A latex mattress should last about 10 years. Different types of latex have distinct lifespans. Natural latex tends to last longer than the synthetic version.
If they’re maintained properly, natural latex mattresses can last up to 20 years. Synthetic or blended latex should hold up for 6 to 10 years. Latex mattresses generally last longer than regular mattresses, which have shorter lifespans of 5 to 7 years.
If you’re looking for more general information on mattress lifespans, check out our guide to how long mattresses last.
Latex Mattresses & Sagging
All mattresses will compress over time with wear and tear, but latex sags less than traditional mattresses, preventing you from feeling uncomfortable pressure points for a longer period.
Natural Latex vs. Synthetic Latex
Sag factor is a measurement that determines how quickly a material rebounds after it has been subjected to a heavy load. The higher the sag factor, the more comfortable the mattress should be to sleep on. The manufacturing process can impact the sag factor of a mattress.
Natural Latex Sagging
You shouldn’t feel much sagging in natural latex over a 10-year period. Many high-quality natural latex mattresses, such as dunlop latex and natural talalay latex, have sag factors of 4 or 5. Over time, the latex can soften, leading you to feel some pressure points from hard spots beneath your bed, such as slats. But latex generally softens only 15 to 20 percent in a 10-year period.
Synthetic Latex Sagging
Synthetic latex is made with petroleum-based chemicals. Besides being prone to off-gassing, synthetic latex softens up to 60 percent within a 10-year period. It’s more likely to sag, reducing the pressure relief that it offers initially. Synthetic latex is also more likely to develop mildew and gather dust mites than natural latex.
How Do Latex Mattresses Stack Up Against Other Mattress Types?
Latex lasts longer than many other mattress types. But the longevity of your mattress depends on the manufacturing process and other factors. Even traditional mattresses have many layers of foam and coils, and the construction and quality affect the lifespan.
How Long Each Mattress Type Lasts
- Latex mattress – over 10 years
- Memory foam mattress – 7 to 10 years
- Innerspring mattress – 7 to 10 years
- Hybrid mattress – 7 to 15 years
- Waterbed – 10 years
- Air mattress – 10 to 12 years
- Gel-infused foam mattress – 8 to 12 years
- Futon mattress – 6 to 8 years
What To Do If My Old Mattress Is Sagging
If your mattress is sagging, you probably feel it.
A new mattress should not sag. If your new mattress has begun to sag, you should contact the manufacturer.
Many people with old mattresses complain about back pain or aches in their joints. If your mattress is old, there may not be much that you can do about it. Over time, your body weight compresses the materials, leading to a dip where you sleep.
If you’re trying to extend the life of your mattress, you can try placing a mattress topper, mattress protector, or pillow top on it. But as your body compresses the materials of your mattress cover, you’ll likely feel the sag, which is probably well worn into the core of your mattress. You can’t disguise a sagging mattress for long.
If you have a sagging air mattress, you might just need to inflate it. But air mattresses can become softer as the temperature changes because air compresses when it is cold.
The Best Mattress Using All-Natural Materials
Now that you know how long latex mattresses last, you should start thinking about where to shop from. We recommend Birch Living.
Birch mattress company offers only high-quality, all-natural, organic mattresses. In addition to natural latex layers, these mattresses contain Birch wool, organic cotton, individually wrapped coils and wool batting to provide stability, support and comfort.
Birch non-toxic mattresses are free of harmful chemicals. They won’t off-gas, and they don’t contain flame retardants. Still, Birch natural latex mattresses are naturally flame-resistant.
Plus, they’re comfortable and offer pressure relief and support no matter what position you sleep in. They’re also breathable and keep you cool throughout the night.
You can choose to rotate your mattress if you want to avoid compressing the same spot, but it never needs to be flipped. The layers are constructed to withstand years of high quality sleep without flipping.
Birch offers a 25-year warranty in addition to a 100-night sleep trial. Try a Birch mattress out for 100 nights before you decide if it’s right for you. If you’re not a fan, Birch will pick it up free of charge and refund your purchase.
However, we think you’re going to love the quality and comfort of this eco-friendly mattress. Sleep on one today.