10 Signs It's Time to Buy a New Mattress

10 Signs It’s Time to Buy a New Mattress

A good night’s sleep is essential for your health and wellbeing. While many factors affect how well you rest, your mattress is one of the most important. Even the best mattress won’t last forever, and sleeping on an old or worn-out bed can leave you tired, achy and frustrated.

But how do you know when to replace a mattress? Below we share the clear signs that it’s time to invest in a new one — plus tips to make your next mattress last longer.

1. Your Mattress Is Over 7–10 Years Old

Mattress lifespan varies depending on materials, but on average, you should replace yours every 7–10 years. 

If your mattress is approaching a decade old, it’s worth asking whether it still supports you properly. Even if it looks fine, the structure inside may be breaking down.

2. You Wake Up With Back or Joint Pain

Morning stiffness, sore shoulders, or lower back pain are some of the strongest signs you need a new mattress. As mattresses age, they lose their ability to distribute weight evenly, leading to poor spinal alignment.

If aches vanish after sleeping on another bed — such as in a hotel — your mattress is likely to blame.

3. Visible Sagging, Lumps or Indentations

Sagging and lumps are unmistakable signals that it’s time to buy a new mattress. These irregularities create pressure points, disrupt alignment, and prevent deep, restorative sleep.

4. Restless Nights and Interrupted Sleep

If you toss, turn, or wake frequently during the night, your mattress may no longer offer the right balance of comfort and support. Poor-quality sleep affects everything from your mood to your concentration.

5. You Sleep Better Elsewhere

Do you find yourself sleeping more soundly in hotels or even on the sofa? If so, it’s another clear sign that your mattress isn’t meeting your needs anymore.

6. Springs Are Noisy or Movement Wakes You

Pocket sprung and open coil mattresses often start squeaking or creaking as they wear out. You might also notice every time your partner turns over or gets out of bed. Excessive motion transfer is a strong indicator your mattress has lost stability.

How to stop bed squeaking

7. Allergies or Asthma Flare Up

Old mattresses can harbour dust mites, allergens and even mould, making symptoms worse at night. If you’ve noticed more sneezing, coughing, or congestion in the mornings, it may be time to invest in a new hypoallergenic mattress.

Why you need a mattress protector

8. It Simply Feels Uncomfortable

Comfort is subjective, but if your mattress no longer feels supportive or cosy, it’s a strong sign you need a replacement. As your body and lifestyle change, so do your sleep needs.

9. Your Sleep Needs Have Changed

Perhaps you’ve started sharing a bed, become pregnant, or developed health issues like arthritis. Even if your mattress isn’t very old, changing needs can make it unsuitable. The best mattress for you now may be very different from the one you bought years ago.

10. Visible Wear and Tear

Fraying fabric, exposed springs, or damaged covers are all signs your mattress is beyond its best. These aren’t just cosmetic issues — they reduce comfort, hygiene, and overall durability.

How to Make Your Next Mattress Last Longer

Once you’ve decided when to replace a mattress and chosen a new one, there are steps you can take to extend its lifespan:

• Use a mattress protector to guard against spills and allergens.

• Rotate or flip your mattress (if recommended by the manufacturer).

• Support it with a proper bed base or frame.

• Clean and air it regularly to keep it fresh.

These simple habits can add years to your investment.

Final Thoughts

Knowing when to replace a mattress is key to maintaining healthy, refreshing sleep. If you’ve noticed sagging, pain, allergies, or simply that you sleep better elsewhere, it’s time to upgrade.

Your mattress isn’t just a piece of furniture — it’s an investment in your health, productivity, and quality of life. Choosing the best mattress for your needs will help you enjoy restful nights and energised mornings for years to come.