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Mattress toppers cost a TON of money. If you’re going to make the investment then you obviously want to make sure the product you’re buying will last. In today’s article we go over how long mattress toppers last and when you should replace yours.
How Long Mattress Toppers Last
The average lifespan of a mattress topper is 3 to 5 years. Toppers made of natural materials (feathers, wool, latex) last longer than synthetic ones.
The lifespan varies depending on the type, quality, and frequency of use, as well as a person’s characteristics like body weight, sleeping position, and storage and maintenance.
The length of the lifespan of most mattress toppers depends on the density and how thick the toppers are. Thick toppers with a high-density base will last longer, but they are harder to clean and maintain.
Nevertheless, toppers are made from sensitive and soft materials, so they should be well cared for and exceed the expected lifespan. If you want your topper to last longer, read our guide on how to store a mattress topper.
There are different types of mattress toppers, and each has its own lifespan. A thick and high-density wool or latex topper will probably outlive other topper types. Let’s look at the topper’s longevity by type and material.
Memory foam
High-quality memory foam mattress toppers have average durability of 3-5 years, sometimes more, but many low-quality memory foam toppers can last for only 1-2 years. Memory foam mattress toppers offer a soft cushioning feel with pressure point relief and reliable body support.
Memory foam mattress toppers will bring extra cushioning, body alignment, and support to any sleeping position, especially for side sleepers. Side sleepers need extra cushioning around pressure points. This is why memory foam toppers are the main choice of side sleepers.
Because of their contouring nature, memory foam toppers are also popular among people suffering from various types of orthopedic health problems, but after a couple of years, memory foam starts to sag and get uncomfortable under frequent body pressure.
If you are investing in a foam topper, keep in mind that it will require replacement every 2-5 years.
Latex
In general, latex toppers last 3-6 years or more. Latex is an organic material is derived from rubber trees. It’s antibacterial and mold and mildew-resistant, which helps with longevity.
Higher-density and thicker latex toppers last longer than lower-density and thin ones. Dunlop latex toppers are more durable than Talalay toppers. Also, natural latex will outlive synthetic latex as well as those made of natural-synthetic latex mix.
Sleepers who move a lot during their sleep like latex toppers because they are bouncy and supportive while also changing shape to accommodate to the body.
High-quality mattress toppers made of latex will probably longer than 5 years. When your latex mattress topper is 100% organic and maintained properly, don’t be surprised if it lasts even longer than your mattress.
Wool
Wool toppers are remarkably durable and often last longer than the average lifespan of mattress toppers, which is 3-5 years. They offer soft and breathable surfaces and act as organic insulators, with the ability of natural temperature regulation for both summer and winter seasons.
Wool toppers are naturally resistant to mold and dirt, which prolongs the lifespan of mattresses and mattress toppers alike. Wool fabrics are naturally elastic, and these toppers tend to wrap around your body while providing enough support and drawing away body heat. They are compatible with firmer memory foam mattresses because they add breathability and a soft top layer.
A wool mattress topper is one of the more expensive types. Things that shorten their lifespan include accidental spillings and a lack of cleaning and maintenance.
Exposing wool topper to mild sunlight and increased air circulation will purify wool and remove unpleasant odor. High temperatures and excessive moisture can harm wool.
Feather
Although these toppers are made of sensitive feathers, the longevity of high-quality ones may reach 5-8 years, or even more, depending on how you treat them.
Feather toppers are well known for their fluffy feel and increased airflow, and the ability to soften up firm mattresses; yet, they are not as body-supportive as foam mattresses. Similar to wool, feather and down toppers are great in temperature regulation.
The use of feather toppers will eventually lead to some material deformities. After a long period of frequent use, the fabrics get worn out and feathers tend to poke out or get clumped up into balls. This makes the sleeping surface uneven and uncomfortable.
If you want a topper that lasts long and offers a soft pillowtop feel – a feather mattress topper may be an option.
How Often Should You Replace a Mattress Topper?
You should replace your mattress topper whenever you feel that your body is not supported enough or you notice visible signs of wear and tear. When the benefits of a topper fade away, it’s time for a new one. High-quality toppers will last for 3-5 years, and some even more, depending on your body weight and maintenance.
If the topper starts sagging, becomes uneven, worn out, or physically damaged, or simply way too dirty (mold, too many stains and spills), you should consider buying a new one. A damaged topper may cause problems with body alignment and neck or back pain. If it’s filthy, it can make your allergies worse and cause a stuffy nose or a swollen face in the morning.
If you want a new topper that lasts longer, choose a reliable manufacturer with quality materials built into the topper. Avoid toppers made from cheap materials. If you’re more of an arts and crafts type, you can even make your own DIY mattress topper.
Consider using protective covers, which may be waterproof and the first line of defense against dirt, dust mites, bed bugs, and other allergens.
Extending the Lifespan of Your Mattress Topper
To prolong the lifespan of a mattress topper, you should:
Clean it regularly
The mattress toppers should be washed/cleaned at least twice a year and vacuumed monthly. Thinner toppers may need to be cleaned more often. Stains can be removed with water and a detergent solution or a mixture of baking soda and vinegar. At the same time, this helps with an unpleasant odor.
When cleaning and drying the mattress topper, pay attention to the manufacturer’s instructions. Some toppers are not machine-wash-friendly, and high heat in the dryer or washer may ruin the structure and physically damage them. Use low settings and cool temperature on tumble dry, or leave the topper to air dry.
For stubborn stains, you may use a detergent and water solution. Avoid using strong cleaning agents because the chemicals may damage the topper.
Here are the four steps to cleaning a mattress topper:
- Vacuum
- Spot cleaning
- Neutralize odors
- Dry it
Rotate or flip the topper
Rotating or flipping over a mattress topper is likely to prolong its lifespan. This way, the pressure is distributed on the less stressed part of the topper and the sides will wear out equally. Rotating your topper means placing the head part at the feet and vice versa. Since your upper part of the body wears out materials more on one half, rotation will help wear out the other half as well. Flipping the topper means putting the mattress side up, so that now you lie on that side. This can also be beneficial.
Use a high-quality mattress underneath
Over time, a mattress will lose firmness, support, and contouring abilities. If a mattress is bumpy and uncomfortable, the topper will take its shape and start to deform. If you spread a new topper on a sagging mattress, there is a big chance that you will need to replace both in a short period of time.
Protect it from physical damage
You may use a mattress protector as an additional cover which saves the mattress and topper from external damage. To protect your topper from damage, avoid using sharp objects, open flames, or consuming food and beverages in or by the bed.
FAQs
If your mattress topper doesn’t provide sufficient support, it’s time for a replacement. Mattress toppers should last 3-5 years. If you clean them regularly and flip them at least two times a year, you should get the most topper. Memory foam toppers need to be replaced more frequently than other topper types.
Proper and regular cleaning, drying, and storing of mattress toppers is crucial for maintenance. Some toppers are machine washable and dryable, and some are not. Information and maintenance orders are often found on the white tag placed on the bottom of the topper. When storing your topper, put it in a dry place and spread it out often.
Memory foam mattress toppers should be rotated at least 2-4 times a year. Due to their specific design, some memory foam mattress toppers cannot be flipped over. A mattress topper with two different layers, one as the base and one as cushioning, usually can’t be flipped over. Flippable toppers should be flipped and this will help your memory foam mattress topper last longer and maintain shape.
Memory foam is very durable, but over time because of body pressure, it wears out as other materials used for days and nights on end. A good quality mattress topper may last for 3-5 years or even more, and the lifespan of memory foam mattresses may reach 10-15 years.
A mattress topper should be washed every 2-3 months. It is protected by sheets and other bedding, so it doesn’t need to be washed so often. When you change sheets and bed covers, pay attention to possible dirt or stains on your topper. The cleaning process depends on the material your topper is made of. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions about water usage, chemicals, or temperature in the cleaning process.
Throw away your memory foam mattress topper when it becomes saggy and stops providing sufficient support for you and your mattress. Lifespan mainly depends on the quality of the topper. Low-quality toppers last for a year or two, and if you’re really unlucky, just a few months. High-quality memory foam toppers may last for years and look like new. To find out more about topper durability, check customer reviews and rely on trusted brands with proven quality.
Conclusion
Mattress toppers are not made to last forever, but with little care, they may outlive the projected life span average of 3-5 years. Memory foam mattress toppers are among the less durable toppers on the market, although they offer a unique type of body support and therapeutic advantages. It is possible to extend the life of mattress toppers by more than five years. If you want to prolong the lifespan of your topper, vacuum it, clean it, and rotate/flip it regularly. Also, you may use a mattress protector whose sole role is to protect the sleeping surface of the mattress topper.
Next step: Read our Ghostbed mattress topper review. Ghostbed’s body-hugging memory foam material makes it one of the most comfortable and supportive toppers we’ve ever tried. If you want a mattress topper that’s built to last, go with Ghostbed.
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