Bedding Phase|Step 4 of 23
Evaluate Your Mattress
Your mattress should be replaced every 7-10 years. If it's not that old, a quality topper can add years of life.
Time Required
15-30 minutes
Cost
$100-2,000+
Difficulty
Easy
Signs You Need a New Mattress
- • Visible sagging: Permanent body impressions deeper than 1.5 inches
- • You wake up sore: Morning back, hip, or shoulder pain that goes away
- • It's over 8 years old: Materials break down even if it looks fine
- • You sleep better elsewhere: Hotels, guest beds feel more comfortable
- • Allergies are worse: Dust mites accumulate in older mattresses
- • You feel springs: Or lumps, or uneven surfaces
- • Squeaking or creaking: Internal supports are failing
When a Topper Is Enough
A topper can help if:
- • Your mattress is 3-7 years old and structurally sound
- • You want to adjust firmness (add softness or support)
- • Minor comfort issues but no sagging
- • Temperature regulation issues (cooling toppers help)
- • You're not ready to invest in a new mattress yet
Topper Options
Memory Foam ($100-300)
Conforms to body shape. Best for side sleepers and pressure relief. Can sleep warm.
Latex ($150-400)
Bouncy, responsive. Naturally cooling. More durable than foam. Good for combo sleepers.
Down/Feather ($100-300)
Plush, hotel-like feel. Adds softness but not support. Requires fluffing.
Wool ($200-400)
Naturally temperature-regulating. Great for hot sleepers. Hypoallergenic.
Mattress Shopping Tips
- • Try before you buy: Lie on it for at least 10 minutes in store
- • Check the return policy: Online mattresses should have 100+ night trials
- • Consider your sleep position: Side sleepers need softer, back sleepers need firmer
- • Don't overspend: $800-1,500 gets quality. Beyond that is diminishing returns
- • Ignore firmness labels: "Medium" varies wildly between brands
- • Buy from reputable brands: Avoid no-name Amazon mattresses
Pro Tips
- •Buy during sales: Presidents' Day, Memorial Day, Labor Day, Black Friday have major mattress sales.
- •Consider bed-in-a-box: Brands like Casper, Purple, and Tuft & Needle offer quality at lower prices.
- •Protect your investment: Always use a mattress protector to extend lifespan.
- •Rotate quarterly: Rotate (not flip unless double-sided) every 3 months to prevent wear patterns.