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Your mattress can negatively affect your quality of sleep as it ages, and when that is the case, it is probably time for a new one. There are some general guidelines for when to replace mattresses, but since mattresses are so widely varied, they can last anywhere from 5-10 years before it is time for you to replace it.

There are several ways that you can determine whether your mattress is in need of replacement.

*Sagging in a specific spot on the mattress. Usually this is remedied by frequent rotating and turning of the mattress, but it does still occur naturally over time regardless.

*Ability to feel the springs. In an innerspring mattress, you should not be able to feel the individual springs when you sit or lie down on the bed. If you can, it means that either the coils are deteriorating, or that the layer above the coils is deteriorating.

*Inability to sleep comfortably. Although you might think that stress or other factors are causing your discomfort while you sleep at night, the culprit might actually be your mattress. If you have noticed that you are not sleeping as restfully as you once did, it is time to start shopping around for a new mattress. Chances are that you will need to look at an entirely new one as well, as people’s comfort needs can change over time.

*The mattress is coming apart. Whenever you change the sheets, take note of the mattress’s condition. If it is a regular innerspring mattress, check all sides to make sure there are no tears along the seams.

Because mattress deterioration takes place gradually, it can be difficult to detect these changes immediately, because some of these changes might have simply been things you have gotten used to over time. However, if you have had your mattress for over five years, it might be time to start looking for another one if any of the aforementioned changes apply to it.

How to Tell the Difference Between a Bargain and Cheap Mattress

Everyone can appreciate a bargain, but then again, there is the old saying “you get what you pay for.” When it comes to getting a good night’s sleep, it is never a good idea to cut corners. However, there are always good deals to be had on mattresses – the important thing is differentiating between what is a good deal and the many other cheap mattresses on sale.

Thanks to the Internet, people can find user reviews on just about any product on the planet. However, people usually only write about products they feel passionately about – either good or bad. Regardless of the product’s overall quality, you will probably find some scathing reviews for just about every mattress on the market. You will know a good or bad mattress, though, when you read enough reviews that start to echo one another.

Once you have found some mattresses within your budget that have favorable reviews, it is time to test out those mattresses at a store. While there are plenty of mattresses available online, a good idea is to try out the exact model at a mattress store, even if you plan on coming back online to purchase it.

Finally, mattress retailers are always having sales. When possible, try to buy a mattress that is on sale rather than one that is cheaper to begin with. Better mattresses use higher quality of materials and craftsmanship and are therefore worth more than those that are mass manufactured or made with lower quality materials. Although a cheaper mattress might be a viable solution for a guest bedroom that is rarely used, it is important to invest in a better mattress for your own room, since this is where you will be sleeping every night for the next five to ten years.

Overall, there are always plenty of deals available on mattresses. The key to distinguishing between a good deal and a cheap mattress, however, is to do the research and shop around until you can find one with a solid reputation.

Bed Buying Guide

Decide on your priorities, i.e. style of bed, storage, size, the larger the better, access to the room and price .

Try and lay on a selection of beds with your partner.

Give yourself plenty of time, try laying on your side, back etc.

Remember a supportive bed is what most people need. To firm or to soft is not ideal.

When the bed is delivered give your body time to adjust to the new bed. It will take time, but soon you will feel the benefits.

Still confused? The Sleep Council has an excellent Guide on Bed Buying or you can visit www.bedcentre.co.uk online and choose from a wide range of top brands.