How Long Does It Take to Get Used to a New Mattress? A new mattress can feel very different from the one you've been sleeping on for years, even if it's the right choice for you. While many people expect instant comfort, it's completely normal for your body to need time to adjust to a new level of support and pressure relief. In this guide, we'll explain how long it typically takes to get used to a new mattress, why the adjustment period happens, and the signs that your mattress is the right one for you.
Why does it take a while to get used to a new mattress? Your body has spent years adapting to the shape, feel and support of your old mattress. A new one changes all of that overnight. Your muscles, joints and spine need time to adjust to different levels of support and pressure relief. This adjustment period is a natural part of the process as your body adapts to sleeping on a new surface and doesn’t necessarily mean it’s not a good match. With a little time, most people find their new mattress begins to feel more comfortable and supportive night after night. Do mattresses soften over time? Most mattresses do soften slightly with regular use, particularly those with foam or fibre layers that respond to body weight and warmth. That said, significant softening takes time. If a mattress feels uncomfortably firm from night one, pay attention to where you feel pressure: your hips, shoulders or lower back. If those pressure points aren't easing after a few weeks, the mattress may be too firm for your sleep style. Some mattresses, especially those with a very high spring count or dense foam core, won't soften enough to suit lighter sleepers, regardless of how long you persevere. Read our mattress types guide for more help choosing the right firmness level for you.
Can you sleep on a new mattress straight away? In most cases, yes. However, if your new mattress arrived rolled or compressed in a box, it will need time to fully expand before use. Most manufacturers recommend waiting 3-24 hours, and sleeping on it too soon can affect the materials before they've properly set. To find out how long to leave your mattress before use, check the specific guidelines on the label or in your information pack.
How long to get used to a new mattress? Most people need between two and six weeks to properly adjust to a new mattress. Your sleeping position, body weight and whether you've switched mattress types all affect the timeline. For example, moving from a traditional spring mattress to a memory foam mattress tends to require more adjustment, since the feel is fundamentally different. Pocket-sprung mattresses typically feel more familiar from the start, particularly for those coming from a spring mattress already. A good rule of thumb is to give it at least six weeks before making any final judgment. If after this time, you're still uncomfortable, that's a clear sign the mattress isn't the right fit for you.
Tips for feeling more comfortable on your new mattress A few small changes can make the settling-in period a lot easier while your body finds its rhythm.
Stick with it Resist the urge to drag the old mattress back in after a couple of bad nights. Your body needs consistent exposure to make a fair assessment. Check your pillow A new mattress changes your sleeping position slightly, which can mean your existing pillows no longer support your head and neck properly. Our pillow buying guide can help if you think this might be the issue. Rotate your mattress Some mattresses benefit from being rotated in the first few weeks to ensure even wear. Check the care label or read our mattress care guide for more advice. Keep a consistent sleep schedule Going to bed and waking at the same time each day helps your body adapt to new sleep conditions more quickly. Use a mattress topper If the mattress feels slightly too firm while it's breaking in, a mattress topper can take the edge off without undermining the support underneath. Sleep in the same position Try to stick to your usual sleeping position rather than experimenting with new ones during the adjustment period. This gives your body the best chance of settling in naturally. Consider your bedding Heavy duvets or multiple layers can affect how a mattress feels. If it's feeling too warm, lighter bedding might help.
Adjusting to a new mattress takes time, and it's perfectly normal for it to feel different at first. For most people, a few weeks is all it takes for their body to adapt and for the mattress to settle in. However, if you're still experiencing discomfort or struggling to find a comfortable sleeping position after the adjustment period, it may be worth reassessing whether your mattress is right for you. Our personal comfort guide can help you find the level of support and comfort that best suits your sleep needs.