You remember that new mattress feeling? Supportive, fresh, and ready to cradle you through every nap, binge-watch session, and accidental snack spill. But here’s the reality, mattresses aren’t immortal.
Some last longer than others, and how you treat yours plays a part too. So if you’ve ever caught yourself wondering, how long does a mattress last, you’re asking the right question.
Key Takeaways
- Mattress lifespans vary by type—latex lasts up to 25 years, memory foam and hybrids around 8–10, and innersprings typically top out at 7. Material quality and sleep habits matter more than most people think.
- Your habits directly affect how long your bed lasts. Factors like sleeping position, base support, and how often you rotate your mattress all contribute to how quickly it wears down.
- Wondering how to extend the life of your mattress? Use a protector, clean it regularly, and follow the care instructions.
We’ll walk you through what affects lifespan, when to swap yours out, and how different mattress types hold up over the years—whether it’s memory foam, latex, or something in between. You’ll also get a few tips on keeping your bed in better shape for longer.
Jump to a section:
- How Long Different Mattress Types Last
- Factors Affecting the Lifespan of a Mattress
- When to Replace a Mattress
- Tips to Help Your Mattress Last Longer
How Long Different Mattress Types Last
Let’s start with the basics. Most mattresses have a lifespan of seven to ten years, but don’t take that as gospel.
Some materials naturally hold up better over time. Others might give you great comfort for a few years and then suddenly slump—literally. Here’s a closer look at what to expect from the most common types.
| Mattress Type | Estimated Lifespan | What You Should Know |
| Latex | 15–25 years | Highest durability; resistant to sagging |
| Memory Foam | 8–10 years | Best with high-density foam; long-lasting with proper care |
| Hybrid | 6–10 years | Depends on material quality; lifespan varies based on construction |
| Innerspring | 5–7 years | Shorter lifespan due to spring fatigue; regular rotation helps |
| Airbed | Up to 10 years | Customisable firmness; durable if maintained properly |
Latex Mattresses
🛏️ 15 to 25 Years
Latex is the long-haul traveller of the mattress world.
Made from rubber tree sap, it’s sturdy, breathable, and naturally resistant to dust mites and mould. If you’re wondering how long will a latex mattress last, the answer is: quite a while.
With proper care, it can see you through more than a decade of deep, uninterrupted sleep—some even last up to 25 years. That’s why it’s often seen as the most durable choice on the market.
Memory Foam Mattresses
🛏️ 8 to 10 Years
Memory foam is famous for contouring to your body like a warm hug. It holds up well over time too.
Wondering how long will a memory foam mattress last? With steady use and decent care, you’re looking at around eight to ten years of comfortable, pressure-relieving sleep. Opt for high-density foam if you want yours to last on the longer end—it’s less prone to sagging and keeps its shape better over time.
Hybrid Mattresses
🛏️ 6 to 10 Years
Hybrid mattresses combine the bounce of springs with the comfort of foam or latex.
It’s a best-of-both-worlds situation—though that blend means they sit in the middle of the lifespan range. A good hybrid mattress will usually last eight to ten years, depending on the quality of its coil system and top layers.
Innerspring Mattresses
🛏️ 5 to 7 Years
Old-school springs are tried and tested, but they’re not the most long-lasting.
Over time, coils can lose tension or shift out of place. On average, innerspring mattresses top out at around eight years—though regular flipping and rotating can help stretch that out.
Airbed Mattresses
🛏️ Up to 10 Years
Airbeds aren’t just for guests or camping anymore.
The higher-end ones come with adjustable firmness and dual chambers. With proper care (and no unexpected punctures), a quality airbed mattress can stick around for ten years. Not bad for something that literally runs on air.
Factors Affecting the Lifespan of a Mattress
Some mattresses last a handful of years. Others soldier on well past their first decade. Why the difference? It all comes down to what they’re made of, and how you treat them.
Here are the biggest factors that can make or break a mattress over time:
✅ Materials and construction
✅ Your body weight and sleep position
✅ Bed base support
✅ Cleaning and general care
Let’s break it down.
The Mattress Material Matters
Not all foams are created equal. And not all springs bounce back the same way.
If you’re aiming for a mattress that sticks around for ten years or more, go for high-density foam, natural latex, or twice-tempered coils. These materials are built tougher and tend to wear more evenly over time. Yes, they often cost more—but that price tag usually reflects what’s inside.
How You Sleep Affects How It Wears
Side sleeper? Back sleeper? Starfish? Your position changes which parts of the mattress get the most pressure. Over time, that pressure leads to uneven wear. Heavier sleepers may also notice impressions forming sooner—especially if the mattress isn’t regularly rotated.
Your Bed Base Makes a Difference
Think of your bed base like the foundation of a house. If it’s saggy, cracked, or unsupportive, your mattress is going to follow suit. Slatted bases with proper spacing (no more than 7cm between slats) are ideal, especially for foam or latex beds.
Care, Cleaning, and Common Sense
Skipping the vacuum? Letting spills soak in? These little things can add up. A mattress that’s properly maintained (rotated every few months, cleaned routinely, and shielded with a protector) tends to outlive one that’s left to fend for itself. (And yes, we’ll share cleaning tips further down.)
When to Replace a Mattress
Mattresses aren’t shy, they’ll let you know when it’s time to part ways. You just need to pay attention to the signs.
Here are the most common clues that your mattress is waving the white flag:
1. Sinks into the Bed Frame
Your mattress should push back a bit, not swallow you whole. A little softness is fine, but once it starts sinking into the bed frame, it’s game over for support.
You might notice body impressions that linger long after you’ve gotten up. A quality mattress should bounce back. When it doesn’t, pressure points go unsupported, and discomfort creeps in—especially if you’ve got a temperamental back.
A sagging surface also messes with spinal alignment. If you’re waking up more tired than you went to bed, your mattress might be the culprit.
2. Cushioning All Gone
Whether it’s foam or spring, your mattress needs decent cushioning to cradle your body and relieve pressure. If it feels like you’re sleeping directly on the support core, or worse, hitting the springs—it’s time.
That lack of padding can also cause lumping. In older innerspring mattresses, coils might poke through or shift, turning your bed into a minefield of discomfort.
If better sleep and pressure relief are one of your goals, it might be time for some mattress shopping.
3. Uninvited Guests (The Bitey Kind)
Here’s the uncomfortable truth: mattresses collect things. Dust mites. Dead skin. Possibly even bed bugs if left unchecked.
According to the Sleep Foundation, “Under normal conditions, mattresses should be replaced every 6 to 8 years.” They further explain that old mattresses accumulate dust mites, mold, bacteria, and other allergens at an alarming rate, which can exacerbate allergies and asthma.
If you’ve spotted bugs or are waking up with bites or sniffles, that’s a red flag. These infestations don’t just disrupt your sleep—they can trigger allergies and affect your overall health.
A clean, hypoallergenic replacement could make a world of difference. Look for dust mite-resistant options and materials that help keep allergens at bay.
4. Cleaning It Feels Like a Workout
Here’s a sweaty little fact: we release up to 2 litres of moisture per night—even more if you deal with night sweats. That’s a lot for your mattress to soak up.
Older mattresses trap more dirt, sweat, and odours over time. You might find yourself scrubbing it more often—or worse, struggling to dry it after a deep clean. If your mattress is getting mustier by the month, no amount of airing out will save it.
When cleaning becomes too frequent or ineffective, it’s probably time to move on.
Tips to Help Your Mattress Last Longer
While no mattress lasts forever, a bit of TLC goes a long way. Proper care can help you stretch those good sleep years—and save you from premature sagging, stains, or creepy crawlies.
Here’s how to keep your mattress in top shape:
1. Purchase a Quality Mattress Protector
A good mattress protector is like insurance for your bed. It helps block spills, dust, sweat, and allergens from sinking in. It’s easy to take off and wash, which means your mattress stays fresher for longer. No fuss, no stress.
If you’re curious about how long a mattress will last without protection? Often, much less than advertised.
2. Flip and Rotate Frequently (If Applicable)
Some mattresses can be flipped, others can only be rotated. Either way, the goal is the same: spread out the wear and tear. Turning your mattress every few months prevents those annoying body indentations from forming in the same spots.
3. Choose Breathable Bedding
Soft, breathable sheets aren’t just about comfort—they help with airflow too. Moisture-wicking fabrics like bamboo or cotton can stop excess heat and sweat from settling into your mattress and breaking down the materials.
4. Don’t Jump on Your Bed
We get it—sometimes the bed feels like a stage. But jumping or sitting on the edges too often can weaken the structure. If you want your mattress to go the distance, treat it gently.
5. Follow Your Bed’s Care Instructions
Every mattress has its quirks. Latex, memory foam, hybrid—they all need different care routines. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning, rotating, and support to avoid accidental damage.
Knowing how long a mattress is meant to last is only half the story. How you care for it is what really makes the difference between five decent years and ten great ones.
So, how long will a good mattress last? The short answer: it depends. But with the right materials and some thoughtful care, yours could be snoozing strong for years to come.
At Ecosa, we craft mattresses with longevity and comfort in mind—whether you’re after the responsive support of latex, the contouring feel of memory foam, or the balanced blend of a hybrid. Each one is designed to help you sleep better, for longer.
You can explore our full mattress range to find the right fit for the way you sleep.