How Long to Get Used to a New Mattress?

Written by Nectarsleep Editorial Team

Last updated on Jul 09, 2025

Better Sleep Blog
How Long to Get Used to a New Mattress?

In this article:

(Because your body doesn’t always love change—at first.)

You finally did it—you ditched the lumpy old mattress and treated yourself to a brand-new bed. You were expecting cloud-like comfort and the best night’s sleep of your life. But… wait. Why does your back feel weird? Why aren’t you sleeping like a baby yet?

Here’s the thing: even the comfiest, most supportive mattress can take a bit of getting used to. Your body’s been used to sleeping a certain way for years, and suddenly everything’s changed. That’s a big deal for your muscles, joints, and spine—even if it’s a change for the better.

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So, how long does it really take?

Most people need 30 to 60 nights to fully adjust to a new mattress. Yep, a whole month or two. That might sound like a long time, but remember—your body is literally relearning how to rest, stretch, and align while you sleep.

Some people adjust in just a week or two, especially if their old mattress was well past its prime. But for others—especially those with chronic pain, joint issues, or who sleep in one position all night—it can take longer.

And that’s okay. Sleep is personal, and your comfort curve is uniquely yours.

What’s actually happening during the “break-in” period?

A few things are going on:

  • Your mattress is softening slightly as the materials settle and respond to your body weight. (Especially with memory foam or hybrid models like Nectar.)

  • Your body is adapting to better support and alignment. If you’re used to sinking or curling in strange positions, your spine might need time to realign.

  • Your brain is adjusting, too. New smells, new sensations—it can take a while before your mind recognises your new bed as your bed.

So if your first few nights feel a bit “meh,” don’t panic. It doesn’t mean your new mattress is wrong for you—it just means you’re in the adjustment phase.

Make the most of your in-home trial

Brands like Nectar offer generous in-home trials (up to 365 nights!), so take full advantage. Don’t rush to return it after just a week. Give your body a proper chance to settle in.

And if you’re still unsure after a month or two? That’s when it’s worth asking if the mattress is truly the right fit—or if you need something firmer, softer, or with more support.

Little things that can help

Want to make the transition smoother? Try this:

  • Keep a consistent sleep schedule so your body gets into a rhythm

  • Pair it with a good pillow that suits your sleep position

  • Give it time to breathe—unbox it fully and let it settle

  • Move around on it—sitting, stretching, even lying in different positions can help loosen it up

Final thoughts: give it time

A new mattress isn’t an instant miracle (sadly). But with a bit of patience, you’ll probably find yourself sleeping deeper, waking up fresher, and wondering how you ever tolerated that saggy old bed.

So if it’s not love at first lie-down? Don’t worry. Give it a few more nights. Your best sleep might be just around the corner.

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