If you’ve just ordered that new mattress, you’re expecting it to be great. And if you invested in a quality mattress it will be, at least at first. You hope to sleep more comfortably than you have in years. But, you may wonder, how long will it continue to bring you pleasant dreams? Will you still be as happy five or more years from now?
The manufacture and quality of the product play a big role in its longevity, but there’s a part that’s up to you. The good news is that your job isn’t terribly difficult. Follow a few rules for mattress care to ensure you get the very most from your investment.
A traditional innerspring mattress rests atop box springs, but a memory foam mattress needs to lie on a solid foundation. You don’t necessarily have to buy a new support with your new mattress, but the base needs to be the proper type and the right size so that the mattress isn’t misaligned on top of it. If you have a queen or a king a center support is necessary. Check the integrity of your foundation once a year to ensure the slats, springs or other supports are in good shape.
If your mattress comes with a chemical “new mattress” smell, uncover it and air it out until the odor goes away.
Always use a mattress protector. Get one that’s liquid resistant and breathable. This will not only keep off moisture, dust, debris and dirt but will also protect against skin oils and perspiration. It prevents the build-up of allergens such as mold and mites. And it’s easier to wash a mattress cover than to clean a mattress.
Don’t keep the same mattress cover forever. Replace it every year or two.
Your mother was right: don’t jump on the bed. Don’t walk on it either. Avoid siting on the edge in the same spot; over time it will get depressed. In general, avoid anything that might create high and low spots.
Eating in bed is not a good idea. Crumbs and spills can work their way in. Some people can’t bear to sleep without their cats and dogs, but your mattress will be happier if animals have their own beds. Drool, hair and, worst of all, accidents, can all make trouble for your mattress.
The best way is to prevent it from getting dirty. Wash the linens every week or two to eliminate body oils, perspiration and skin. Wash your mattress protector every couple of months. Vacuum about once a month and use the upholstery attachment to minimize the build-up of dust and dander.
If the mattress does get dirty or stained, clean it with a small amount of mild soap and water, with emphasis on “small amount.” Never drench or soak it. It’s okay to scrub gently with a soft brush. Make sure the mattress is completely dry before covering it back up.
If you detect an odor, sprinkle the spot with baking soda, wait about 20 minutes and vacuum.
Every couple months, on a dry, sunny day, give your mattress a sunshine bath. Uncover it and position it where it’s exposed to sunlight.
Rotate your mattress every two to six months. Put the head to the feet and the feet to the head. If you see sagging, depressions or softening, don’t wait; go ahead and rotate right away. Box springs should be rotated about twice a year.
With the traditional innerspring mattress, it’s a good idea to flip it when you rotate it. However, many modern mattresses don’t require a flip. Most memory foam mattresses, for instance, have an up and a down side and should not be flipped. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
In two words, very carefully. Cover it with plastic. Don’t let it get folded. If it has to be stored in a truck or van, set it upright on its sides. Don’t carry it by the handles; those are for adjusting it when it’s on your bed.
You know, the one that says, “Do not remove under penalty of law.” The warning is for the retailer, not for you, so you may rip it off if you wish, but it’s a good idea not to. If you ever have questions about warranty or care instructions, you might be happy to have that information. And it’s a good place to record your rotating mattress and flipping mattress dates.
You know the answer to this one: of course it won’t. A typical life is eight to ten years, and no matter how conscientiously you care for your investment, sooner or later you’ll have to buy a new one. When that time comes, when your back hurts or the mattress isn’t as comfortable, dispose of it properly.