Do You Know When You Should Replace Your Bed?

If you’ve been sleeping on the same mattress for years, it might be time to consider replacing it. While there’s no official “expiry date” for a mattress, there certainly is a “best before” – and it’s before your sleep starts to suffer.

Many people wait until their mattress becomes unbearably uncomfortable to replace it. However, the real issue isn’t just about how it feels or looks on the surface. You might not realize that a mattress could be deteriorating internally, affecting its support and comfort. So, how can you tell if it’s still providing the proper support for your body?

Why Mattress Hygiene Matters

Another factor to consider is hygiene. Over the course of a year, you shed approximately one pound of skin and release half a pint of moisture into your mattress. Regularly replacing your mattress can help minimize the buildup of house dust mites, which can contribute to allergies and respiratory issues.

If your mattress has been in use for over 10 years, your body may have changed, too. You could have gained or lost weight, or your sleeping partner may have changed, making your old mattress less suited to your current needs.

How Long Should a Mattress Last?

You might be wondering, “How long should a mattress last?” Many people believe mattresses should last 10 to 15 years, even if they’ve only spent a few hundred pounds on them. However, the reality is that most mattresses begin to lose their shape and support after around 7 to 8 years.

We recommend considering mattress replacement at this point. A £1,000 mattress spread over 7 years only costs about 20p per night—an affordable price for better sleep, especially when you think about how much sleep affects your overall health.

Why Your Mattress is Crucial for Quality Sleep

The importance of a good mattress can’t be overstated. It directly impacts your sleep quality, helping to reduce tossing and turning, minimize disturbances from your partner, and keep you from waking up with aches and pains. Research even shows that an uncomfortable mattress can rob you of up to an hour of sleep each night!

If you’re not sure whether your mattress needs replacing, check out our bed buying guide for more expert advice.