The Impact of Mattress Age on Sleep Quality and When to Replace It

A good night’s sleep is one of the most important parts of staying healthy as it helps your body repair muscles, reduce stress, and recharge your mind for the next day. But many people overlook one key factor that can quietly affect sleep quality:

The age of their mattress.

Just like shoes wear down after years of use, mattresses also lose their support and comfort over time. Most mattresses last about 7 to 10 years, depending on factors such as:

• How often they’re used
• The materials they’re made from
• Your weight and
• The number of people using the bed. 

Over time, ALL mattresses break down to a degree. The degree of which is especially related to the quality of the mattress. The foam, springs, or latex inside break down, and the mattress may start to sag, feel lumpy, or lose the ability to support your body in a healthy position.

When a mattress is past its best, you may notice things such as more tossing and turning during the night. You might wake up with stiffness in your back, neck, or joints. Poor support can also make existing pain worse.

The issue you have is that sleeping on an old mattress can reduce the amount of deep, restorative sleep your body needs, leaving you feeling drained or fatigued the following day.

So how do you know when it’s time to replace your mattress?

Watch for these signs:

• Visible sagging or lumps that don’t bounce back.
• Waking up sore or stiff, especially in your back or hips.
• Interrupted sleep, such as waking often or feeling too hot.
• Noisy springs or creaks when you move.
• You get better sleep elsewhere, like at a hotel or on the couch.

Replacing an old mattress may feel like a big expense, but it’s an investment in your health.

The right mattress can improve posture, reduce pain, and help you get consistent, refreshing sleep. If your mattress is over 8 years old—or showing any of the signs above, it’s most likely time to start looking for a replacement. Choosing a supportive, comfortable mattress can give you years of healthier sleep and better health outcomes.