How to Take Care of a Mattress

Tips on Taking Care of a Mattress

A mattress is a long-term investment.  Though it is recommended to switch them out every eight years, latex mattresses can last much longer.  Proper care is essential for the longevity of any mattress.  Below we outline some tips on how to care for different types of mattresses.  These are simple and easy things that can be done to elongate the useful life.  They may also help to maintain a healthy sleep surface in the meantime.

Choose the Right Mattress Size for Your Needs

Pick the correct size mattress for your situation.  Most smaller mattresses can accommodate people up to around 250 pounds.  Larger mattress sizes, starting with the Queen size, can generally support twice that.  If there will be a lot of weight on a mattress, consider weight capacities before purchase.  If more than one person will sleep on a mattress, be sure the mattress is constructed for that purpose.  Generally, a larger mattress is better for two or more people.

Use the Right Type of Bed Frame

Be careful that the mattress correctly fits the selected bed frame to avoid wear and tear at the mattress edges.  Larger mattresses require reinforced support at the center to prevent sagging so use the appropriate size.  Which type of bed frame used matters as well.  For coil mattresses, a box spring may be best.  However, they are not ideal for memory foam mattresses that need a more solid foundation.  Consult the manufacturer’s recommendations for compatible bed frames.

Recruit Help When Moving the Mattress

To prevent damage to the mattress, don’t move it on your own.  Dragging a mattress down the hall or attempting to place it on the base solo, can prove difficult.  It is almost guaranteed that the mattress will bend or fold if one person tries to do it alone.  This can compromise the integrity of mattress materials and ultimately weaken the mattress.  Instead, enlist the help of a friend or family member when moving the mattress.

Utilize a Mattress Protector from the Start

You probably know a good mattress protector can safeguard a mattress from damage caused by spills and accidents.  Did you know that using a mattress protector from day one can also help protect a mattress from unseen threats?  It acts as a barrier against sweat, dust mites, and other allergens that can make a home inside your mattress.  Mattress protectors are usually water-proof and go on similar to a fitted sheet, wrapping around the mattress corners.

Wash Bedding Regularly

Bed sheets can absorb sweat, skin oils, shedding skin cells, as well as residue from body lotions and other products.  All bedding should be washed at the minimum, once every two weeks.  The water temperature used depends on the material of the bedding.  While sheets, pillowcases and comforters are being laundered, remove the mattress cover and allow sunlight on the mattress top.  This can work to prevent moisture build up between the cover and the mattress.

Exclusively Sleep on the Mattress

There are a couple reasons to use your bed solely for sleeping.  First, a mattress is made to support the body in a laying position.  For some mattresses, sitting on a bed’s edges often can possibly weaken the structure.  This is not the case for most mattresses.  Another reason to commit a mattress to sleep only is that it will likely help you sleep better.  Associating the bed with sleep is a good sleep habit.

Start with a Good Quality Mattress

There is little that can be done that can make a low-quality mattress better.  So, starting with a good mattress is best.  When on the hunt for a new mattress, consider the manufacturer’s reputation.  Check out reviews and consider the materials that make up the mattress.  Many mattresses come with some sort of warranty that protects against manufacturing errors or defects.  Being attentive to these details can help you pick a good, high-quality mattress.