We use the term longevity when referring to our human lifespan, but it is also a great measure of the usefulness and life span of many objects. A mattress is no exception.
Mattresses are an expensive investment, and proper maintenance can significantly extend the lifespan of your sleep surface. From stain prevention to rotation and mattress protectors, this comprehensive guide covers all the basics of mattress maintenance. For more insights on maintaining the longevity of your mattress and ensuring a restful sleep, refer to this article by Kate Mcauliffe, titled “Memory foam mattress tips – research reveals what buyers must know.”
Regular Cleaning
Like any other investment, it’s important to clean your mattress regularly. This will help to guard against a number of problems that can shorten its lifespan. These include stains, sagging, and other damage to the fabric, foams, or inner workings of your mattress. Regular cleaning also ensures that your mattress is free of odors.
Dirty mattresses can develop a range of unsightly marks and stains, from Sunday breakfast to the more obvious marks caused by pet hair and other forms of body fluid. These stains can lead to unpleasant odors, which are especially noticeable when sleeping on an unwashed mattress. Even when you use a mattress protector, stains can still occur. If you notice a stain, removing it right away may help prevent it from setting into the fibers of your mattress.
Vacuuming your mattress once a month with the upholstery attachment on your vacuum cleaner will remove surface dust and other debris. This is especially important if you suffer from allergies, as it will keep dust mite populations in check and reduce the presence of other allergens that can affect your sleep environment.
Rotating your mattress every two to six months is recommended, especially for the first couple of years as it is breaking in. This will help to prevent a mattress from becoming lopsided and prevent it from forming creases or depressions over time.
Mattress Protector
A mattress protector is a great investment for the long-term health of your Helix. Without one, night sweats and untimely spills can seep into the mattress and leave behind an unpleasant odor. Eventually, it’s also possible that your mattress may become a breeding ground for bed bugs or other unwanted critters.
Many mattress manufacturers require that their mattresses be covered with a mattress protector to protect against bed bugs and other parasites. Not only does this make sense from a hygiene standpoint, but it’s also an excellent way to preserve the warranty that came with your mattress.
Using a mattress protector can help cut down on the recommended general mattress cleaning (around once a week) and can prolong the lifespan of your Helix mattress. Most quality mattress protectors are breathable and easy to wash at home, making them a simple addition to your mattress care routine.
A good mattress protector is also an excellent barrier against liquids, dust mites and other allergens. These can be difficult to completely remove when they have had time to soak into the mattress, so a quality mattress protector will repel them and keep your mattress healthy.
It’s important to note that not all mattress protectors are made the same way. Some are constructed from environmentally harmful materials, making them unsuitable for recycling or reuse. This can mean that poorly maintained mattresses must be discarded more frequently than well-maintained ones, which is not great for the environment or many of the planet’s delicate ecosystems. Fortunately, most quality mattress protectors are constructed from environmentally friendly materials and are safe for recycling or reuse. They can be repurposed into pillow inserts and pet beds, among other things.
Bed Frame or Foundation
A mattress that rests directly on the floor is prone to more moisture and dirt than one that is supported by a frame or foundation. Dirt, hair, dead skin cells, bugs, mites, pet dander and other allergens can find their way inside your mattress where they can lead to mold, mildew or other harmful side effects like rashes or asthma attacks. Moisture also degrades the materials used to make your mattress, causing them to break down faster and not offer as much support over time.
A quality bed frame or foundation can help your mattress last longer by providing a solid and sturdy base to sit on. A frame with slats is better suited for memory foam, latex foam and hybrid mattresses as it allows the mattress to breathe by releasing trapped heat and air while supporting the mattress evenly.
Box springs are a traditional option that utilize actual springs in a box to provide support and raise the height of your mattress. They can last for 10 years on average before they start to wear out and may need to be replaced when you upgrade your mattress or move into a new home.
Other options to consider include platform slat bases, which are usually metal or wood and can be broken down and replaced individually if damaged. They are better suited for hybrid and innerspring mattresses, and they can be used in combination with a box spring or other types of foundations. Bunkie boards, which are made from plywood and set on top of other foundation types, can also be used with mattress. They are best for those who want to reduce the amount of space needed to get in and out of bed, as they are thinner than a box spring.
Rotating and Flipping
Like a car, a mattress needs regular maintenance to keep it running smoothly. Washing bedding, rotating and flipping, using a mattress protector, and regular vacuuming are all general practices that help extend the life of your bed. However, there are certain types of mattresses that need special care. These include foam, innerspring, and hybrid mattresses.
A mattress that isn’t rotated or flipped often can develop a sagging appearance. This can cause pain and discomfort, leading to a less restful sleep. In addition, a sagging mattress won’t provide as much support for the body. Over time, this can cause back pain and lead to a need for a new mattress sooner than necessary.
Rotating and flipping your mattress can even out the wear patterns so that all areas of the mattress wear evenly. It can also help prevent the development of lumpy areas. However, not all mattresses can be flipped and should only be flipped when they are designed to do so. It is best to check with your mattress provider or read the instructions manual on your specific mattress to determine whether or not it can be flipped and how often it should be flipped.
Because handling a heavy mattress can be straining on your back, it is a good idea to get some help when you are rotating and flipping your mattress. It is especially important to get assistance if you are handling a king-size mattress that isn’t designed to be flipped or rotated. Ask a friend or family member to help. It is also a good idea to remove any objects or furniture from around your bed, so that you can move the mattress easily without risking injury or damage.
Environmental Conditions
The environment in which you sleep is crucial for your long-term health. Poor quality and insufficient sleep can lead to a number of medical conditions, ranging from moodiness and poor concentration to memory problems and depression. Addressing environmental conditions like dust mites, odours and allergens on your mattress can help you get the deep restorative sleep you need to stay healthy.
Wash your mattress linens regularly, and make sure to use a clean pillow protector. Changing your sheets every week is ideal, while blankets and duvets can typically be laundered less frequently. Vacuum your mattress and bed frame at least once a month using a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment to ensure your mattress is free of dust, dander and dead skin cells. Ensure that you vacuum the crevices of your mattress as well, and remember to use the upholstery attachment to reach those hard-to-reach corners.
If your mattress suffers a stain, act quickly to minimise damage. A wine stain, for example, is much easier to remove if you catch it while still fresh. Simply soak a clean rag in laundry detergent or white vinegar and scrub the affected area. If the stain remains, you may need to apply a stronger solution, but remember to never saturate your mattress as it can cause permanent damage.
Even with the best of care, your mattress will eventually need to be replaced. Your mattress lifespan will depend on a number of factors, including the material quality and design of your mattress, the position you sleep in, and your maintenance routine. Keeping your mattress clean, ensuring it has proper support, rotating and flipping it regularly, and washing the protective mattress pad can all help extend its lifespan.