Nick Favreau
Brief: How To Break In A Mattress
- Need for Mattress Break-In: Mattresses often require time to regain their original shape after compression and to adjust to a person’s body.
- Time Frame for Break-In: It can take 30 to 90 days for a mattress to fully regain shape, with initial usability often within a week.
- Methods to Break In a Mattress:
- Let Mattress Expand: Allow the mattress to fully expand after unpacking.
- Air It Out: Improve comfort by airing out the mattress.
- Warm It Up: Warm the mattress in a heated room to speed up expansion.
- Consider the Frame: Use a sturdy frame to support the mattress properly.
- Customizing the Break-In Process for Different Mattress Types:
- Memory Foam Mattresses: Adjust quickly due to their ability to mold to the body.
- Innerspring Mattresses: Require less time to regain shape due to support springs.
- Latex Mattresses: Durable and quick to break in.
- Hybrid Mattresses: Take longer to break in due to the combination of materials.
- FAQs:
- Breaking in a Mattress: This involves adjusting the mattress to one’s body needs.
- Duration for Break-In: Usually 30 nights, but varies based on mattress type.
- Methods for Accelerating Break-In: Sleeping in different positions, using a heavy object, or adding a mattress topper.
- Characteristics of Firm Mattresses: Provide more support, ideal for certain sleep preferences or heavier individuals.
- Softening Over Time: Mattresses generally become softer with use.
- Post-Move Break-In: Often required after relocating the mattress.
- Mattress Flipping and Rotation: Recommended for even wear and longevity.
There is a common misconception that mattresses are supposed to be comfortable from the very first minute you use them. I’m here to tell you otherwise. You see, mattresses need time to regain their original shape after being compressed for months and years in a warehouse and on the road. Breaking them in is quite simple if you know what needs to be done. Read on to learn how to break in a mattress and enjoy the miracle of comfort immediately.
Why Do You Need To Break In A Mattress?
The body needs time to adjust to the shape and firmness of a new mattress. This means that when you lie down on your brand new bed, it takes some time for the body’s muscles to become used to sleeping in a new place. It’s like that awkward first date. You have not been on one before, so you need some time to get used to each other.
How Long Does It Take To Break In A Mattress?
It will take approximately 30 to 90 days for a new mattress to fully regain its shape after being compressed for so long during transportation. However, it usually takes about one week for the mattress to become usable as opposed to uncomfortable. But you cannot just go ahead and start sleeping on your new mattress right away. You need to know how to break into a bed properly first.
Ways To Break In A Mattress
There are four main ways to help your mattress regain its shape.
Let The Mattress Fully Expand
Mattresses come compressed. That means that they are stored in a warehouse until they are shipped to your store for purchase. Then they need to be expanded and finally set up in your new home.
They are delivered in a box and immediately placed on the floor. This process of moving, repacking, and unpacking takes up time and causes a lot of stress on the mattress. The more you move it around, the more the body’s muscles get used to sleeping on it. Your body will adjust faster if you let the mattress fully expand for some days.
Air It Out
Laying on a mattress that has not been used for an extended period is quite uncomfortable. The body needs to get used to the new mattress before you can actually sleep on it. You can speed up the process if you let the body get used to it. Stretching out and walking on your bed with the air circulation going through it will help your mattress regain its shape faster.
Warm It Up
Another way to speed up the process is by warming up your new mattress before you sleep on it for the first time. You can do this by placing your mattress in a warm room for about an hour before using it to sleep.
Consider The Frame
You may not notice, but the frame on which your mattress sits may also affect how long it takes to break in your new mattress. A sturdy frame will help give your new mattress a stable surface to lay on. This makes it easier for your body to adjust.
Customize The Break-In Process
Memory Foam Mattresses
Memory foam mattresses are among the most popular on the market today. They have a more customized feel since they will mold to every part of your body. Moreover, they do not require very long to break in because of their natural state.
When memory foam comes out of its compressed state, it immediately expands and molds into its new shape. This is why it takes a memory foam mattress less time to regain its shape than other mattresses on the market today.
Innerspring Mattresses
Innerspring mattresses are among the most expensive on the market. They are also among the most comfortable since they come with a firm yet comfortable feel. An innerspring mattress takes less than two weeks to regain its shape since it is supported by the support springs.
Latex Mattresses
Latex mattresses do not need much time to break in since they are durable and tough when they leave the factory. They are among the most comfortable on the market today and require little time to break-in. A new latex mattress is ready to be used almost right away after being delivered. Latex mattresses do not bend under pressure, which makes them more durable than their counterparts.
Hybrid Mattresses
Hybrid mattresses are a bit harder to break in than other types. They take more time to regain their shape compared to memory foam and latex mattresses. This may be because of the hybrid material they are made of.
Hybrid mattresses usually have a type of memory foam that serves as a supportive base layer and has an additional layer containing an individual polymer that molds faster than its counterparts because it is more responsive to temperature variations.
FAQ
What is breaking in a mattress?
Breaking in a mattress is the process of wearing it to suit your body’s needs better. This typically involves compressing the foam layers within the mattress, allowing them to adjust to the contours of your body.
How long will it take to break in a mattress?
Most mattress experts recommend that you sleep on your mattress for at least 30 nights before expecting to see any real differences. It is typically a slow process, as it takes time for the mattress to adjust to your body shape and weight.
Do I need to do something to break into the mattress?
There are many things that you can do to help speed up the breaking-in period, such as flipping it over regularly or sleeping in different positions each night. However, for most mattresses, this is not necessary.
What is unique about firm mattresses?
Firm mattresses are generally harder and offer more support than softer mattresses. They are generally best for people who prefer a firmer surface and need extra support for a bad back. They are also ideal for heavier individuals.
Will the mattress become softer over time?
Yes, most mattresses will become softer over time, however, with a firm mattress this process may take a lot longer than with a softer mattress.
How can I break in the mattress faster?
You can try sleeping in different positions each night, such as on your back, stomach, or side. This will help the mattress to mold to your body shape faster. You can also try laying something heavy in the middle of the mattress as this will help to break it in.
What should I do if I find the mattress is still too hard?
If you find that the mattress is still too hard after a few weeks, try adding a mattress topper. This will help to soften the surface without compromising on support.
Can I use a mattress pad with a firm mattress?
Yes, it is perfectly safe to use a mattress pad with a firm mattress. It can help to provide extra cushioning and support.
Will I have to break into my mattress again if I move house?
Yes, in most cases, you will need to break in the mattress again if you move house, as the mattress will be in a different environment and may need to adjust to the new conditions.
Can I use a heated blanket to break in the mattress?
It is not recommended to use a heated blanket to break in a mattress, as this can cause the material to deteriorate over time.
Can I flip the mattress to break it in?
Yes, flipping the mattress over can help to spread the wear more evenly and may speed up the breaking-in period.
How can I tell if the mattress is ready to be used?
Most mattresses will be ready to use after they have been broken in; however, you should assess how the mattress feels to you and make sure that it is right for you before using it.
Should I ever rotate the mattress?
Yes, rotating the mattress regularly can help to reduce wear and tear and will help the mattress last for longer.
Are there any signs that the mattress is not breaking in properly?
If you find that you are still not comfortable after 30 nights then it is likely that the mattress is not suitable for you. You should consider trying a different type of mattress to see if it is more comfortable.
Are there any tips for sleeping on a firm mattress?
Yes, it is important to make sure that your spine is aligned in a neutral position when you sleep and to use a pillow that supports your head and neck.
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