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When it comes to getting a new mattress, putting it off could actually cost you more sleep. While mattresses are a considerable investment you are likely to use for many years, sleeping on an old one can affect your sleep quality and lifestyle and take away the pleasure of getting a good night’s sleep. Unfortunately, mattresses don’t come with their own expiration dates, but there are several ways to know if your current mattress has run its course.

Here are five signs you should replace your mattress.

1. How Often Should You Replace Your Mattress

Several factors determine the longevity of a mattress, including the materials used, the quality of construction, the number and weight of the users, the positions you usually sleep in, and how well the mattress is maintained and cleaned. Different types of mattresses have different lifespans. Traditional innerspring mattresses generally last 5 to 8 years, while memory foam, conventional foam, and hybrid mattresses generally last 6 to 8 years. To maximize its lifespan, cover it with a good-quality mattress pad, which can help keep it clean and fresh for years. Your mattress will also be protected from body oils, perspiration, dead skin cells, dust mites, mold, mildew, and stains.

2. As Soon As You Notice Wear and Tear, Replace It

It is a good idea to replace your mattress when it shows signs of wear and tear. There should be no sagging, no visible tears, no ripping, no holes, no stains, no lumpy or deep indentations, no foam that fails or shifts around, and no springs that poke or prod you. Sagging mattresses often have a noticeable body impression – this is especially true for heavier people, whose bodies may leave deep indentions. If your mattress doesn’t quickly return to its normal, flat appearance after you get up, it might be time to consider a new one. Your mattress will naturally conform to your body weight and sleeping position over time, but if you notice large valleys, dips, grooves, or sagging sections, it’s time to replace it. Investing in a high-quality mattress pad can make your bed feel softer while protecting it from damage.

3. Your Mattress is Noisy

Is your mattress creaking, groaning, or popping? These are signs you need a mattress replacement. It is common for spring and coil mattresses to become noisy after years of use, as the springs lose their springiness and the internal components of the mattress become worn. In the meantime, a cushiony mattress pad can help to muffle any unwanted noise. Squeaks and creaks are signs that the coils are degrading and may begin to sag, break, or snap. Mattress springs poking through the cover indicate that it’s time to replace it soon.

4. Waking Up Sore

Having new aches and pains every day is a strong indication that your mattress needs to be replaced. It is not possible to support your neck, shoulders, and lower back with an old mattress. The breakdown of your mattress is gradual, and certain parts of your body may feel tight or sore as a result. Unless you can identify the source of your muscle soreness or pain as exercise or injury, your old mattress could be to blame. Keep an eye out for a stiff neck, sore lower back, and a “pinching” pain in your joints, especially your neck and shoulders. A thick mattress pad can add a plush layer to your bed, helping them remain comfortable for longer.

5. Asthma or Allergies Are Worsening

Dust mite feces can trigger allergies and asthma. There may be more dust mites in an older mattress than you think. It is common for older mattresses to contain more dust mites than any other item in your home, but they may also contain other contaminants such as mold, bacteria, and other allergens. Frequently waking up with watery eyes, a runny nose, and a headache might be due to allergens in your mattress. Even with regular vacuuming and cleaning, your mattress will absorb dead skin, body oils, and moisture, which in turn attract dust mites that feed on dead skin. Evidence shows mattress pads provide a measurable, significant decrease in dust mite allergen on pillows and mattresses.

The Bottom Line

If you have trouble falling asleep or wake up with back pain, it might be time for a new bed. When replacing a mattress or purchasing a new one, make sure to take steps to get the most life out of it. Protect your mattress and add comfort by using a durable mattress pad. They provide additional softness, support, and relief for you while you sleep, and they prolong the life of your mattress.