The average mattress lifespan#

Most mattress manufacturers recommend replacing your mattress every 7–10 years. However, this is a general guideline — the actual lifespan varies considerably depending on the type of mattress, its quality, how you use it and whether you care for it properly.

  • Memory foam: 7–10 years
  • Hybrid: 7–10 years
  • Pocket sprung: 8–12 years (springs are durable, but fillings compress)
  • Natural latex: 15–20 years (most durable type)
  • Open-coil spring: 5–7 years (cheapest and least durable)

Signs your mattress needs replacing#

Rather than going solely by age, watch out for these signs that your mattress is past its best:

  • Visible sagging or body impressions: A dip of more than 3–4 cm is a clear sign the mattress is no longer supporting you properly.
  • You wake up with pain: If you regularly wake with a stiff back, aching hips or sore shoulders and the pain eases during the day, your mattress is likely the culprit.
  • You sleep better elsewhere: If you consistently sleep better in a hotel or at a friend's house, it's a strong indicator your mattress has given up.
  • Increased noise: Creaking or squeaking from the springs indicates they're wearing out.
  • You can feel the springs: If you can feel individual springs through the comfort layers, the mattress is done.
  • Allergy flare-ups: Old mattresses accumulate dust mites, dead skin cells and mould, which can trigger allergies and asthma.

When mattresses wear out faster#

Several factors accelerate wear:

  • Not using a mattress protector (moisture and sweat degrade foam)
  • Never rotating the mattress (one-sided wear)
  • Heavier sleepers (more pressure per square inch)
  • Children jumping on the bed
  • Sleeping with pets

How to extend your mattress's life#

  • Use a quality mattress protector from day one
  • Rotate your mattress 180° every 3–6 months (most modern mattresses are one-sided, so you don't need to flip them)
  • Ensure it's on a suitable base — a sagging or broken bed frame will shorten mattress life significantly
  • Air it out regularly by folding back the duvet for a few hours
  • Clean spills immediately and use a breathable protector

Is it worth repairing a mattress?#

In almost all cases, no. Mattress fillings and foams cannot be meaningfully repaired once they've compressed. A mattress topper can temporarily mask sagging, but it does nothing to restore proper support. If your mattress is showing signs of significant wear, investing in a new one is the better long-term choice — especially given the impact on your sleep quality and physical health.