Spending about 8 hours every day on your mattress means one-third of your life is spent in bed. Think about it: as an adult, you probably sleep 6-8 hours nightly.  You may take some time to fall asleep and get out of bed, and you may read or watch TV in bed. One-third of your life is nothing to turn your nose up at, and even if you buy the most durable mattress, and practice good mattress care, you’ll still have to replace your bed a few times during your lifetime.

Even if you opt for the least expensive mattresses, mattresses are never a small expense, so you probably want to make your mattress last for as long as possible. Extending the life of your mattress means extending how long it’s both clean and comfortable, and delivering you quality sleep every night. Therefore, you may be curious about different steps to take to make your mattress last longer.

Below, we’ll go over some different ways to make your mattress last, from mattress care and mattress hygiene to mattress accessories, and choosing a high-quality and durable mattress.

Mattress Care

Mattress care involves many factors. Basically, it’s what you directly do or don’t do to ensure your mattress doesn’t wear down faster than it needs to. Obviously, you need to be able to use your mattress how you like to, but that doesn’t mean you can’t work on incorporating some mattress care methods into your life to extend its lifespan.

Mattress Support

Mattress support is an important part of mattress care that some sleepers seldom considered. Every mattress is different, and requires something different when it comes to mattress support. Without proper support, your mattress will wear down, and sag much faster than it should. It’s always a good idea to check first with the manufacturer, but below are some general rules to follow when supporting your mattress.

Memory Foam

Memory foam mattresses and other foam beds typically require a solid foundation to be properly supported. Because memory foam mattresses are more pliable than innerspring mattresses, putting them on a slatted bed frame or platform may result in premature sagging, along with voiding any mattress warranties.

Innerspring Mattresses

Generally, innerspring mattresses should be supported by a box spring for maximum support and comfort.

Other Considerations

If you have a different mattress, check with your manufacturer to see what they recommend. Also, pay attention to their warranty, as your mattress support could void the warranty, if it’s not supported properly.

Additionally, sleeping with your mattress on the floor is usually ok, as it provides ample support for your mattress.

Lastly, make sure that whatever platform or frame you’re using can support the weight of you, your mattress, and your partner.

Bouncing on the Bed

Beds are not designed to be bounced on. Bouncing on the bed creates a lot of pressure and force on the mattress, box spring, or frame, which can damage the mattress, box spring, and potentially break the bed frame.

So, if you have young children who like to bounce on the bed, you should consider forbidding it. This will ensure that the mattress will not sustain any additional damage, and your box spring and bed frame won’t prematurely break.

Flipping and Rotating

Flipping

Flipping is largely an outdated method to extend the lifespan of your mattress, but if you have a reversible or flippable mattress, like the dual-sided mattress from Latex For Less, you should flip your mattress every six months or so. Flipping your mattress regularly will extend the lifespan of the bed by ensuring that all of the wear and tear isn’t concentrated on just one side of the bed.

However, many mattresses cannot be flipped. With most modern mattresses, especially foam beds, manufacturers have a designated top side to sleep on. The top side is softer, and has a plusher layer that is supported by the inner core below it. If you were to flip a one-sided mattress, then the other side will likely be very uncomfortable and hard. That being said, many innerspring mattresses can be flipped. Just check with your manufacturer first.

Rotating

Rotating or turning your mattress is much more common, and highly recommended. Like flipping, this spreads out the wear and tear throughout your mattress, so it isn’t concentrated on just the spots that you sleep on. Most mattresses should be rotated one to two times each year, while it’s recommended that older innerspring mattresses should be rotated 2 to 5 times a year.

No-Turn Mattresses

Also, if you have a no-turn mattress, then you shouldn’t rotate it at all. No-turn mattresses are uncommon, however, so unless you have a no-turn, try rotating your bed for an extended lifespan and longer comfort.

Mattress Hygiene

Eating on the Bed

Eating and drinking on your bed is an invitation for unwanted pests. Pests like cockroaches, ants, and other bugs are attracted to food crumbs, so it’s best to avoid eating on your bed, or clean up after yourself if you do eat.

Drinking on the Bed

Additionally, drinking on your bed, particularly sugary drinks, can lead to spills, which is also an invitation to pests and unwanted stickiness. Furthermore, moisture from drinks can soak into the mattress, and make the bed wear down much faster.

Stain Removal

If you do eat or drink on the bed, or if someone has an accident, you don’t want to just clean the bedding. Immediately after any spills or stains, spot clean the mattress itself to increase its longevity.

Two common ways to clean a mattress are the following:

• Lemon juice and salt mixture - Mix lemon juice and salt into a paste, gently rub over the stain, and let sit for an hour. Then, wipe it off with a towel. Do not use this if your mattress is a darker color, because it may bleach the bed.
• Dish soap, baking soda, hydrogen peroxide - Combine dish soap, baking soda, a couple of drops of hydrogen peroxide, and water in a spray bottle. Spray and then gently blot with a clean towel to remove the stain.

Vacuuming

Whether or not you eat on your bed, it’s always a good idea to vacuum your mattress. Vacuuming your mattress twice a year is a great way to reduce the build-up of pet dander, dead skin cells, sweat, dust mites, and other allergens that can wear down the bed over time, and make sleep less comfortable.

How to Safely Deep Clean Your Mattress

Regular deep cleaning extends the life of your mattress by eliminating embedded dirt, bacteria, and odors that can degrade materials. Here’s how to do it safely:

• Use a steam cleaner on low settings to disinfect without saturating.
• Apply baking soda liberally over the surface, let it sit for several hours, then vacuum thoroughly to absorb moisture and neutralize odors.
• Avoid harsh chemicals; use mild, non-toxic cleaners to protect the integrity of the materials. These steps not only enhance cleanliness but also protect the structural longevity of your bed.

Washing Bed Sheets

This is an obvious one, but an important one, so we thought it best to include it. Washing your sheets frequently once every week is essential to keep you and your bed clean. It will cut down on the build-up of dirt, sweat, dust mites, pet dander, dead skin cells, and much more, thereby making your mattress last longer.

Pets

If you noticed how we included pet dander as something you don’t want in your bed, you probably already guessed this one. While it might be nice to snuggle up to your pet at night, pets are dirty, and shed both hair and dead skin cells. They welcome bugs, bacteria, dust mites, and other germs into your bed, so you’re better off letting pets sleep off the bed. If you can’t sleep without your pet in bed, consider setting their bed on top of some blankets on one side of the bed, and whatever you do, don’t let them under the bedding!

Climate Control and Mattress Longevity

Temperature and humidity levels can significantly affect the durability of your mattress. High humidity encourages mold and mildew growth, while excessive heat can degrade materials like memory foam and latex.

• Use a dehumidifier in humid environments to prevent moisture buildup.
• Keep your mattress away from direct sunlight for prolonged periods, as UV rays can cause discoloration and material weakening.
• Consider breathable bedding and mattress protectors to maintain optimal airflow.
  By regulating your sleeping environment, you protect your investment and ensure years of comfortable sleep.
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Bed Bugs

If you’ve never had bed bugs before, you’re lucky. Bed bugs are some of the most horrible pests on the planet. They bite you at night, and spread throughout all of your bed sheets and your mattress, and once you have them, they’re very tough to get rid of. Once a mattress is infested with bed bugs, it usually means you have to replace it.

To avoid bed bugs, and therefore avoid replacing your bed once it’s affected, keep your room and your mattress clean. Also, if you buy used furniture, make sure you thoroughly check it for bed bugs before you bring it into your home.

Moving Your Mattress

Chances are, you’re going to move with a mattress at some point or other. If you do move with a mattress, you’re number one concern is keeping it protected. The best way to keep it protected from dust, dirt, and other unwanted things is by wrapping it securely in plastic.

Mattress Protectors and Mattress Toppers

Mattress protectors and mattress toppers are very common these days. They extend the life of your mattress, and can even change how the bed feels. That being said, mattress toppers are not the same as mattress protectors.

Mattress Protector

Using a mattress protector is an extremely effective way to prevent damage to your mattress, and extend its life while also keeping the mattress cleaner. It’s right in the name: mattress protector. They encase a mattress, and protect the mattress from dirt, grime, wear and tear, sweat, food, spills, bacteria, mold, pests, and more.

Furthermore, there are even waterproof mattress protectors for those of you who sweat through the night, or have children who wet the bed.

Mattress protectors can be regularly washed like your bedding, and should be used as soon as you get a new bed, or right away if you don’t have one already.

Many mattress warranties require specific care routines to remain valid, such as using the correct bed frame or avoiding direct floor placement. Missteps can void the warranty, leaving you unprotected.

Understanding Mattress Warranties and Proper Care

• Read your warranty’s fine print to understand care requirements.
• Document any defects early with photos and receipts for potential claims.
• Use accessories like protectors or encasements explicitly mentioned in the warranty. Ensuring proper care doesn’t just extend the mattress’s life; it safeguards your financial investment.

Mattress Topper

Like mattress protectors, mattress toppers rest directly on top of the mattress, below the fitted sheet. You can even use a mattress topper in addition to a mattress protector.

Similar to mattress protectors, mattress toppers will absorb some of the friction and wear, and reduce dirt, moisture, and other substances from reaching your mattress. However, they are less effective at protecting the mattress, although they will prevent some wear.

Instead, the main purpose of a mattress topper is to change the feel of the mattress, and provide extra support and comfort while you sleep.

Latex For Less Mattress Topper

If you’re looking for a mattress topper either because you want to protect your mattress a little bit more, or you want to improve the comfort and support from your bed, look no further than The Latex For Less Topper.

The Latex For Less Topper is a high-quality and affordable mattress topper made from organic latex foam. With this topper, you will sleep soundly, and stay healthy in bed. Plus, it comes in three comfort levels, so there’s an option for every type of sleeper.

Choosing the Right Mattress

Although you should follow all of the steps we’ve discussed above to extend the life of your existing mattress, perhaps the best thing you can do to keep a mattress for a long period of time is to choose the right one when you buy a new mattress. Remember that not all mattresses are made the same, not all mattress types last as long as others, and the mattress quality plays a huge part in how long your mattress will last.

The Lifespan of Different Mattress Types

While choosing a quality mattress will affect how long it will last, consider the following the next time you purchase a new mattress:

• Latex:  15 - 25 years
• Memory foam: 8 - 10 years
• Hybrid: 7 - 10 years
• Innerspring: 5 - 7 years

Latex Mattresses

As you can see, latex mattresses generally last much longer than other types of mattresses. This is because natural latex is extremely durable, and recovers its shape once you leave the bed. Furthermore, it is naturally bouncy, so that it can stay comfortable, and free of sags or lumps for decades. So, if you want to know the best way to make your mattress last longer, go with a latex mattress.

Signs it's Time to Replace Your Mattress

Even with the best care, no mattress lasts forever. Knowing when to replace your mattress ensures you maintain good sleep hygiene and spinal support. Look out for these signs:

• Persistent sagging or indentations.
• Allergies triggered by accumulated dust mites despite cleaning.
• Waking up with aches or feeling unrested.
• Noticeable loss of comfort or support.

Replacing your mattress at the right time enhances sleep quality and prevents potential health issues caused by insufficient support.

Frequently-Asked Questions About How to Make Your Mattress Last Longer

1. What is the ideal frequency for deep-cleaning a mattress?

Deep-cleaning your mattress should be done every six months. This includes vacuuming to remove dust mites and allergens, spot-cleaning stains, and airing out the mattress to release trapped moisture. Regular deep-cleaning prevents buildup that can degrade materials over time, extending your mattress's lifespan.

2. How does humidity impact the longevity of a mattress?

High humidity can lead to mold and mildew growth, especially in foam or hybrid mattresses. To protect your mattress, consider using a dehumidifier in your bedroom or ensuring proper ventilation. A waterproof mattress protector can also act as a barrier against moisture.

3. Can a mattress topper really extend the life of a mattress?

Yes, a mattress topper absorbs much of the daily wear and tear that would otherwise affect your mattress. It shields the mattress from body impressions, moisture, and friction, which helps preserve the mattress's structural integrity. A latex mattress topper is particularly durable and resistant to allergens, making it a top choice for long-term protection.

4. Why is rotating a mattress important, and how often should I do it?

Rotating your mattress redistributes the pressure points created by your body weight, preventing uneven wear. For most mattresses, rotating every three to six months is sufficient. Innerspring mattresses, however, may benefit from more frequent rotations—up to four times per year.

5. Are certain mattress types more prone to sagging?

Yes, some mattress types, like memory foam or low-density polyfoam, are more prone to sagging over time compared to latex or high-density hybrid mattresses. To reduce sagging, use proper support, rotate the mattress regularly, and avoid sitting on the edges for prolonged periods.

6. How does a mattress warranty impact its lifespan?

A mattress warranty often stipulates proper care requirements, such as using an appropriate foundation or protector. Failing to meet these requirements can void the warranty, leaving you responsible for premature damage. Always review the warranty details to ensure you're maintaining the mattress as recommended.

7. What are common mistakes people make when moving a mattress?

One common mistake is dragging or folding the mattress, which can damage the internal structure, especially in spring or hybrid models. Always wrap the mattress in plastic for protection, and carry it flat or upright using proper lifting techniques.

8. Can sunlight exposure damage a mattress?

Yes, prolonged exposure to direct sunlight can degrade the materials in a mattress, especially foam layers, causing them to dry out or crumble. While short periods of sunlight can help sanitize and freshen your mattress, avoid excessive exposure to protect its longevity.

Latex For Less

If you’re going the latex mattress route, you won’t be disappointed. Latex mattresses are rising in popularity because they are luxuriously comfortable, supportive, and durable. But as we discussed earlier, quality is extremely important when considering any mattress. While most latex mattresses will generally last longer than even the highest quality memory foam mattresses, the range of 15 to 25 years for latex mattresses depends on the quality of the bed.

Higher-quality latex mattresses are more comfortable and more supportive, but they are also more durable, and will last longer than lower-quality latex. At Latex For Less, we offer only high-quality latex mattresses made from the finest quality organic latex. Our handcrafted, organic mattresses will give you quality sleep every night for many years. In fact, we are so confident in the durability and quality of our mattresses, that we offer a 20-year warranty on all of our beds.