If you’re looking for how to fix a sagging mattress, chances are your mattress has seen better days. It happens to most of us at some point, even if you have invested in the best mattress† one day you realize the support is gone and you sink into a dip. It may not seem like a big deal, but this dip can affect your sleep and even cause discomfort at night – after all, you no longer sleep on a flat surface.
Most consider this problem a lost cause; how can you fix something that is bent? While you can’t exactly fix a sagging mattress (the only way to properly repair is to send it back to the manufacturer for repair while it is still under warranty), there are steps you can take to improve this situation. And it’s well worth doing if you’re not willing to buy a new mattress, just like repairing a squeaky bed† Here we show you what you can do to “fix” a sagging mattress.
Why is my mattress starting to sag?
Unfortunately, all mattresses will inevitably sag over time. It is the result of the pressure and weight we put on the surface all night. The rate at which each mattress sinks depends on the type of mattress and the person sleeping on it. Even personal sleeping habits can influence where the dip will arise – someone who sleeps on their side will put more pressure on the mattress through the hip. While there is less slack if you distribute your weight better.
In my experience, both foam mattresses and innerspring mattresses have sagged to the same extent, but in the end this comes down to the quality of your mattress. It should also be noted that mattresses that are firmer or denser are likely to last longer than softer designs when it comes to sagging.
How to ‘fix’ a sagging mattress?
1. Flip the mattress — It sounds like common sense, but this is the first step to take when dealing with a nasty dip. Through turning the mattress 180 degrees, the dip lower will appear on the other side of the bed. Not ideal if you have a partner who sleeps on the other side, but it’s much more comfortable on their feet than your back.
You should try to rotate your mattress generally every three to six months to keep it in good condition. Keep in mind, we’re talking about rotating, not flipping. Not all modern mattresses are designed to be turned over, so check before trying. If it’s a tiered design or a hybrid with zoned support, don’t flip it.
2. Try one of the best mattress toppers † A mattress topper essentially adds an extra layer on top of your bed for more comfort. This is a brilliant alternative if you are not willing to buy a new mattress but want to improve the condition of your current mattress. There are several types available to suit your preference, including down, foam, and even wool. Granted, you’ll probably still feel the dip from the topper, but its effects will be less severe.
Note that bed toppers should not be confused with the best mattress protectors† A topper adds comfort, while a protector is designed to easily protect against spills and stains.
3. Use pillows to help – If you’re dealing with a particular area of sagging, a few well-placed pillows can really help. By using one of the best pillows, you can strengthen the support where needed, be it around the hips or your back. Thick foam pillows are best for this purpose as they provide the best support.
This isn’t a permanent fix (a short-term solution at most), but it should alleviate the problem until you’re ready to buy a good replacement.
4. Get a New Base – Sometimes the mattress isn’t even the problem; instead, take a look at the foundation. If it is uneven, it contributes to the prolapse. If there are slats, they should be evenly spaced to provide good support. Four leg foundations also don’t provide as much support to the center of the mattress as those with six legs.
If you need to invest in a new foundation, consider checking which type will fit your mattress before purchasing. This will extend the life of your mattress and most manufacturers include this information on their website so you can easily find out.
5. Check the warranty — Remember, if your mattress is relatively new, it is likely still under warranty. In that case, you may be entitled to get a replacement. Check with the brand to see if you’re covered, or check the terms and conditions on the manufacturer’s website, as many will state the depth of sag that is and is not covered by a warranty.
When buying a new mattress, it’s always worth checking the warranty that comes with it so you know what’s covered. We explain this more in our feature on how mattress guarantees work.
6. Buy a new mattress — When all else fails, it’s time to invest in a new mattress. Even the best mattress won’t last forever (average life is six to eight years depending on the materials used), so this is something you’ll need to replace every now and then.
However, there are certain steps you can take to extend the life of your mattress, such as learning how do you clean a mattress? run well and regularly.
This article is part of santosfutebolarte’s Sleep Awareness Week 2022 celebration, which runs through Saturday, March 19. Stay tuned for tons of sleep tips, advice and expert-reviewed products to help you sleep better this year.
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