There are many factors that can impact how long a mattress will last. Such as its frequency of use, the weight and sleeping habits of the user, condition of the room it is in, etc.
But the fact remains, a mattress cannot last forever. And sooner or later, you have to replace your mattress.
Why? Find out in this post along with the average lifetime of different mattress types and what signs to look for in an old mattress.
How Long Does A Mattress Last?
What is the average lifetime of a mattress? According to sleepfoundation.org, a mattress can last anywhere between 7 to 10 years.
Of course, different types of mattresses have their own lifespan expectancy.
Mattress Types vs Lifespan
| Mattress Type | Expected lifetime | Remarks |
| Coconut Coir | 5 to 6 years | – |
| Foam | 6 to 12 years | Memory foam lasts the longest |
| Natural Latex | 8 to 15 years | Sometimes more than 20 years |
| Synthetic Latex | 5 to 10 years | – |
| Spring | 5 to 8 years | Dual-sided can last longer |
| Hybrid | 6 to 10 years | – |
As you can see, natural latex mattresses typically last the longest. Followed by memory foam mattresses.
Full coconut coir mattresses have a reputation for a short lifespan too.
Don’t forget about these other factors that will affect how long your mattress will last:
- Thickness of the mattress – A thicker mattress will generally last longer than a thinner one
- Humidity level of the room – Moist conditions are breeding grounds for bacteria and mould
- User’s body weight – Heavy sleepers will wear out the mattress faster
- Number of users – 2 sleepers instead of 1 will also wear out the mattress faster
- Build quality – Poorly made mattresses will not last for long
- How often you use the bed – A mattress in the guest room will not be used daily
- Sleeping position – Side sleepers can wear out a mattress faster
- Maintenance – Do you ever rotate your mattress or vacuum it?
When Should You Replace Your Mattress?
It should be obvious that your mattress is no longer comfortable but sometimes, we get so used to our mattress that we don’t notice when it’s no longer comfortable.
If you still sleep soundly on your mattress, chances are there’s no need to replace it just yet.
But if your mattress is more than 7 years old, here are some signs to watch out for:
- Other beds feel much more comfortable (e.g., hotel)
- Allergy symptoms increase (e.g., constant sneezing, itchy eyes, and sniffling)
- Visible sagging or lumps in places of the mattress even when you’re not on it
- Backpains and other body aches
- Bite marks (i.e., bed bugs)
- Frequent tossing and turning during the night
- You can feel and hear the springs (applicable to spring mattresses)
- Motion transfer from your sleeping partner has become more noticeable
- Heavy discoloration (e.g., unsightly yellowing)
- There are signs of black mould growing on your mattress
- Bad odors that will not go away even if you sun your mattress
- You don’t feel rested even with many hours of sleep
Why You Should Replace Your Mattress
We know, it hurts the wallet to buy a new mattress.
But what are the consequences if you don’t replace your old mattress? What will happen if you continue to sleep on an old mattress?
1. Body Aches & Pains
In the long run, sticking to an old mattress is not good for your back as a sagging mattress will not be able to provide the support your back and joints need.
2. Allergies
Furthermore, if you have asthma or are prone to dust-related allergies, an old dusty mattress (that’s probably hoarding dust mites) will only aggravate your symptoms.
3. Sleep Deprivation
An uncomfortable mattress will lead to sleep deprivation which will not only take a toll on your physical wellbeing, but your mental state as well.
There are proven studies that show that switching to a new mattress from one that is older than 5 years will improve your sleep quality!
4. Breathing Problems
A mouldy old mattress should be taken very seriously. As mould can lead to respiratory infections, besides triggering asthma attacks and allergies.
Note: If your bodyweight has increased a lot since you first bought your mattress, your mattress may no longer be able to support you as well as before.
Conclusion
Now that you know how long a mattress will last and when to replace yours, don’t wait until your back starts hurting you on a daily basis to change your mattress!
And if you’re shopping for a new mattress and don’t know which mattress type to choose, consider your bodyweight, frequency of use and sleeping habits – these really matter in the longevity of a mattress!
Of course, there are also things you can do to prolong the life of your mattress. Or to make an old mattress feel more comfortable if you’re not in the position to buy a new one.
