Experts recommend changing your mattress every six to eight years, and there are several serious reasons why.
Napping on an old mattress puts us at risk of breathing in unpleasant bacteria and mold. This can cause a sore throat, itchy eyes, diarrhea, vomiting, and even serious infections and lung inflammation.
A worn-out mattress can also lead to back problems, pain, and a range of sleep issues.
Sleep experts from Opera Beds explained to The Sun: “Mattresses provide the foundation and support necessary for achieving quality sleep. The right mattress can impact your sleep by alleviating pressure and preventing you from waking up with aches in the morning.”
“Finding one that suits your sleeping style and requirements is crucial for overall comfort, ensuring proper physical restoration, cognitive function, emotional well-being, and overall vitality. It’s a personal choice that should take into account individual needs, preferences, and any underlying health issues,” they stated.
They note that once we find a suitable mattress, many of us fail to recognize the signs that it’s time for a replacement.
“Depending on factors like usage and wear, mattresses ideally should be replaced every six to eight years,” they conclude.
The health consequences of not doing so can be significant, as a worn-out mattress becomes a breeding ground for bacteria. Research shows that they are hotspots of microscopic activity, with staphylococcus, lactobacillus, streptococcus, and E. coli.
This can cause uncomfortable skin infections and digestive issues, as well as abscesses, joint problems, and even pneumonia. Dust mites can also embed themselves in the fibers, causing or exacerbating skin problems like eczema and respiratory issues such as asthma.
Body fluids also penetrate the bedding and soak into the mattress, lingering for years. Experts estimate that over the lifespan of a mattress, these fluids can fill two bathtubs to the brim.
