How to Reinforce a Sagging Mattress with Plywood... in Under 5 Minutes

Do you have trouble falling asleep or staying asleep due to pain in your neck and back?

Yes, I, too, have experienced this calamity. Your sagging mattress is most likely to blame rather than age, kids, or stress.

The good news is that you have found the correct location to address this concern.

You can get a better night's sleep and keep your mattress in good condition by placing it on a sheet of plywood. Just take some measurements, lay down some plywood sheets, and see if that doesn't do the trick for your sagging mattress.

Why your mattress is sagging and what makes plywood unique are both topics we'll cover in this article.

Get from a lumpy bed to a soft one in less than five minutes by reading on.

When you sleep on a mattress with good support, you sleep better.

If your mattress is sagging due to age or broken springs, you can prevent further sagging by placing a plywood plank under the mattress.

Verify that sagging is the problem before you go dumpster diving or buy a sheet of plywood.

Take off the mattress cover and check it thoroughly. Take note of any low spots in the center or on the edges. Try a few different spots while lying down to evaluate the cushioning.

Put a rod or ruler on the area to check for sagging if you can't tell. There will be a space where the mattress isn't perfectly flat. When this happens, it's usually in a place where people sleep (or engage in spooning). ) the most Find it, and then you can do something about it!

Just so you know, plywood won't work to repair an innerspring, water, or air bed. Any questions? Just ask the shop or maker!

First, Conduct a Measurement

In order to get started, you'll need to measure the size of your bed's base to ensure that you have a plywood sheet that can accommodate it.

If not, have one custom-cut at a local hardware store.

Using a soft plywood such as AB or BC is recommended. The mattress and occupants will sink through if it isn't at least 3/4 inch thick.

Make sure the thickness of any plywood board you use is at least 3/4 inches to ensure it will hold up.

You can access the box spring base or frame by carefully lifting the mattress with the help of a partner.

To finish, spread the sheet across the length of the bed and make sure it fits snugly on both ends. Planks should be placed at regular intervals.

#3 Test It

Set the mattress down on the plywood and see how it feels and moves. If there is no bending or creaking when you walk on the planks, then you have placed them correctly.

The sag should have immediately lessened or vanished.

Just like that, it's all sorted out Let's address some of the most frequently asked questions and concerns.

Can Plywood Be Used for Bed Slats?

Sagging mattresses may be the result of old or overused bed slats.

The problem can be fixed by simply placing a plywood sheet over them. You could also use plywood slats in place of the metal ones currently on your bed. You need only have them trimmed to size and set in place.

Be sure the slats are at least three-quarters of an inch thick once more for stability.

Plywood vs. Other Solutions for a Sagging Mattress

There are alternatives to plywood for repairing a sagging mattress.

They aren't as supportive, but they'll do until you can find something better.

These are:

Pads for Mattresses

Mattress toppers are a popular choice for those who experience sagging. They're made from memory foam or microfiber and come in a variety of thicknesses; they're also comfortable and good for your back.

An additional reason to use a topper is the positive effect it has on your health, specifically your temperature and the quality of your sleep.

Some people prefer a more supportive mattress and toppers can be too soft. Put them to the test and see which one performs best for you. Not only that, but toppers won't do much to support a mattress with severe sagging.

Not forgetting that mattress toppers raise the level of your bed is essential. Because of this, it may be difficult to use standard size sheets. You may find that you need a new, larger flat sheet or coverlet as a result.

Utilizing Cushions

The use of pillows is the quickest solution, but it shouldn't be used permanently.

Put a few of your thinnest pillows over the sagging part. When you're ready to sleep, cover your mattress with a protective cover and slip your fitted sheets on top.

You can sleep more soundly on that until you can replace the box springs, use plywood, or get a new mattress.

Matters Relating to Plywood

Plywood under a sagging mattress is a great temporary fix.

Without replacing your mattress and possibly getting a new support base, your mattress will continue to sag. Whenever this occurs, it's time to buy a new bed.

Plywood sheets have the additional problem of suffocating the mattress. This can cause mildew or mold to form, further weakening the mattress.

Avoid this by using separate, evenly-spaced planks for the floor. This lets air flow through and dries out any moisture from underneath the bed.

Reasons for Mattress Sagging

Even if you invest in a high-quality mattress and adhere to the manufacturer's care guidelines, your bed will eventually sag from normal use and the passage of time.

The following are some of the most frequent causes of a mattress's sinking:

Habit #1: Always Using the Same Bed

There is always someone on your favorite side of the bed. Uneven pressure from your body weight is exerted on the mattress's inner structure whether you sleep on your right side, your left side, or in the middle.

What this means is that your mattress may lose its ability to provide adequate support while you sleep.

Unless you have a custom mattress with lumbar support, rotating your mattress every few months is the best way to avoid this. To rotate clockwise or counterclockwise, you must complete rotations of 180 degrees.

Do the opposite and begin again. This should relieve stress and keep things from getting too tight or too compact.

You can also try switching to the opposite side of the bed, though this may not be possible if you only have one bed or are using a double bed.

Problem #2: Lack of Upkeep

Mattress maintenance is typically neglected. It needs routine upkeep just like your stove, refrigerator, and furniture.

In addition to turning your mattress regularly, you should also clean it regularly.

Put a protector over your mattress and change your linens and pajamas every week. Why Because human bodies leak oils and dead skin cells into the mattress, which breaks down the padding. This can lead to sagging and discoloration of the mattress.

Make sure to use a watertight cover if you have kids or pets to avoid any leaks in the event of an accident. Not only will this cause wear and tear on your mattress, but it can also lead to unpleasant odors and provide a breeding ground for bacteria.

When moving, it's also important to properly cover and transport your mattress. Mattress springs can be damaged by bending or folding.

Securely strap your mattress to the truck bed on its side using a waterproof cover.

Third-Rate Used Bedspread

Most mattresses are good for between 7 and 10 years, though this varies widely by manufacturer.

Since this is the case, your mattress will eventually sag even if you regularly rotate it.

In that case, you can either invest in a brand-new bed or invest in some mattress supports. With the latter, you may be able to extend the life of your bed by a few years.

Mattress Quality, Number Four

Various mattresses exist, and not all of them are equivalent

It's important to buy a mattress that was well-constructed and wasn't mass-produced. Despite the higher initial cost, you won't have to worry about needing to buy a new bed every few years.

However, even if it's a high-quality brand, a used mattress from a friend or family member could have damage or wear that you wouldn't notice.

Find out in advance if it will meet your requirements by testing it. Keep in mind that it may only have a few months (or even years) to live. No longer available; in the interim, use a backup plan

5. Spring Breakage

Box springs are the standard support system for mattresses. Because of this, the bed is raised, shock is absorbed, and the mattress lasts longer.

A box spring's ability to support a mattress may decline with prolonged use. Too much weight on it or having children jump on it frequently can hasten this process.

Pexels image by Alex Green

The bed will squeak whenever you shift position and will sag visibly if the springs are broken. There is bowing across the bottom of the frame as well.

The problem can be fixed by either placing temporary support under the mattress or replacing the box spring base (the latter of which is typically less expensive than purchasing a new mattress).

Should You Replace Your Mattress Every X Years?

When plywood and toppers stop being effective is the simple answer to your question.

Your mattress will eventually need to be replaced. Sure, you can get a few more years out of your bed if you use plywood or toppers, but if getting into bed feels like sinking into quicksand, you're doing more harm than good.

The cost of a good mattress may seem insurmountable, but the value of a good night's rest is immeasurable. Getting a new, high-quality mattress has been shown to improve sleep quality and decrease back pain.

Many people are sleeping on beds that are older than nine years, which means they are not getting the health benefits of sleeping on a newer bed.

Even though a high-quality mattress can cost anywhere from $1,000 to $5,000, it is well worth the investment when you consider the cost of medical bills related to sleep disorders and the cost of lost productivity and happiness at work.

Conclusion

If your mattress is sagging, try placing a sheet of plywood under it.

Just buy some wood, place it under your bed, and sleep soundly. If the sheet has been ordered in advance and you have assistance moving the mattress, this task should take no more than five minutes.

Instead of spending a small fortune on a new mattress, you can get more use out of the one you already have by covering it with plywood. But sheets or planks are just a stopgap. Once the sagging has returned, it's time for a new mattress.

Before making a purchase, weigh the pros and cons to find the best value. Buying a low-quality mattress and then having to replace it with plywood is a nightmare.

It is appreciated that you took the time to read this manual. Read the linked articles if you're interested in learning about alternative quick fixes:

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