(HealthDay News) -- Proper care of your mattress can help you get a longer and healthier night's sleep.
The National Sleep Foundation offers these suggestions to extend the life of your mattress:
- Rotate both your mattress and box spring regularly. For the first four months of a new bed, rotate it every two weeks, then every three months. Rotate the box spring every six months.
- When you sit on the edge of your bed, make sure you sit in a different spot each time to help maintain the structure of your bed.
- Never allow kids or adults to jump on the bed.
- Cover your mattress with a washable pad to protect against stains, allergens and bedbugs.
- Regularly vacuum your mattress. If you have a stain, prevent mold growth by spot cleaning the mattress with minimal water and letting it dry before replacing sheets. To get rid of odors, sprinkle with baking soda before vacuuming.
- Regularly check the bed to see if anything needs repair or tightening. Replace your mattress when worn or after about 8-to-10 years.
