How Often Should You Rotate / Flip Your Mattress

MAY 08, 2025

899 views , 6 mins read

According to the Australian Bedding Stewardship Council (ABSC), 1.8 million mattresses are discarded annually in Australia alone—equivalent to 1 in 15 people (based on a 2024 population of 27M+ . With mattresses lasting just 3–5 years on average, proper care like rotating or flipping can significantly prolong their lifespan.

This article will show you whether your mattress can be rotated or flipped, how often rotate or flip your mattress, and step-by-step instructions—everything you need to know is here. Don’t miss out!

In this article

1. Why Should You Turn or Rotate Your Mattress? 2. The Types of Mattresses that Require Flipping 3. How Often Should You Rotate/Flip Your Mattress? 4. How to Rotate (or Flip) Your Mattress? 5.Frequently Asked Questions

Why Should You Turn or Rotate Your Mattress?

Sleeping in the same spot night after night can cause uneven wear on your mattress, diminishing the support it provides over time if you don't rotate it.

The benefits of regularly rotating and turning your mattress include:

Prolonged and Better Support: Consistent rotation helps the mattress maintain its structural integrity, offering the support your body needs for longer.
Consistent Comfort: By distributing wear, you'll enjoy a more uniform and comfortable sleeping surface across the entire mattress.
Even Fill Distribution: Rotating helps prevent the internal materials from settling and compressing unevenly.
Reduced Risk of Sagging and Indentations: Regularly changing the orientation minimizes the likelihood of permanent dips and soft spots forming where you typically lie.
Allergen Prevention: Rotating your mattress allows it to air out, effectively preventing the growth of allergens such as bed bugs, dust mites, and mold.

However, some mattresses are not suitable for flipping or rotating. Typically, only mattresses with identical top and bottom layers can be flipped without affecting comfort. Let's take a look at which types of mattresses are not ideal for rotating or flipping!

The Types of Mattresses that Require Flipping

Before rotating or turning your mattress, always be sure to check the manufacturer's website or the care instructions that came with your mattress.

Type	Rotate	Flip
Newentor Hybird Mattress	Yes	No
Newentor Hesperis Memory Foam Mattress	Yes	Yes
Double-sided mattress	Yes	Yes
Innerspring mattress	Yes	Yes
Pillow-top mattress	Yes	No

How Often Should You Rotate/Flip Your Mattress?

To extend the lifespan of your mattress, it's recommended to rotate it 180° every 3-6 months. If your mattress is flippable, you should also flip it when rotating. However, if your mattress is significantly worn or sagging, replacing it with a new one is a better choice. Consider investing in a Newentor ergonomic memory foam mattress for more comfortable sleep.

How to Rotate (or Flip) Your Mattress?

Rotating your mattress is a straightforward process. While doable solo, it's easier with a partner.

Here's how:

Step 1. Remove all bedding, including comforters, pillows, and sheets, as well as any furniture close to the bed.
Step 2. If your mattress has handles designed for rotation, utilize them for easier maneuvering.
Step 3. Turn the mattress 180 degrees, so what was at the head of the bed is now at the foot.

Flipping your mattress regularly is key for even wear, and since it can be tough, especially with heavier models, having someone assist is highly recommended.

Here's a simplified approach:

Step 1. Clear the bed completely – remove all bedding and anything near the bed.
Step 2. Utilize any handles your mattress might have for a better grip.
Step 3. First, rotate the mattress 180 degrees end-to-end.
Step 4. Then, carefully lift the mattress onto its side and flip it over.

Keep in mind that this only applies to double-sided mattresses. If you're unsure if yours is, check the label or care guide.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if my mattress is the right way up?

Most mattresses have a "This Side Up" label on the top surface. So check the label or tag.

For single-sided mattresses: The plush comfort layer is visibly thicker on one side.

For double-sided mattresses: Both sides look identical, often with handles or symmetrical stitching.

Refer to the care guide for orientation details.

Is it better to flip or rotate your mattress?

The terms "flipping" and "rotating" mattresses describe distinct actions. Flipping means turning the entire mattress over, using the opposite sleeping surface. Rotating involves turning the mattress lengthwise, so the head and foot ends are swapped.

In the past, mattresses were designed to be flipped. However, many modern mattresses, due to their construction, should only be rotated, not flipped. These newer designs often feature a firm support base and softer comfort layers on top, sometimes with an additional pillow top. Flipping such a mattress would mean sleeping on the hard support layer, which is uncomfortable and can damage the mattress.

The Sleep Foundation advises that most mattress types, including latex, innerspring, and hybrid models, benefit from regular rotation (but not flipping). However, some mattresses with specialized comfort zones or materials should not be rotated or flipped at all. Always consult your mattress's care instructions for the recommended maintenance.

What if one person is significantly heavier than the other?

You can rotate more frequently (every 2–3 months) to distribute weight evenly and prevent permanent dips.

Choose a zoned pocket spring mattress:

Firmer springs under the heavier sleeper’s side for targeted support.
Look for reinforced edge support to prevent roll-off.

Add a mattress topper: A high-density foam topper can temporarily mitigate sagging.

I am the only person sleeping on the mattress. How often should I flip it?

Even solo sleepers should maintain this routine—body weight concentrates pressure on specific zones over time. For a double-sided mattress, you can flip and rotate your mattress every 5 months. And for a single-sided mattress, you can rotate it 180° every 3 months.

Final Thoughts

Hopefully, this guide has answered your questions about flipping and rotating your mattress. Generally, it's recommended to rotate your mattress every 3-6 months. If you feel your mattress isn't providing the comfort or support you expect, you can increase the frequency of rotation. If you're unsure whether your mattress needs flipping, please check the label on the mattress.

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