The Life Expectancy of a Bed in NZ: When to Replace Yours

Beds don’t last forever. And yet most of us hang onto them way too long. If you’re waking up sore, tired, or tossing and turning more than usual, your bed might be the reason. Not your pillow. Not your sleep schedule. The actual bed.

At Bedpost, we’ve been helping Kiwis get better sleep for over 30 years. We’ve seen all the warning signs people ignore. So let’s save you the back pain (and the grumpy mornings). This guide will walk you through how long beds usually last in NZ, how to tell when it’s time to replace yours, and what can wear them out faster than you think.

What Counts as ‘Your Bed’?

When we say 'your bed,' we don’t just mean the mattress. We mean the whole setup, including your mattress and bed frame. They work together. The frame supports the mattress. The mattress supports you.

They also wear out at different rates. Your frame might last a bit longer. Or it might be the thing messing everything up without you realising. So, when you’re thinking about replacing your bed, check both parts.

How Long Does a Bed Last in NZ?

It depends quite a bit on the type of bed and how you treat it. But here’s a rough guide:

• Mattress: 7 to 10 years

• Frame: 10 to 15 years

• Kids’ or guest beds: Guest beds usually last longer as they’re not used every night. Kids' beds can wear out faster, especially if they’re getting jumped on or made from cheaper materials.

Foam and latex mattresses tend to last longer than old-school innersprings. And frames made from solid timber or strong metal usually outlast flat-pack ones.

Signs It’s Time to Replace It

You don’t need a stopwatch. But there will be clues. These are some of the big ones:

• Your mattress feels saggy or uneven

• You wake up sore, stiff, or still tired

• Your frame squeaks, shifts, or just feels a bit off

• You can see damage (like broken slats, dents, or lumps)

You don’t have to wait until it totally falls apart. If it’s affecting your sleep, that’s reason enough to replace it.

What Wears a Bed Out Faster—And What to Do Instead

Some beds last longer than others. But even a great bed will wear out fast if it’s not looked after. Here’s what shortens the life of your bed (and how to avoid it):

Cheap Build or Materials

Beds made with low-quality materials might look fine at first, but they usually don’t hold up. Cheap foam breaks down faster, and basic frames can start to squeak, warp, or collapse under normal use. You’ll also find that cheaper beds often don’t come with proper support. For example, a centre beam on larger sizes.

If something does go wrong, you’re often stuck. Because many low-cost beds don’t come with solid warranties. Or they have fine print that makes it hard to claim anything.

What to do instead: Spend a bit more on quality. A well-made mattress and sturdy frame will not only last longer but feel better too. At Bedpost, we only stock beds we know will go the distance in real Kiwi homes. No gimmicks. No junk.

Not Rotating the Mattress

Always sleeping in the same spot? That’s how dips form. Over time, the foam or springs start to give way where your body rests the most. It might not be obvious at first, but one day you’ll notice a little sag. And once that happens, there’s no real fix.

What to do instead: Rotate your mattress every 3 to 6 months. If it’s double-sided, flip it too (as long as the label says that’s okay). This spreads out the wear and keeps the surface feeling more even for longer.

Heavy Use (Jumping, Sitting on Edges)

Beds take a beating when they’re treated like playgrounds or lounge chairs. Kids bouncing, rough landings, or even flopping down hard after a long day can all wear out the mattress faster. Sitting on the same edge every morning or night can also weaken the frame and break down the side support.

What to do instead: Treat your bed like a bed. It's there to support you while you sleep. It's not there to handle extra pressure from jumping or repeated strain in one spot. Encourage kids to be gentle, and try to mix up where you sit when you’re putting on shoes or folding washing.

Moisture Buildup in Humid NZ Climates

Humidity’s a big deal in a lot of New Zealand homes, especially in coastal or older houses. If air can’t circulate under your bed, moisture builds up fast. That can lead to mould, mildew, and smells that are nearly impossible to get rid of. It can also break down the materials inside your mattress and frame.

What to do instead: Make sure your mattress sits on a frame that allows airflow. A raised base with solid slats is ideal. Use a good mattress protector too. It acts as a barrier against sweat and moisture. And if your home is especially damp, crack a window now and then or run a dehumidifier when needed.

Looking for a New Bed in NZ?

Beds don’t last forever. And once yours starts wearing out, it’s not just your sleep that suffers. It’s also your back, your mood, and your day.

If it’s time for a new setup, we’re here to help. At Bedpost, we’ve got mattresses and bed frames that are built to last, and made to feel good night after night.

You can shop online or visit any of our stores across New Zealand. We’ll help you find the right bed for your body, your room, and your budget. No pushy sales talk. Just honest advice from people who know what they’re doing.