When you’re buying your bedding, it’s not likely that you’re already thinking about when you’ll go shopping for them again. Besides, having quality comforts where you rest your head at night can get pretty pricy. The mattress, pillows, sheets and comforters can add up to hundreds and easily thousands of dollars. Eventually, they’ll have to be replaced. The question is, when? This guide helps put things in perspective for how long each piece should last and how to take care of them to get the most use.

1. The Mattress, AKA Your Foundation of Sweet Dreams

Your mattress is likely your biggest expense and can have a profound effect on your sleep quality. The good news is it can last a long time. Experts recommend replacing your mattress every 7 to 10 years. Of course, this can vary depending on factors like mattress quality and usage.

What’s great is that mattresses have come a long way since your parents’ days of only having two options — soft or firm. Plus, you can get your dream bed all online! Take your pick of memory foam or hybrid models that feel like sleeping on a cloud. There’s never been a better time to invest in your sleep.

2. Buttery Soft Sheets

Few things rival those moments after a bath or shower when you slip into clean, crisp sheets. If you’re particular about the material or thread count, you pride yourself on their quality. But those sheets, no matter how luxurious, don’t last forever. Here’s the hard truth. You should aim to replace your sheets every two to three years. Why? Because even with regular washing, they accumulate sweat, dead skin cells, and other unmentionables. It does, however, give you an excuse to upgrade when that time comes around.

3. Pillows of Perfection

Pillows are tricky because depending on how many you have, they can have different uses and, as a result, timelines. You have the reliable pillows you lay on every night, but then there are the decorative pillows, throw pillows, and body pillows. When should you toss them? It depends on the material. Down pillows tend to last longer, around 5 to 10 years, while synthetic pillows might need replacing every 1 to 2 years. Of course, if your pillow starts resembling a deflated balloon or feels more lumpy than supportive, it’s time to say goodbye.

4. Cozy Comforters

Curling up in a cocoon in your comforter, especially on a lazy weekend morning that drifts into the afternoon, is the definition of bliss. But sadly, even the fluffiest of comforters can lose their magic over time. The general rule of thumb is to replace your comforter every 5 to 10 years. Of course, this can vary depending on factors like quality, how often you wash it, and whether your furry friend has claimed it as their own personal nap spot.

Different Materials Have Different Lifespans

You’ve learned that the life of your bedding can vary greatly based on what it’s made out of. So what are some optimal fabrics designed to last? Antimicrobial and antibacterial bedding materials are indeed a thing.

Bamboo

Bamboo, for example, is an eco-friendly wonder material that feels silky smooth against your skin and also naturally repels bacteria and allergens, making it a dream choice for those with sensitive skin or allergies.

Linen

Then there’s good old-fashioned linen, a timeless classic that’s been gracing bedrooms for centuries. Not only does linen offer unparalleled breathability and moisture-wicking properties, but it’s also naturally antimicrobial, keeping your bed feeling fresh and clean night after night.

Silver-Infused

Yes, you read that right — silver. It may be the latest in bedding innovation, but NASA has been using it for years. It turns out, this precious metal isn’t just for jewelry. It also has powerful antimicrobial properties that can help keep your bedding free from pesky bacteria and odors.

Bedding Cleaning Routine

How can you make sure that your antibacterial and antimicrobial bedding stays in tip-top shape? Try these tips to help you keep your sleep sanctuary fresh and clean.

• Wash regularly. Just like you, your bedding needs a good bath every now and then. Make it a habit to wash your sheets and pillowcases at least once a week in hot water to zap those germs into oblivion. And don’t forget about your mattress protector – you do have one of those, right? Give it a spin in the washing machine every few months to keep it fresh and clean.
• Give it sun. Did you know that sunlight is a natural disinfectant? It’s true! Whenever possible, air out your bedding in the sun to give those germs a taste of their own medicine. Plus, nothing beats the feeling of climbing into sun-kissed sheets at the end of a long day.
• Limit the bedtime snacks. We get it – late-night snacking in bed is one of life’s greatest pleasures. But those crumbs and spills can attract all sorts of unwanted guests, so try to keep the munching to a minimum.