How Long Does A Foam Mattress Last

Helen Skeates
Helen Skeates
19 min read

If you want to know how long your foam mattress will last, you’ll need to be able to tell the various types of foam apart. It’s important to keep in mind that memory foam is not the only kind of foam used in mattresses. However, when compared to other mattress types like innerspring beds, the foam itself has an impressive lifespan.

We’ll go over the features and benefits of various foam mattress options. This way, you can take better care of it and replace worn out components as needed. Keep in mind that if our mattress is in its ideal form, we will be able to keep a supportive sleeping posture throughout the night.

The Benefits of a Foam Mattress

1. NASA Made It (So You Know It’s Good)

Memory foam was first used by NASA in the mid-1960s, when it was being tested for use in airplane seats. The well-known space agency used viscoelastic material, which is both soft and energy absorbent, to create memory foam.

The foam was originally designed to absorb shock, but due to its softness, it has found many other uses besides just that (including in mattresses).

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2. It Hugs You Better Than

Memory foam is a pressure- and temperature-sensitive material that conforms to the shape of the user’s body. If you’ve ever felt like your memory foam mattress was hugging you, that’s because it was.

The memory foam gets more comfortable as it warms up to your body temperature, contouring to your shape.

3. Memory Foam Can Provide Back Pain Relief

Memory foam’s ability to adapt to your body’s temperature is another way in which it can help with back aches. Because of its adaptability, it can be shaped to provide extra cushioning where it’s needed most, such as the lower back, which often goes unsupported.

Painful spots are usually warmer than the rest of the body, so the memory foam contours to them to alleviate pressure. Pressure point relief is enhanced by the fact that a memory foam mattress promotes even weight distribution, something that a conventional innerspring mattress, for example, cannot do.

4. Motion Transfer? Not With Memory Foam

Is your partner a restless sleeper? Have you ever pondered the kinds of wild, rough-and-tumble dreams they must regularly experience?

With a memory foam mattress, you won’t have to worry about these things ever again.

Because of its exceptional ability to absorb motion — not transfer it (hence, the unspillable wine infomercials), many couples choose a memory foam mattress. It can be difficult to share a bed with another person, especially if one of you is a light sleeper or wakes up frequently during the night. Memory foam mattresses, however, make it difficult to wake up your sleeping partner.

5. Your Allergies Could Improve

The last thing you need is for your bed to aggravate your allergies.

Thankfully, memory foam is hypo-allergenic because it is constructed from inorganic fibers that are impervious to allergens like dust mites and pet dander. This makes it a great option for those who have allergies to other types of fibers found in mattresses, such as wool, feathers, and so on.

6. Memory Foam Encourages Proper Spinal Alignment

Many of us have poor waking posture, but we rarely give thought to the possibility that we also have poor slumbering posture. Back pain, muscle soreness, and other symptoms can all be exacerbated by how you choose to spend your nocturnal hours.

Memory foam mattresses, on the other hand, are able to fill in these areas, allowing the spine to keep its natural curve while you sleep.

7. It Can Aid in Physical Recovery

Sleep plays a crucial role in physical recovery, which is crucial if you are an athlete or lead an active lifestyle.

Memory foam mattresses’ ability to mold to the body’s shape and distribute weight evenly can be a huge boon to recovery. If you’re able to get a good night’s sleep after an intense workout, you may wake up feeling better than usual the next day.

8. It Supports a Variety of Sleeping Positions

Not all mattresses are suitable for side sleepers, stomach sleepers, or back sleepers. However, memory foam mattresses can be comfortable for people of all sleeping styles because they conform to the body’s contours.

For those who prefer to sleep on their sides, this feature can provide much-needed waist support while also easing strain on the shoulders and hips. It will help stomach sleepers (whose spines tend to flatten during sleep) keep their natural spinal curvature and relieve back pain.

9. It’s a Durable Type of Mattress

Memory foam mattresses last longer and sag less than traditional mattresses over time. Some models of memory foam mattresses have a lifespan of over a decade! Memory foam mattresses can last a long time; how long depends on the mattress’s quality, density, and other factors.

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10. It’s Ideal for Adjustable Bed Frames

Finally, adjustable bed bases, like the Bear Adjustable Base, work wonderfully with memory foam mattresses.

Memory foam is extremely malleable and can be shaped to fit the frame in any position. We know, we know, we sound like a broken record. When you couple the body-contouring benefits of this base with the pressure-relieving properties of a memory foam mattress, you will have the best night’s sleep of anyone you know.

How Long Does A Foam Mattress Last And Why

Memory foam vs latex foam

A foam mattress’s expected lifespan is also material specific. A memory foam bed, for instance, is one of the most impressive foam beds, and it can last for ten years or more. However, latex foam, if you prefer something more natural, can last for up to 20 years of use.

Hybrid foam

Hybrid mattresses, you ask? To create a certain texture, some mattresses use a coil system in conjunction with foam. If they have a high-quality top foam layer, bottom base foam layer, and coil support system, they should last for at least six years.

What to remember

When compared to other mattress materials, foam mattresses have a much longer lifespan. The years can be longer or shorter depending on the product’s quality, how you use it, and how you care for it, and the numbers and range mentioned are still only estimates. Keep reading to learn what factors shorten the life of a foam mattress and what you can do to make it last longer.

How Do I Know If My Memory Foam Mattress Is Worn Out?

Sagging

The most obvious sign of a worn out memory foam mattress is sagging, especially in the middle where the body’s heavy regions lie every night. Most people see sagging as a sign that it’s time to upgrade to a memory foam mattress. Until you can afford a new bed, however, you may want to try rotating the mattress, flipping it over, or even using a mattress topper.

Memory foam doesn’t have springs, so it won’t break if you sit on it all the time, but it will get flatter after a while. A crater less than two inches deep won’t affect your sleep, but anything deeper will. Once your mattress begins to sag, you can safely say goodbye to it.

Dents and lumps

A worn-out mattress can give you more clues than just obvious sagging. The foam’s cellular structure has broken down if it has a generally deformed surface, shape, or structure. Because of this, dents and lumps form in the memory foam because it no longer has its original shape.

You can see more impressions on the surface because the foam doesn’t return to its original shape. This can serve as a simple indicator of when it’s time to replace your mattress. If the mattress doesn’t spring back to shape after being pushed with your hands, try applying more pressure.

Unsatisfactory moldability and sensitivity

Underperformance is the last symptom of an overused memory foam mattress. The unique quality of memory foam is its ability to conform to each individual user. The bed may feel too soft or too hard, or it may be less malleable than usual.

You may experience an increase in the frequency with which you awaken from sleep due to pain or general discomfort. Even though it’s to be expected that memory foam will be warmer than other materials, a worn-out mattress will make you feel even more sticky and gross. Keep in mind that the benefits of temperature-sensitive memory foam diminish over time.

How Often Should You Replace A Foam Mattress?

A foam mattress should be replaced every six years at the latest, or sooner if any of the warning signs have appeared. Some brands of memory foam beds even have a 10-year guarantee because they are so durable. Some synthetic products, such as latex foam mattresses, can last twice as long as a memory foam mattress.

Why replace a foam mattress?

The loss of structure is the most compelling argument against doing so. Because the foam isn’t supportive or comfortable, you won’t get a good night’s rest. The lack of malleability and dents could even cause you to experience aches and pains all over your body.

And yes, dust mites, mold, allergens, stains, and odors will all accumulate in an old mattress. Even if you regularly clean your bed, they can still cause unpleasant reactions, such as aggravated allergies. It really doesn’t matter if your mattress is made of foam or not, but you should understand that it won’t last forever.

Memory Foam Mattress Do’s and Don’ts

If you put in the time and energy to maintain your memory foam mattress, it will reward you with years of the ideal combination of softness and support.

To keep your mattress in mint condition, follow these easy dos and don’ts:

1. Do Rotate It Regularly

Unlike many other layered foam mattresses, our memory foam mattresses are not meant to be turned over. To avoid depressions in areas of concentrated pressure, however, we advise you to switch its orientation from head to foot every three months or so.

2. Don’t Get it Wet

Avoid getting any liquids on the mattress’s surface if at all possible, as this can cause the foam to break down more quickly. If you have a tendency to have accidents in bed, a mattress protector is a must!

3. Do Use a Suitable Bed Base

The bed’s base should be solid, level, and free of any large gaps. Slats at the base should be between 10 and 15 centimeters wide, with gaps of no more than 5 centimeters. The mattress will wear out faster over time if the gaps are too big. Learn more about the various bed frames available today.

4. Don’t Keep it Near Strong Heat Sources

Because of its sensitivity to heat, Memory Foam conforms to your unique body shape. Memory foam mattresses should be kept away from sources of intense heat.

Memory foam mattresses should not be used with other types of strong heat sources like electric blankets or hot water bottles because doing so can compromise the foam’s performance and shorten its lifespan.

5. Do Protect it With a Washable Mattress Cover

Most of our mattresses have a cover that can be removed and washed in the event of a spill or stain. You can extend the life of your clean mattress by washing it at 40 degrees.

6. Don’t Make Your Bed!

Finally, we strongly suggest that you break every rule in the book and wait a few hours before making your bed in the morning. This will let your mattress and pillows breathe, preventing moisture buildup overnight.

Memory Foam Mattress FAQs

After being in the memory foam industry for so long, we’ve heard just about every question imaginable. Let’s get a few out in the open;

How Long Will a Memory Foam Mattress Last?

A high-quality memory foam mattress has a potential lifespan of 15 years with proper care.

The longer lasting memory foam you purchase, the higher the density should be. Spending a little more now will save you a lot of money in the long run from avoiding the hassle of having to buy a new mattress every few years.

How Often Should a Memory Foam Mattress be Turned?

Never! Turning a heavy mattress can be a hassle, but with our memory foam, you won’t have to worry about that. Memory foam mattresses should be rotated every three months or so, from head to foot.

How Do You Maintain A Memory Foam Mattress?

By adhering to our list of suggestions for using a memory foam mattress. The good news is that memory foam mattresses require almost no upkeep, making them ideal for busy people.

How do you Deep Clean a Memory Foam Mattress?

We can’t avoid accidental spills and stains. If you ever need to give your mattress a thorough cleaning, try these methods.

  • Remove the sheets and vacuum the mattress with the brush attachment to get rid of dust and allergens.
  • First, vacuum the mattress, and then sprinkle baking soda over it and let it sit for 24 hours to absorb any lingering odors. After this time has passed, you can vacuum the baking soda off of your mattress and enjoy your brand new bed!
  • An eco-friendly alternative to conventional stain removers is to fill a spray bottle with a solution of dishwashing liquid, water, and white vinegar. Spray the affected area, and use a clean sponge to gently scrub the stain in a circular motion. After spot-cleaning the mattress, you can use baking soda to remove any remaining stains.

Does a Memory Foam Mattress Need to Breathe?

Yes. Mold can be avoided and a comfortable sleep temperature maintained by ensuring adequate air flow. Keeping air circulating by using a bed frame with open space under the mattress.

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How Do You Fix A Dip in a Memory Foam Mattress?

It’s possible that your current memory foam mattress will sag or dip if it’s made from low-quality foam and if you haven’t been rotating it as often as recommended.

Once the mattress begins to sag, your only options are to replace it or add a memory foam mattress topper for additional comfort. If you take good care of your mattress, you can avoid this problem altogether.

Conclusion

It is important to know when to replace your mattress, whether it is memory foam or latex. How long does one foam mattress typically last? The usage, quality of construction, and upkeep are also important factors.

Foam mattresses have an estimated lifespan of 10–20 years, though they should be replaced every 6 years at the latest. Get a new mattress if you notice sagging, dents, or a lack of moldability. Your body may be telling you to ditch the foam mattress if you’ve been experiencing frequent allergy attacks and aches and pains.

Helen Skeates

Helen Skeates

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