Bad sleep or back pain? A wrong mattress or a mattress that is too old can be to blame because mattresses have a limited lifespan. For reasons of hygiene, too, you shouldn’t put off buying a new mattress for too long. Experts recommend a change after five to ten years.
Sagging or lounging? High time for the change
Sunbathing pits are depressions that no longer recede by themselves. They are based on material fatigue, which is caused either by the age of the mattress or by overuse. Regular turning of the mattress in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendation delays the formation of pits. The cooling reduces the quality of sleep and can lead to health problems, especially in the back area. Even the slightest pitting shows that it is time for a new mattress.
The volume weight: measure of durability
The density of a mattress indicates how heavy a cubic meter of mattress foam is in kilograms. The higher the density, the more stable and durable the mattress. If a mattress is used daily, its density should be over 30. If it is lower, then you should think about a change, because mattresses with a density of less than 30 are not suitable for permanent use. They are only suitable for sporadic use, for example in a guest bed.
Hygienic reasons for changing mattresses
Even with the best care, over the years, dirt accumulates on and in the mattress. Dander and sweat form breeding grounds for dust mites, bacteria and fungi. These natural and unavoidable soiling lead experts to recommend changing the mattress regularly. Some hygienic measures can extend the life of the mattress: Ventilating and turning the mattress allows moisture to evaporate more quickly. If the cover is removable, it can be washed. But even if you ventilate the mattress regularly, turn it over and wash the cover, hygiene is no longer guaranteed after a certain period of time.
How to tell if your mattress should be replaced:
- The mattress is worn out or shows other signs of age
. Crumbling latex or noticeably worn out spring cores also show that the mattress has been in use for too long. - Volume weight too low (less than 30)
Mattresses with a volume weight less than 30 are not suitable for everyday use. Such mattresses have a very short lifespan when used continuously. Tension and back pain can quickly result. - Mattress change necessary for hygienic reasons
If a mattress has reached the recommended maximum age (see below), it should be changed for hygienic reasons. A musty smell or mold stains indicate moisture, bacteria or fungus in the mattress. - Mattress causes sleep disorders or health problems
Bad sleep, tension or back problems can not only be caused by an old, but also the wrong mattress. Then you should immediately switch to an optimally adapted mattress.
Expert recommendation: How often do you change the mattress?
TÜV Rheinland advises changing the mattress after eight years. In the case of inexpensive mattresses, it is better to change them earlier, after five to eight years. High quality mattresses have a longer lifespan and can last up to fourteen years with good care. However, for hygienic reasons, mattresses should not be used for longer. If a mattress does not have a removable cover, it is advisable to replace it after five years. Certain foams in mattresses, especially latex, tend to crumble after a certain period of time and should then be replaced as well.
After how many years a mattress change is necessary:
- ✓After 5-8 years: with inexpensive mattresses
- ✓After 10-14 years: with high-quality mattresses
- ✓After 5 years: for mattresses without a removable cover
- ✓Immediately: If mattresses have recesses, the density of mattresses used daily is
below 30 or if sleeping problems or back pain occur when using the mattress
Choosing the right new mattress
Those who decide to replace the old mattress are spoiled for choice. The material and degree of hardness should be tailored to the weight, size, allergies or physical complaints.
