We often don’t give much thought to our mattress. Unless it pops a spring or breaks somehow, most of us will keep using it, even long after it should have been replaced. But an old or unsupportive mattress does more than leave you tossing and turning throughout the night. It can cause back pain, insomnia, and a host of other short- and long-term health problems that we’ll discuss in this article. But first, let’s have a look at some quick facts you probably didn’t know:
- A mattress gains weight over time because of mites, dead skin cells, and sweat buildup.
- Dust mites can produce up to 200 times their body weight in waste over their lifetime – and this waste has a protein that’s an allergen
- The dead skin cells we shed while sleeping are the primary food source for these mites.
- Over time, urine, sweat, and other bodily fluids can seep into a mattress, creating a breeding ground for bacteria.
- Research has shown that some mattresses can harbor many different species of fungi.
Mattresses don’t have an explicit expiration date, but replacing them after 7 to 10 years of use is worthwhile. Of course, many variables influence its lifespan – materials used, the original build quality, the sleeper’s sleeping style, weight, etc. But if:
- You’re not sleeping well
- You have aches and pains in the morning
- Your mattress feels saggy and unsupportive
- You notice an increase in asthma symptoms or allergies
- You sleep better when visiting family or at hotels
- You feel your partner's movements at night more than you used to
- You toss and turn throughout the night, trying to find a comfortable position
Then it might be time to start thinking about an upgrade. With that said, let’s look at why a new mattress is the key to a good night's sleep.
Enhances Overall Sleep Quality
Numerous sleep studies have linked quality mattresses to good night sleep, and better sleep is the foundation of good health. When you sleep well, your body has the time to repair and rejuvenate, which boosts your immune system and helps you wake up feeling refreshed. Poor sleep quality, on the other hand, can lead to sleep deprivation, which affects your mood, mental health, and even your cognitive abilities. If you’ve been waking up tired despite getting enough hours of sleep, your old mattress might be to blame.
Promotes Proper Spinal Alignment
One of the most crucial benefits of a new mattress is that it supports proper spinal alignment. Your spine has a natural curve that needs to be maintained during sleep. If your mattress is sagging or unsupportive, it can throw your spine out of alignment, leading to back pain, joint pain, and poor posture.
A quality mattress, especially those made from memory foam, contours to your body’s shape, providing the support you need to keep your spine in a healthy position all night long. This not only helps to alleviate existing pain but also prevents new issues from developing.
Reduces Chronic Pain
If you suffer from chronic pain, particularly in your back, hips, or joints, a new mattress can be a game-changer. As mattresses age, they lose their ability to support your body’s pressure points properly. As a result, you may experience more pain and discomfort, especially in areas like your lower back and hips.
A new mattress designed to distribute your weight evenly can reduce the pressure on these sensitive areas, providing relief from chronic pain. Reducing pain helps you get a better night’s sleep, further improving your overall well-being.
Boosts Mental Health
There's a strong connection between sleep and mental health, with one leading or exacerbating the other. Insomnia, sleep apnea, and other sleep disorders can take a toll on your mood, increasing stress levels and even contributing to depression and anxiety. A new mattress that supports deep, restful sleep can help reduce stress and improve your mental health. When you sleep better, you’re more likely to wake up with a clear mind, better focus, and a positive outlook on the day ahead.
Helps Regulate Blood Pressure
Good sleep has a direct impact on your blood pressure. When you sleep, your body undergoes essential processes that help regulate blood pressure and keep your cardiovascular system healthy. However, poor sleep can disrupt these processes and lead to heart-related issues. A supportive, comfortable mattress can help you get the deep sleep needed to maintain healthy blood pressure levels.
Improves Immune System Function
Your immune system works best when you’re well-rested. During sleep, your body produces cytokines, which are proteins that help fight off inflammation, infections, and stress. When you don’t get enough quality sleep, your immune system’s ability to function properly is compromised, making you more susceptible to illnesses. A new mattress can help you achieve the restorative sleep your immune system needs to stay strong and keep you healthy.
Prevents Sleep Disorders
Over time, an old mattress can contribute to the development of sleep disorders. For example, if your mattress no longer supports your body properly, it can lead to issues like sleep apnea or restless leg syndrome. These disorders can disrupt your sleep and cause more serious health issues if left untreated. A new, high-quality mattress can prevent such issues from arising in the first place, allowing you to enjoy deep, uninterrupted sleep.
Aids in Stress Reduction
Sleep deprivation may raise cortisol levels, which can lead to anxiety, heart disease, weight gain, anxiety, signs of aging, etc. And if you think about it, all these contribute to higher stress levels. A new mattress that promotes better sleep can help reduce stress levels, leaving you feeling more relaxed and better equipped to handle whatever the day may throw your way.
