Why does my mattress keep sinking?

A comfortable and supportive mattress is essential for a restful night’s sleep, but over time, you may notice that your mattress begins to develop sagging or indentations. This common issue, known as mattress sinking or sagging, can affect the quality of your sleep and lead to discomfort and back pain. In this article, we’ll explore the causes of mattress sinking, strategies for prevention, and solutions for addressing this frustrating problem.

Causes of Mattress Sinking:

1. Normal Wear and Tear: With regular use, mattresses undergo normal wear and tear, resulting in gradual compression of the materials and loss of support. Over time, this can cause the mattress to develop sagging or indentations, particularly in areas with the most pressure, such as the hips and shoulders.
2. Poor Quality Materials: Mattresses made with low-quality materials or inadequate support systems are more prone to sagging and premature wear. Inferior foam, weak coil springs, or insufficient padding can lead to accelerated deterioration and sagging over time.
3. Improper Use: Incorrect use or improper support can also contribute to mattress sinking. Placing a mattress on an uneven or unsupportive foundation, such as an old box spring or slatted bed frame, can cause the mattress to sag prematurely. Similarly, jumping or standing on the mattress can accelerate wear and tear, leading to sagging.
4. Excessive Weight: Excess weight or pressure placed on the mattress, such as sleeping in the same position every night or regularly sitting on the edge of the bed, can cause the materials to compress unevenly and lead to sagging in specific areas.
5. Moisture and Humidity: Exposure to moisture and humidity, whether from spills, accidents, or high humidity levels in the bedroom, can compromise the integrity of the mattress materials and contribute to sagging over time.

Prevention Strategies:

1. Choose a High-Quality Mattress: Invest in a mattress made with high-quality materials and a durable support system to minimise the risk of sagging and premature wear. Look for mattresses with quality foam or coil springs, and consider options with reinforced edges for added support.
2. Use a Supportive Foundation: Ensure your mattress is adequately supported with a sturdy foundation or bed frame designed to provide even support across the entire surface. Avoid using old or sagging box springs, and opt for a solid platform bed or adjustable base for optimal support.
3. Rotate and Flip Regularly: Rotate your mattress regularly to promote even wear and prevent sagging in specific areas. If your mattress is double-sided or flippable, consider flipping it periodically to distribute weight and pressure more evenly.
4. Use a Mattress Protector: Protect your mattress from spills, stains, and moisture using a waterproof mattress protector. A mattress protector can help maintain the integrity of the materials and prevent moisture-related damage that can contribute to sagging.
5. Avoid Excessive Weight and Pressure: Minimize excess weight and pressure on your mattress by varying your sleeping positions and avoiding activities that place undue stress on the mattress, such as sitting or standing on the edge of the bed.
6. Maintain a Clean and Dry Environment: Keep your bedroom clean, dry, and well-ventilated to prevent moisture buildup and humidity, which can accelerate mattress deterioration. Use a dehumidifier to control humidity levels and to avoid mould or mildew growth.

Solutions for Addressing Mattress Sinking:

1. Rotate or Flip the Mattress: If your mattress is reversible or flippable, try rotating or flipping it to distribute weight and pressure more evenly. This can help reduce the appearance of sagging and prolong the mattress’s lifespan.
2. Use Mattress Toppers or Pads: Adding a mattress topper or pad can provide extra cushioning and support to alleviate pressure points and minimise sagging effects. Choose a high-quality topper with supportive materials such as memory foam or latex for optimal comfort.
3. Adjust the Support System: If your mattress is supported by a box spring or foundation, check for signs of wear or sagging and consider replacing it if necessary. Alternatively, upgrade to a more supportive bed frame or foundation to better support your mattress.
4. Fill in Indentations: Try filling them in with additional padding or support for minor indentations or sagging areas. You can use foam inserts, mattress pads, or even rolled-up towels placed under the mattress to provide extra support and reduce the appearance of sagging.
5. Contact the Manufacturer: If your mattress is still under warranty and experiencing significant sagging or defects, contact the manufacturer to inquire about warranty coverage or replacement options. Many mattress manufacturers offer warranties that cover sagging beyond a certain depth and may provide a replacement or repair free of charge.