Time for a new topper, when the cherry on top gives up

The mattress is the foundation. But the topper is the real cherry on top, the extra portion of comfort that turns “slept well” into “five more minutes, please”.

What many forget: a topper doesn't last forever. While a bed or a good mattress serves faithfully for many years, the cherry on top has a somewhat shorter career. After about five to seven years, it's usually over. After all, you don't want to fall from the clouds straight onto rock-hard ground.

How do you notice? 1. Visible wear: cracks, small holes or permanent hollows are not charming character traits. 2. Sleep suddenly feels different, “something's off here” often has the topper as its sender. 3. Your back says “good morning”, but with pain. 4. The time is simply up: five to seven years is the rule of thumb.

5. The matter of the feel-good pounds: more weight means more pressure on the material and faster wear. 6. New bed habits: breakfast in bed, series marathons, home office under the duvet, all of it strains certain spots harder. 7. Changed needs: our body doesn't stand still; sometimes it simply needs new support.

How to extend its life: gently “knead” the topper regularly so the filling stays evenly distributed. Turn and flip it every six months, the secret tip of many sleep experts. Air it regularly against moisture. And use a mattress protector: it guards against stains and wear, and the topper lasts considerably longer.