Breaking In a New Mattress: Tips for a Comfortable Transition
Some of life’s best experiences come with an adjustment period—a new marriage, mastering a bicycle, or breaking in a sturdy pair of cowboy boots. The same goes for a new mattress. While it may take some time for your body to adapt, the reward of restorative sleep makes the effort worthwhile.
Why Does a New Mattress Need a Break-In Period?
If your new mattress feels firmer than expected, don’t worry—it’s completely normal. Over time, the materials will soften, and your body will adjust to the improved support.
Testing a mattress in a showroom may feel different than the one delivered to your home. Many manufacturers pre-condition display models using a heavy roller to simulate wear, ensuring customers experience how the mattress will feel after being broken in.
Additionally, if you’ve been sleeping on an older mattress, your body has likely adapted to its wear and sagging. A new mattress provides the correct support and alignment, which may initially feel unfamiliar.
How to Break in Your Mattress Effectively
Breaking in a new mattress is straightforward—and sometimes even enjoyable. Here are expert-recommended methods to speed up the adjustment period:
- Use It Every Night – Consistently sleeping on your new mattress helps it conform to your body. Just like wearing in new shoes, regular use allows the materials to adapt.
- Spend Extra Time in Bed – Relaxing while reading or watching TV adds additional weight, softening the mattress more quickly.
- Rotate the Mattress – During the first few months, rotate your mattress every three to four weeks to ensure even wear. After it’s fully broken in, a biannual rotation will help maintain its shape and support.
- Apply Gentle Pressure – Rolling across the mattress or using your hands, knees, and elbows to knead the surface can help soften high-density foam layers more quickly.
- Encourage Kids to Jump – If supervised, allowing children to bounce on the mattress can accelerate the break-in process by loosening stiff materials.
- Walk on the Mattress – If jumping isn’t an option, simply walking across the surface applies concentrated pressure to help soften the foam and springs.
- Use an Adjustable Base – Elevating and lowering the head and foot sections of an adjustable base can help flex the mattress materials and speed up the break-in period.
How Long Does It Take to Break in a Mattress?
There is no exact timeframe; it varies depending on the mattress type, room climate, and how actively you work to break it in. Generally:
- Innerspring mattresses may break in within two weeks.
- Pillow-top mattresses take around 30 days.
- Hybrid models typically require 45 days.
- Memory foam mattresses can take up to four months due to their dense construction.
Lighter individuals may experience a more extended break-in period than those with higher body weight, as less pressure is applied to the materials.
What If Your Mattress Still Feels Too Firm?
If discomfort persists, consider using a plush mattress topper for extra cushioning. However, keep in mind that this may extend the overall break-in period. Removing the topper each morning and continuing other break-in methods will allow the mattress to soften properly.
Does Every Mattress Need to Be Broken In?
Yes, all mattresses—whether foam, hybrid, or innerspring—go through a break-in phase. The moment weight is applied, the materials begin adapting. If you purchase a bed-in-a-box, unbox it as soon as possible to prevent long-term compression effects.
Even guest room mattresses should be broken in to ensure visitors have a comfortable sleep experience.
Caring for Your New Mattress
Proper care will extend your mattress’s lifespan and maintain its comfort once your mattress is fully broken in. Here are three essential tips:
- Use a Mattress Protector – Protect against moisture, dust, and allergens to prevent material deterioration. A breathable, washable protector is ideal.
- Invest in High-Quality Sheets – Opt for breathable materials like bamboo or TENCEL to maximize cooling properties and enhance comfort.
- Rotate Regularly – If you share a bed, rotating the mattress every six months helps distribute weight evenly and extends its longevity.
Following these simple steps will ensure your new mattress provides the perfect blend of support and comfort for years.
