Mattresses - Maintenance and Care

Maintenance and Care

A good-quality innerspring mattress should last between 7 and 10 years before it needs to be replaced. Memory foam and latex models should last between 10 and 20 years, depending on the manufacturer, the quality of the bedding, and the vigorousness of use. These lifespans vary widely, and are affected by many factors.

Manufacturers recommend that mattresses should be placed atop a firm base to prevent sagging, and rotated once a month for the first six months and then every two or three months. Double-sided, or two-sided, mattresses should be alternately flipped and rotated. Manufacturers suggest that the box springs or foundation be rotated (spun) twice a year. Folding and bending of the mattress, heavy wear in one spot, and excessive weight on the handles, are harmful. If a mattress is allowed to become damp, for example by wet cleaning, mildew may develop inside the upholstery; cleaning with a vacuum cleaner or mild surface cleanser and a slightly damp cloth avoids this. A mattress protector can help prevent stains and soiling of the ticking.

A mattress may absorb significant amounts of sweat and other fluids in its lifetime, causing wear and stains. Some symptoms of a broken or worn-out mattress include springs which can be felt poking through the upholstery layer, visible permanent sagging or deformity, lumpiness, and excessive squeaking.

Mattresses 60 inches (150 cm) wide or more require to be supported by a frame with five or six, rather than four, legs. A headboard/footboard style bed needs at least five wood slats, with three positioned primarily in the center third of the bed.