How long does the mattress last? The health logic behind the 8-year replacement law

How long does a mattress last? Is the widely circulated "8-year replacement law" a marketing gimmick for merchants, or does it have a scientific basis?

In fact, 8 years is not an absolutely precise time limit, but it is a scientific reminder based on the aging and health effects of mattress materials. The health logic behind this is mainly based on the following points:

1. Decline of support, the invisible killer of the spine

The core function of a mattress is to provide proper support and maintain the natural physiological curve of the spine. As the age of use increases, the internal spring will fatigue and lose elasticity, and materials such as memory cotton or latex will also collapse irreversibly. This can lead to uneven surface of the mattress and uneven support. Sleeping on a deformed mattress for a long time, the spine cannot be effectively supported, which can easily cause or aggravate back pain and affect sleep posture.

2. Hygiene dead ends, hotbeds for allergens

The human body naturally sheds dander and secretes sweat every night. Over the years, these substances will penetrate deep into the mattress and become an excellent breeding ground for dust mites. Even if the surface is cleaned regularly with a bedspread, it cannot completely remove the carcasses and excrement of mites inside. These are common allergens that can cause allergic rhinitis, asthma or itchy skin. A mattress that has been used for 8 years may already have a considerable number of colonies and allergens inside.

3. Silent decline in sleep quality

You may be used to that old mattress with a little collapse and noise, but your body isn't. The loss of support forces you to frequently turn over at night in search of comfortable positions, which unconsciously interrupts deep sleep. Although you may not realize it, the quality of your sleep is quietly declining, leading to a lack of energy and physical fatigue the next day.

How can I determine if it needs to be replaced?

In addition to referring to the 8-year time point, if you experience the following situations, you should consider replacing your mattress:

• In the morning, my body was stiff and my back was sore.
  

• It is noticeable that the mattress is sinking or the body is rolling towards the middle.
  

• I heard a distinct squeaking sound when I turned over.
  

• After waking up, I feel more tired than before going to bed.
  

• Allergic symptoms become noticeably worse in the bedroom.
  

The "8-Year Replacement Rule" is more like an easy-to-remember health tip. It simplifies the complex process of material aging and health risks into a clear time node. Investing in a new mattress that suits you is not only an investment in sleep, but also a responsibility for long-term health.