Unfortunately, mattresses don't last as long as we would hope. The typical lifespan is eight to ten years. Some don't last that long, while others last a little longer.

If you want your mattress to last as long as possible, you need to take proper care of it. Here are some things that you should be doing to take care of your mattress.

1. Don't bend it when moving it

Whenever you are moving your mattress, you need to move it very carefully. You should never fold or turn it to make sure that it fits through the door.

The wrong move can damage the inside contents. If you have a warranty, it may void it out because you didn't move it properly.

2. Give it proper support

There are several ways to make sure your mattress has the support it needs. Though most people choose a box spring that matches, you may also be able to use an adjustable foundation or the bed frame (if there are enough slats).

3. Use a mattress protector

Mattress protectors are made to save it from any spills and stains that can happen over the years. Even one big spill can destroy the foam inside of your mattress so it won't be as comfortable for you.

There are many breathable mattress protectors available to keep your mattress as clean and safe as possible.

4. You may also want to look at a mattress topper

Though mattress toppers are made to give you extra comfort in bed, they can also help your mattress last longer. They protect your mattress so you might want to look into a topper if you want your mattress to last as long as possible. You may also get a topper if you need your mattress to last a little longer before you’re ready to invest in a new one.

5. Rotate your mattress

Most manufacturers recommend flipping and rotating your mattress regularly. Rotating allows it to wear more evenly.

That being said, many newer beds can only be used with one side up. If yours is that way, you should at least rotate it regularly, so it wears evenly.

6. Don't forget to rotate your box spring

Your box spring should also be rotated periodically. Just remember that it should never be flipped! They are made to work with one of the sides facing up at all times.

9. Avoid sitting on it

Sitting on the bed can be hard on a mattress, especially if you sit in the same spot every time. That spot will start to wear down, making your bed uneven.

10. Don’t sleep in the same spot

If you sleep in the same place every night, you are going to wear that spot out much quicker than the rest of the bed. For this reason, you should sleep differently at night, so your bed doesn't wear out only in one spot.

11. Vacuum your mattress regularly

Mattresses can harbor dust and allergens, so it is essential that you vacuum it several times a year. You can easily do this using your vacuum's attachment.

12. Don't saturate it when trying to clean up spills

When something gets spilled on a mattress, most people try to soak it with a cleaner. However, this can damage the foam. Because of this, you should spot clean it with warm water and a mild detergent. Always make sure that you let it dry before putting your sheets back on.

13. Air your mattress out regularly

You should take your covers off of your bed and let it air out for twenty minutes weekly. It can help it stay dry.

When you go away on vacation, you can even let it air out the entire time. A week (or even just a weekend) without any covers can make a difference.

14. If you notice a smell, use baking soda

Baking soda can absorb odors without causing any harm to your mattress. Just sprinkle some on for about twenty minutes before vacuuming it off.

15. Don't go crazy on your mattress

Though many children want to jump on the bed, that high-level impact is not good for it. Jumping can damage the springs or the contents of your mattress. Even walking or standing on it can harm it so you should only lay down on it.

16. Inspect it regularly

Many mattresses show signs when they need to be replaced. You may see lumps and bumps on the bed. You may notice a definite sag. Springs may be sticking out. All of these signs are telling you that it is time to replace your mattress.

17. Inspect the frame and box spring

Your mattress is only as good as the bed and springs it sits on. You should inspect the bed springs for any signs of sagging. Make sure that your bed is doing its job by supporting the springs and mattress. Check the legs and castors to make sure that nothing needs to be tightened.

Though you may want your mattress to live forever, the truth is you will need to replace it in a few years. However, if you take care of your mattress, it can last a little longer.