How to Break in a New Mattress

Want to get comfortable faster with your new mattress? Of course, who wouldn't want to! But what you may not realise is that a new mattress requires an acclimatisation period. Let's dive into what this acclimatisation period is all about and how you can make the process smoother! Scroll on and you'll find all the necessary information and expert advice.

1. Why does a new mattress require an acclimatisation period?

When we buy a new mattress, we often find that there are significant differences in comfort, firmness and support between it and the old mattress we were using before. This results in a period of adjustment to get used to the characteristics of the new mattress. So why does a new mattress require an adjustment period?

Influence of materials and manufacturing process

Firstly, different mattresses are made with different materials and processes. Some mattresses are made with springs, some with latex, and some with memory foam. These different materials vary greatly in terms of comfort, firmness and support. For example, memory foam mattresses usually provide better dispersion of pressure points on the body, while spring mattresses provide stronger support. If we have been using a spring mattress before and suddenly switch to a memory foam mattress, it will take some time for the body to adjust to the change.

Habits of old mattresses

Secondly, our old mattresses will change according to our body structure and sleeping posture due to long time use, and gradually form a shape that suits us. As a result, our body has become accustomed to the support and comfort of the old mattress. When we switch to a new mattress, the material and structure of the new mattress will be very different from the old one, resulting in our body needing some time to adapt to the new support and comfort.

The body's ability to adapt

Finally, the human body has a great ability to adapt. Whilst a new mattress may make us feel uncomfortable at first, over a period of time the body will gradually get used to the firmness, support and comfort of the new mattress. This adaptation process may be accompanied by some discomfort, such as back pain, muscle aches and pains, but these are normal adaptation reactions.

To summarise, the reason that a new mattress requires an adaptation period is because the material and structure of the new mattress is very different from the old one, resulting in our body needing a period of time to adapt to the new support and comfort. At the same time, it also takes a while for our body's ability to adapt to adjust. This adaptation process is necessary and normal, and we should give our body enough time to complete this adaptation process.

2. How long does the usual adaptation period take?

After purchasing a new mattress, the first concern of many people is: "How long will it take me to adapt to this mattress?" This question sounds simple, but the answer varies from person to person. Below, I will analyse this question for you from different perspectives.

Mattress Material and Adaptation Time

The material of the mattress directly affects the adaptation time. For example, memory foam mattresses usually require a longer adaptation period, usually 2-4 weeks, due to their unique material properties. Spring mattresses, on the other hand, because of their supportive nature, many people will find the adaptation period shorter, usually 1-2 weeks.

Personal habits and health condition

Individual sleeping habits and health conditions can also affect how long it takes to adapt to a new mattress. For example, people with back problems may take longer to adjust to a new mattress. For those who are less fussy about the firmness or softness of their mattress, the adjustment period may be shorter.

First use and the "compression period"

New mattresses can be firm when first used, and this "compression period" usually takes about a week. After a week of use, the mattress usually becomes softer and more comfortable.

Environmental Factors

Temperature and humidity can also affect the comfort of your mattress. During the winter months, a mattress may become firmer due to cold temperatures, which may also prolong the acclimatisation period.

3. What can be done to speed up the process of adapting to a new mattress?

Adapting to a new mattress is a process, but there are ways to help you adapt faster. If we can speed up the process, we will not only enjoy the comfort of our new mattress sooner, but we will also be able to get rid of the poor sleep caused by the uncomfortable mattress as soon as possible. Here are some ways to help speed up the process of adapting to a new mattress.

1. Lightly tap and massage the mattress

A new mattress may be initially hard, and light tapping and massaging of the mattress will loosen up the material more quickly. This allows the surface of the mattress to conform more to the contours of your body, providing better support.

2. Adjust your sleeping position

Different sleeping positions distribute pressure on the mattress differently. Trying to change your sleeping position can help you adapt more fully to each part of the mattress. For example, if you normally sleep on your side, try lying on your back or stomach to help your body adjust more fully to the new mattress.

3. Use mattress toppers or special sheets

Mattress toppers or special sheets can change the feel of your mattress. For example, if you find your new mattress too firm, try adding a soft topper; if it feels too soft, use a more supportive sheet.

4. Maintain a consistent sleep schedule

The human body has its own biological clock, and a consistent sleep schedule will help your body adjust to the new mattress more quickly. Additionally, getting enough sleep is key to getting used to your new mattress.

5. Exercise

A moderate amount of exercise can relax your muscles and improve the quality of your sleep. Relaxed muscles are more beneficial for adapting to a new mattress.

6. Don't eat heavy dinners

Heavy dinners may cause indigestion and affect the quality of sleep. Good sleep quality is the basis for adapting to the new mattress.

"At Suilong, we focus on researching ergonomics to provide you with a scientific solution to sleep decongestion."

Adapting to a new mattress is a process that takes time and patience. However, by doing the above, we can speed up the process and enjoy the comfort of a new mattress faster. Most importantly, we need to adjust our lifestyle and maintain good sleep hygiene so that we can adapt to the new mattress more fully.

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4. Common Problems and Solutions for Adapting to a New Mattress

The joy of buying a new mattress may soon be broken by some discomfort, a phase we usually call the "adjustment period". However, this doesn't mean you have to put up with discomfort, because there are solutions.

Back pain: one of the most common adaptation problems

If you experience back pain after using a new mattress, it may be because the firmness of the mattress is different from what you are used to. I recommend that you try to improve the firmness of your mattress by using a mattress topper or special sheets.

Action tip: Give yourself time to get used to your new mattress and also gradually adjust the firmness.

Loss of sleep: don't ignore it

Sometimes the material of your new mattress can affect the quality of your sleep. If you find yourself waking up easily during the night, consider using bedding that suits you, such as cotton sheets or a woollen duvet.

Action tip: Adjust your bedding to find the combination that works best for you.

Experiencing too firm or too soft: the subtle differences

A new mattress may feel too firm or too soft at first, which has to do with how the mattress is made and the materials used. You can adjust the firmness by adding or subtracting layers of mattress padding.

Action tip: Don't rush to judge your new mattress, give it some time.

Mattress odours: common with new mattresses

A new mattress may have a new or chemical odour. This usually goes away naturally within a few days or a week. However, if you feel uncomfortable, try putting a cotton sheet over the mattress and changing it regularly.

Action tip: If the odour does not disappear within two weeks, it is advisable to contact the mattress manufacturer or a professional.

Overall discomfort: the result of many factors

Sometimes you may experience overall discomfort, which can be caused by a number of factors. For example, the combination of your mattress and pillow, the temperature and humidity in your room can all affect the quality of your sleep.

Action Suggestion: Review all the factors that may be affecting your quality of sleep and troubleshoot and adjust them one by one.

Adjusting to a new mattress may take time and effort, but it will all be worth it when you find the best mattress for you. Remember, for any mattress problem, there is a solution. So, don't worry and get on with optimising your sleep environment!

5. Changes and effects of mattress firmness and softness

When you bring home a brand new mattress, probably the first thing you observe is its firmness or softness. However, this characteristic is not fixed. Mattresses change in firmness to some degree over time and under different conditions. Understanding these changes and responding to them appropriately not only speeds up the adjustment to a new mattress, but also helps to maintain the long-term performance and comfort of the mattress.

Causes of changes:

Pressure and Usage Habits: Long-term physical pressure and tossing and turning can lead to changes in the material of the mattress, which in turn affects its softness and firmness.

Environmental factors: Humidity and temperature can also have an impact on mattress firmness.

Mattress material: Different mattress materials (e.g. memory foam, latex or spring) will react differently to changes in softness and firmness.

The impact of the change:

Sleep quality: Changes in mattress firmness can have a direct impact on your sleep experience. A mattress that is too firm or too soft may cause back pain, muscle discomfort and other problems.

Longevity of the mattress: changes in softness can be a sign of wear and tear or ageing of the mattress, alerting you to the need for replacement.

Countermeasures:

Observation and inspection: Check the softness of the mattress regularly, especially after it has been newly purchased and used for some time.

Adjustment of usage habits: Avoid exerting pressure on the same position of the mattress for a long time, you can even out the pressure by flipping the mattress or changing the sleeping position.

Environmental adjustment: Keep the indoor temperature and humidity moderate, and avoid dampness or over-drying of the mattress.

6. How can I maintain my new mattress to speed up adaptation?

Maintaining your new mattress is essential to speed up adaptation. Not only will it help you acclimatise to your new mattress faster, but it will also extend the life of your mattress.

Firstly, understanding the mattress acclimatisation process is what helps us with maintenance. The acclimatisation period is usually a period of time where we slowly get used to the mattress as we sleep. During this time, the materials of the mattress gradually fine-tune to our weight and sleeping position, which can affect how quickly we adapt.

There are a few key points in adapting to a new mattress:

1. Keep the mattress clean

This is the most basic and important step. The surface of your new mattress needs to be kept clean to avoid the accumulation of dust, sweat and bacteria. Not only will this help speed up the acclimatisation process, it will also ensure that your mattress stays in tip-top condition.

Action Suggestion: Clean your mattress every fortnight, using a hoover to gently remove dust and impurities from the surface.

2. Avoid jumping or applying too much pressure on the mattress

Whilst a new mattress may be hard, it is not recommended to jump or apply too much pressure on the mattress. This may damage the internal structure of the mattress and affect its comfort and support.

Action tip: Try to avoid sudden heavy pressure and jumping when moving on the mattress.

3. Flip and rotate the mattress

Both sides of the mattress can be used. In order to maintain the shape and comfort of the mattress, it is recommended to rotate and flip the mattress regularly. This ensures the durability of the mattress and speeds up the adaptation process.

Recommended action: Flip and rotate the mattress every two months.

4. Use a suitable mattress cover

A mattress cover protects the mattress from dust, liquids and stains. It is important to use a mattress cover that prevents stains and bacteria from entering the mattress.

Action tip: Choose a mattress cover that is waterproof and breathable.

5. Avoid placing heavy objects on the mattress

Placing heavy objects on the mattress may lead to deformation of the mattress. Avoid placing heavy objects such as books and laptops on the mattress to maintain its shape and comfort.

Action tip: Avoid placing heavy objects on the mattress.

Maintaining a new mattress is an ongoing process, and by following the advice above, you can ensure that your mattress stays in tip-top shape while also speeding up the process of adjusting to your new mattress. This way, you will be able to enjoy a comfortable night's sleep on your new mattress sooner.

Now, not only do you know why a new mattress requires an adjustment period, but you also understand how to speed up the process. Remember, a good night's sleep is a long-term investment, and a quality mattress is the most important part of that. If you have any questions or need more personalised advice during the mattress acclimatisation period, feel free to get in touch - Suilong is here to provide you with scientific, ergonomic sleep solutions. Thank you for reading and we hope you find your best sleep experience soon!

FAQs

Q: How long does it usually take to break in a new mattress?

A: The time it takes to break in a new mattress can vary depending on the material and your body type, but typically, it can take anywhere from a few weeks to about 90 days. It's important to give your new mattress time to adjust to your body for optimal comfort.

Q: Can I speed up the break-in process for my new mattress?

A: Yes, you can speed up the break-in process by evenly distributing your weight across the mattress, using it regularly, and following manufacturer guidelines on mattress maintenance. Some people also walk gently on the mattress to expedite the process.

Q: Is it normal to need to break in a new mattress?

A: Absolutely, it's quite normal for a new mattress to require a break-in period. This is because the materials are new and have not yet adapted to the contours of your body. It usually takes time for the mattress to soften up and provide the most comfortable sleep.

Q: Will my new mattress get softer over time?

A: Yes, most new mattresses will get softer during the break-in period. The fibers, foam, and other materials will become more flexible, allowing the mattress to adapt to your body shape for better comfort.

Q: What should I do if my new mattress is too firm or too soft?

A: If your new mattress doesn't seem to be breaking in as you'd like, or it's too firm or soft for your liking, it's advisable to contact the manufacturer or the store where you bought it. They can provide you with specific advice or options, such as mattress toppers or warranty exchanges.

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