How Often Should You Replace Your Mattress?

If you want better sleep — and more of it — then you might want to start by replacing your old mattress. A comfortable mattress is rated as the most important factor in getting a good night’s sleep.

And given that we spend about one-third of our lives sleeping, why waste that time on a lousy-feeling mattress? Here’s how often you should replace your mattress and how to tell when you need a new one.

Sleep Experts Say Every 6-8 Years

The National Sleep Foundation recommends replacing your mattress around every eight years, while the Better Sleep Council suggests getting a new mattress every seven years. Either way, experts agree you should not use the length of your warranty to determine when to replace your mattress.

According to SleepHelp.org, the longevity of a mattress can vary based on these factors:

• Manufacturer. Higher-quality mattresses tend to last longer.
• Mattress type, such as a memory foam mattress or innerspring.
• Whether you sleep alone or with a partner.
• Your weight. A mattress used by a larger individual often wears out faster than a mattress used by a smaller one.

At a minimum, evaluate the condition of your mattress twice a year, around the time when you change your clocks to reflect seasonal changes. Or, if nothing else, maybe you can make it a New Year’s resolution to do a once-a-year mattress check when the calendar flips from one year to the next.

How to Tell When You Need a New Mattress

Aside from age, these factors can help you tell when you need a new mattress.

1. Your springs are squeaking.

Healthline points out that it might be time to get a new mattress if the springs in your current one are squeaking. Squeaky springs indicate the coils are worn out and aren’t offering enough support.

2. Your allergies are flaring up.

Another reason to get a new mattress might be less obvious. Mattresses are a virtual playground for dust mites, mold, bacteria, and allergens. If you suffer from breathing problems or allergies, those invisible threats might be making them worse.

3. Your mattress is damaged.

Has your mattress seen better days? Was it a family hand-me-down? Perhaps it’s sagging or stained, or it’s got tears, rips, holes, worn springs, or other visible damage. In which case, your sleep can suffer for many of these reasons. For example, sagging and lumpiness can affect your health by causing preventable aches and pains as well as poor quality rest.

4. Your sleep quality is poor.

Poor sleep quality is one of the most important signs you need a new mattress, and perhaps even a brand new bedroom set and mattress. Your sleep quality might be poor if you wake up with stiffness, aches, and pains, or feel sluggish even after a “good” night’s sleep.

Don’t overlook the simple fact that if you’re just not getting enough sleep, your mattress might bear at least some of the blame. Your bed sheets could be a factor, too. Seven to nine hours of sleep per day is recommended for adults.

Replace Your Mattress at Rent-A-Center

Dreaming of a great night’s sleep? Let’s make your dreams a reality. Start your rent-to-own mattress order online or visit a Rent-A-Center near you. With our free same-day delivery** and flexible payment options, we can have a new mattress delivered and set up in your home before you even slip into your PJs.