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- Average Lifespan Of Different Mattress Types
- 1) How long does a Pillow Top Mattress last?
- 2) How long does an Innerspring mattress last?
- 3) How long does a Latex mattress last
- 4) How long do regular foam mattresses last?
- 5) How long should a Memory foam mattress last?
- 6) How long do Gel Memory Foam mattresses last?
- 7) How long does a Hybrid Mattress last?
- 8) How long does Air Mattress last?
- 9) How long does Futon Mattress last?
- 10) How long does a Mattress Topper last?
- Factors Affecting Mattress Life
- Hidden Truth Of Warranties You Should Know
- When Should You Change Your Mattress?
Planning to buy a new mattress? Allocating budget based upon the fact: how long does a mattress last? It may not be a big factor as you may be thinking. Read on to know why.
As per recent data, the average lifespan of the mattress is 10+ years now. There has been a steady shift in this number in the last 5 years. Mattress lifespan use to be 7-8 years and has gone up now. And the number of years is expected to increase further.
There has been a considerable advancement in the technology and quality of mattresses being made. Based on the data collected there has been a change in mattress buying patterns. This is mainly because of the innovations made in the last few years. The mattresses are going to last longer than they have been.
The manufacturers are providing 10-20 years to a lifetime warranty. Can you expect a bed to last longer if the mattress has a longer warranty coverage? And more importantly
Do you think you will use the mattress for 20 years even if the mattress lasts?
Susan
Most probably, you won’t. Hear me out. 15 years or more is a long time. Our bodies and sleeping patterns change with time. The bed that is perfect for you today may not be even suitable for you down the line.
The mattress will not change and may last for years but don’t expect your body to be the same in the next 10-20 years. So in our opinion, very long warranties should not influence your buying decision.
Let us first list down frequently asked a question about the longevity of various mattress types.
Average Lifespan Of Different Mattress Types
| Mattress Type | Average Lifespan |
|---|---|
| Pillow Top Mattress | 8 years approx |
| Innerspring Mattress | 7 years approx |
| Latex Mattress | 15 years approx |
| Regular Foam Mattress | 8 years approx |
| Memory Foam Mattress | 10 years approx |
| Gel Memory Foam Mattress | 10 years approx |
| Hybrid Mattress | 7-8 years approx |
| Air Mattress | 6 years approx |
| Futon Mattress | 4 to 5 years approx |
| Mattress Topper | 3 to 5 years approx |
1) How long does a Pillow Top Mattress last?
The life of a pillow top mattress depends upon the type of coil, number of coils, and gauge of coil used in the mattress. Pocketed coil system with a thick (low) gauge of 12 or less and coil count of 400 or more can last 8 years. The heavier you are, the lower the coil gauge should be. Most of the good brands are using quality coils so expect a good life of a pillow top mattress.
2) How long does an Innerspring mattress last?
Innerspring mattress lasts around 7 years. The same principles discussed above in pillow tops about coils apply to innerspring. The high count of coils and lower coil gauge enhance durability.
3) How long does a Latex mattress last
Latex is a natural rubber extracted from trees. Natural latex has a longer life than synthetic latex. An organic or natural latex mattress will last around 15 years. Most companies do not disclose the density of latex used. The density of latex can help you predict durability. The higher the density of natural latex, the more durable it is.
4) How long do regular foam mattresses last?
Whenever the term regular foam is used, it is referred to as polyfoam. But these days polyurethane is the most popular bedding material in the industry. These are considered to be less durable. Regular foam mattresses last around 8 years. Polyurethane with higher density (more firm) will be more durable as compared to low-density soft ones.
5) How long should a Memory foam mattress last?
The golden rule is if you are buying a higher density one, it will last longer. A good quality memory foam mattress will be 4 pounds per cubic foot (PCF) or more. It will last for around 10 years.
6) How long do Gel Memory Foam mattresses last?
It is a type of memory foam with an extra layer of gel to give you a cooling effect. Its lifespan is also around 10 years.
7) How long does a Hybrid Mattress last?
Hybrid mattresses generally use layers of memory foam/latex over the innerspring. The durability will be directly dependent on the quality ( density ) of layers used. The core layer beneath the top layer has coils. It also contributes to durability as discussed in an innerspring mattress. The age of hybrid mattresses on average is around 7-8 years.
8) How long does Air Mattress last?
Air mattresses generally have below-average life. The average life of a good quality airbed with a comfort layer is 6 years. The most common issues that start arising are mechanical. The air pump may start creating problems or air starts leaking. The issues come much earlier if you are using basic camping-style air mattresses.
9) How long does Futon Mattress last?
Futon mattress has a very average lifespan. They typically last 4 to 5 years if they are maintained properly.
10) How long does a Mattress Topper last?
A good quality mattress topper can enhance the comfort of an old mattress. A mattress topper generally lasts anywhere between 3 to 5 years.
Factors Affecting Mattress Life
Cleanliness: Irrespective of the brand or type of mattress you are using. The life of a mattress can be easily enhanced by following a proper cleaning schedule of the mattress. It will hamper or control the growth of bacteria, mold, and dust mites. Periodic vacuuming is a must to avoid health issues.
Usage: Are you using your mattress in your master bedroom or guest room? The mattress in a guest room will be subjected to less usage thereby less wear and tear. A kid’s mattress or mattress in your bedroom will have a relatively shorter life.
Further, the mattress which is used only for sleeping will last longer. Any eating or drinking on the bed may lead to occasional spillage. It can cause damage in the long run. Kids playing or jumping on the mattress will make the mattress more susceptible to wear and tear.
Body weight: People with more weight create more stress and pressure on the mattress. Individuals with a lean body or lesser weight exert less pressure or compression.
Flipping/Rotating: You might not be rotating/flipping your mattress. Depending on the type of mattress, it should be rotated and/or flipped twice a year. It helps in even compression on the mattress and avoiding top layers to take the permanent shape of body contours.
Hidden Truth Of Warranties You Should Know
Planning to buy a mattress with a lifetime warranty or warranty as high as 15 or 25 years? Are you making an informed decision by looking into the details of the enclosed warranty?
A warranty of lifetime or 15 years does not mean that you will be given a choice to get a new mattress free of cost.
Warranties won’t cover the wear and tear due to usage. If some part of the bed like a coil has some issue. The part will be replaced and not the complete mattress. Any sagging, lumps, or foam getting deformed within the warranty period is covered. It will be taken care of by the manufacturer
Most of the warranties beyond 10 years provide prorated coverage.
Understand the terms and conditions of prorated coverage. Be clear on the percentage you will have to pay under prorated coverage. Make sure you understand the transportation, shipping, and pickup cost. It is included or has to be borne by the customer.
Long-term warranties have an initial non-prorated warranty and get converted into prorated one after 10 or more years.
When Should You Change Your Mattress?
It is a common myth that you need to get a new mattress every 7 to 8 years. You should keep a mattress as long as it is not causing any problems in your sleep.
The sole purpose of the mattress is to provide good quality sleep and support your spine. You may have a difficult time adjusting to a new one if you have not selected the right mattress.
Let us look at a few easily noticeable factors which can help you decide if you need to change your mattress.
Replace Your Mattress if :
Wear and tear: Look for general signs of wear and tear like lumps, and sagging. Do you feel coils while tossing and turning?
Body Aches: Have you started developing frequent body aches? Or do you wake with niggles in your back or muscles? Such issues surfacing frequently can lead to health issues.
Motion Transfer: Do you or your partner/co-sleeper can feel the movement in the night when you turn? An increase in motion transfer is a sign that your bed is old now.
Issues of improper sleep: Do you wake up in the morning feeling not so fresh?
There can be many reasons and one of them can be your mattress. Our bodies tend to change shape and weight with time. We may have a new partner with a very different body type and contouring.
The old mattress may not be able to accommodate all these changes. The kind of support and comfort provided may not be up to the mark.
Redoing Bedroom: It is that phase of our life when you are going for a complete overhaul of your bedroom. Everything in the room is new and equipped with the latest technology available in the market. You may want to replace your mattress with a brand new plush one. An old mattress may spoil the feel new factor.
