A quality mattress can last many years if you take care of it. Three habits make the biggest difference: protect it from stains and moisture with a mattress protector, set it on the right base, and air it out regularly. Here is how to extend its life and keep your comfort.
Use a mattress protector from day one
Coffee in bed, a movie night with snacks, sick kids, pets: there is no shortage of ways to stain a mattress. A stain isn’t just unsightly. Liquids soak into the mattress layers, bring moisture with them and can damage it from the inside.
There is also a very practical reason: many mattress warranties exclude stained mattresses. Check the terms of yours. A washable, ideally breathable mattress protector is the simplest and cheapest way to keep your mattress clean and your warranty valid.
Choose the right base
A mattress is only as good as the base it rests on. A base that sags, slats spaced too far apart or an uneven surface create pressure points and speed up sagging. Make sure your bed frame supports the mattress across its whole surface and lets air circulate.
Air out your mattress regularly
During the night, the body gives off heat and moisture. To let it escape, leave the bed uncovered for a few minutes in the morning before making it, and air out the bedroom regularly. If you sleep on a shikibuton or a futon on the floor, fold or lift it every morning and put it in the sun from time to time. To learn more, read Is Your Mattress Vulnerable to Mold?
Rotate your mattress
We often sleep in the same spot, which wears some areas faster than others. Rotating the mattress head to foot every three to six months spreads the wear. If your mattress is reversible, flip it too. Check the recommendations for your model.
Avoid what wears it out early
- Jumping on the bed, or always sitting in the same spot on the edge.
- Eating and drinking in bed without protection.
- Folding or moving a mattress that isn’t designed for it.
- Letting moisture build up in a poorly ventilated room.
Clean stains quickly
If a spill happens, blot without rubbing, then spot clean with a mild detergent and a little water. Avoid soaking the mattress, and let it air dry completely before making the bed.
Add a topper if needed
A natural latex mattress topper can adjust the firmness of a mattress that is still sound and protect it from wear. Keep in mind: a topper corrects firmness, it never corrects sagging.
When should you replace your mattress?
Visible dips, lumps, waking up sore, or a mattress that no longer supports the body evenly are clear signs. Before replacing it, know that some futons and mattresses can be repaired or re-stuffed: ask at our boutique on rue Saint-Denis in Montreal.
FAQ
How long does a mattress last?
It depends on the materials, use and care. A quality mattress that is well protected and sits on a good base lasts much longer than a neglected one.
Is a mattress protector really necessary?
Yes. It is the simplest protection against stains and moisture, and many warranties exclude stained mattresses.
How often should you rotate a mattress?
Every three to six months, following the manufacturer’s recommendations.
