Mattresses are pieces of furniture in the home that often get ignored and taken for granted. However, most people spend about one-third of their lives in bed, which equates to many hours lying on the same mattress!

This article will explore when and why it may be time to replace your mattress, plus the basics of mattress sizes and types of mattresses for when you’re ready to buy a new one.

When to Get a New Mattress

According to the Better Sleep Council, it is advisable to replace your mattress at least every seven to 10 years. However, the lifespan of a mattress varies greatly based upon how often you use it, how well you take care of it, and the quality of the mattress you’re using. For example, a mattress you lie upon every night will likely need to be replaced sooner than a guest bedroom mattress that is rarely used.

Aside from mattress age, it is also advisable to start shopping for a new mattress if your mattress squeaks excessively, if it is very stained, if it has a noticeable sag, if you are suffering from dust allergies, or if you wake up in the morning feeling more aches and pains than you’re used to.

Reasons to Replace a Mattress

One of the top reasons why people choose to get a new mattress is back pain. If you sleep in a bed with an unsupportive mattress, box springs, or pillow, you are more likely to develop stiffness and soreness in your neck, back, and elsewhere in the body. Mattresses also need to be replaced due to normal wear and tear, especially if the mattress is used by children or teenagers. You may want to replace your mattress if it has been used by someone who has frequently wet the bed or if you have had an infestation of bed bugs. If you buy a new bed as part of a home renovation project, you may also need to replace your mattress to better fit the new bed frame.

Mattress Firmness and Plushness

Luxury plush mattresses conform to the body well and can be beneficial for side-sleepers. Plush and luxury firm mattresses are a popular choice because they offer balanced support for all sleeping positions. Firm mattresses prevent the back and abdomen from sinking into the mattress overnight for back- and stomach-sleepers; however, they can feel uncomfortable at high firmness levels.

Types of Mattresses to Choose From

It’s easy to become overwhelmed by mattress options, just as it’s easy to assume that all mattresses are created equal! Some of the many types of mattresses include ones with innerspring coils, latex mattresses for a cooling effect, memory foam mattresses that conform to your shape, and pillowtop mattresses for extra comfort.

Mattress Sizes

Another consideration to remember is mattress size. There are four main sizes to choose from, depending on the size of bed frame you have: king, queen, full, and twin. For these sizes, you can choose between individual mattresses or mattress sets. An innovative concept we offer is the mattress-in-a-box, which allows you to shop online for a mattress and have it conveniently delivered to your door in a reasonably-sized box.

Mattress Box Spring Options

There are also mattress accessories that make your new mattress even more comfortable and supportive for your body. Box springs are placed under the mattress to absorb shock, reduce wear and tear on the mattress, provide support, and raise the height of the bed. As an alternative, you may choose a posture board made from solid plywood to reinforce the bedframe and allow the mattress to easily slide on top of it. Another option is an adjustable base that allows you to use a wireless remote control to raise your feet or head for reading and relaxing at bedtime.

Mattress Protector Options

Another important accessory when you are shopping for a new mattress is the mattress protector. This is often a protective layer that prevents wetness and insects from affecting your mattress. We recommend MasterGuard Natural Bamboo Mattress Protectors, MasterGuard CoolTouch Mattress Pads, and MasterGuard Encasement Bedbug Barriers to accompany your new mattress purchase.

At the Brick, we offer all of these high-quality mattress products and more so that you can get a restful night’s sleep and enjoy time spent relaxing in bed. Our friendly associates are experts in mattress product lines and always ready to help. So, stop by one of our many Canadian locations or contact us to learn more about finding the perfect mattress for your bedroom.