Mattress Care Tips: How to Make Your Mattress Last

A good mattress is key to a good night’s sleep and your overall wellbeing, so it pays to look after them. With the right care, a good mattress can serve you well for years beyond what a neglected one would manage. 

These mattress care tips cover the basics every NZ household should know, from rotating and protecting to cleaning and knowing when it's time to replace.

Rotate your mattress regularly

Even with a quality mattress, sleeping in the same position night after night creates wear in the same spots over time. Rotating your mattress helps distribute that wear more evenly and prevents body impressions. A well-maintained mattress should feel consistent along the surface.

For a new mattress, rotate it every fortnight for the first three months. After that, rotating once every three months is enough to maintain even wear. Most modern mattresses are single-sided, so you simply rotate end to end rather than flipping.

Setting a reminder on your phone makes it easy to stay on top of this. It takes five minutes and adds extra life to your mattress.

Use a mattress protector

A mattress protector is one of the most cost-effective things you can do to extend the life of your mattress. It shields the surface from spills, sweat, dust mites, and general wear that would otherwise work their way into the materials over time.

Look for a mattress protector that is breathable and machine washable. A waterproof option is worth considering, especially for kids' beds or if you tend to sleep hot.

How to clean a mattress

A regular clean keeps your mattress hygienic and feeling fresh. The key is to keep it simple and consistent – complicated cleaning routines can be tricky to commit to.

Vacuum monthly

A quick vacuum with an attachment removes dust and surface debris and is particularly useful if you suffer from allergies or asthma. It takes a few minutes and makes a noticeable difference to how fresh your mattress feels.

Deal with spills quickly

Mattress spills may be inconvenient to deal with at night or in the morning, but acting fast helps prevent the spill from setting in. Use a clean, damp cloth and sponge the area. Resist the urge to rub and avoid harsh detergents. Before replacing your bedding, allow the mattress to completely dry.

Refresh the mattress with baking soda

For a deeper refresh, sprinkle a thin layer of baking soda over the surface and leave it for an hour before vacuuming it off. It absorbs odours and moisture without any chemicals or risk of damage. Airing your mattress outdoors in sunlight once or twice a year achieves a similar result.

Don’t forget to look after your base

A mattress is only as good as what it's sitting on. A worn or unsupportive base can cause a mattress to sag prematurely, no matter how well you care for it. Make sure your base or bed frame is in good condition and provides adequate support across the full surface of the mattress.

When to replace your mattress

Even if you treat your mattress with care and follow these tips closely, you will eventually need to replace it. As a general guide, replacing your mattress every eight to ten years is reasonable, though this depends on the type of mattress and how regularly it’s used.

Signs that it’s time to replace your mattress include visible sagging or body impressions that don’t even themselves out. Waking up feeling stiff or unrested is also a sign of needing to replace your mattress, especially when the rest of your lifestyle is unchanged. If your mattress is past its prime, buying local is an easy way to keep costs down.

Small habits for a longer mattress life

Looking after your mattress takes less time and effort than you think. Rotating it every few months, keeping a protector on it, and cleaning it occasionally are enough to add years to its life and keep it feeling its best. If you're shopping for a new mattress or a protector, have a look at our full range or give us a call on 09 4449356, and our team will help you find the right fit.