When should I replace my bed?
There is nothing worse than an old, lumpy, uncomfortable mattress. A quality mattress in good condition is imperative for a good night’s sleep, and the truth is that all mattresses have an expiry date — though some last longer than others. If you suspect it might be time to replace your bed, read on for the tell-tale signs that it is time for a new mattress.
As a general rule, you should replace your mattress if:
- Your bed is 8–10+ years old
- You are struggling to fall and stay asleep
- Your bed is saggy, lumpy, or uncomfortable
- You wake up sore in the morning
- You are having increased asthma, coughing, or sneezing
What contributes to mattress lifespan?
QUALITY
One of the biggest contributors to mattress lifespan is quality. Mattresses made using high-quality materials and constructed to a high standard are far more likely to stand the test of time. Foam mattresses and low-quality innerspring mattresses are prone to sagging and will have a shorter lifespan. Find out more about our New Zealand made mattresses of the highest quality.
CARE
Mattresses that are looked after properly and following the manufacturer’s instructions will last longer. Ensuring your mattress is correctly assembled on an appropriate foundation, transported correctly, used with care, kept clean with a protector, and rotated regularly to help keep it in the best condition. Find out more with our mattress care guide.
USAGE
If you share your bed with a partner, children, or pets, your mattress may need to be replaced more frequently due to the extra weight and increased likelihood of stains and damage. At Sealy, we are confident in the high performance of our mattresses and provide a 10 year warranty for our products. View our warranty card for further information.
Signs you should replace your bed
1.
YOUR MATTRESS IS MORE THAN 10 YEARS OLD
On average, you should expect a mattress to last 8–10 years. Different brands produce different quality mattresses, so it is worth considering that some beds may have a shorter or longer lifespan depending on the quality of the materials used to produce it.
Sealy mattresses have a warranty period of 10 years, so if your mattress is older than this, it might be time to think about a replacement.
2.
YOUR SLEEP QUALITY HAS DECLINED
Do you struggle to fall and stay asleep at night? If your current mattress is not providing the level of support and comfort you need, it might be time for a change. If you sleep well in other beds, like in hotels or when you are staying away from home, your current mattress could be the cause of your poor sleep at home.
3.
VISIBLY SAGGY OR LUMPY MATTRESS
This is an easy one to spot. Over time, mattresses are subjected to natural wear and tear. If you notice that your mattress has very visible lumps or dents, or the springs are protruding, then it is time to look for a replacement. Continuing to sleep on a mattress in this condition can lead to back and lumbar problems.
4.
WAKING UP SORE
If you often wake up with a stiff neck or a sore back, then it is likely that your mattress is not providing the support you need. There is nothing quite like the feeling of lying back on a comfortable and supportive mattress and waking up refreshed. If you are missing out this feeling, it’s likely that it is time to look for a new mattress that can provide the support you require.
5.
YOU OR YOUR CHILD HAS OUTGROWN THE BED
As your child grows, you may consider upgrading a bed from a single to a double or queen for a teenager to ensure they are getting a comfortable night’s sleep.
For adults, those who are used to having a bed to themselves and begin sharing a bed with a partner may find that they need more room to accommodate both people comfortably. In that case, it might be time to upgrade from a double or queen to a king or super king.
6.
ALLERGIES OR ASTHMA
Very old mattresses can accumulate dust and other irritants that commonly cause allergies. If you notice that your bed is triggering coughing or sneezing, then it may be time to look at a replacement.
7.
MORE SUPPORT & SPACE DURING PREGNANCY
An exciting reason to purchase a new bed is falling pregnant. Many women report feeling extremely fatigued during pregnancy, especially during the first and third trimesters. Pregnant women may look to upgrade to a mattress with more support and space so that they can sleep comfortably during this time.
8.
MOVING TO A NEW HOUSE OR ROOM
Have you recently moved to a new house, or into a larger bedroom with more space? Perhaps you have always slept on a queen bed due to space restrictions and now you have the space required for an upgrade. Purchasing a new, larger bed can be very exciting. Check out our bed selector to help match you with the perfect bed for your space.
Sleep quality
If these signs seem familiar, then it is probably time to get a new mattress. The next step is to decide how much you would like to spend. Larger mattresses and mattresses that use more complex materials and technologies will be more expensive, but you do not necessarily have to break the bank to find the right one for you.
You may be reluctant to spend more on your mattress, but remember that a good quality mattress will keep you sleeping comfortably for longer, meaning you won’t have to replace it any time soon, saving you money in the long run.
Once you have settled on a budget, it’s time for the fun part: finding the perfect mattress for you. For guidance on how to find the best mattress, try our bed selector, which provides a helpful recommendation in just a few minutes.
You can also view our mattress buying guide to help you with your selection.
FAQs
HOW LONG BEFORE I SHOULD REPLACE YOUR MATTRESS
On average, mattresses will last from 8–10 years, although this can vary depending on the quality of the mattress. It is recommended to replace your mattress around the 8–10-year mark.
HOW DO I KNOW IF MY MATTRESS IS WORN OUT?
If your mattress has very visible lumps or dents, the springs are protruding, you’re waking up sore, or not getting a good night’s sleep, your mattress is probably worn out and you are ready for a replacement
CAN A MATTRESS LAST 20 YEARS?
While a mattress can theoretically last 15–20 years, for safety and hygiene purposes, it is generally recommended to replace your mattress at the 8–10-year mark.
WHEN DO I NEED TO ROTATE MY MATTRESS?
To maintain even wear, you should rotate your mattress every three months. To do so, turn it 180 degrees anticlockwise, then realign the mattress with the foundation.
DO I NEED A.NEW BED OR JUST A MATTRESS?
Your bed foundation is what supports your mattress and contributes significantly to the comfort of your bed. If your foundation is in good condition, you may not need a new one. However, old or damaged bed foundations should be replaced.
Ensure you get the sleep you need, night after night. Simply try our Bed Selector to find the best product for you.
