Did you know that you should replace your mattress about once every eight years? If you think about it, this makes perfect sense. You probably spend more time on your mattress than on any other piece of furniture in your home. What’s more, a mattress needs to support your body’s posture throughout the night to help you achieve the best sleep.

Since your mattress is such an important part of your daily life, it’s also essential to care for it properly. Always use a mattress protector (or cover) to prevent sweat, stains and spills from seeping into the mattress and to reduce the buildup of allergens, like dust mites, in your mattress.

Your mattress will provide the best support when it is paired with a good bed frame. It is often recommended that you replace your bed frame and box spring (if you use one) at the same time that you replace your mattress. Some mattress warranties even require this.

Finally, certain types of mattresses can be rotated once a year, and your mattress model may even recommend rotations to ensure that the wear on the mattress is not concentrated in one place. Rotating a mattress can be particularly useful for larger mattresses, like a king-size mattress.

Choosing a new mattress is a big deal, and it starts with identifying the type of firmness you need. Soft mattresses and soft to medium mattresses are usually favored by side-sleepers who need the mattress to conform to their hips and shoulders. Meanwhile, a medium to firm mattress is recommended for back or stomach sleepers. A mattress pad or topper can also help your mattress better suit your needs.

You will want to consider whether a traditional spring mattress, a memory foam mattress or a hybrid design works best for you. Mattresses with springs have a little more bounce than ones made purely of foam. Conveniently, most types of mattresses can now be delivered straight to your door. Expect a rolled-up mattress in a box.

Keep in mind that pillows also play a key role in healthy sleeping posture. Your pillow should keep your neck aligned, and you might want a pillow to place between your knees if you are a side sleeper.

Finally, choose your new mattress size and make sure to buy compatible bed sheets. A twin mattress is great for kids and teens. Many couples enjoy a king mattress or queen mattress. If you have plenty of space, you might opt for the luxury of a California king mattress.