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Sleep is so precious and important to us and a good nights’ sleep really enhances our lives in numerous ways. Do you always know when your mattress has reached its sell by date? Maybe you’re starting to feel achy and you have no explanation as to why. Signs may point to needing a new one for extra comfort and support.

As with most things in life, a mattress does have an expiry date. It may not be obvious, but sleeping on an old mattress can exacerbate a multitude of health issues, here’s how.

Expiration Date Can Disrupt Sleep

Your mattress comes with an expiry date of around 5 to 7 years although it may not be printed on the packaging in bold. It isn’t a number that’s just pulled from thin air and should really be taken seriously. The age of the mattress can simply be found on a tag attached to the mattress, which should also detail the manufacturer and model of the mattress. Wear and tear, like snags and torn materials can also have a significant impact on its lifespan and to your body overall, which will subsequently interrupt your regular sleeping pattern. Thus, if your mattress is unable to support you, you may find your body is unsupported whilst changing sleeping positions and trying to fall asleep as usual.

Hygiene Issues

A lack of sleep can really affect mental health and concentration levels, which is why it’s vital to pay close attention to the quality of the mattress that you’re sleeping on. You may be unwilling to replace your mattress, however there are more ways than one that it can cause effects to your health. Most people try and keep their mattress fresh and clean, but it’s only normal that a mattress will become ridden with dust, germs and other bacteria over time. The longer you have your mattress, the more it is prone to becoming more and more unhygienic. We lose around 200mls of sweat each night, which end up in your mattress. Sweat can lead to mould in a mattress, then spores, which subsequently makes way for fungi and bacteria. Likewise, dead skin cells can also attract dust mites and other bed bugs, which can completely swamp your mattress, leaving you with itchiness.

Aching Joints and Pressure Points

Your mattress should have the ability to support your pressure points, which are usually your shoulders and hips. If your mattress is out-of-date and indented, your body will be unable to rest properly, especially if your sleeping position doesn’t fully support your natural spinal alignment. These aches and pains can then result in permanent damage to your body, including bad posture, which can worsen over time. If you’ve checked the date on your mattress and it’s time to opt for a new one, be sure to know what type of mattress you’re after. Consider researching the difference between a firm vs soft mattress before you shop.

There’s an abundance of different mattresses that will be different for everyone. For example, for those with allergies, the hypoallergenic mattress could be a great fit, whilst someone with a bad back should opt for an orthopaedic mattress. Memory foam mattresses offer a great solution and with so many varieties available there is bound to be one that suits you. Hybrid mattresses use a combination of memory foam and pocket springs to give the sleeper ultimate comfort and support. It’s so important to get the luxury you deserve to feel energised and revitalised for the day ahead.

Invest in a Great Night’s Sleep

You’re bound to not realise how bad your sleep quality is until you try out new mattresses so it’s always worth coming into a showroom, seeking an expert’s advice who can tell you all about a product range and lying on a few mattresses to find your level of comfort. Improving your sleep can greatly improve your health and wellbeing so it’s definitely worth investigating.

Photo: Cindy Barganier

If you experience back pain, you are not alone. A recent study revealed that eight out of ten Americans will experience this problem during their lives, and that the risk increases as they age. While these issues can have many causes, a common factor is sleeping on the wrong type of mattress. Depending on your health and body type, your mattress may be causing you aches and pains and that is why it could be the time for investing in an adjustable bed. If you are ready to choose a new bed or mattress, there are several tips you can keep in mind when it comes to achieving optimum health, wellness, and great sleep.

Photo: Randi Garrett Design

Consider Current Health Issues

Before you choose a mattress, it is a good idea to consider what health issues you may be suffering from currently and how they affect your sleep. For example, if you already have back pain and your current mattress is making matters worse, you may want to consider buying a brand that is designed to support and cushion your spine and relieve pressure points that may cause pain.

One way to narrow down your mattress choice is to ask your physician for advice. He or she can advise you about how different types of mattress might help or hinder your current pain issues. You may want to let your doctor know about your sleeping patterns and how many days out of the week you wake up with back pain so he or she can gauge whether your current mattress is a major factor in the discomfort you feel. A physical may be necessary to better understand the source of your pain.

Photo: Cuckoo 4 Design

Think Body, Not Brands

While it might seem impossible to choose a particular mattress brand out of all that are available, the good news is that brand names do not have to be a major factor in your decision. While you might gravitate toward a certain brand because you have enjoyed a product in the past or it has favorable consumer reviews online, your body’s individual needs, not the mattress name, is what counts.

As you shop for mattresses, consider how a soft or firm brand might affect your back pain. For example, a mattress that is too firm may not have enough give where you need it the most and put pressure on your spine or put it out of alignment. As a result, you may wake up with back pain. Test possible mattress choices at your local mattress retailers to gauge your body’s individual needs and keep in mind that firmness is usually in the eye of the sleeper.

Photo: Decor Gold Designs

Research Before You Buy

While your doctor can help you understand what type of mattress might help alleviate back pain, you can also perform research on your own before you start shopping. Learning about different types of mattresses might help you understand whether a memory foam or coil style is a better choice for you. The more you understand the differences between what types are available, the easier shopping can be.

If you choose to perform research online and look into consumer reports, it is important that you keep your individual needs in mind. Even if a mattress has excellent reviews, its construction or type may not be effective for helping to manage your back pain. You may want to discover what type of mattress best suits your needs before you read these reports.

Choose the Right Accessories

The accessories you buy for your bed, from good pillows to sheets, can contribute to sleep wellness and preventing back pain.  Mattress extras, such as memory foam pads, must be carefully considered. While these mattress toppers can provide extra softness and protect your mattress from stains, they can also raise your body temperature during the night. If you are sensitive to temperature changes, you may want to forego them to have a more comfortable and restful sleep.

Photo: Home Decor Plush

Browse Adjustable Beds

One way to alleviate back pain and get the ultimate in mattress comfort is to invest in an adjustable bed. These beds, which allow you to change the angle and firmness of the mattress, might go a long way in helping you manage chronic pain. Some brands include heat and massage features; however, beds with multiple accessories may eclipse your mattress budget.

Chronic back pain can interfere with daily activities, cause restless sleep, and make you miserable upon waking. The right mattress can help reduce some of this pain; however, proper research, understanding how the differences in mattress construction can affect your sleep, and your body’s individual needs are all important in helping you make the best possible choice for health and sleep wellness.