Do you know how to tell which side of the mattress is up? We’ll help you find out.
A mattress with a label on the foot or head displaying the brand’s name should face up. Some mattresses are double-sided and can be used on both sides. But for a single-sided mattress, the padded layer faces up, and the firm layer faces down.
Let’s take a closer look!
There are two types of mattresses:
- One which you can sleep on both sides &
- One which you can sleep only on one side
For mattresses that you can use on both sides, you should reverse them every six months. And for a mattress that is used only on one side, you should rotate it every three months. It’s because it allows the body to distribute weight evenly on both sides and helps you sleep cool. Especially during hot summer days, it’s helpful.
Typically it’s effortless to notice which side of the mattress is up. By taking a look at the label of the mattress can help you differentiate instantly.
One-sided mattresses come with a “no turn” tag, and you cannot flip the mattress but rotate them occasionally. In contrast, a double-sided mattress is equally firm on both sides, which you can rotate and flip too.
Most mattress in a box brands like Nectar are not designed to be flipped.
How to tell which side of the mattress is up?
Some mattresses can look similar on both sides because the design varies, which may leave you confused. To find out, lay your hand on the mattress and try to check which side is comfier and conforms to the shape.
The side that feels more comfortable is the top of the mattress. Another way to know is most mattresses will have an anti-skid material (tough layers to prevent unwanted movement) at the bottom, which will not be comfortable to sleep upon.
By understanding these simple tips, you’ll be able to tell which side of the mattress faces up.
Can you sleep on both sides of the mattress?
If it’s a double-sided mattress, you can because you’ll be able to flip them whenever needed. But if it’s single-sided, it’s better not to.
Since the bottom layer is firm, flipping the mattress will damage the comfort and ruin the mattress. Additionally, it won’t give you a comfortable sleep, and your body will ache.
Mattresses like memory foam, latex, hybrid, and pillow-top should not be flipped because doing so can ruin the mattress and damage them easily. However, you can rotate them because it’s essential and is recommended.
- You can rotate your memory foam mattress once or twice a year.
- Pillow top mattresses can be rotated every month or once a season.
- You can rotate a hybrid mattress once or twice a year.
- Latex mattresses should be rotated every six months.
Innerspring, also known as a traditional mattress, can be flipped and rotated seasonally. If you have an innerspring mattress, you get the benefit of both worlds, and your mattress can last a little longer.
Why should you rotate a mattress?
You should rotate your mattress to prevent it from premature sagging and uneven wear-out. Constantly adding pressure to one side of the mattress can disrupt the neutral alignment of your spine, which will then lead to back pain, muscle stiffness, shoulder or neck pain.
To get the most comfort out of your mattress, rotating it once in a while will provide you with adequate support and help you sleep better. It will also benefit you with consistent comfort and will extend the life of your mattress.
Benefits of rotating a mattress
- You get better sleep.
- It’ll remain new for as long as possible.
- It’ll give better support for a prolonged period.
- There’ll be an even distribution of support systems.
- Your mattress will not sag quickly.
How often should you flip your mattress?
Gone are those days when manufacturers recommend flipping and rotating your mattress to increase its lifespan and keep the mattress in shape. It’s because mattresses can sag over time with daily pressure, so flipping mattresses lasts longer and provides a good rest.
Nowadays, mattresses are mostly single-sided, and you don’t have to keep rotating them or should be flipped. And unless the manufacturer gives specific instructions, you shouldn’t flip your mattress.
Most mattresses these days are not meant to be reversed because they are not designed to do so. That being said, the bottom layer consists of thick spring coils or dense foam to support the soft foam layers on top for cushiony support.
The top layer provides comfort, while the support layer helps keep your spine aligned and relieves pressure. So, if you flip them over, you’ll be sleeping on a firm surface without comfort, which can be uncomfortable.
However, there are also double-sided mattresses available, and they’re more expensive than single-sided mattresses.
The good thing is that flippable mattresses tend to be more comfortable, and since you can flip them, they can last longer. You can also check our best budget mattress.
how long can i store a mattress on its side?
Storing a mattress on its side for an extended period is not generally recommended, as it can lead to damage or deformation of the mattress structure. However, if you need to store a mattress on its side due to space constraints, it’s best to minimize the duration.
For short-term storage, a few weeks to a month is usually acceptable without causing significant harm. If you must store the mattress on its side for longer than this, it’s important to take steps to mitigate potential damage:
- Rotate Regularly: If possible, rotate the mattress periodically to prevent the weight from settling in one area for too long, which can lead to uneven support and comfort when you use it again.
- Provide Support: Try to ensure that the mattress is evenly supported along its length to prevent sagging or bending. You might prop it against a flat surface or use sturdy objects to maintain even support.
- Use a Mattress Storage Bag: Protect the mattress from dust, moisture, and pests with a breathable, but protective, mattress storage bag.
- Avoid Heavy Items on Top: Don’t store heavy items on top of a mattress stored on its side, as this can lead to indentations and damage to the mattress structure.
- Check Manufacturer Recommendations: Some mattresses, especially those with specific structural designs like memory foam or hybrid mattresses, might have specific storage recommendations. Check with the manufacturer for any guidance.
- Consider Climate Control: If storing in a facility or area prone to extreme temperatures or humidity, try to use a climate-controlled environment to prevent moisture build-up or damage from extreme temperatures.
For long-term storage, it’s best to store a mattress flat in a dry, cool environment to maintain its shape and structure. If you’re dealing with space limitations and must store the mattress vertically, try to reposition it and check its condition regularly to avoid long-term damage.
How often should you rotate your mattress?
Mattresses, either single-sided or double-sided, can be rotated. Rotating your mattress is essential as it keeps them in good shape and evenly distributes comfort. It also means that your mattress will not sag easily with continuous pressure on the same spot every night.
Usually, your hips and shoulders add more pressure to the mattress, so rotating them once in a while will keep it from sagging early and allow it to last longer.
You can rotate your mattress once every three months or more if needed if you feel you’re not getting enough comfort. But also don’t forget to read the instructions set by the manufacturer because they can vary.
The benefit of rotating your mattress is to evenly distribute the comfort and allow the mattress to recover from regular pressure on specific areas.
It can also make you feel like sleeping on a new bed while also sleeping comfortably, increasing its life span.