Extend Mattress Life: Every mattress should be turned over every few months to use the other side. This is not true for every mattress. Some mattresses should only be rotated in one direction instead of flipping.

Should the mattress be flipped or rotated?

How Often To Rotate Mattress To Prevent Sagging: Proper mattress care isn't limited to cleaning it or changing sheets. Periodically rotating or flipping the mattress properly can also help extend its life. However, many people make a mistake here: they think every mattress should be turned over and used on the other side every few months. This isn't appropriate for every mattress. Some mattresses should only be rotated in one direction instead of flipping.

First, it's important to understand that flipping a mattress and rotating it are two different things. Rotating a mattress means rotating it 180 degrees while keeping the same side. This brings the head portion toward the feet and the feet toward the head, but the sleeping surface remains on top. Flipping a mattress, on the other hand, means completely flipping it over, placing the bottom portion on top.

So, when flipping a mattress, which side should be on top?

The answer depends on the design of your mattress. If the mattress is double-sided and the manufacturer has designed it for sleeping on both sides, only then should it be flipped. Such mattresses have comfort layers on both sides, so one side can be used before the other. However, if the mattress is single-sided, it's not advisable to flip it over with the bottom facing up. Doing so may result in sleeping on the mattress's hard support base, which is not optimal for both comfort and support.

Which mattresses can be flipped?

Some older innerspring mattresses were double-sided and could be used on both sides. Some natural latex mattresses are also designed to be slept on both sides. Certain orthopedic mattresses can also be flipped. But the most important thing is to consult the care instructions or manufacturer's guidelines that come with the mattress. If they recommend regular flipping, only do so. Flipping a mattress without knowledge is not the right approach.

Which mattresses should absolutely not be turned over?

Most modern mattresses used today are single-sided. These include memory foam, hybrid, pillow-top, and many latex mattresses. These mattresses have a soft comfort layer on top, with a firm support base underneath. If such a mattress is turned over, the support base will be placed on top, replacing the comfort layer for sleeping. This will counteract the mattress's pressure-relieving design and may damage its structure. In some cases, this may even void the warranty.

If the mattress has a thick, soft top layer, such as a pillow-top or Euro-top, you shouldn't try to flip it. These mattresses don't have a sleeping surface underneath. It's best to simply rotate them.

How often should you turn your mattress?

For most mattresses, it's recommended to rotate them 180 degrees every 3 to 6 months. This prevents body pressure from being placed on the same spot every night. Sleeping in the same position for extended periods can cause depressions or body impressions to form in the mattress around the hips and shoulders. Rotating the mattress shifts the areas that were under constant pressure and spreads the load of use to different areas.

Memory foam mattresses can generally be rotated every 3 to 6 months, but should not be flipped. The same rule applies to hybrid mattresses. Older innerspring models may be double-sided, while many newer models are single-sided. Pillow-top mattresses should be rotated approximately every three months, but should not be flipped. Double-sided mattresses can be rotated every three months and should also be flipped every 3 to 6 months, depending on the manufacturer's instructions.

Keep this in mind

One more thing to keep in mind when moving a mattress: First, remove sheets, pillows, and mattress protectors from the bed. Then, rotate the mattress 180 degrees from head to toe. It's better to slide heavy mattresses rather than lifting them alone. For larger or heavier mattresses, it's safer to have two people help. After moving, make sure the mattress is properly centered on the bed base and not protruding to either side.