How to Break in a Mattress: 10 Tips to Boost Your Comfort
Some things get better with time. Mattresses are one of those things.
If you upgraded your mattress but now you’re struggling to sleep, don’t panic! Most mattresses have a 30–90 day break-in period as your body adjusts to the new feel. The length of this period depends on mattress type and sleep habits.
10 Tips to Break in a Mattress
If you’re feeling disappointed with your new mattress, it may just require some time to adjust. Here are some tips for breaking in a new mattress.
1. Let It Rest
Many mattresses need time to fully expand before use. Depending on the mattress size, this can take a few hours to a day. Ensure the mattress reaches room temperature, as cold conditions can affect its comfort. Letting the mattress air out and expand can enhance your first night’s sleep.
Best for: Memory foam mattresses
2. Give Yourself Time to Adjust
Sleeping on a new mattress can initially feel uncomfortable. Allow yourself time to adjust. You purchased the mattress to improve your sleep, and sometimes patience is required for long-term benefits.
Best for: All mattress types
3. Increase Room Temperature
If a memory foam mattress feels too firm, increasing the room temperature can help soften it, as body heat aids in its conforming properties. Maintain a temperature between 60 and 67°F for optimal sleep conditions.
Best for: Memory foam mattresses
4. Add a Mattress Topper
A mattress topper can significantly enhance sleep quality and help you acclimate to your new mattress. Toppers can resolve various mattress issues and prolong mattress lifespan.
Common types include:
- Memory foam for joint pain relief.
- Latex for better airflow.
- Wool for hypoallergenic properties.
- Feathers or down for soft support.
Best for: All mattress types
5. Try a New Foundation
An inadequate foundation can cause mattresses to sag, affecting support. Check your foundation for stability. Different mattresses require different support types:
- Foam mattresses need solid bases.
- Spring mattresses can work with various types of foundations.
Best for: All mattress types
6. Swap Your Bed Frame
Changing your bed frame can also help adjust mattress feel. Solid bases provide more support, while box springs can add cushion.
Best for: All mattress types
7. Flip or Rotate It
Flipping can provide different support, although not all mattresses are designed for flipping. Rotating a mattress can distribute pressure evenly. For best results, rotate every 2–4 weeks initially and then every 3–6 months after.
Best for: Memory foam mattresses
8. Use an Adjustable Base
For adjustable bed frames, gentle bends can help foam layers relax. Implement light cycles of raising and lowering sections of the mattress over the first couple of weeks.
Best for: Memory foam, latex, and hybrid mattresses
9. Sleep on the Whole Surface
To break in the mattress evenly, alternate sleep positions. This prevents early channels from forming in your usual spot.
Best for: All mattress types
10. Consider a Return
If all else fails and you're nearing the end of your trial period, consider returning it. Note what you did and didn’t like to guide your next mattress choice.
Best for: All mattress types
How Long Does It Take to Break in a Mattress?
Most people take between 30 and 90 days to adjust to a new mattress, depending on the type and their sleep habits.
Memory Foam
Typically, it takes around 60 days to adjust, with lower-density models breaking in faster.
Spring
Adjustment generally takes about 30 days, as springs soften more quickly than other materials.
Latex
Latex mattresses have the shortest break-in time, usually between 2 to 14 days.
Hybrid
The break-in period varies based on the materials used in hybrids. Generally, hybrid spring mattresses break in quicker.
If Your Mattress Is Too Firm
Common signs include:
- Joint pain.
- Tingling in extremities.
- Difficulty relaxing into sleep.
To soften:
- Add a softer base or mattress pad.
- Adjust room temperature.
If Your Mattress Is Too Soft
Signs include:
- Difficulty getting out of bed.
- Waking with back pain.
- Excessive sink in expected areas.
To firm up:
- Replace the bed base with a solid option.
- Consider a firm mattress topper.
FAQs
How long does it take to break in a mattress?
Adjustments typically take 30–90 days depending on materials and habits.
Do mattresses get softer with time?
They may soften, but typically your body will adjust to the mattress.
Can you break in a mattress?
Yes, air out and apply gentle pressure to help it adjust.
How long for a mattress to expand?
Most mattresses can be slept on immediately but may take 72 hours to reach full size.
Purchase now and enjoy a comfortable sleep. If you need any inquiries, please contact us; we are happy to assist you.
