Ready to show your mattress some love? Here are some ways you can care for your mattress. Taking care of it can help promote a better sleep for you.

• Protect. Slip your mattress into a specially designed encasement that helps keep bed bugs out. Other protectors are designed to fit on top (not all the way around) to block dirt, sweat, dust, and other contaminants. Many protectors are water-resistant, hypoallergenic, and machine washable.
• Support. Mattresses with a solid foundation helps prevent uneven weight distribution that not only damages the mattress but can also be uncomfortable to sleep on. From box springs to slatted bed frames, there are several designs to choose from.
• Refresh. Washing the sheets, blankets, and other bedding is not only important for personal hygiene, but it can also prevent body oils, dirt, and other allergens from contaminating your mattress.
• Clean. Vacuum the surface and sides of the mattress and treat any stains.
• Rotate. After regular use, mattresses can start to sag and develop indentations in certain spots. Rotating the mattress from head to foot can help evenly break it in. However, mattresses with a zoned design should not be rotated or it could feel less supportive.
• Flip. Many older innerspring mattresses were designed with similar comfort layers on both sides. These mattresses could be flipped as well as rotated. Newer designs with pillowtops or firm support cores on the bottom should stay right-side up.

Following these care recommendations can help keep your mattress clean, maintain its quality, and help you sleep more comfortably. However, even when well taken care of, mattresses eventually need to be replaced.

When to Break Up With Your Mattress

You can do all the right things for your mattress, and it will still show signs of wear. Depending on the type of mattress you have, some have longer lifespans. It all depends on the material, sleeper, and maintenance routine. Here are some signs it may be time to replace your mattress:

• It’s no longer comfortable
• There’s more tossing and turning at night
• You wake up in pain or stiff

You can try adding a topper to make your mattress more supportive or comfortable. But this is usually a short-term solution. Replacing your mattress may be costly, but it’s also worthwhile for your sleep, health, and overall quality of life. By taking care of your mattress, there’s a better chance of it lasting longer and taking care of you while you sleep.