"The most surprising takeaway? A 'Lifetime Warranty' usually covers a product designed to last less than a decade. We analyzed the physics of foam to expose the gap."
Lifetime is a Statistical Anomaly
Polyurethane foam and steel coils degrade with nightly use. Companies bank on you upgrading for hygiene or comfort reasons long before a structural failure occurs.
Actual Lifespan vs. Marketing Promise
Source: NapLab Durability Audit 2024
The "Year 10" Cliff
Many warranties shift from a "replacement" model to a "repair" model after the first decade.
Hidden Costs Post-Year 10:
- Shipping Fees: $50 - $150
- Prorated Repair Fees
- Inspection Charges
The "Normal Wear" Loophole
There is a massive difference between a "defect" and "wear." Most warranties only cover structural failure, not the natural softening that causes back pain.
Interactive Sagging Meter
Drag the slider to see if your back pain qualifies as a "defect" under most lifetime policies.
Considered 'Normal Wear'. Your back may hurt, but the warranty contract is safe for the manufacturer.
How to Kill a Warranty
Simple mistakes can legally dissolve your coverage instantly. The fine print is designed to keep the manufacturer's liability low.
Non-Transferable
The moment the mattress changes hands (even to family), the contract dies.
The Foundation Trap
Gaps wider than 3" in your bed frame slats will void most claims instantly.
Warranty Vital Signs
Audit Summary
A lifetime warranty is a nice insurance policy against catastrophic defects, but it is not a guarantee of eternal comfort.
Ready to file a claim? Make sure you have your evidence ready.
Guide to Filing a Claim