The average mattress is designed to last anywhere from five to ten years or more. It all depends on how it is maintained and cared for. A little care and maintenance can go a long way in keeping your mattress in top shape. Once you have invested in the best supportive mattress, pillows and bedding,  spending time and effort on essential mattress health is worthwhile. Here are a few elementary tips on caring for your mattress to ensure optimal sleep and protect that investment of a good mattress.

Invest in a mattress protector

mattress protector is one of the first things you should get when buying a new mattress. Using a mattress protector has the following advantages:

• The mattress protector creates a barrier between the body and the mattress preventing oils, dirt, sweat, dust mites, moisture, and other contaminants from entering the mattress. Placed between the fitted sheet and the mattress, it preserves the freshness of the mattress. Wash it as instructed by the manufacturer’s directions. Mattress covers are machine washable, promoting a hygienic sleep environment while protecting the mattress at the same time.
• The majority of mattress protectors are waterproof or water-resistant. Keeping the mattress dry helps prevent the growth of mold and mildew. In addition, waterproof protectors guard the mattress against accidents or spills and prevent odors from developing.

Wash bed linen regularly

According to experts, bedding and sheets should be washed every week or two weeks. Bedding accumulates the body’s sweat, oils and other dirt that gradually seep into the mattress if not regularly cleaned. Items that do not come into direct contact with the sleeper, like blankets, quilts, or comforters, can be washed less frequently.

Flip the mattress

Rotating the mattress every three to six months helps even the wear of the mattress and prevents the mattress from sagging or developing permanent indentations. Foam, latex, and newer innerspring mattresses should be rotated every six to twelve months, and older spring mattresses every two to six months. Flipping a mattress distributes pressure on the different areas and prolongs its life span. Some mattresses are designed to be one-sided - with a zoned design - and should not be rotated as it may cause the mattress to be less comfortable and supportive. Other mattresses only benefit from being rotated.

Let your mattress breath

Allow your mattress to breathe daily by leaving the covers off after getting up. Airing out the mattress allows moisture to evaporate and odors to dispense. The mattress must be left to breathe in a well-ventilated room every three months for 24 to 48 hours. This practice will keep your mattress fresh and odorless.

Handle with care

A quality mattress comprises specialized layers and materials to offer you the support and comfort you deserve. Don’t allow jumping on the bed to damage the inner layers of the mattress. Don't allow pets to sleep or play on the bed. When moving the mattress, avoid bending it, which could also destroy or damage the supportive inner layers of the mattress.

Use the mattress with proper support

A mattress needs to be paired with a solid foundation. Not only does it optimize the comfort of the mattress, but it also gives you spinal comfort and support. In addition, a good base allows natural ventilation, preserves the integrity of materials, and prevents premature sagging. The best is to buy the mattress and a base that supports it simultaneously, as failure to provide adequate support for the mattress can void the warranty. Check the support regularly for broken slats or bent springs. Address any problem promptly to maintain optimal mattress support.

Follow the manufacturer’s cleaning instructions

Any mattress must be cleaned regularly to maintain a hygienic sleeping environment and the mattress healthy. Study the manufacturer's instructions when buying your mattress. Additional cleaning can be used, such as vacuuming the mattress with an upholstery attachment to remove surface debris. Sprinkling baking soda over the mattress and vacuuming it off after an hour or two will help absorb odors and freshen the mattress. Stains and spills must be cleaned immediately by blotting them with a gentle cleanser. No harsh cleaning solutions must be used as this can compromise the inner layers of the mattress. Always ensure the mattress is completely dry before making the bed.

The mattress’s lifespan depends on many factors, but taking care of your mattress is essential for ensuring its longevity and maintaining a comfortable, healthy sleep environment. Follow these steps to enjoy a longer mattress lifespan and a refreshing sleep every night for many years with the best bedding from Dorelan.