replacement.”

Consequences of your old mattress overstaying its welcome

Using a mattress beyond its recommended lifespan can have profound implications on health and well-being. A deteriorating mattress reduces the chances of achieving a healthy, restorative sleep, impacting various aspects of life.

“A good, clean and well maintained mattress is the key to a good night’s sleep, which is key to unlocking good health,” Beard says.

“If you’re sleeping on a mattress that is past-due for replacement you are reducing your ability to achieve a healthy, restorative Premium Sleep.

“Sleep impacts every aspect of daily life from our moods, relationships and general happiness to our productivity and physical performance. In recent years, medical research has shown a strong link between insufficient sleep and the increased risk of serious health conditions such as heart disease, type II diabetes, obesity and depression.”

Recognising the signs and factors indicating when to bid farewell to your mattress is essential for both comfort and health.

Your mattress is not just a piece of furniture but a vital investment in your well-being, and timely replacement ensures the continued pursuit of healthy, restorative sleep for a better quality of life.