Arguably the most important piece of furniture in any dwelling, the average bed provides years of faithful service. According to most sleep experts, well-made mattresses can last between 8 and 10 years. But when a bed nears the end of that range, it may not provide the comfort and support that users need to get a restful night's sleep. Here are five unmistakable signs that it's time to trade in that old mattress.
1. User Discomfort
Once a bed begins to break down, its owner may experience morning aches, pains, and stiffness for the first time. This occurs because the springs inside the average mattress lose resiliency over time, causing the level of support to decline.
2. Sudden Sneezing
Beds are magnets for household allergens. It's no wonder people who sleep on old mattresses infested with allergens often wake up feeling sick. They might even wake themselves up at night with sudden bouts of coughing and sneezing.
3. Noticeable Sagging
When people sleep in the same spot, the bedsprings are subjected to continuous pressure on a nightly basis. In time, they will lose their ability to recoil and will gradually start to sink. Because the problem is expensive to fix, it's often best to simply buy a new bed.
4. Lumpy Surface
Once again, a lumpy mattress is a sign that the springs inside are loose, broken, or simply worn out. Most users cannot sleep on a bed that is lumpy due to the discomfort.
5. Persistent Fatigue
Worn-out mattresses seldom provide the level of support people need to get deep, restful sleep. As a result, their owners often wake up feeling tired and run-down.
When any of these warning signs appear, it's time to consider getting a new mattress.
