When to Flip or Rotate Your Mattress
Flipping or rotating your mattress is an instant way to breathe new life into a mattress you have been using for a while. As we use mattresses, certain parts may tend to sag where parts of our bodies press the most. Flipping or rotating the mattress can mean lying on a different part of the mattress so that you’re not pressing on those same points. Depending on the mattress, the old depressed part may even start to bounce back. However, be aware that flipping and rotating the mattress are not the same and not all mattress types can be flipped.
Flipping vs. Rotating Your Mattress
Flipping and rotating your mattress are two completely different methods to get new life into your bed. When you flip your mattress, you actually turn the whole mattress over so that you are lying on the bottom part of it. When you rotate your mattress 180 degrees, you are simply turning it so that you’re lying on the same side from a different angle.
Flip a Mattress
Below we’ll cover how to flip a mattress so that you’re doing it the right way. Remember, not all mattress types can be flipped, so it’s important to know the different types of mattresses that you can flip. You can also read our guide on the best flippable mattresses.
Why Should You Flip Your Mattress?
Flipping your mattress is a good way to feel like you have a whole new mattress. Since you’re not lying on that side of the mattress, it has not had the chance to get lumpy. Flipping the mattress simply allows you to lie on the side that is less worn.
How Often Should You Flip Your Mattress?
How often you flip a mattress depends on the type. Below you can see a list of common mattresses and how often you should flip each.
- Innerspring: These can depend on how old the mattress is. Once or twice per year is fine for newer mattresses. Every two or three months is recommended for older mattresses.
- Memory foam: These are often best rotated since many are not designed to be flipped. Every six months is a good standard for memory foam that you can flip.
- Latex: This type of mattress does well with flipping every six months, as well. Latex is very bouncy and spongy, so it’s important with this type to distribute body weight evenly.
- Hybrid: This type of mattress does well with flipping four times per year or every three months. When a new season starts, simply remember to flip your hybrid mattress.
When Not to Flip a Mattress
Be sure to check the label or care instructions the mattress comes with. This will tell you whether you can flip the mattress or simply rotate it. Some mattresses simply are not designed to be slept on from both sides.
How to Flip Your Mattress
Remove all bedding and pillows, as well as any surrounding items like lamps that could be knocked over. Slide the mattress over the edge of the box spring a little under halfway, if it is supported by a box spring. Grab the bottom edge of the mattress from one side, gently flipping it over. Slide the mattress back in place.
Rotating a Mattress
Below we’ll cover why and how often you should rotate a mattress. Luckily, it’s even easier than flipping a mattress, and it’s a great way to feel like you’re sleeping on a smooth, like-new mattress.
Why Should You Rotate Your Mattress?
Like flipping a mattress, rotating a mattress is a good way to distribute pressure points as you sleep. It prevents certain parts of the mattress from getting too worn down and leads to greater body support.
How Often Should You Rotate Your Mattress?
Below are the differences between common mattress types for rotating.
- Innerspring: Rotate your innerspring every six or 12 months if it is newer. Older ones should be rotated every three to four months or so.
- Memory foam: As mentioned above, you’ll probably rotate these most often, since many cannot be flipped due to their design. Memory foam mattresses should be rotated every six months.
- Latex: Six months is good for latex mattresses. They’re springy and bounce back easily, so you don’t need to rotate them too often. But the spongy quality can also mean they need a break from pressure points.
- Hybrid: Make sure to rotate these quarterly each year. Every three months, or when the seasons change, is a good way to remember to rotate your mattress if you own a hybrid.
When Not to Rotate Your Mattress
Each mattress will typically need rotating, flipping or possibly even both. Be sure to check the care instructions that come along with the mattress. It’s more common to see rotating recommended than flipping, as fewer mattresses are designed to sleep people on both sides.
How to Rotate Your Mattress
Start by removing anything that could get in the way, like any furniture, bedding or other items nearby. Move the bed away from the wall if applicable. Grab one corner of the mattress and pull, rotating the mattress a full 180 degrees so the part that once slept your head is at the foot of the bed.
FAQ Section
How often should you flip/rotate your mattress?
That depends on how old the mattress is, its type and manufacturer recommendations. Most industry standards are every six months. However, be sure to read the care instructions for the type of mattress you have.
What kind of mattress can you flip?
If a mattress can be flipped, it’s advertised as such. It’s common to be able to flip latex mattresses. Memory foam is often designed to only sleep on one side, though you can find flippable ones. You may be able to find innerspring coil mattresses that flip, though these are rarer.
What happens if you flip a no flip mattress?
It will simply be uncomfortable to lie on. You’ll probably quickly realize your mistake and flip it back to the original position. Many one-sided mattresses only have padding on one side, so it will be obvious that it shouldn’t have been flipped.
Does flipping your mattress help?
Yes, flipping your mattress is a great way to make it feel like a new bed. You redistribute the lumpy parts so that they have time to spring back, leading to greater longevity for the mattress.
Should you rotate your box spring?
If the box spring is flexible, that could do with rotating as well. Even though you are not lying directly on the box spring, a flexible box spring can wear out from too much pressure on certain points as well.
