How to get the most out of your mattress

The average person spends anywhere from $300 to $2000 or more on a new mattress. Since it is one of the larger purchases for most households, many people expect beds to last for several years. But, not taking good care of a mattress can dramatically reduce it’s life span, and leave you in need of a new bed sooner than you anticipated.

We’ve collected the top undercover ways to keep your bed in top shape. By following these sweet and simple steps, you can help protect your mattress and make it last longer.

Rule 1: Use a Mattress Protector

Perhaps the single most important thing anyone can do to make a mattress last longer is to use a waterproof mattress protector. Even if you’re a healthy adult who hasn’t wet the bed in decades, spills and other unforeseen accidents can ruin an otherwise good bed.

Liquids and bodily fluids can degrade foams, leave nasty odors, and produce mold and mildew within mattress layers. Cleanup can be very difficult once a spill soaks below the surface, whereas a mattress protector makes clean up swift and easy.

You also sweat a significant amount each night, which is absorbed into your bed along with shed skin cells, dust mites, and dust mite detritus. Keeping this out of your mattress reduces allergen buildup and keeps your sleep environment healthier.

Rule 2: Clean Your Bedding Regularly

People’s preferences for frequency of washing sheets and mattress protector can vary widely, but most experts suggest washing sheets at least every two weeks or so. Bedding soaks in sweat, skin cells and lots of other things you’d probably rather not sleep with, so remind yourself to keep sheets clean. If you have dust allergies or skin irritations, consider washing sheets even more frequently.

Rule 3: Clean Your Mattress Regularly

Did you know you should clean your actual mattress, too? Every month or so, it’s a good idea to strip your bed and vacuum the surface and seams to reduce dust and debris (even if you use a protector). Some cleaning experts recommend sprinkling baking soda on the mattress surface before vacuuming to absorb excess moisture and odors.

If your mattress cover is removable and washable, wash it as well. This is also a good time to inspect your mattress for any issues.

Rule 4: Be Aware of Bed Bugs

Bed bugs can immediately turn a decent bed into a hazard zone. Be vigilant when you go to hotels or sleep away from home, as bed bugs are prolific hitchhikers and they can easily become your problem.

If you live in a bed bug prone area, consider using a bed bug-proof mattress encasement. These zippered covers fully encase the bed and prevent bugs from getting inside.

Rule 5: Ensure Your Mattress is Supported

Your mattress is designed to support you, but it also needs to be supported to provide long lasting comfort. Inspect your bed frame and foundation/boxsprings every couple of years to make sure they are in good shape and providing a solid foundation for your mattress.

Boxsprings that are saggy and worn out, wood slats that are weak or too far apart, or a broken frame can all contribute to quicker wear and reduce your comfort.

Making Your Mattress Last a Long Time

By keeping your bed protected from allergens and accidents, regularly cleaning, and reading the fine print, you can help extend the life of a mattress as long as possible.

Starting with a good-quality mattress protector is also important to getting several years of good sleep. Check out our guides on mattress protector shopping, mattress topper, and duvet to learn how to shop and compare specifications.

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