How To Fix A Sagging Mattress (Quick Fixes)
Sleeping on a sagging mattress leads to poor distribution of your weight and days or months of a stiff and sore back. Doesn’t sound too great, does it?
An old mattress is extremely vulnerable to damage and sagging which is bound to happen with wear and tear over the years.
However, the extent of the damage will also indicate whether you should fix the sagging mattress so it still functions as normal or replace it.
There are some old mattresses that can be saved and recovered with a few smart solutions.
Flipping the mattress, using a mattress topper or pad, adjusting the bed frame, or simply placing an item in between can do a lot to improve its condition.
But before we get into the good stuff, I’ve listed the possible reasons why your mattress is sagging (which is great to know to prevent future damage), what you can do about it, and the importance of having a proper mattress.
This guide will answer all your questions and provide you with actionable solutions to help you fix a sagging mattress for a more pleasant and comfortable sleep.
Here is everything you need to know:
Table of Contents
Reasons Why Your Mattress Is Sagging
1. Your mattress is old
Deterioration happens over time, and a sagging mattress can indicate that your mattress is just plain worn out.
This is especially true for mattresses that are over 9 – 15 years old.
The solution? Time for a new mattress!
2. Your foundation or support system isn’t strong enough
It’s important to have a solid structure underneath your mattress to hold it up and give it firmness and stability.
If the bottom of your mattress is not supported properly, it can sag or even warp.
As such, make sure your foundation is strong enough to handle the weight of your mattress, and add center support if you need it.
3. Your base or support system is not properly assembled
If you’re putting a foundation together yourself, it’s important to double-check the instructions to construct it correctly and safely.
You can, however, consult a bed assembly professional if the task proves hard for you.
4. You have a body impression on your mattress
If you’re not turning your mattress regularly and have just been sleeping in the same spot, your body impression can sag due to uneven weight distribution on your mattress surface.
How to Fix a Sagging Mattress
While a sagging mattress can mean it’s time to get a new mattress, it may not be the case if your old mattress can be salvaged. Follow these steps:
1. Flip your Mattress Regularly
The best way to fix a sagging mattress is to prevent the sag in the first place by flipping your mattress regularly.
Flipping your mattress means turning it over to distribute weight evenly. Flip or rotate it from head to toe as regularly as you can.
The recommended time is every three months. If you are using a memory foam mattress, it is recommended that you flip your mattress every month.
2. Use a Mattress Pad or Topper
If you have a sagging mattress and do not have the budget to replace it, try using a mattress topper instead.
A mattress topper is usually a pad that is made of foam or fiber, and that can be placed over a mattress to improve comfort.
They are generally used to soften an old or uncomfortable mattress.
A mattress topper will give your old mattress a new lease on life and help prevent further sagging.
Toppers come in various shapes, sizes, and thicknesses, so you can choose the best fit for your mattress needs.
3. Place Items such as pillows Under the Sagging Part of Your Mattress
Sometimes, all that’s needed to fix a sagging mattress is to add some firmness underneath the sagging area.
When you place pillows under the saggy parts of your mattress, it moves back up to the original position. Light blankets and sheets will not give the same support that a pillow can.
4. Inspect the Box Spring or bed frame
If you have no problems with your mattress but still encounter a sagging mattress, check your bed frame or box spring.
Often, a sagging mattress is caused by a problem in the supporting structure beneath it.
Check all fasteners on the bed frame to make sure they are secure. If any screws are loose, tighten them and ensure the bed frame is stable and isn’t warped.
Inspect your mattress and box spring closely for signs of wear so that you can replace them should they be damaged.
If the damage cannot be repaired, you may need to replace both of them.
See also: How To Fix A Squeaky Box Spring: Top Solutions
5. Use Plywood or Felt Pads between the Bedframe and the Mattress
If you don’t have a box spring, use plywood to support the mattress. Place it between the bedframe and the mattress and adjust it to provide firm contact.
Felt pads may also be used in place of plywood if the felt is cheap or readily available in your area.
This will greatly increase the rigidity and support of your mattress foundation.
6. Swap it for a Firmer Mattress
If you don’t want to buy a new mattress, you can swap it for a firmer one.
This will only work if your current mattress features a sleep trial period, and you can officially exchange your mattress for a new one before the trial period is over.
7. Consider a New Mattress
Some sagging can be fixed by simply flipping your mattress regularly, but if that doesn’t work and you’re sleeping on a really old mattress (10 or more years old), it’s probably time to consider buying a new one.
Older mattresses just don’t have the same level of support as newer ones. Also, if your mattress has holes or springs poking out, it’s time for an upgrade!
Importance of Having a Firm Mattress
A sagging mattress can impact sleep and your general health.
If you suffer from back problems, a sagging mattress can increase the pressure on your spine and cause you even more pain.
For this reason, it is important to have a completely supportive bed frame that is properly constructed.
A firm mattress that is not too soft or too hard is the ideal way to get the support your body needs.
Benefits of a Firm Mattress
1. Sleep Health
A firm mattress will keep you aligned, thus preventing painful pressure on your back. This will give you a good night’s sleep and help relieve daily stress that can be harmful to your health.
2. Improved Posture
A firm mattress is an ideal surface for good posture as it supports your body during sleep and prevents any sagging or deformation in the spine.
Good posture helps prevent back problems, so a good mattress is a good investment.
3. Supports Different Sleeping Styles
Everyone has their own position that feels comfortable to them, whether that’s sleeping on the side, stomach, or back, and a firm mattress can assist in helping you sleep comfortably.
Conclusion
For any mattress, rotating or flipping the mattress regularly will prevent sagging.
This is highly recommended every few months or so but if your mattress has already sagged, a mattress topper or pad can be used to make up for the damage.
It’s a great budget-friendly option that can be used for the time being until the mattress is replaced.
All of these solutions listed in this article are worth trying.
However, for mattresses that are really old and dented, consider getting a new one.
Your sleep is absolutely important and this should be taken seriously.
Having a good night’s rest on a mattress that is comfortable and in good condition is essential for your overall well-being.
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