Mattress settlement: How to ‘break’ in a new mattress

A few weeks after purchasing a new mattress, it isn’t uncommon for a bed retailer to receive several calls about impressions or mattress settlement. Although this may cause concern for customers, there is no need to worry. A mattress that shows settlement or impressions of your body does not indicate low quality; it is quite the contrary. So, for the short answer: Yes, mattress settlement is normal. This article seeks to provide answers to your questions on mattress settlement.

What is mattress settlement?

Mattress settlement or impressions occur when the fillings of a mattress create a mould in the user’s shape. The greatest signs of settlement usually occur around the areas that place more pressure on the mattress, such as your shoulders and hips.

As noted earlier, mattress settlement is normal and does not indicate a low-quality mattress. Scientifically, it has been noted that the body impressions left on the mattress can aid in spinal alignment and pressure relief.

A mattress made with soft layering materials such as cotton, wool, and alpaca, is prone to experiencing mattress settlement. Likewise, mattresses with a wider sleeping area, such as King size or Super king, tend to emphasise mattress settlement. This is because the area in the middle of the mattress does not get as much use; therefore, the fillings don’t become compacted. Instead, it highlights the impressions made on either side of it.

Mattress settlement vs mattress sagging

A major reason mattress settlement may be alarming is that it seems similar to mattress sagging. Like mattress settlement, mattress sagging creates impressions on the mattress. However, unlike mattress settlement, where the sleeper is “breaking” into the mattress, mattress sagging occurs due to wear and tear. After using the mattress over a long period, its firm materials soften, leading to less firmness and sagging.

Top tips to fix and prevent mattress settlement

Although mattress settlements are normal, you can fix and prevent them in several ways to limit their impact, such as the following:

1. Rotate your mattress monthly

Regardless of whether the mattress looks fine, turning it over once a month is vital to fixing and preventing mattress settlement. Turning it over allows used areas to rest and recover as you do not place consistent pressure on them. Doing this before you see impressions is ideal, so keep this in mind.

2. Rotate ‘No Turn’ Mattresses

It is especially important to rotate your no turn mattress to ensure that the mattress is getting used equally, especially in the first 3 months of use, then seasonally thereafter. These mattresses are made to withstand wear and tear for an extended period with them being one sided.

3. Explore new sleeping positions

This may seem far-fetched and challenging, but it helps avoid mattress settlement. By changing your sleeping position, your body can make several impressions on different parts of the bed to create balance.