A good night’s sleep is essential for your physical and mental health, but it’s easy to overlook the role your bed and mattress play in this rest. If you’re waking up stiff, achy, or just not feeling refreshed, it could be time to reassess what you’re sleeping on. Here’s what to look out for.
You’re waking up with aches and Pains
Do you often find yourself stiff or sore after a night’s sleep? If you wake up with back, neck or shoulder pain, it could be a sign that your mattress is no longer providing the right support.
Over time, mattresses can lose their ability to properly align your spine, leading to discomfort. A mattress that has sagged or developed lumps may force your body into unnatural positions, especially if it’s too soft or too firm for your sleep style.
To check, try lying on your back and noticing if any part of your body feels unsupported. If you wake up feeling better after stretching or getting out of bed, it’s a strong indication that your mattress is contributing to the problem.
You can feel springs or lumps
If you can physically feel springs or lumps when you lie down, your mattress has probably started to deteriorate. This will impact the support it provides and could lead to an uncomfortable sleep experience.
As mattresses age, the internal components (like springs and foam) can lose their shape, leading to the uneven surfaces that disrupt your rest. When shopping for mattresses online, pay attention to the materials used and level of durability, as well as reviews from other customers who mention long-term performance.
You’ve had it for too long
A mattress doesn’t last forever. Depending on the materials used and how well it’s been cared for, you might want to consider replacing yours every 7 to 15 years. After years of regular use, the materials inside your mattress start to break down, reducing its ability to support your body effectively.
If you can’t remember when you last replaced it, or if it’s showing signs of wear, it’s time to consider an upgrade. Even if the mattress seems okay at first, performance will degrade gradually over time, meaning it won’t support your sleep the way it once did.
You’re not sleeping as well as you used to
Your quality of sleep is affected by a range of factors, but the surface you sleep on is a big one. If you’ve noticed that you’re tossing and turning more frequently, waking up feeling groggy, or struggling to stay asleep, your mattress could be a factor.
A worn-out mattress can disrupt your sleep cycle by causing discomfort or affecting your body’s temperature regulation. Investing in a new mattress could help you sleep soundly through the night, ultimately improving your energy and mood throughout the day.
You’re experiencing allergies or asthma symptoms
Older mattresses tend to accumulate dust mites, mould and other allergens that can trigger asthma or allergy symptoms. If you’ve noticed you’re sneezing or coughing more, your mattress might be harbouring these irritants.
Regular cleaning helps, but if your mattress is getting old and you haven’t replaced it, allergens could be embedded deeply in the material. A new mattress with hypoallergenic features can significantly reduce your exposure to these allergens, allowing for more restful and healthier sleep.
