Eat right, drink water, exercise, get sleep.  We all know what it takes to lead a healthy life, but the one area we think is least important to overall well-being is actually the most important.  Scientific studies and research tell us the effect too little sleep can have on our bodies and mind, but nothing ever touches on the condition of a mattress and its impact on sleep quality.

In April, Mattress Firm conducted a survey of 500 people to find out more about what they sleep on and how it affects their sleep.  It’s not too surprising that a majority of the participants admitted to sleeping on an older, uncomfortable mattress.  What does this mean for quality of sleep?  If you guessed poor, you’re right!  Not only does an old lumpy mattress lead to sleep disruptions – constant tossing and turning – but it leaves you with aches and pains in the morning which contribute to moodiness.  In fact, 70 percent responded that a mattress that doesn’t do the trick any longer also takes a toll on your love life.

Even with all the new mattress technology these days, it’s hard to believe that there are people sleeping on an old mattress.  Among survey participants, more than 20 percent slept on a mattress that is more than 10 years old.  Even more enlightening is that 43 percent believe you need to replace your mattress every 10 or 15 years.  Just because a warranty lasts for 20 years, it doesn’t mean you should keep your mattress for 20 years.  When is it time to replace?

Experts agree that you should replace your mattress every 8 years.  Even 69 percent of our survey participants believe a new mattress would help them sleep better.  How does a new mattress improve your quality of sleep?  A new mattress keeps your lower back supported, hips aligned and cradles the natural curves of your body. You don’t want to wait until you begin to experience back pain or discomfort like 20 percent of respondents claim. 

It’s also important to replace your mattress because allergens and dust mites can build up over time. In fact, your mattress could practically double in weight from dead skin cells, dust mites, and sweat in 8 years. 

Remember, we spend a third of our lives in bed – so check your tag – it might be time to replace!