A mattress is not something you change every year. Most people keep the same one for a long time, sometimes longer than they should. The problem is, a mattress does not suddenly stop working in one day. It slowly loses its support, and people get used to sleeping badly without realising it.
In general, a good quality mattress lasts around 7 to 10 years. Some can last longer, some less. It depends on how it is made, how it is used, and how well it is looked after.
At Furniture Tree, we often see customers who are still using a mattress that is 12 or even 15 years old. Once they switch, they are surprised by how much better they sleep. That shows how much a worn-out mattress can affect you without you noticing.
Why Mattresses Don’t Last Forever
Even the best mattress will wear out over time. Every night, your body weight presses into the same areas. Foam slowly softens. Springs slowly lose tension. The support layers inside begin to break down.
You might not see the damage, but your body feels it.
This is why a mattress can look fine on the outside but still be uncomfortable.
At Furniture Tree, we choose mattresses that are built with stronger materials and better structure, so they hold their shape longer and give more consistent support over the years.
What Affects How Long a Mattress Lasts?
Not all mattresses age the same. A few important things make a big difference.
Quality of the Mattress
This is the biggest factor. Higher quality foam, better springs, and solid construction will always last longer. Cheaper mattresses may feel fine at first but often lose shape within a few years.
Furniture Tree focuses on mattresses that are designed for everyday use, not short-term comfort. That’s why many of our customers come back years later and say their mattress is still holding up well.
How Often It Is Used
A mattress in a guest room may last much longer than one used every night. Daily use puts much more pressure on the materials.
If your mattress is your main bed and it’s over 7 years old, it’s worth checking if it still gives proper support.
Body Weight and Sleeping Habits
Heavier body weight and restless sleeping put more stress on a mattress. If you toss and turn a lot, the mattress works harder and may wear faster.
This is why support quality is so important. A well-built mattress handles movement better and keeps its shape longer.
The Bed Base Underneath
Many people forget this part. A weak or uneven bed base can damage even a good mattress. If the base sags, the mattress will sag with it.
At Furniture Tree, we always recommend using a strong, proper bed base to protect your mattress and extend its life.
Signs That Your Mattress Needs Replacing
People often ask, “How do I know when it’s time?”
Here are the most common signs we hear from customers:
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You wake up with back, neck, or shoulder pain
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The mattress has visible dips or sinking areas
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You can feel springs or hard spots
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You sleep better in hotels or on another bed
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The mattress feels uncomfortable no matter how you lie
If you recognise these, your mattress is likely worn out, even if it doesn’t look damaged.
How Long Different Types of Mattresses Last
Memory Foam Mattresses
Good quality memory foam mattresses usually last 8 to 10 years. They keep their shape well if the foam is dense and well-made. Cheaper foam can soften and sag much earlier.
Furniture Tree stocks memory foam options that are designed to keep their structure and support over time, not just feel soft at the start.
Spring Mattresses
Traditional spring mattresses usually last 7 to 9 years. Over time, the springs can weaken and lose tension, which reduces support.
This is why spring quality and construction matter. Stronger spring systems last longer and feel more stable.
Hybrid Mattresses
Hybrid mattresses combine foam and springs. They usually last 8 to 10 years, depending on build quality. When done well, they offer both comfort and durability.
Budget Mattresses
Lower-cost mattresses may start losing comfort after 4 to 6 years. They are fine for short-term use, but not ideal for long-term everyday sleeping.
At Furniture Tree, we are honest with customers about this. If you need a budget option, we’ll help you choose the best one, but we won’t pretend it will last forever.
Can You Make a Mattress Last Longer?
Yes, and it’s easier than people think.
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Use a mattress protector to avoid stains and moisture
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Rotate the mattress every few months so it wears evenly
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Make sure the bed base is strong and level
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Avoid sitting on the same edge every day
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Keep the mattress clean and dry
These small habits can easily add a few extra years to your mattress.
Should You Replace a Mattress Even If It Looks Okay?
Yes, sometimes you should. The inside support layers wear out before the outside shows damage. Many people say, “It looks fine,” but still wake up sore every day.
If your mattress is over 7 years old and your sleep quality has dropped, it’s worth considering a new one.
At Furniture Tree, we see this often. Customers think their mattress is “okay” until they lie on a new one and realise how much support they were missing.
How Furniture Tree Mattresses Are Different
We don’t choose mattresses based on looks or trends. We choose them based on:
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Comfort over long periods
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Strong internal support
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Quality materials
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Real customer feedback
Our mattresses are selected for Auckland homes, everyday use, and long-term reliability. We would rather sell fewer mattresses and keep customers happy than push low-quality products.
That’s why many of our customers come back for their second or third mattress purchase with us.
Simple Truth
If you want the honest answer:
Most mattresses should be replaced every 7 to 10 years.
If it becomes uncomfortable before that, replace it earlier.
If it still feels supportive and comfortable, you can use it longer.
Your body always knows before your eyes do.