1. Age
Typically, mattresses last between 7 and 10 years. If your mattress has outlived its useful life, it may need to be replaced, even if it looks good.
Changes in a mattress over its lifetime
Mattresses go through multiple stages in their life cycle and understanding these changes can help determine when to replace your mattress.
a. Initial stage (0-2 years)
Characteristics
Optimal: This is when the mattress provides optimal support and comfort.
Adaptation period: It takes some time to get used to the characteristics of the new mattress.
Changes
Odour dissipation: the new mattress may have a slight material odour which will dissipate within a few weeks.
b. Stabilisation phase (2-5 years)
Characteristics
Continuous comfort: Most mattresses remain in good condition during this stage.
Strong support: Provides even support for a variety of sleeping positions.
Changes
Minor Wear and Tear: Minor wear and tear or dents may occur, but do not affect overall comfort.
c. Aging stage (5-7 years)
Characteristics
Decreased support: The mattress begins to lose some of its supportive ability.
Decreased comfort: It may no longer be as comfortable as it was in the early stages.
Changes
Deepening of depressions: Significant depressions may appear in commonly used areas.
Decreased elasticity: Materials begin to age, affecting elasticity.
d. Replacement stage (7-10 years)
Characteristics
Obvious wear and tear: There may be obvious damage to the surface and internal structure of the mattress.
Health effects: Sleep quality and physical health may be affected.
Changes
Structural damage: springs or support materials may fail.
Increased odour: Accumulation of dust mites and allergens leads to odour.
2. Reduced sleep quality
If you often wake up feeling tired or in physical pain, your mattress may be the culprit. A poorly fitted mattress can lead to reduced quality of sleep. When you start waking up with body aches and pains more often than not, it's a sign that you've reached a point where you have to change your mattress. This is because such aches and pains are cumulative. At first it might just hurt for a while, and slowly the pain will get worse and worse until you need to go through medical treatment in order to improve such a situation. So, when you find that your mattress has started to affect your sleep you need to start thinking about getting a new one. Or improve the condition of your existing mattress with mattress Topper.
3. Visible dents and damage
Check the surface of the mattress for dents, tears or exposed springs. These are common signs that the mattress has lost its support. Most mattresses nowadays are made with the technology of individual pocketed springs, which last longer than the previous generation because of more advanced processes and materials.
4. Increased allergy symptoms
A large number of dust mites and allergens can build up inside the mattress. If you notice that your allergy symptoms are worse while in bed, it may be time to replace your mattress.
5. Increased noise
A mattress that squeaks or makes other noises when you lie down or turn over indicates that the internal structure may be damaged.
6. Insufficient support
If you feel that your mattress is no longer supporting your body as well as it once did, causing back or joint pain, it may be time to consider a replacement.
7. Better options
Technological advances have led to more comfortable and better supportive mattresses. If your current mattress has fallen behind the newer products on the market, consider upgrading.
