A high-quality mattress is an investment in your sleep, health, and overall well-being. But like any investment, it needs regular care to ensure it lasts—and performs—at its best. While most mattresses are built to last between 7 to 10 years, proper care and maintenance can significantly extend that lifespan, improve your comfort, and even save you money in the long run.
Whether you’ve just unboxed a brand-new bed or you’ve had yours for a while, here’s your go-to guide for keeping your mattress in top shape for years to come.
1. Use a Mattress Protector from Day One
A waterproof, breathable mattress protector is your first line of defense. It shields your bed from:
- Spills and stains
- Sweat and body oils
- Dust mites and allergens
These contaminants can wear down materials over time and contribute to unwanted odors or hygiene issues. A good mattress protector is washable, making it easy to maintain a clean sleep surface.
2. Rotate (or Flip) Regularly
To prevent sagging and uneven wear, rotate your mattress 180 degrees every 3–6 months. This ensures more even pressure distribution and reduces the formation of body impressions—especially important if you tend to sleep on one side of the bed.
3. Keep It Clean with Regular Vacuuming
Dust, dead skin, and allergens can build up in your mattress over time. Use your vacuum’s upholstery attachment to lightly vacuum the surface every 1–2 months.
For deeper cleaning:
- Sprinkle baking soda over the mattress and let it sit for 30–60 minutes to neutralize odors.
- Vacuum the baking soda thoroughly.
- Spot-clean stains with a gentle upholstery cleaner or a vinegar-water solution.
Many Tempur-Pedic mattresses also feature a removable, machine-washable top cover, making maintenance even easier. Just unzip the cover, wash it according to the care label, and avoid direct contact with the foam layer underneath.
4. Don’t Jump on the Bed (Yes, Really)
As tempting as it might be, especially for kids, jumping on the bed can damage the inner structure of your mattress. The extra force can cause springs to bend or foam layers to break down prematurely, impacting support and longevity.
5. Support Your Mattress with a Proper Base
A sagging or broken foundation can ruin a mattress, no matter how high-quality it is. Always check with the mattress manufacturer to see what kind of base is recommended:
- Box springs for innerspring mattresses
- Solid or slatted bases (with minimal gaps) for memory foam or hybrid mattresses
- Adjustable bases for added functionality
Make sure your frame or base offers even support and doesn’t allow the mattress to sag in the middle.
6. Let It Breathe
When you change your sheets, let your mattress air out for a few hours before remaking the bed. This helps moisture evaporate and keeps your sleep surface fresher. Occasionally leaving the mattress exposed to sunlight (if possible) can also help eliminate bacteria and odors.
7. Follow Manufacturer Guidelines
Every mattress is different. Some may come with specific care instructions or warranty requirements regarding support, cleaning, or rotating. Following these guidelines will help you avoid accidentally voiding your warranty and keep your mattress in great condition.
Final Thoughts
A little TLC goes a long way. With these simple mattress care and maintenance tips, you can stretch your investment, enjoy better sleep, and avoid premature sagging or wear. Remember, your mattress takes care of you every night—so it’s only fair you return the favor.
Looking for a new mattress or mattress accessories to protect the one you already love? We have it at one of our many Best Mattress stores in Las Vegas, NV, and St. George, UT.