“When should I replace my mattress?” This is a question that is asked frequently and in order to answer it, we need to consider a few different factors.
Sleep should always be a priority since it deeply affects our physical and mental health. Your mattress has a significant role in the quality of your sleep–an uncomfortable mattress can cause all sorts of havoc.
Here’s what you need to look out for when deciding whether it’s time to replace your mattress.
When to Replace Your Mattress
There are a few signs that indicate when it’s time to replace your mattress.
Let’s review some clues…
- Signs of wear and tear
- Dips and sags
- No longer supportive or comfortable
- Need to upgrade to larger size
Is it okay to sleep on an old mattress?
First of all, we need to define what is “old.” This really varies based on the quality of the materials used.
If your mattress is 15 years old, but it’s made of natural latex, then you might not need to replace it just yet!
Yes, a 15-year-old mattress sounds kind of old, but natural latex can last 20 years if taken care of properly, sometimes even longer.
If your mattress is 15 years old and made of a low quality memory foam, it may have noticeable dips and sags, or you may have noticed it makes you sleep hot due to the foam retaining body heat. While it’s possible for a memory foam mattress to last 15 years, it typically needs to be replaced before then.
Factors to Consider When Replacing Your Mattress
So, you’ve decided it’s time to replace your mattress! Here are a few points to consider when mattress shopping…
Materials
Your mattress will last longer if you choose quality materials that are durable, supportive, and comfortable.
We recommend opting for natural latex. You can learn about the difference between natural latex and memory foam here.
Sleep Preferences
When replacing your mattress, you need to think about your sleep position.
If you are a stomach sleeper, you will need a firmer mattress to avoid arching your back and waking up in pain.
If you are a side sleeper, you will need a mattress that offers pressure point relief for your hip and shoulder.
If you are a back sleeper, you will most likely need a medium-firm feel that offers enough support.
Always consult with the customer service team so they can offer a recommendation based on your exact needs!
Budget
If you have a substantial budget, we always recommend opting for a natural latex mattress since this worthy investment will most likely last you 20+ years.
If you want a quality mattress but your budget isn’t large enough to purchase a natural latex mattress, we recommend opting for a hybrid mattress that still has natural latex but also includes wrapped coils to decrease the cost.
A hybrid mattress containing natural latex and coils offers plenty of support and is designed to last for years, but at a more accessible price point when compared to mattresses only containing latex cores.
Tips for Extending the Life of Your Mattress
Want your mattress to last? Follow these suggestions…
Use a Mattress Protector
One of the most important things you can do to protect your mattress is use a mattress pad or protector!
We recommend using an organic waterproof mattress protector to stop spills and stains from damaging your mattress.
While you don’t need to wash your mattress protector every week if no “accidents” have occurred, you should wash it about once every 1-2 months to keep it fresh.
Use the Proper Foundation
This tip is especially for natural latex mattresses: Make sure your mattress is properly supported with the right mattress foundation or platform bed.
A natural latex mattress must have enough sturdy support and airflow. We recommend slats about 2-3 inches apart, or if you are using a completely solid base, adding a bed rugto promote air circulation.
Regardless of what type of mattress you choose, you should always make sure it is placed on a strong base that will support both you and the mattress.
Avoid Heating Pads or Electric Blankets (Latex Mattress)
If you are using a natural latex mattress, don’t use a heating pad or electric blanket in bed. This can cause the latex to “bake” and oxidize more quickly, significantly decreasing the lifespan of your mattress.
Is it time to replace your mattress?
If you believe it is, make sure to opt for an organic mattress designed for your health and comfort. Shop Savvy Rest organic mattresses below!