How Often Should You Change Your Mattress?

A good mattress is more than just a place to sleep; it’s essential for healthy rest, proper spinal alignment, and overall wellbeing. But no matter how carefully you look after it, every mattress has a limited lifespan. Knowing when to replace yours can prevent discomfort, disrupted sleep and even long-term aches or allergies. The right time to change a mattress depends on factors such as its type, quality, firmness, and how well it has been maintained.

General Guidance

On average, most mattresses last between seven and ten years. However, this is only a guideline. A high-quality mattress can often remain comfortable and supportive for longer, while cheaper models may show signs of wear sooner. Regular cleaning, rotating or flipping (if designed to), and using a mattress protector can all extend the usable life. The key is to pay attention to how your mattress feels and whether it still supports you properly.

By Mattress Type

Different mattress constructions wear out in different ways.

• Memory Foam: Memory foam softens gradually and can begin to lose its ability to spring back over time. If you find yourself sinking too deeply or waking up with stiffness, it may be a sign the foam is breaking down. Good quality memory foam mattresses often last around eight to ten years, but lower-density foams may need replacing sooner.
• Latex: Latex is one of the most durable mattress materials. Natural latex, in particular, can last ten years or more, sometimes up to twelve, if well cared for. It retains resilience better than many foams, though it is usually more expensive initially.
• Innerspring / Sprung: Traditional spring mattresses typically last around seven to eight years. Over time, springs can lose tension and padding may compress, leading to dips, squeaks and less support. Pillow-tops or cushioned layers often flatten before the springs themselves wear out.
• Hybrid: Hybrids combine springs with layers of foam or latex. Their lifespan tends to sit between the two, generally eight to ten years. The spring unit is durable, but the comfort layers on top (particularly foam) are more prone to wear.

Quality and Price Point

Not all mattresses of the same type last the same length of time. The density of foam, the gauge and number of springs, and whether high-quality natural materials are used will all make a difference. A cheaper mattress may start sagging within five years, while a premium version of the same style could still feel supportive a decade later. Investing more upfront often pays off with a longer lifespan, provided you maintain it properly.

Firmness and Comfort Preferences

Interestingly, firmness can affect how long a mattress lasts. Firmer mattresses tend to keep their shape longer because the materials compress less under weight. Softer models, especially those with thick comfort layers, may show impressions and sagging earlier. That doesn’t mean you should always choose the firmest option, comfort and support for your body are the top priorities, but it’s worth being aware that softer styles may need replacing sooner.

Does Mattress Size Affect How Often to Replace?

The size of your mattress can influence how quickly it wears out, mainly because of how weight is distributed. A smaller mattress, such as a single or double, has less surface area to spread your weight, so impressions and dips may appear sooner, especially if two people share a smaller bed. By contrast, a larger mattress like a king or super king offers more space, meaning the pressure on any one area is reduced. This often helps the mattress maintain its shape and support for longer.

That said, larger mattresses are heavier and harder to rotate or flip, so they sometimes get turned less often, which can shorten their life if one side or area is used more heavily. Whichever size you choose, regular rotation and proper support from a sturdy base will help prolong its lifespan.

Signs It’s Time for a New Mattress

Rather than relying on years alone, listen to what your body and your bed are telling you. If you wake with aches or notice dips, lumps or squeaks, your mattress may no longer be fit for purpose. Persistent allergies, even after regular cleaning, can also suggest dust mites or allergens have built up inside the mattress fibres.

Quick Comparison of Lifespans

Extending the Life of Your Mattress

Even the best mattress will eventually need replacing, but good care can add years of comfort. Always use a mattress protector to prevent stains and moisture damage, vacuum the surface to remove dust and allergens, and rotate the mattress every few months to spread wear evenly. For double-sided mattresses, flipping is recommended. Keeping your bedroom well ventilated also helps prevent dampness and mildew.

There is no single “expiry date” for a mattress. Instead, the right time to change depends on its type, the quality of materials, how firm or soft it is, and how well it has been cared for. By paying attention to these factors, and to how your body feels each morning, you’ll know when it’s time to invest in a new bed and enjoy the benefits of deeper, healthier sleep.