There’s nothing quite like the comfort of sleeping on a brand-new mattress—it feels fresh, supportive, and promises years of good sleep. But many people unknowingly develop habits that wear out their mattress faster than expected.
Whether your mattress lasts 5 or 15 years depends largely on how you care for it. Beyond its quality and materials, your everyday actions play a big role in how long it stays comfortable and functional.
Here are five common habits that could be secretly cutting your mattress’s lifespan short:
1. Poor Hygiene Practices
A dirty mattress doesn’t just affect sleep—it reduces durability too. When you don’t wash your bed sheets, pillowcases, and mattress protectors regularly, sweat, body oils, dust, and bacteria begin to accumulate. These seep into the mattress over time and break down the materials inside.
Fun (or not-so-fun) fact: The average adult sheds about 454 grams of dead skin per year while sleeping. That’s a feast for dust mites. Keep your bedding clean, and your mattress will thank you.
2. Ignoring Mattress Sanitization
If your mattress hasn’t been sanitized in over six months, now’s the time. A proper sanitization routine helps eliminate allergens, bacteria, and dust mites that live deep in the fabric. These microbes not only harm your health but also wear down the internal structure of your mattress.
Think of it as a deep-clean for your bed—your skin and mattress both benefit.
3. Eating and Drinking in Bed
As cozy as it feels to eat or drink while lounging in bed, those small crumbs and accidental spills can lead to bigger problems. Moisture from drinks can seep into the foam or springs, encouraging mold, while leftover food attracts bugs and bacteria.
Frequent use beyond sleeping—like working, watching TV, or even bouncing on the bed—also adds stress to your mattress and speeds up sagging.
4. Dropping Heavy or Sharp Items on the Bed
Whether it’s placing grocery bags, parcels, or your child’s schoolbag on the bed “for just a moment,” or absentmindedly leaving scissors or needles lying around—these actions cause wear and tear. Heavy objects compress the foam or springs, while sharp items can puncture or tear the surface.
Over time, these small incidents lead to major damage and reduce the mattress’s structural integrity.
5. Sleeping with Pets
We love our furry friends—but our mattresses may not. Pets can carry dirt, fur, bacteria, and even fleas onto your bed. They may also scratch or chew the surface, leaving behind stains or damage.
If you must co-sleep with your pet, consider using a washable mattress cover or investing in a separate pet bed to preserve your mattress’s condition.
Conclusion
Maintaining your mattress is just as important as buying the right one. By making small adjustments to your daily habits, you can extend its lifespan, keep it clean, and enjoy consistent comfort for years to come.
Your mattress takes care of you every night—why not return the favor?
