A new mattress is one of life’s little luxuries. It holds the promise of peaceful sleep and energised mornings, a foundation for conquering the day ahead. You have an expectation of instant sleep gratification with a new mattress, but is that really how it is? If you’ve ever found a new mattress feeling too firm or not as comfy as you imagined, you’re not alone. It’s quite common for a mattress to take some time to adjust to your body’s unique needs, and vice versa. Not unlike a new pair of shoes, ‘breaking in’ a new mattress is essential for achieving the ultimate in both comfort and support. So, whether you're looking for ways to fast-track the process or simply want to enjoy your investment to the fullest, here are some essentials to understanding the process.

Why Do You Need to Break in Your New Mattress?

Breaking in a new mattress is crucial for both your comfort and its longevity. New mattresses are often designed with fresh materials that may feel firmer than expected initially. This is especially true for memory foam mattresses, which need time to soften and conform to your unique shape. The breaking in process allows the materials to flex and settle, adapting to your body’s unique contours and sleeping habits.

Equally important is how you adjust to the mattress. This breaking in process is a two-way street: you need to give your body time to adjust to a new mattress as well. If you’ve been sleeping on an older, work out, mattress, you have probably grown used to its feel, even if it wasn’t providing optimal support. It makes sense then that a new mattress can feel unfamiliar, so it’s not unusual that you might need to retrain your body to experience true ergonomic alignment. In sort, why should you break a new mattress in? Because your sleep will benefit and you’ll lengthen the life of that mattress.

How Long Does a Mattress Take to Break in?

If the concept of breaking in a new mattress is new to you, don’t worry, you’re not alone. Until you actually get a new mattress, it’s likely you’ve never thought about how to break it in. Generally speaking, patience is key with this job. The team at Bev Marks recommend that on average you should allow yourself a month, but it can vary depending on the type of mattress it is, and how often you use it. Memory foam and hybrid mattresses tend to take longer to adjust than traditional innerspring models due to their denser structures and adaptive properties. If you’re keen to speed up the process, there are practical steps you can take to accelerate the adjustment period and enjoy that cloud-like comfort sooner. With a bit of effort and commitment, you can ensure your mattress, and your body, settles in smoothly.

9 Tips for Maximum Comfort

Here’s how you can optimise the breaking-in period and make the most of your new mattress:

1. Sleep On It Consistently:

Make a habit of sleeping on your new mattress every night, even if it feels a little to firm at first. Regular use helps the materials adjust to your body shape and weight more quickly. The more consistent you are, the faster your mattress will soften and mould to you

2. Spend More Time On The Mattress:

Even when you're not sleeping, you can help break in your mattress. Try to lounge on your mattress during the day to help it adapt. Read a book, watch TV, or simply relax on your mattress instead of the sofa when you have time – it will aid the breaking-in process

3. Rotate Or Flip The Mattress Regularly:

Rotating or flipping your mattress ensures even wear across its surface. This step is particularly helpful for memory foam mattresses, as it prevents uneven softening and keeps the mattress comfortable for the long haul. Plan to rotate your new mattress every 2 weeks for the first 2 months, and every 3 months after that. Some mattresses are designed not to be flipped, but if yours can be, rotating and flipping is also a good idea. Not only for breaking in purposes, but for longevity as well. Ask the team at Bev Marks when you buy your mattress, if it should be just rotated, or rotated and flipped as well.

4. Add A Mattress Topper For Immediate Comfort:

If your mattress feels overly firm when you first get it home, consider adding a plush topper can make the world of difference in terms of comfort during the breaking-in period. A topper can provide cushioning while the mattress itself takes time to settle and soften.

5. Use The Right Foundation or Bed Frame:

The foundation or bed frame you use plays a significant role in how your mattress feels and performs. Make sure it’s sturdy, level, and compatible with your mattress type to maximise support. It’s likely you already know there are different types of bed bases/frames, but they’re not all necessarily a mix and match situation. Some mattresses are better with some frames/bases than with others, so make sure you know what type of frame you have (if you have one) and ask at Bev Marks when you buy your mattress if that frame is suitable for your new mattress.

6. Maintain A Comfortable Bedroom Temperature:

Temperature can affect the mattress materials—particularly memory foam. Keeping your bedroom at a moderate temperature helps the foam soften and contour more effectively.

7. Follow The Manufacturer’s Guidelines:

Most mattress manufacturers include specific care instructions for breaking in their products. Adhering to these recommendations ensures you won’t inadvertently damage your mattress or delay the process. While reading instructions can seem boring, the manufacturer only wants you to have positive outcomes, so it’s going to be good advice.

8. Be Patient - Good Sleep Takes Time:

Adjusting to a new mattress isn’t an instant process, but it is worth the wait. Remember, it takes time for both the mattress materials and your body to adjust. Stick with it, give yourself 30 days and you’ll reap the rewards.

9. Don’t Jump On The Mattress!

While it might be tempting to speed things up by jumping or bouncing on your mattress, this can damage the internal layers. It is not a trampoline, so treat your mattress with care, and it will thank you with years of comfort.

How to Break in a Mattress Fast

If you’re keen to accelerate the breaking-in process, focus on tips like consistent use, spending extra time on the mattress, and maintaining a warm room temperature. These steps encourage the materials to flex and settle more quickly, ensuring your mattress feels just right in less time. That said, don’t rush things too much, it’s better to give the mattress adequate time to break in fully and evenly… quality sleep is worth the wait.

The Takeaway: Sweet Dreams Await!

Breaking in a new mattress is all about patience, persistence and a little bit of know-how. By understanding the process and following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to enjoying a supportive, luxurious, and long-lasting sleep solution. Whether you’re a side sleeper, back sleeper, or someone who loves to sprawl out in bed, a well-broken-in mattress can transform your sleep routine for the better. With the right approach, you’ll soon enjoy the full benefits of your investment—a supportive, comfortable, and luxurious place to rest every night. So, take the time to care for your mattress, give it the time and attention it deserves, follow these tips, and enjoy waking up refreshed and ready to take on the world revived and energised every day. Sweet dreams and happy sleeping.