Do you need a new mattress? If you're not sure whether it's finally time for a replacement or you could get more than a few nights of rest in your current bed, take a look at what you need to know about mattresses, lifespan, wear, and the options available from your local furniture store.
Is Your Mattress Too Old?
What is the expected lifespan for most modern mattresses? While the answer to this question may vary depending on the initial quality of the product, the sleeper's size, care/maintenance, and overall use, you shouldn't expect to get more than a decade of sound sleep from a mattress. According to the Sleep Foundation, most mattresses have a seven to 10-year lifespan. If your bed is at or above the 10-year mark, you may need a replacement right now.
Is Your Bed Saggy and Uncomfortable?
Some sleepers prefer a soft bed. But this doesn't mean they enjoy a saggy mattress. There's a difference between the cushiony softness of a pillow-top mattress and an old bed that dips or curves down in the middle. Years of use can cause a bed under specific pressure point spaces. This can make it uncomfortable to sleep on the mattress. If you can see a noticeable depression, your mattress doesn't support your body, or you feel like you're rolling up and down during the night, you're ready for a new bed.
Do You Cough and Sneeze At Night?
Your old mattress could contribute to allergy attacks. Over time allergens can build up on the surface of your bed. These include dust mites that feast on leftover debris, pet dander (if your dog or cat sleeps in your bed), and pollen that floats inside through open windows. If your allergies feel markedly worse when you're in bed, and the mattress is nearing a decade, it's time for a fresh start.
Do You Need Something Different?
Your mattress isn't old, it doesn't sag, and allergies aren't an issue. Should you forget about the idea of a trip to the furniture shop to try out new beds?
Even though your mattress may not require a replacement, you may still want to explore your options. Reasons to replace a functional mattress may include:
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Comfort level. Did you think a pillow-top was the best choice—only to realize that you prefer a more supportive surface? A firmer bed could help (and vice versa for sleepers who find their bed too hard).
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Injuries. A recent back or neck injury may mean that you need a more or less firm surface.
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Size. Does your bed suddenly feel too small? If you recently redecorated or your significant other moved in, you may need a larger bed.
You don't need to waste a perfectly good mattress just because you want a change. Ask a friend if they want your old bed, make a profit at a garage sale, or donate it to a local charity. Contact a furniture store to find a new mattress that is just right for you.