We’ve all been there: After a hectic day, we flop into bed for a night of restful sleep, but then we wake up in the morning feeling far from rested. Maybe you wake up with a kink in your neck, an ache in your back or simply feeling like you didn’t get the restful sleep you needed. There are many possible culprits, and that makes it hard to realize when your bed is to blame, especially if it still looks and feels good when you lay your head to rest at the end of each day.
If you’re frequently waking up in rough shape, it’s worth a little investigation. A good night's sleep shouldn’t feel like a special treat that you only get once in a while. Sleep plays an important role in how rested and refreshed we feel each day. But an older mattress that no longer provides the comfort and support you need could make it harder to get a restful night’s sleep. In some cases, the solution could be as simple as a mattress swap, and there are some signs to look for.
Signs your old mattress needs to go
One of the easiest ways to know it's time for your mattress to go is if it’s showing obvious deformation. If you see lumps, dips or sagging, the structure of your mattress is no longer holding up properly. You can’t expect a mattress to properly support you if it can’t even properly support itself.
Some issues might not be so readily visible. If your mattress is making more noise than you remember or you can more easily feel motion when your partner moves around in bed, then the springs and cushioning may be wearing out and ready for replacement.
You might also notice that you’re no longer waking up feeling as comfortable or well-rested as you once did. As mattresses age, changes in their support and structure can affect how comfortable they feel throughout the night. Even if you can’t see an obvious issue, a noticeable change in your sleep experience may be worth paying attention to.
Odor is another thing to pay attention to. Persistent or unusual odors, particularly when paired with visible signs of moisture or wear, may be another indication that it’s time to take a closer look at the condition of your mattress. When the signs aren’t obvious, you might get a hint that your bed is the culprit if you find yourself sleeping far better at hotels or when you’re on trips. And if your mattress is at least eight years old, it’s probably time.
What to look for in your new mattress
There’s plenty to consider when looking for a new mattress. After all, everyone sleeps differently and has different needs, and a new mattress could fail to help you get the restful sleep you need if it’s not suited to the way you sleep.
You should find a bed that’s going to fit you and your space. You may get by with a twin or full mattress if you sleep by yourself, but if you share a bed or are very tall, you should look toward a queen or king mattress.
Sharing a bed raises other concerns. One person tossing and turning in bed can impact the sleep of another person. A mattress like the king-size ZINUS 12 Inch Green Tea Cooling Gel Memory Foam Mattress can give partners space to sleep while the various foam layers isolate motion.
To find a mattress that suits the way you sleep, look at the construction types and firmness. Hybrid mattresses combine springs and foam for a firmer and more supported feel, while memory foam mattresses are designed to contour around you, adapting to the shape of your body. Sleeping on your side calls for a softer mattress that can let your shoulders and hips sink in to keep your spine in alignment. Something like the Zinus 12 Inch Queen Green Tea Memory Foam Mattress uses multiple foam layers for pressure relief.
The materials and construction of a mattress are also important factors to consider. Look for recognized certifications such as CertiPUR-US® and OEKO-TEX® that provide additional information about the materials and standards behind the product. Understanding how a mattress is constructed can help you make a more informed decision about what you’re bringing into your home.
If you’re a hot sleeper, often finding yourself waking up in the night sweating and kicking the blankets off, you can opt for a cooling mattress. Different materials in the top layers of the mattress and exterior fabric can help regulate body temperature and keep you cooler at night.
Keeping your mattress in top shape
Once you’ve got your new mattress, you’ll want to get the most out of it. To start, you should make sure it’s paired with a quality frame or foundation. The underside of the mattress needs support, but it also should be allowed to breathe.
You’ll want to protect the top of the mattress too. A quality mattress protector can help protect your mattress from everyday spills and moisture while helping keep your sleep setup fresh and comfortable. Consider pairing your new mattress with a mattress protector for an added layer of protection.
Many modern foam mattresses intentionally stack different types of foam layers, so there's no need to flip your mattress. But you should still rotate it 180° every three to six months. This helps avoid divots from consistent pressure in the same spot and uneven wear between sides for two partners.
Get ready for better rest
If you’re ready to sleep better and wake up feeling more rested, remember to give your current bed a check-up. Look out for visible deformation, lasting odors, changes in support or other signs that your mattress may no longer be providing the comfort it once did. If you determine it’s time for a new mattress, remember to consider what you need from it. Look for the right size and firmness to match your sleeping style, and consider the materials and how they can further enhance your comfort.
