9 Signs Your Old Mattress is Creating Health Problems
You spend about one-third of your life asleep. The state of your mattress has a huge impact on the quality of your sleep. If you’ve noticed that you’re not sleeping as well, it takes you longer to fall asleep or you’re sore when you get up, it might be time for a new mattress. Consider these top nine signs that you need to start shopping for a new mattress.
- It Sags
A sag in the center of the mattress suggests worn coils. The foam could also be compressed. A sag of more than one inch means that it’s time for a replacement.
- You Leave a Lasting Impression
Memory foam should bounce back within 10 to 15 minutes after you get out of bed. If you leave a lasting impression on your foam mattress, the foam is probably degraded. When the impression is more than two inches deep, replace the mattress.
- Changes in Texture
The memory foam in your mattress changes texture over time. It might compress, getting harder. You might also notice lumpy spots. When there’s a big texture change in your mattress, it’s time for a replacement.
- New or Worse Allergies
Dust mites love mattresses. The mites feed on the skin cells that flake off your body. Over time, your mattress soaks up those skin cells. If you’re only sniffling or sneezing in bed, a new mattress that’s free of mites could help your symptoms.
- Aches and Pains
When you wake up sore, it could be due to an unsupportive mattress. Aches in your neck, back, hips or legs suggest that your mattress isn’t supporting your body. This is a good time to test some options in person and choose a mattress with more support.
- Difficulty Falling Asleep
If you’re having a hard time falling asleep, it could be your mattress. When you’ve corrected sleep hygiene, reduced caffeine and eliminated lights, the only thing left to try is a new mattress. Consider a mattress replacement if it takes you a long time to fall asleep or you can’t stay asleep.
- Pregnancy
A pregnant woman’s body undergoes a lot of changes. Hormones cause the joints to be more loose and flexible, which also means more aches and pains. Water weight gain and the growth of the uterus change a woman’s center of gravity. Many pregnant women experience lower back pain or sciatica during their third trimester. Doctors often recommend that pregnant women sleep on their sides in order to reduce heartburn and provide better blood flow. Pregnancy is a great reason to buy a new mattress that’s adjustable.
- Life or Health Changes
Perhaps your mattress is only a couple of years old, but something in your life has changed. Maybe you have a spine or hip problem and need more support. Perhaps you had a significant change in your weight. When your body has changed, it’s a good idea to consider a new mattress that’s a better fit for you now.
- It’s Double-digits Old
It’s a good idea to replace a mattress once it reaches seven to 10 years old. After years of use, the coils spring back less, the foams degrade and the support decreases. Your quality of sleep and overall health will be enhanced after you purchase a new mattress.
Photo by Kinga Cichewicz