How Long Will a Natural Latex Mattress Last?

October 24, 2024

Purchasing a New Mattress

 

Sleep experts estimate the average person spends nearly one-third of their life sleeping, but depending on your mattress type, a good night’s sleep might be further than you would like. The decision to replace an old mattress can quickly become overwhelming to buyers with the many mattress types available, but purchasing a new mattress can improve more than just the quality of sleep you are getting. Many people opt for a less expensive mattress, but do not realize these types of mattresses are filled with harsh chemicals, because they think high-quality materials are too far out of budget.

How Long does the Average Mattress Last?

As mentioned in our latex mattress buyer's guide, the length of time a mattress will last depends on many factors, like the manufacturing process, quality of products being used, and the sleeping habits of those using it; however, the average mattress lasts between 7 to 10 years when properly cared for. Several factors can contribute to premature wear and tear on a mattress, like improper cleaning, or excessive weight. More often than not, we do not know there is a problem with our mattress until others point it out, as we become accustomed to the wear.

What Factors Contribute to Mattress Wear?

Most mattresses are built to last at least five years when cared for properly. The time that a mattress lasts varies based on many things like:

Mattress Materials

Materials used in the manufacturing process play a huge role in determining the length of time a mattress will last. A mattress of higher density is more durable compared to one of less density, meaning it is less likely to sag prematurely. Similarly, innerspring mattresses tend to wear down more quickly. This can especially be the case of an innerspring mattress, where the springs are subject to excess weight.

Sleepers Habits and Lifestyle

Sleeping position can affect mattress wear. People who tend to sleep on their side more frequently report their mattress begins sagging in the areas that support their shoulders and hips before the rest, as the majority of their body weight is in these areas, while back sleepers tend to evenly disperse their body weight. Other factors of a sleeper's life that can affect their mattress include sleeping more often than the average 8 hours, obesity, or improper care.

Type of Mattress

The type of mattress you are sleeping on is critical in determining an estimated time frame that your mattress will last. Latex mattresses last longer when they are made with natural materials, rather than synthetic latex; however, Dunlop latex lasts the longest, as it is the densest latex foam option compared to less-dense hybrid, or Talalay latex. Traditional spring mattresses tend to have the shortest lifespan in comparison to other mattresses, like latex mattresses, as the metal coils break down quicker than foam.

Care and Cleaning Routine

Caring for your mattress appropriately will help you to get a more comfortable sleep night after night. Whether you are sleeping on an all-foam mattress, organic mattress, or a type of latex, each manufacturer will offer their recommended “dos and don'ts” when it comes to caring for their mattresses. It is important to maintain routine cleaning, use mattress protectors, and follow the guidelines put forth by the company to get the most out of your mattress.

Environmental Factors

Environmental factors such as humidity and temperature can also significantly impact the lifespan of a latex mattress. High humidity can cause natural latex to degrade faster if not protected, while extreme heat can also reduce its elasticity over time. To ensure maximum longevity, it is important to place the mattress in a well-ventilated room, and use a breathable mattress protector. UV light exposure can also weaken latex materials, so keeping the mattress away from direct sunlight is beneficial.

What is Latex?

Latex in its most natural form is harvested from the sap of rubber trees to be used for a variety of things. The use of latex in a mattress dates back to the 1920s when John Boyd Dunlop formulated the perfect blend to create latex foam. Latex is often used in combination with other materials to create a comfortable, durable sleep space. Materials used include:

• Innerspring coils
• Organic cotton
• Organic wool
• Synthetic materials

Types of Latex

There are a few main types of latex commonly found in the latex mattresses community: natural latex, synthetic latex, or a blend of the two.

Natural Latex

A natural latex mattress is made from rubber tree sap that is sustainably harvested and blended with other natural materials like organic cotton or wool to create the most durable mattress on the market. Natural latex is commonly sought out for latex mattresses for its unmatched durability, cooling features, and breathability. Its ability to bounce back quickly to its true form after you get out of bed makes it last longer than all other mattresses. Natural latex, which is sometimes referred to an organic latex, is hypoallergenic to better protect sleepers from mold, mildew, dust mites, and other allergens.

Dunlop Latex

Dunlop latex is a high-density latex foam that is made from naturally harvested rubber tree sap. The process for creating Dunlop latex differs from Talalay, as it is poured into a mold with one swift pour to allow the foam to settle at the bottom, making it customizable, as one side is denser than the other.

Talalay Latex

Like Dunlop latex, Talalay latex is made using rubber tree sap in combination with other materials; however, this type of latex is poured differently to create a less dense foam. Manufacturers fill a mold halfway with Talalay latex, and then vacuum air into it to expand the foam, creating an even density throughout. The mold is flash frozen, washed, and heat-dried before being sold.

Synthetic Latex

Synthetic latex is made using petroleum-based products, like Styrene-Butadiene rubber, to mimic the feel of natural latex, without the higher price tag. Though it is made to create a similar experience, synthetic latex is less breathable, not as bouncy, and is not as durable as natural latex. Synthetic latex is a great option for people with latex allergies who want the comfort and cooling of latex beds.

Hybrid Latex

Hybrid mattresses are made using a blend of at least two mattress materials like memory foam and latex, natural and synthetic latex, or innerspring coils and another material. Hybrid mattresses are not as durable as others; however, they last longer when they are made with natural latex as an ingredient.

How Long does Latex Last vs. Other Mattress Types?

Many modern mattresses that are made using durable materials in the manufacturing process are built to last at least 7 years with natural latex mattresses lasting longer than that. But, do any of them last more than a decade?

How Long does a Latex Mattress Last?

A latex mattress can last up to ten years or more, depending on the materials used. Synthetic hybrid latex is designed to last 6 to 10 years; however, these two options are less durable than natural latex mattresses. Natural latex, when cared for properly, can last sleepers close to 20 years, much longer than other mattress materials.

In addition to materials and care, the firmness level of a latex mattress can influence how long it lasts. Firmer latex mattresses tend to have a longer lifespan compared to softer models, as they are less prone to sagging over time. For those seeking a balance between comfort and durability, medium-firm latex mattresses offer the perfect middle ground, supporting long-term resilience while still providing pressure relief.

How Long does Memory Foam Last?

Memory foam, originally used in the 1970s by NASA, was designed with comfort and support in mind. Once companies realized the potential memory foam offered, memory foam mattresses were created at an affordable price point for most. Memory foam comes in a variety of density options, with less-dense foam lasting 5 to 7 years.

How Long do Innerspring Mattresses Last?

An innerspring bed is among the earliest mattresses used dating back to the 1800s; however, despite modern technology, the spring coils begin breaking down much more quickly than mattresses made with foam or other durable materials. Innerspring coil mattresses have the shortest lifespan at nearly 5 years before requiring replacement.

How Long does a Hybrid Mattress Last?

A hybrid mattress varies in materials used, however, the most commonly found form is memory foam surrounding individually-wrapped coils. A hybrid mattress is often warrantied for up to ten years, though this is not a guarantee that it will last that long.

Signs it is Time for a New Mattress

Though a mattress company will set forth recommended time constraints of when a mattress should be replaced, there are contributing factors that can reduce or increase the lifespan of your mattress, like sleep habits, sleep position, and how well the mattress is cared for. It is important to remember that just because a mattress is warrantied for ten years does not mean it will last ten years.

Another factor to consider is the impact of rotating or flipping your latex mattress to extend its life. Many latex mattresses are designed with specific layers for comfort and support, making them non-flippable. However, regularly rotating the mattress every 6 months can help distribute the wear evenly, preventing the formation of body impressions and prolonging the mattress’s lifespan.

Common signs that it is time for a new mattress include:

A Decrease in Sleep Quality

Do you feel uncomfortable throughout the night, or experience increased pain upon waking after sleeping on a mattress that was once very supportive? Natural latex and memory foam are two types of mattresses designed to provide exceptional pressure relief, regardless of sleeping position. However, if the mattress has surpassed its lifespan, your sleep quality will suffer.

The Mattress is Sagging

Mattress sagging is a tell-tale sign that the components that make up the mattress are experiencing wear and tear, causing them to break down. If the mattress is subject to excess weight, the elements may begin breaking down sooner, resulting in premature sagging, and a decrease in the mattress's ability to bounce back.

You are Experiencing an Increase in Allergies

Mattresses that are not cared for become a breeding ground for mold, mildew, dust mites, and a collection of dead skin cells. A new mattress often has hypoallergenic properties that make it allergen-resistant; however, with time these properties dissipate, leaving you with worsened allergies throughout the night and upon waking.

It is Past the Recommended Time to Replace

All foam latex mattress types, memory foam mattresses, polyurethane foam beds, and other mattress materials must be replaced over time. If you provide routine cleaning and care to your mattress, it will last years; however, using the mattress past the manufacturer’s recommended replacement time frame leaves you susceptible to a buildup of allergens, increased pain, and decreased sleep quality.

How to Make a Latex Mattress Last Longer

Latex mattresses are known for their durability, but with a few simple care tips, you can extend their lifespan even further. Here’s how to keep your latex mattress in excellent shape for years to come:

Use a Mattress Protector

• A high-quality mattress protector shields your latex mattress from moisture, spills, and allergens. It also prevents dust mites and other debris from penetrating the mattress, keeping it cleaner and fresher for longer.

Rotate Your Mattress Regularly

• While latex mattresses don’t require flipping, rotating them every 6 months helps to distribute wear evenly. This prevents sagging and maintains consistent support in all areas of the mattress.

Keep It Clean

• Regularly vacuum the surface of your latex mattress to remove dust, dirt, and allergens. Spot clean any spills immediately using a mild detergent and water to avoid moisture seeping into the layers.

Support It Properly

• Ensure your mattress is placed on a solid, supportive foundation, such as a slatted bed frame or a platform bed. A lack of proper support can cause premature sagging or wear.

Avoid Jumping or Excess Weight

• Latex is durable, but excessive weight in concentrated areas can lead to quicker breakdown of the materials. Avoid jumping on the mattress or placing heavy objects on it for prolonged periods.

Allow Airflow

• Latex needs to breathe. Avoid covering the mattress with heavy bedding that traps heat. Instead, opt for breathable materials like cotton or wool to maintain proper airflow and regulate temperature.

By following these tips, you can help your latex mattress stay in excellent condition, ensuring many years of comfortable, restful sleep.

Why Choose Latex Foam?

Natural latex backed by strict purity standards offers the healthiest and most comfortable sleep money can buy. Synthetic or hybrid mattresses are filled with toxic chemicals that are inhaled during the night, while natural latex is made using certified organic materials. When you purchase a new mattress, unboxing it will produce off-gassing odors that become less noticeable with time. Polyurethane foam mattresses and other synthetic blends release unknown chemicals into the air, while organic latex emits a harmless faint vanilla-like smell.

Latex mattresses offer pressure relief that compares to that of memory foam; however, the natural materials used to create the foam layers are more breathable to allow adequate airflow throughout the mattress, keeping you comfortable and cool all night. Memory foam and latex mattresses cradle and contour the body to create individualized comfort and support, while maintaining their original shape after you climb out of bed.

Sleep Better with Eco Terra

At Eco Terra, we believe everyone deserves the opportunity to sleep better with the benefits of all-natural, organic latex. We partner directly with a sustainable farming community in Asia to harvest natural latex from rubber trees that have not been met with harsh chemicals, pesticides, or toxins. Our hybrid latex mattresses and natural latex mattress toppers are handcrafted locally in the United States, and shipped to your door free of charge.

The Eco Terra hybrid natural latex mattress is manufactured using natural latex foam that surrounds quantum coils for undeniable comfort and support. It is then wrapped with a breathable, GOTS-certified organic cotton cover with organic wool to act as a chemical-free flame retardant.

Our hybrid natural latex mattress is never touched with chemicals, toxins, or polyurethane, to ensure quality and purity from harvesting to the finished product. Customers can take advantage of our 90-night risk-free trial period to give them adequate time to try the mattress in their home, and determine if it is the right firmness and support needed.

Our natural latex mattress topper is made with certified organic cotton and wool, natural latex that has never been touched by chemicals, and backed by a 5-year warranty. We offer two height levels, and three firmness levels with our mattress topper that you can choose from depending on the thickness or firmness desired.

The sleep experts at Eco Terra know better than anyone that investing in your sleep is an investment in your overall health. That’s why we made it a mission to formulate healthy and affordable sleep products for all. With Eco Terra, healthy sleep does not have to break the bank.

---

Also in Eco Terra's Healthy Sleep Blog