Paul Antony Beds Blog

Mattress Settlement or Mattress Failure

A mattress has got a lot of work to do! We spend a third of our lives in bed, several hours at a time. Settlement on its own is not an indication the mattress is failing, mattress settlement is a natural process, just like breaking in a new pair of shoes.Whilst these body impressions can be quite noticeable, they are not necessarily a sign that the mattress support has failed. A mattress that has collapsed or sagged will be very evident when you lie on it. What is mattress settlement?  Mattress fillings moulding to the user’s body shape.   When does settlement occur?  Usual it manifests itself in the first few weeks.   Does settlement mean your mattress has failed? No! Dipping of a mattress is wear and tear over time or a result of inactive mattress care.   What is the average lifetime of a well maintained mattress?  7 – 10 Years.   How will I know my mattress has dipped? Mattress dipping is a result of the spring system failing. If your spring system has failed you will feel no support at all in the specific area and have the feeling you are sinking, in really bad cases you can even be able to feel the bed base or springs underneath you. Similarly, unusual noises such as creaking or popping can indicate that the internal structure is no longer performing as it should.   What is the difference between mattress settlement and dipping?  There is no official industry standard for determining whether the settlement is excessive, as there are simply too many variables to consider. Some bed manufacturers, retailers and independent inspection companies use a measuring system based on the type of mattress fillings and the age of the product.    How to avoid mattress settlement?  Regularly turn and rotate your mattress, even if your mattress is non turn, most can still be rotated. Most important in the first 12 weeks as the mattress fillings are settling to your body weight and moulding to your natural body impression.   How regularly should I turn/rotate my mattress? We recommend once a week for the first 12 weeks and then once every 3 to 4 months beyond that.   Your mattress works hard every single night, supporting you for a third of your life. A little settlement is simply a sign that it’s adapting to you — moulding to your shape and becoming uniquely yours. With the right care, regular rotation, and realistic expectations, your mattress will continue to provide comfort and support for years to come. Understanding the difference between natural settlement and true dipping ensures you can rest easy, confident that your mattress is doing exactly what it’s designed to do — helping you wake up refreshed and supported every day.