How to Break in a New Mattress

A new mattress can significantly impact the quality of your sleep and overall well-being. But even though you might want to jump right in and enjoy it, keep in mind that it may not feel perfect at first.

That’s because all mattresses, no matter what they’re made of, need some time to break in and adjust to your body. During this break-in period, the mattress will start to mold to your body’s shape, softening up in all the right places.

By following a few simple tips and allowing some time, you can expedite the break-in process and start enjoying a more comfortable sleep. Proper mattress break-in is crucial for long-term comfort and durability. So, let’s dive into those tips!

Tips & Tricks to Break in Your New Mattress

Breaking in a new mattress is essential for achieving optimal comfort and support, and these eight simple tips will help you expedite the process and start enjoying a better night’s sleep sooner.

Allow Time for Adjustment

Remember that getting used to a new mattress takes time for both you and the mattress. Give your body a chance to adapt to the new feel and support of your mattress, especially if you transitioned to a different type or firmness level.

Be patient – it can take a few weeks or even up to 30 days for your mattress to fully settle and for you to feel completely comfortable. Don’t get discouraged if it doesn’t feel perfect immediately – with a little time and effort, you’ll be enjoying a more comfortable and supportive sleep on your new mattress.

Unbox and Let Your Mattress Breathe

When you bring your new mattress home, take it out of the box carefully. Put it in a room with good airflow and let it expand fully. This is super important for mattresses that come in a box. Let your mattress air out for at least a few hours, or even a whole day.

This will help get rid of any new mattress smells and let the materials go back to their original shape. This simple step can significantly improve the appearance and feel of your mattress.

Ensure Proper Support

Using the appropriate foundation for your mattress is essential for both the break-in process and its long-term performance. Consult the manufacturer’s recommendations to determine whether your mattress requires a box spring, solid platform, or slatted base.

A well-fitting and supportive foundation will help your mattress maintain its shape and wear evenly, avoiding mattress sagging or body impressions. If you’re unsure about the ideal foundation for your mattress, don’t hesitate to contact the manufacturer or the retailer for guidance.

Spend Time on Your New Mattress

To break in your mattress effectively, start sleeping on it every night from day one. Use the whole surface of the mattress by changing up your sleep positions and spots. This helps the mattress wear evenly and prevents premature sagging in certain areas.

Don’t forget to take some naps on your new bed during the day too! Consistently spending time on your new mattress will help break it in more effectively.

Apply Gentle Pressure

Applying gentle, even pressure on your mattress can help it conform to your body more quickly. Walk carefully across the surface of your mattress, but avoid jumping or exerting excessive force. You can also distribute heavy objects like books or weights evenly across the bed.

Spending more awake time on your mattress, such as when reading or watching TV in the bedroom, can also contribute to the break-in process. However, be mindful not to concentrate too much weight in one area, as this can lead to uneven wear.

Implement a Rotation Schedule

Rotating your mattress regularly is crucial for even break-in and long-term comfort. For the first three months, rotate your mattress 180 degrees every two weeks. After that, rotate your mattress every 2-3 months to maintain even wear.

This simple trick will help extend your mattress’s lifespan and maintain its supportiveness. Set a reminder on your phone or mark it on your calendar to stay on top of your mattress rotation schedule.

Warm Up Your Bedroom

If you have a memory foam mattress, slightly increasing your room temperature can help accelerate the break-in process. Memory foam becomes more pliable and responsive to heat. Aim to maintain a room temperature of around 72°F (22°C).

If warming up the entire room isn’t feasible, consider using a space heater directed at the mattress, but be sure to follow safety precautions. Alternatively, you can use a heated mattress pad or electric blanket to warm up your mattress directly.

Use a Mattress Topper

If your new mattress feels a bit too firm during the break-in period, consider using a mattress topper for additional comfort. Choose a topper material that aligns with your preferences, such as memory foam, latex, or down.

A topper can enhance your mattress’s comfort while it’s breaking in, but it shouldn’t serve as a long-term solution if your mattress isn’t the right fit for you. Keep in mind that a topper may extend the break-in time for your mattress, as it introduces another layer that needs to adapt to your body.

Adhere to Manufacturer Guidelines

Always review the manufacturer’s instructions for specific guidance on caring for your new mattress. These guidelines may include recommendations on rotation, cleaning, and the appropriate foundation to use.

Following the manufacturer’s advice will help you optimize your mattress’s performance and avoid invalidating the warranty. If you have any questions or concerns about your mattress, don’t hesitate to reach out to the manufacturer directly.

FAQs

How long does it typically take to break in a new mattress?

The break-in period can vary depending on the material and construction, but it generally takes between 30 to 90 days for your body to fully adjust. During this time, the materials will also soften and conform to your body shape, providing better comfort and support.

It’s essential to be patient and consistent with your new mattress to allow it to break in properly.

Can I use a mattress topper to help break in my new mattress?

While a mattress topper can provide an extra layer of comfort during the break-in period, it’s not a long-term solution if your mattress isn’t the right fit for you. A topper can help soften the feel of a firm mattress, but it may also extend the overall break-in time since it’s an additional layer that needs to adapt to your body.

It’s best to use a topper as a temporary comfort measure while your mattress breaks in.

Should I be concerned about off-gassing odors from my new mattress?

Off-gassing odors are common with new mattresses, particularly those made with memory foam or synthetic materials. These odors are caused by the release of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and are generally harmless.

By allowing your mattress to air out in a well-ventilated room for at least a few hours or up to a day, you can help dissipate these odors more quickly.

Can I speed up the break-in process by walking or jumping on my new mattress?

While it’s true that applying pressure to your new mattress can help it conform to your body more quickly, it’s essential to be gentle.

Walking carefully across the surface of your mattress is fine, but avoid jumping or exerting excessive force, as this can damage the internal structure and lead to uneven wear. Stick to gentle, even pressure and allow the break-in process to occur naturally over time.

Is it normal for a new mattress to feel firmer than expected?

Yes, it’s quite common for a new mattress to feel firmer than anticipated, especially if you’re used to sleeping on an older, more worn-in mattress. This initial firmness is due to the new materials that haven’t had a chance to soften and conform to your body yet.

As you sleep on the mattress and follow the break-in tips, it will gradually become more comfortable.

How often should I rotate my mattress during the break-in period?

During the first three months of the break-in period, we recommend rotating your mattress 180 degrees every two weeks. This helps ensure even wear and prevents any particular area from sagging prematurely.

After the initial three months, you can rotate your mattress every 2-3 months to maintain its shape and support.

What should I do if my new mattress still feels uncomfortable?

If your mattress still feels uncomfortable after allowing adequate time for breaking in, it’s possible that it may not be the right fit for your body or sleeping preferences.

At this point, it’s a good idea to reach out to the manufacturer or retailer to discuss your options, such as exchanging the mattress or exploring other comfort solutions. Many companies offer generous trial periods or comfort guarantees to ensure customer satisfaction.

Conclusion

Breaking in a new mattress is a crucial step in ensuring optimal comfort and support for a great night’s sleep. By following these easy tips, you can help your new mattress soften and conform to your body more quickly, while also promoting even wear and extending its lifespan.

Remember to be patient and consistent during the break-in period, and don’t hesitate to reach out to the manufacturer or retailer if you have any concerns or questions along the way. With a little time and effort, you’ll be enjoying the comfortable, supportive sleep you deserve on your new mattress.