How Long Does a Magnetic Mattress Pad Last and How Do You Take Care Of It?

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The medical use of magnets and magnetism has been recorded since the dawn of human civilization, and modern practitioners continue to use magnets and magnetism for a variety of health purposes. Using magnets directly in bedding is a relatively new concept. While smaller magnetic mattress pads have been available for some time, adding magnets into a full size mattress or mattress pad provides the benefits of magnetic therapy throughout the night. Since this is newer technology, you might wonder, how long does a magnetic mattress pad last and how do you take care of it?

A magnetic mattress pad lasts 5-10 years while the magnets inside the mattress pad can last up to 100 years. To take care of a magnetic mattress pad clean it according to manufacturer specifications and avoid excessive heat.

The most recognized form of magnetic therapy involves placing specially selected magnets directly onto an affected area of the body to relieve pain or promote localized healing and circulation. A common version of this is the magnetic copper bracelets worn by arthritis sufferers. Most available magnetic mattress pads operate on a similar principle of applying magnets directly to the body. An alternative type of magnetic mattress pad is designed by Magnetico for creating a magnetic field rather than lying directly on the magnets.

Magnetism is generated by the flow of electric charges that are carried on the electrons in the atoms present in all matter. The study of biomagnetism (magnetism in biological organisms) is an important and new field that is still in its infancy - so while there are many theories, there are few proven applications. However, many people aren't delaying their use of magnets in their beds in order to experience the health benefits credited to magnets for centuries. For example, a 2001 survey of 66 professional organizations by the journal Complementary Therapies in Medicine found that magnetic therapy was recommended by CAM providers for back pain.

Every cell and organ of the human body - especially the heart and brain - naturally has its own magnetic and electric fields, and a small amount of electromagnetic energy. Neurons depend on electrical impulses for their ability to communicate and control bodily functions, which explains how magnets can affect the body on a molecular level. We like this magnetic therapy pillow pad from Amazon because of its compact size.

An example of this applied knowledge is Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) - direct magnetic stimulation of the brain - which is being studied for the treatment of depression. Traditionally, magnetism is believed to influence circulation, nervous system functions, cell functions, and healing, by influencing the behavior of ions. To learn more about magnet therapy, visit Promagnet's "How Magnet Therapy Works" page.

Nowadays, the profusion of electronic devices, and daily exposure to their magnetic fields tends to disrupt the magnetic field of the human body. This prolonged exposure to low level magnetic fields is said to interfere with the efficient functioning of our bodies. Magnetic field therapy - especially that offered by a magnetic mattress pad - is intended to realign the disrupted magnetic fields of the body and bring them back to normal. 

This article is NOT medical advice. Despite the millions of enthusiastic proponents of magnetic therapy around the world, it remains a controversial subject without conclusive evidence for or against specific applications of magnetism. For most people, magnetic therapy won't have harmful side effects. However, if you have any medical device, such as an insulin pump or pacemaker, that you rely on, do NOT use a magnetic mattress pad. If you have any concerns, always consult a qualified medical professional before using any magnetic products.

To learn more about magnet therapy, the journal, Alternative and Complementary Therapies, published a review of magnet therapy in their December 2000 issue.

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What is a Magnetic Mattress Pad?

Magnets are embedded in a magnetic mattress pad specially designed for a comfortable sleep. Image source: Fashion Disidun Furniture.

Essentially, any mattress plays a crucial role in maintaining your body posture and helping a good night's sleep - something essential for your physical as well as emotional health. However, many people expect more benefits from their beds than just sleep. One way to do that is to add a magnetic mattress pad. We like this lightweight magnetic mattress pad from Amazon.

A magnetic mattress pad is a mattress pad that has magnets embedded throughout, and covers the entire top surface of the mattress. These magnets are used for the therapeutic benefits offered by magnet therapy. 

Around 30 to 200 (or more) magnets - often ceramic ferrite - are sewn into the fabric or material of the pad. Each magnet is specifically aligned so that the negative (north) pole of the magnet faces the human body. This north side is often indicated on the mattress pad as the "up" side.

The magnets are sandwiched between foam or polyester fiberfill and outer layers of fabric which are usually of hypoallergenic materials like cotton or damask. The magnets are well-padded, and won't be felt when lying in bed. These magnets are usually rated between 200 to 10,000 gauss, which is the measure of magnetic strength. The higher the number, the stronger the magnetic field and the more significant its effects.

Both mattress pads and mattress toppers can be used to make a bed more comfortable. We've discussed how to use mattress toppers on sofa beds to add support and comfort.

This queen sized mattress pad has 500 one-inch ceramic ferrite magnets sandwiched between layers of two kinds of foam. Image source: Amazon.

What are the Benefits Of Using a Magnetic Mattress Pad?

While individual magnets are used to provide more localized relief, full magnetic mattress pads are designed to provide more systemic, general benefits.

The benefits of using a magnet mattress pad may be improved circulation, healing, pain relief, better sleep, and stress relief, that all assist with better overall health.

Magnetic mattress pads are used to improve circulation. Efficient, well-regulated blood circulation is important for the normal functioning of the human body. Poor circulation can lead to cold and tingling hands and feet. When you use a magnetic mattress pad, circulation and blood pressure can show improvement. Read our article on the benefits and side effects of a magnetic mattress pad.

A rapid increase in blood circulation may be observed in the part of the body in contact with the magnet. This means that the area receives a healthy supply of oxygen and other nutrients - which leads to healing. The most common use of magnet therapy is for healing, which is believed to enhance ion balance as well as improved circulation, especially in the smaller blood vessels. A full magnetic mattress pad would provide this healing benefit throughout the body, not just for a targeted area.

Another common benefit of using a magnetic mattress pad is pain relief, by alleviating the  suffering associated with bone, joint, and muscle pain, as well as headaches. It is purported to lessen muscle contraction and increase blood flow, providing soothing relief and comfort for tense muscles. Magnetic therapy is often used for soft tissue injuries, arthritis pain and fibromyalgia. We like this pain-relieving magnetic mattress pad from Amazon

Insomnia and restlessness are common problems in the modern world. A magnetic mattress pad may help people suffering from insomnia by reducing stress and inducing relaxation, through a more efficiently functioning nervous system. This can result in a good night's sleep and waking up feeling refreshed. Magnets are also believed to increase a person's energy levels, through better oxygenated blood as a result of better blood flow.

The benefits of using a magnetic mattress pad could include:

• Improved blood circulation throughout the body,
• Rejuvenated localized blood flow for affected areas of the body,
• Better overall healing,
• Reduced joint, bone, and muscle pain,
• Stress relief and higher quality sleep. 

How Long Does a Magnetic Mattress Pad Last?

The magnets in a magnetic mattress pad have very different maintenance requirements and life expectancies based on the other materials that go into manufacturing the mattress pad. Read our mattress topper hack to find out how to make your mattress firmer or softer and the different materials used in mattress toppers.

A magnetic mattress pad can last between 5-10 years. The magnets the mattress pad may last up to 100 years if properly maintained. 

While the magnets inside a magnetic mattress pad have the potential of staying effective for up to 100 years, various factors will affect the quality of a magnetic mattress pad over time. The magnets do gradually grow weaker over time, but diminish quicker if they are mistreated. The other materials used in a magnetic mattress pad - the cover and stuffing - will last as long as that particular material would last in an ordinary mattress pad. For example, the magnets could be felt when the fill or foam starts to wear, eventually making it uncomfortable to sleep on. If the magnets become less effective - usually in about 10 years - or the other materials start to lose their quality, it is time to change the magnetic mattress pad.

You may also be interested in learning how long does a wool underlay last. Make sure to also check out that article for more information.

How to Take Care of a Magnetic Mattress Pad

You can make a magnetic mattress pad last longer by properly caring for it. Read our scientific discussion and tips and tricks on how to use a magnetic mattress pad for more insight.

To take care of a magnetic mattress pad, clean it properly, avoid excessive heat, and protect it with a cover.

The most important thing to avoid with any magnetic mattress pad is heat. Heating a magnet too much will destroy its magnetic properties, rendering it worthless. Extended exposure to heat from laying out in the sun too long can reduce the effectiveness of the magnets inside the mattress pad. 

Be careful when washing a magnetic mattress pad so that it is not damaged. Avoid using a washing machine to launder the magnetic mattress pad because the magnets can clump together. A cold bath soak is recommended, then rinse and hang to dry outdoors on a windy, warm day. The first line of defense to protect the magnetic mattress pad is to cover it with a mattress cover or fitted sheet that can be washed easily with regular bed sheets and pillowcases. We like this waterproof mattress protector from Amazon.

Tip 1. Keep Your Magnetic Mattress Pad Away from Heat

Never put a magnetic mattress pad into any dryer. The heat will destroy the magnetic properties of the magnets. Instead, if a magnetic mattress pad needs to be dried, lay it out or hang it up to air dry. We recommend this heavy duty air drying rack from Amazon.

It is a common practice to put bedding outside in the sun to sanitize it, but laying the magnet mattress pad in direct sunlight can destroy the magnetic properties of the magnets inside the mattress pad and lower their effectiveness. If the magnetic mattress pad needs to dry in the sun, make sure not to leave it out for too long.

Tip 2. Clean a Magnetic Mattress Pad Only According to Manufacturer's Directions

Only clean the magnetic mattress pad according to the manufacturer's directions. Those will vary according to the materials in the mattress pad. However, do NOT dry-clean any magnetic mattress pad or put it into any dryer.

If the magnetic mattress pad is washable, do not use hot water or harsh detergents. If the pad can be washed, washing the mattress pad in a bath of cool or lukewarm water with mild detergent is likely to be recommended. Avoid using a home washing machine which will cause the magnets to clump together as they bump around. Some manufacturers may permit using a large commercial side washer, this can be confirmed on the care instructions accompanying the magnetic mattress pad, like this frequently asked questions article from Bodymagnetix. 

Tip 3. Put A Mattress Protector On Your Magnetic Mattress Pad

Using a thin mattress protector over the magnetic mattress pad can help maintain the hygiene of the mattress pad. We like this breathable mattress protector from Amazon. If the mattress pad doesn't get spills, perspiration, or other dirt on it, it won't need to be washed, because the cover can be removed and washed regularly with the bedsheets and pillowcases. Select a mattress cover that - along with providing protection - allows air to circulate and lets the magnetic field reach the body. Read our article on tips to fix or replace a mattress protector that's making you too hot.

Can You Use a Magnetic Mattress Pad With an Electric Blanket or Pad?

Many people who decide to try a magnetic mattress pad for pain relief, better circulation, or healing also like to use an electric blanket or heated mattress pad for added soothing warmth. Read our article on how to install a mattress topper where we explain the correct layering for mattress toppers and mattress pads.

A magnetic mattress pad can be used with an electric blanket or heated mattress pad. Heat from an electric blanket or heated mattress pad will not affect the magnetic properties of the magnetic mattress pad, provided the magnetic mattress pad doesn't get too hot.

Magnetic mattress pads are compatible with electric blankets or heated mattress pads. Rare earth magnets (typically used in magnetic mattress pads) can withstand temperatures up to 212 F without losing magnetic strength according to Bunting Magnets. We recommend putting the heated mattress pad under the magnetic mattress pad, and placing a sheet between them, like these 800 thread count cotton sheets, and not letting the magnetic mattress pad get excessively hot. 

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• You can use a mattress pad or mattress topper with an air mattress to make it more comfortable as well!

Examples of Magnetic Mattress Pads and Their Benefits

Three examples of magnetic mattress pads and their benefits

A magnetic mattress pad offers many therapeutic benefits that could enhance general health and improve sleeping patterns, and with the right care a magnetic mattress pad will last many years. If you know someone heading off to college soon, make sure you also take a look at our article on choosing a mattress topper vs. mattress pad for college too.