It’s no secret that orthopedic mattresses are some of the best mattresses on the market. They support your spine and help alleviate pain in your neck, back, and joints.
However, as orthopedic mattresses age, they can lose the support and pressure relief you need in an excellent mattress for back pain. This means knowing how long your mattress will last to avoid discomfort and back problems is essential.
Most orthopedic mattresses should last between 8 and 12 years. Several factors affect an orthopedic mattress‘ lifespan. An orthopedic mattress’s original build quality, materials, and even the sleep styles and weight of the users can all affect an orthopedic mattress’s longevity.
Some types of orthopedic mattresses last significantly longer than others. As a chiropractor and orthopedic mattress designer, I have 30 years’ worth of experience in helping people with back pain sleep better.
I even successfully ran a successful Kickstarter campaign!
So, in this article, I will share with you everything I have learned over the years about orthopedic mattress durability and how to get the best value in your next orthopedic mattress.
Do Orthopedic Mattresses last longer than regular mattresses?
Orthopedic mattresses are designed to provide support for your spine and joints. They are made with high-quality and high-density materials.
Most orthopedic mattresses last between one and five years longer than standard mattresses. Orthopedic mattresses have a longer lifespan due to high-density foams, supportive materials, and better build quality. All of these factors contribute to orthopedic mattresses being durable.
A regular mattress does not provide the same level of support and can cause pain in your neck, back, and joints. Over time, a regular mattress will lose its shape and become uncomfortable.
An orthopedic mattress will last longer because it is made with better materials and provides the support you need to avoid pain.
What Type of Orthopedic Mattress Last The Longest?
The materials used in an orthopedic mattress affect its lifespan. High-density foams, supportive coils, and other materials contribute to an orthopedic mattress’s longevity.
The best mattress is only as good as its weakest link, which is why knowing that every layer of your mattress is made with high-quality materials appropriate to your budget and your body weight is one of the essential elements of getting a good orthopedic mattress.
Quality or durability can’t be felt because even the lowest quality materials can be very comfortable in the highly controlled environment of most mattress showrooms.
It is impossible to predict the quality or durability of a mattress unless you have the details about the mattress, know what these details mean, or have someone interpret them for you.
Memory foam and polyfoam, for example, have higher quality/density versions and lower quality/density but less durable versions even though the material itself and the way it feels are the same.
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The following types of orthopedic mattresses and their lifespan
Memory foam & Latex foam durability
The durability of foam mattresses is a combination of three factors: the foam’s density, the strength of the bonds between the bubbles in the foam, and the rate of oxidation/breakdown. A mattress with a higher foam density will last longer than one with a lower foam density. Foams like natural latex have a higher resiliency than polyurethane foams to maintain their shape and support for longer. The oxidation rate is affected by the quality of the materials used in the foam and how well they are protected from exposure to oxygen and UV light.
Coil Mattresses: Standard & Hybrid durability
The supportiveness of innerspring mattresses comes from the steel coils inside the mattress. These coils tend to lose their resiliency and integrity in the middle of the mattress first, so the lifespan of an innerspring mattress is limited by how long the coils retain their shape and support. Most spring mattresses lose their shape faster than foam mattresses.
How do you know when your mattress needs to be replaced?
There’s no set answer for how often you should replace your mattress, as it depends on various factors, including age, usage, and condition. However, there are some telltale signs that it might be time to retire your current bed and invest in a new one.
Here are a few signs that your mattress may be nearing the end of its life:
-You wake up with aches and pains
-You don’t sleep as well on your mattress as you used to
-Your mattress is lumpy or sagging
-There are visible signs of wear and tear, such as stains or tears in the fabric.
If you’re experiencing any of these problems, it might be time to replace your mattress. When shopping for a new mattress, remember that some types of orthopedic mattresses last longer than others.
In general, latex and memory foam mattresses last the longest. These materials are designed to retain their shape and support over time.
Coil mattresses, on the other hand, may only last for five to seven years. This is because coils can become worn down and lose shape over time.
Why it’s essential to replace your mattress immediately if you have back pain
It’s no secret that having back pain can be incredibly debilitating. But you may not know that an old mattress is one of the leading causes of back pain. If you are experiencing back pain, replacing your bed as soon as possible is essential.
As mattresses age, they lose the support required for good spinal alignment. This can lead to many problems, including back pain, neck pain, and even headaches.
The longer you sleep on your old mattress, the worse your back pain will become. So if you’re experiencing discomfort, it’s essential to act fast and get a new mattress. Research has shown old mattresses cause back pain that could worsen over time.
How to care for your orthopedic mattress to ensure it lasts as long as possible
Orthopedic mattresses are a significant investment, so it’s good to take a proactive approach to increase their lifespan.
Some mattress types last longer than others. However, there are ways to help promote the lifestyle of your orthopedic mattress, no matter what type you have. Here are a few tips:
Rotate your mattress every three to six months.
This will help to even out the wear and tear on your mattress, and it will also help to keep it feeling fresh. When you do rotate your mattress, this will help prevent body impressions from forming in the mattress.
Additionally, many mattress manufacturers require that your mattress is rotated every 3-6 months for warranty eligibility. You should always consult your mattress warranty for specific instructions.
Some orthopedic mattresses are flippable as well as reversible. Flipping a mattress is something that you may want to consider if you have this type of mattress.
Use A Mattress Protector
A mattress protector can complement the mattress. A mattress protector is a good idea for several reasons – but choose your mattress protector wisely; it is better to choose a non-toxic and hypoallergenic mattress protector made from materials such as cotton or bamboo.
Choosing A Mattress Protector
When choosing your mattress protector, it goes without saying, always select one that compliments the intrigue and unique properties of your mattress, the reasons you choose that mattress. For example, if your mattress is perfectly designed to be comfortable and supportive and has just the right amount of give to cradle your body – but your mattress protector is firm and lacks any give, you won’t feel any of the benefits of your mattress.
The Benefits Of A Mattress Protector
The benefits of a mattress protector are; not only will it help keep your mattress clean and looking new and fresh for longer, but a breathable mattress protector also prevents the buildup of bacteria and dust mites – therefore, also having advantages for your health, especially if you are someone who suffers from dust allergies, such as dust induced-asthma.
The Best Materials For A Mattress Protector
Breathable mattress protectors are generally made from materials such as cotton or bamboo. These materials are not only soft and bacteria-resistant, but they prevent moisture and heat from getting trapped and causing mattress degradation. Having a breathable mattress protector will lead to higher quality sleep, as you won’t get too hot as you sleep, but instead sleep nice and cool. Bamboo and cotton also last several years, are easy to clean, and are more sustainable than synthetic fibers.
Avoid jumping or standing on your mattress.
This can damage the coils or other internal components of your mattress. If you need to get into bed, do so gently.
Don’t allow pets on your bed.
Pets can carry dirt and bacteria into your bed, which can shorten the lifespan of your mattress. In addition, their nails can tear the fabric of your mattress.
Avoid using your bed as a seating area.
Sitting on your bed can cause premature wear and tear. Consider adding a chair or loveseat if you need extra seating in your bedroom.
Make sure your bed frame is supportive.
It is best to have a supportive bed frame. One that does not cause your mattress to sag or to lose its shape. Your bed frame, like your mattress protector and pillow, should complement your mattress, aiming to achieve excellent sleep. You do not want any aspect to hinder your sleep or health.
A supportive bed frame can increase the longevity of your mattress as it evenly supports your mattress, preventing sagging or wear and tear.
If you have a box spring, ensure it is in good condition. If you have a platform bed, ensure the slats are evenly spaced and not sagging. The slats should be evenly spaced out and have small, tight spaces between the slaps to prevent impressions that can damage the foam, in other words, accelerate breakdown.
7-10 Shipping across Ireland Back Discomfort Perfect for anyone experiencing back discomfort, providing the much-needed comfort and support. Designed to avoid pressure points, this mattress ensures a comfort, reducing any undue stress on your body. For people who spend a significant amount of time sleeping, this mattress promotes healthier & comfortable rest. Order Online Video GuideOrthopedic MattressDoctor's Recommendation
Fast Irish Delivery
Product DetailsResearch-based Design
Recommended ForBack Discomfort
Pressure PointsIncredible Comfort
Conclusion
So, how long should you expect your orthopedic mattress to last? The answer is that it depends. Some beds may last up to 12 years if they are well-maintained and used by people who weigh less than 200 pounds. However, most orthopedic mattresses will only last around eight years due to the wear and tear of everyday use. It’s essential to remember that these are just general guidelines, and your mattress’s lifespan may vary depending on its original build quality, the materials it’s made from, and how often you rotate it. By understanding the factors that affect an orthopedic mattress’s lifespan, you can ensure you’re buying a product that will give you good value for your money.
