How Often Should You Replace Your Mattress?

A good night's sleep is important for your physical and mental well-being. And your mattress plays a key role in your sleep quality. 

Several factors determine how long your mattress will last. But there are some important signs it’s time for a new one. Here's what experts say about how often you should replace your mattress. 

When should you replace your mattress? 

We spend one-third of our lives sleeping (or trying to). So your mattress is an important investment. But it won't last forever. 

While all mattresses are not created equally, experts generally recommend replacing your mattress every 7 to 10 years. But, according to the Better Sleep Council, many people keep their mattresses longer than they should, often for 10 years or more, before replacing them. 

A supportive mattress is critical for your sleep quality. In a small clinical trial, people with minor back pain who had their mattresses for an average of 9.5 years tried sleeping on a new, medium-firm mattress. After 28 days, they reported reduced back pain, less perceived stress, and better sleep quality.  

Those are major benefits, given that lack of sleep and poor sleep quality can increase the risk of several health conditions, including: 

• Kidney disease 

• Heart disease 

• High blood pressure 

• Stroke 

• Diabetes 

• Depression 

Getting the recommended 7 to 9 hours of quality sleep can help you: 

• Rest and conserve energy

• Boost your immune system 

• Process information and form new memories better

• Support your emotional well-being

So when it’s time to replace your mattress, you can think of it as an investment in your health. 

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What factors affect the lifespan of your mattress? 

Several factors can affect the lifespan of your mattress, including: 

• Mattress material and type

• Body weight

• Frequency of use

• Care and maintenance

• Pets

Mattress material and type 

There are several different materials used to make mattresses. And what is comfortable for you may not work for someone else. Try different mattress types to find out which you like best. But note that some mattress materials may wear out quicker than others.

The four main types of mattresses are:

• Innerspring: The innerspring mattress is what most people consider a traditional mattress. These mattresses have steel coil springs that are covered by padding or upholstery. They often have shorter lifespans than other mattresses and are prone to sagging. 

• Memory foam: These mattresses are made of polyurethane foam and contour to support your body. They come in different densities. High-density memory foam (higher than 5 PCF) mattresses may last longer than lower-density ones.

• Hybrids: Hybrid mattresses have both foam and innerspring components. The top and base layers are often foam, while the middle usually contains innerspring coils. The lifespan of these mattresses varies depending on the foam density and coil quality. 

• Latex: Latex mattresses use a durable latex foam to support your body. And they may last longer than other mattress types. Some brands claim they can last up to 15 years. 

There are also pillow-tops mattresses, waterbeds, and gel mattresses available. 

Body weight

Your weight can also affect the lifespan of your mattress. For example, if two people regularly sleep on a mattress, they may wear it down faster than if one person was sleeping on it. If one of those people weighs more than the other, it can cause uneven wear and tear on the mattress.

Frequency of use

The more you sleep on a mattress, the faster it will wear down. So, for example, the mattress in your bedroom may need to be replaced much sooner than a mattress in a guest room. 

Care and maintenance

Rotating your mattress every 3 months (or per your specific mattress instructions) can help prevent uneven wear and extend its lifespan. Using a mattress cover can also help protect your mattress and keep it clean. 

Pets

If your pet sleeps with you, you might need to replace your mattress more often. The added weight, as well as any stains, scratches, and pet dander that cause damage to the mattress, can affect the lifespan. 

What are signs that your mattress needs to be replaced? 

The following may be signs that it's time for a new mattress:

• Your mattress is 6 or more years old. If you've had your mattress for 6-8 years or longer, it is time to consider replacing it. While you may not need to replace it at that point, assessing the mattress’ quality is still a good idea. 

• You routinely wake up with muscle aches or stiffness. Waking up with pain and stiffness is a sign that your mattress is no longer providing adequate support. Consider a medium-firm mattress, as this type of mattress has been shown to reduce back pain and improve sleep quality. 

• You notice sagging or other signs of damage. If you see sagging, lumps, or dips in your mattress, it is time to replace it. Damage from mold or significant stains, which may have trapped odors or allergens, are also clear signs that it's time for a new mattress. Noisy springs and visible coils are some other signs. 

• You see black, brown, or red spots on your mattress. You won't be able to see dust mites on your mattress, as they are microscopic. But small black or brown specks could be fecal droppings from dust mites.  Black spots could also be a sign of mold. Red or rust-colored spots on your mattress could be a sign of bedbugs.

• You have trouble sleeping. Do you wake up more frequently at night? Does it take longer for you to get comfortable and fall asleep? These could be signs that your mattress is not as supportive as it used to be. 

• Your asthma or allergies have gotten worse. If your allergies or asthma have worsened without explanation, your mattress may be the cause. Allergens, such as dust mites, can pile up on mattresses and worsen allergy and asthma symptoms. 

• You can feel your partner moving. Your mattress loses the ability to prevent motion transfer the older it gets. If you start feeling your partner move around, it may be time for a new mattress.

How can you prolong the life of your mattress? 

Consider these tips to help your mattress last longer:

• Rotate your mattress. If the instructions say it's OK, rotate your foam or latex mattress every 6-12 months. If you have an innerspring mattress, rotate it every 2-6 months. This will help prevent sagging and promote even wear. Some newer mattresses should not be rotated. So be sure to check your mattress instructions for specific guidance first.

• Use a mattress cover. A washable mattress cover protects your mattress from spills, stains, sweat, and dust mites. Look for a mattress protector that is water-resistant or waterproof.

• Wash your bedding regularly. Wash your sheets every week and your comforter every few weeks or so to protect your mattress from moisture and stains. Removing your bedding also lets your mattress air out.

• Clean your mattress. You can vacuum your mattress to remove debris and dust mites. You can also sprinkle it with baking soda before vacuuming to remove odors and moisture. 

• Find the proper mattress support. Make sure you use the right base for your mattress. Innerspring mattresses use box springs, while other mattresses use slatted bed frames or solid foundations.

• Avoid wear and tear when you can. Avoid letting kids jump on the bed, and try to keep pets from chewing or scratching your mattress.

Why trust our experts?

Written by:

Kim Grundy, PT

Kim Grundy, PT, is a licensed physical therapist and an experienced writer and editor. She worked at an outpatient orthopedic facility, where she treated patients with chronic conditions and post-surgical athletes working towards recovery.

Edited by:

Lauren Savage, MA

Lauren Savage, MA, is a health editor at GoodRx, where she focuses on movement, exercise, and healthy aging. She aims to provide readers with the information they need to live healthier, more active lifestyles.

Reviewed by:

Christina Palmer, MD

Christina Palmer, MD, is a board-certified family physician with a special interest in chronic care management, women’s health, mental health, and preventive care. She has over 10 years of experience in primary care research, innovation, and practice.

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