How Long Does A Mattress Last?

March 5, 2021 | Casper Editorial Team

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Your mattress should be a dream-inducing Trans-Am that whisks you off from a night of rest and relaxation to a fresh cup of coffee in the morning. But how much mileage can you get out of your mattress? Let’s talk about mattress lifespan.

From gel foam mattresses, latex foam mattresses, a natural latex mattress, a waterbed mattress, to a spring mattress, there are many different types of mattresses to consider when it comes to the average lifespan. The rule of thumb for mattress life expectancy is 7-10 years.¹ With that said, there are additional factors that can influence mattress longevity such as the quality of materials, your sleep position, and mattress care.

So if you’re wondering how long does a mattress last, just know—if you’re comparing it to a 1970 classic car, then it’s time to upgrade.

Let’s discuss the different mattress materials and their life spans, other factors that impact your mattress’ longevity, and finally, how to know when it’s time to retire your mattress.

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Mattress Materials Matter

According to the Sleep Foundation, there are four major types of beds: innerspring, foam, latex, and a hybrid, composed of all three materials.² It is important to pick a mattress made of durable materials that enhance sleep quality and is protected against things like dust mites and bed bugs. The kind of material your mattress is made from can impact how long you’ll be able to rest easy on it.

An innerspring mattress has an average lifespan of about 5-8 years. While supportive, this mattress may sag over time. However, there are some positives to this mattress variety. An innerspring mattress resists body impressions (the outline you make in the bed which can become permanent over time) and premature softening.

A foam mattress lasts 8-10 years. According to the Sleep Foundation’s mattress evaluations, it has high durability and resistance-to-sagging ratings.³ But not all mattresses are created equal. Casper’s foam mattress can last up to 12 years, combining the best in mattress technology for total comfort and exceptional longevity so you can enjoy amazing sleep for years to come.
Latex mattresses last the longest, around 10-12 years. The Sleep Foundation has given this mattress its highest rating of good-to-very-good for durability. You can depend on this mattress to resist sagging and premature softening throughout its lifespan. Overall, latex earns a high rating of “very good” in longevity.

Go from “very good” to the “very best” with Casper’s latex mattress. Experience exceptional comfort through this pinnacle of mattress technology and you’ll never settle for lesser sleep again.

Finally, the hybrid mattress lasts between 8-10 years. This mattress offers outstanding durability and sag-resistance. Hybrids resist softening and are unlikely to take on body impressions, which is why they’re the leading mattresses in comfort and overall longevity—and Casper is the king of king (beds) when it comes to hybrid mattress quality.

Casper’s hybrid mattress is designed for its support, long lifespan, and unparalleled coziness. Elevate your sleep to new heights with Casper’s hybrid mattress.

Other Factors That Impact Mattress Longevity

There are plenty of factors that go into the lifespan of a mattress beyond materials and mattress type. For example, sleep position and your mattress care routine all directly affect how long a mattress will last.

Sleep position – Side-sleepers, back-sleepers, and stomach-sleepers all have different needs for support and use different areas of the bed to get a good night’s sleep. For instance, side-sleepers need more support in their hips and shoulders, while back-sleepers need lower back support, and stomach-sleepers need chest and hip support. The more support you require to sleep comfortably, the quicker those spots will wear out. This is even true for a firm mattress.
Mattress care – Your mattress needs regular upkeep to ensure its maximum longevity, just like routine maintenance for a car. A mattress will last longer if you flip it over every 6 months to a year (if it’s two-sided). Rotating your mattress can help ensure weight is distributed evenly over time to prevent body impressions. For tips on mattress rotation, check out our blog on how often to rotate your mattress. The use of a mattress protector can also safeguard against stains and bacteria.

These practices will extend the overall mattress lifespan and keep your bed supportive and comfortable. How often you should replace your mattress depends on the type of mattress, your sleeping position, and how well you upkeep your mattress.

Signs You May Be Ready for a Mattress Upgrade

If you forgot how long you’ve had your mattress and are looking for signs you need a new mattress, we have you covered. While there is no set expiration date stamped on your mattress, there are ways to tell if your bed might be ready for an upgrade.⁴

Take a moment and make a note if you’ve been experiencing any of the following:

Not sleeping well
Waking up tired
Sleeping better at hotels or in guest beds
Your bed sags or fails to feel supportive
Waking with aches and pains
Tossing and turning
Noticing your partner’s movements throughout the night
Allergies or asthma symptoms after time spent in bed (this is sometimes due to dust and allergens accumulating in your mattress over time)

If you’ve felt two or more of these, then your mattress might be the culprit.

Mattresses That Are Made to Last

If you’re constantly tired when you wake up, it may be time to replace that old mattress — especially if it’s over 10 years old. Fortunately, Casper has made it easy to find the right bed and quality mattress for you. Thanks to our amazing mattress innovations, you can rest blissfully knowing you have the best sleep technology on the market with Casper.