2 min readIf your bed is feeling lumpy and drab, it might be time for a refresh. While the conventional wisdom was to give your mattress a periodic flip, many popular models, like multilayer foams and smart beds, advise against it. As mattress designs become more complicated, so does the answer to how to maintain them.
We gathered recommendations from sleep experts on whether flipping your mattress is the best way to extend its lifespan. Here’s what to know.
Should You Ever Flip Your Mattress?
For many modern mattress models, flipping is outdated.
“Most mattresses made today are designed with a specific top and bottom, so they shouldn’t be flipped,” says Mary Helen Rogers, chief marketing officer of the Better Sleep Council. In most cases, rotating your mattress 180 degrees is the easiest fix to breathe new life into your sleep routine. Though less common, double-sided mattresses are still on the market. Generally, these mattresses can be flipped and rotated for extended longevity.
In any case, you should always consult the mattress manufacturer’s instructions before flipping or rotating, as some mattresses aren’t meant to be adjusted in any way.
“Some modern mattresses feature zoned support, with different foams, gels, coils, or other materials positioned to support specific areas of the body, such as the shoulders and hips,” explains Rogers. Rotating these beds may actually worsen your sleep quality and interfere with the mattress’s intended support.
Why Rotate Your Mattress?
Rotating your mattress may sound like another unnecessary chore, but by habit, sleepers apply repeated pressure to the same areas of their bed, lessening the support. Dr. John Saito of the American Academy of Sleep Medicine says rotating your mattress head-to-toe can diffuse that nightly wear, among other benefits.
“This simple habit can help even out wear across the entire surface, preventing materials from breaking down unevenly, and reduce dust mite burden,” he explains.
While adjusting your mattress can improve your sleep quality and even hygiene, there are limits to its impact. According to Rogers and the Better Sleep Council, consumers should reevaluate the condition of their mattress every seven years.
“Rotating a mattress may help it wear more evenly, but it can’t restore support that has already broken down,” Saito says. “If you notice significant sagging, lumps, or discomfort, it may be time to evaluate whether the mattress still meets your needs.” Visible deterioration and trouble sleeping may signal that it’s time to start shopping.
How Often Should You Adjust Your Mattress?
If you’re feeling like it’s time to rotate your mattress, first check the care instructions provided by your mattress manufacturer, as some models specify a specific rotation schedule.
“When that information isn't available, a good rule of thumb is to rotate or flip the mattress approximately every six months,” says Saito.
