Purchasing a new mattress is an exciting event, as it promises to bring better rest and improve your overall sleep quality. However, after you get your new mattress home and set it up, you might find that it feels a little different from what you expected. It's not uncommon for a new mattress to feel firm, uneven, or just not quite right in the beginning. Don’t worry! This phase is perfectly normal, and with the right techniques, you can break in your new mattress to make it feel like a dream.
In this blog, we’ll walk you through why a mattress takes time to break in and provide you with practical tips to make the transition as comfortable as possible.
Why Does a Mattress Need to Be Broken In?
When you purchase a new mattress, it’s essentially in its "fresh" state. Whether it’s a memory foam, innerspring, hybrid, or latex mattress, the materials need time to fully adjust to your body’s weight, shape, and movements. Here’s why:
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Material Compression: Most new mattresses come compressed in packaging or under tight conditions, especially foam and hybrid mattresses. This means the mattress has yet to reach its optimal level of comfort.
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Firmness Adjustment: Many mattresses are designed to be firmer when new, and they gradually soften over time as the layers shift and adjust. Memory foam, for example, becomes softer and more responsive to body heat after several nights of sleep.
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Body Conformity: Your body will take some time to get used to the new mattress. It might feel a bit strange or even uncomfortable at first because it’s not shaped to your body yet. Over time, the mattress will conform to your body shape, providing better support.
Tips for Breaking In a New Mattress
Breaking in a new mattress is a gradual process, but there are ways to speed up the adjustment period and enhance your sleep quality. Here are some tips to help you break in your new mattress more effectively:
1. Give It Time
Patience is key when breaking in a new mattress. While some mattresses may take only a few days to feel more comfortable, others could take a few weeks. During this period, try to be patient and give your body and mattress time to adjust.
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Tip: If your mattress feels uncomfortably firm, you can try using a soft mattress topper for extra cushioning until the mattress softens to your liking.
2. Sleep on It Regularly
The best way to break in your new mattress is simply by sleeping on it! Your body weight and movements will help the mattress adjust over time. You might want to sleep on it every night if possible, rather than alternating between the new and old mattresses.
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Tip: Sleep in different positions (back, side, stomach) to allow the mattress to adjust to your body in various ways.
3. Use Your Body Weight
While you don’t want to force it, gently pressing down on the mattress with your body can help it start to mold to your shape. You can also try lying in different positions for a few minutes each day during the day. This can speed up the breaking-in process by allowing the mattress to soften.
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Tip: If you're using a memory foam mattress, try rolling around a bit or even lying down for a short nap to help activate the foam's responsiveness.
4. Rotate the Mattress
Many mattresses require rotating from head to foot every 2 to 3 weeks during the break-in period. This helps evenly distribute body weight across the mattress surface and prevents sagging in one area. For best results, rotate your mattress 180 degrees regularly.
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Tip: After a few months, you might want to rotate the mattress every 3 to 6 months to maintain even wear over time.
5. Keep the Mattress Clean
A clean, fresh mattress will feel more comfortable and provide a better sleeping experience. Make sure to vacuum the surface to remove dust and allergens. You can also place a breathable mattress protector to keep it safe from spills and dirt.
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Tip: Let your mattress breathe by removing sheets and blankets from time to time, especially during the initial break-in phase.
6. Use the Right Bedding
While it’s tempting to rush to get your new sheets and pillowcases on your fresh mattress, using the right bedding can also help enhance the mattress’s feel. Opt for soft, breathable sheets made from materials like cotton or linen, which won’t trap too much heat and will allow your body to naturally mold into the mattress.
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Tip: Avoid using thick, heat-retaining bedding during the break-in period, as it can make the mattress feel firmer and cause you to overheat.
7. Avoid Adding Excessive Weight Too Soon
Although your body helps break in the mattress, adding extra weight to it too soon can sometimes cause it to sag. Be patient and avoid piling heavy items, such as storage boxes, on top of your mattress during the break-in period.
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Tip: If you're using a hybrid mattress, avoid placing heavy furniture on it while it's still adjusting to avoid unnecessary compression.
8. Consider a Mattress Topper
If you’ve given it time and still feel that the mattress is too firm or uncomfortable, a mattress topper can be a great option. Toppers are a great way to add extra comfort and help the mattress conform to your body faster.
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Tip: A memory foam topper works well if your mattress is too firm, while a feather or down topper can provide a plush feel if you want to soften the mattress a little bit.
9. Evaluate the Mattress Periodically
As you continue to break in your new mattress, be sure to evaluate its comfort level. If the mattress hasn’t softened after several weeks or you still feel significant discomfort, it might be worth exploring a different type of mattress or checking if there’s an issue with its manufacturing.
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Tip: Most mattresses come with a trial period, so if you find that the mattress is not suitable after several weeks, consider taking advantage of this period and exchanging it for something more fitting.
10. Invest in an adjustable base
To shorten the mattress break-in period, consider using an adjustable base. These bed bases raise and lower the foot and head areas of the bed, offering health benefits such as improved airway function and reduced lower back pressure. They are particularly helpful for breaking in a new mattress.
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Tip: Purache a mattress that is an adjustable base friendly, An adjustable base will bend the mattress, which helps break in the foam a lot faster.
How Long Does It Take To Break in a New Mattress?
When to Seek Professional Help
If your mattress continues to feel uncomfortable after a few weeks or even months of use, there could be an issue with the construction or materials. If your mattress shows signs of sagging or the support feels uneven, contact the retailer or manufacturer to inquire about a warranty claim or exchange. It’s essential that your mattress provides the proper support for your health and comfort, so don’t hesitate to reach out if you suspect a problem.
Final Thoughts
Breaking in a new mattress is a normal process that takes time and patience. By following these tips, you'll be able to speed up the transition and ensure that your new mattress provides the ultimate comfort and support for a restful night’s sleep. Whether you’re adjusting to a firmer surface or simply waiting for the materials to soften, remember that consistency is key. Stick with it, and soon you'll be enjoying the perfect night’s sleep on your new mattress!
