At some point in your life, you've probably been told how important it is to flip your mattress every three to 12 months. Have you ever wondered why? You may be surprised to know that the advice is actually quite outdated—in fact, flipping your mattress may be a very bad idea in some cases. Continue reading to learn more about the origin of mattress flipping, why you may want to consider rotating your mattress instead, and why being educated about your mattress is important.
Related Blog: Popular Mattress Brands at Land of Sleep
The idea of flipping your mattress throughout the years originated with an older style mattress than what is produced today.
Older mattress models were designed to be flipped, to lengthen the lifespan of the mattress. The idea was that after one side had been worn down from regular use, flipping the mattress would allow for the feel of a new mattress without having to buy one. Once the new side began feeling too "slept in," it was time to flip again.
Some mattresses are still designed this way, though most modern models are not. Some of today's mattresses should never be flipped over. For example, pillow-top mattresses, a favorite among consumers, are designed oppositely. One side of the mattress is meant to be on the underneath, as strong support. The other side is topped with additional pillowing and comfort. Flipping the mattress would render it almost useless and very uncomfortable.
Rotating your mattress is different from flipping it. Instead of turning the entire mattress over, the idea of mattress rotation is that you are preventing the mattress from becoming uneven. By regularly rotating the mattress, you are sleeping on all sides of it, so no one side is more worn down than the rest of the bed. This is especially important in innerspring, pillow-top, and hybrid mattresses. Memory foam mattresses usually keep well without being flipped or rotated.
Remember to avoid flipping or rotating your mattress on your own to prevent any injury or strain.
As they say, knowing is half the battle—and your bed is no exception.
The best thing you can do for your mattress, and your night's sleep, is to educate yourself.
Learn what you can about your current mattress. What kind is it? How many years has it been slept on? Decide whether flipping, rotating, or leaving it be is the best method for maintaining it. Before purchasing a new mattress, be sure you understand how the mattress operates and what is the best way to care for it.
You should also take note of the proper way to keep your specific mattress type clean and fresh. Whether you need to be flipping or rotating your mattress, it’s always important to keep your mattress clean and functional. Busted springs, broken platforms, or torn spots could hinder your ability to feel fully rested.
Remember to take care of your mattress and plan to replace it every eight to 10 years, if possible. You may find you need to replace your mattress even sooner, depending on the number of people sleeping in the bed, or how much weight your mattress is supporting. At the very least, consider replacing your mattress whenever you begin waking up with back or spine pain, or the mattress has become saggy or shapeless.
Take care in choosing a proper bed frame and mattress support, too. All of these things add up and can mean the difference between endless nights of tossing and turning or waking up well-rested and energized.
If you’re thinking it might be time to upgrade or update, come visit one of our two Land of Sleep locations in Venice or Sarasota.