Mattress Maintenance

Investing in a quality mattress is the first step to improved and restful sleep. Maintaining your mattress is the key to sustained performance and longevity. With a few steps, you can maintain your mattress for continued rest and support.

Keep your bed dry and clean. A mattress pad or protector is a good precaution against accidental spills, leaks, or accidents that can damage a mattress. To clean your mattress after a spill, gently rub a small amount of soap and cold water on the spot. Be sure not to soak the mattress as it may damage its construction and internal contents.

Use the proper foundation or box spring for your mattress. Not only is this the best way to maintain support and comfort, but also many mattress manufacturers void their warranty if the mattress is not supported by the manufacturer's box spring.

Rotate your mattress. A new mattress should be rotated once a month for the first six months and once every two to three months after that. Double sided, or two sided, mattresses should be alternately flipped and rotated. Manufacturers suggest you rotate the box spring or foundation twice a year.

Use the proper frame support for your mattress. Queen and larger size mattress sets should be supported by a five- or six-leg frame. A queen size mattress is sixty inches wide and requires more support than smaller sizes. If using a headboard or footboards style bed, one should use at least five wood slats with three positioned primarily in the center third of the bed.

Prevent additional wear and tear. Don't jump or stand on your mattress, and avoid folding or bending your mattress as well as heavy wear in one spot and excessive weight on the handles. Check for wear and tear at least once a year because a small tear can readily turn into a large rip. Also, vacuuming the mattress periodically helps with allergies and keeps the bed in good shape.

Many factors such as the manufacturer, the quality of bedding, and the vigorousness of use can affect the lifespan of a mattress. Maintaining your mattress can help sustain it, but just because a mattress appears to be in good condition, does not mean you are still getting the most benefits out of it. Once a mattress no longer feels supportive and instead seems to contribute to body pain or stiffness, it should be replaced. Some symptoms of a broken or worn out mattress include springs which can be felt poking through upholstery layer, visible permanent sagging or deformity, lumpiness, and excessive squeaking.