Settling into a new mattress is a bit like wearing a new pair of shoes—at first, it may feel different or even a bit stiff. Don’t worry; this is normal. Mattresses need a break-in period to adapt to your body weight and unique sleeping style, especially if you're transitioning from an old mattress to a firm one or a hybrid mattress and vice versa. Similarly, your body also needs time to adjust to the new level of comfort and support provided by your new memory foam mattress. The change may initially feel even more pronounced if you've been sleeping on a worn-out mattress with sagging foam or worn-out springs. Here’s how to make the process smoother.
Why Breaking In Your Mattress Matters
A properly broken-in mattress doesn’t just feel more comfortable—it also:
- Improves Sleep Quality: A mattress that has adjusted to your body will better support your spine, reducing tossing and turning.
- Extends Mattress Lifespan: Letting your mattress breathe and settle from the start helps maintain its structure for years to come.
- Ensures Proper Support: Breaking in a new mattress, especially high-density memory foam or a firm mattress, helps it contour to your pressure points, delivering the personalised support you need for a good night's sleep while providing gentle pressure to relieve discomfort.
Step 1: Let It Breathe
Many new mattresses, especially those compressed for shipping, need a few hours (or even a few days) to expand fully. Once your new bed arrives, unbox it immediately and set it on the bed frame or base, depending on the mattress type.
- Remove All Packaging: Plastic wrap can trap odours and prevent the mattress from expanding.
- Open Windows: Being placed in a well-ventilated room helps any new-mattress smell dissipate faster.
Step 2: Sleep on It Regularly
This one might sound obvious, but the best way to break in your mattress is to use it every night rather than continuing to sleep on your previous mattress:
- Consistent Use: Your weight and body heat will gradually soften the layers.
- Short Naps Count: Even daytime naps can help speed up the process.
Step 3: Adjust Your Environment
Temperature and humidity can impact how quickly a mattress loosens up:
- Moderate Temperature: Keep your bedroom at a comfortable setting—extreme cold can make some mattress materials stiffer.
- Adequate Support: A suitable bed frame or divan is crucial. A sagging or uneven base can affect how your new mattress settles.
Step 4: Rotate or Flip (If Applicable)
Depending on the type of mattress, rotating or flipping can help ensure even wear:
- Rotate 180°: For most modern mattresses, a simple rotation every few months evens out pressure points.
- Flip If Designed for It: Some mattresses are dual-sided—if yours is, flipping every six months can help maintain shape.
Potential Issues and Solutions
Feeling discomfort or experiencing minor sagging doesn’t always mean something is wrong. Consider these quick fixes:
- Topper Layer: If you feel uncomfortable during the first few nights of the adjustment period, adding a plush mattress topper can make the mattress softer and more to your liking and make the transition smoother.
- Check Your Pillows: Sometimes neck or back discomfort is caused by improper pillow height rather than the mattress itself.
- Give It Time: It's perfectly normal for some materials to take up to 30 days to truly settle. Even the best mattress takes a few weeks before your body adjusts and finds the most comfortable position.
Lifestyle Habits That Help
- Regular Sleep Schedule: Consistency in bedtime helps your body adapt to a new sleep surface and materials faster.
- Gentle Stretching: Light stretching before bed can reduce stiffness and improve comfort.
- Stay Hydrated: Adequate hydration helps muscles and joints settle into new sleeping positions.
A new mattress is an investment in your health and well-being. Following these steps will help you break it in smoothly, setting the stage for a better sleep experience.
Ready to Make the Most of Your New Mattress?
Check out Sleep8’s range of supportive bedding accessories, or chat with our team for personalised tips. Following the manufacturer's instructions, you can ensure that the new mattress quickly adapts to your body and reaches optimal comfort. Rest easy knowing you’ve done everything you can to enjoy the comfort your mattress was designed to deliver.