For a third of your life, your mattress cradles you while you sleep. Yet, it’s one of the least cleaned items in your home. You use your mattress daily for 56 hours a week, but only clean it twice a year!
Proper and regular mattress cleaning improves your comfort, health and the lifespan of this essential item. Simple steps like vacuuming, spot cleaning and airing it out go a long way. Don’t neglect your mattress – keep it fresh for better rest.
Why mattress cleaning matters
Cleaning your mattress regularly is more essential than you may realise. It harbours dust mites, dead skin cells, sweat and potentially harmful microorganisms over time.
These unwelcome guests can cause issues like allergies, skin irritations, asthma attacks and sleep quality reduction. Cleaning your mattress also lengthens its lifespan and ensures you continue getting the maximum benefit from your investment.
Understanding your mattress material
To correctly clean your mattress, get familiar with its material. Different materials require different methods of cleaning. Some use memory foam that distorts with excessive heat or water, while others employ latex or innerspring systems that tolerate wet cleaning better. Always refer to manufacturer care instructions to avoid damaging the material.
Gathering the right cleaning supplies
Ensure you have the necessary cleaning products before embarking on the task. Basic supplies like a vacuum cleaner with an upholstery attachment, mild dish soap or upholstery shampoo, cold water, baking soda or a commercially available enzyme cleaner are usually sufficient.
Pre-cleaning your mattress
Remove all bedding, including any mattress covers, before beginning the cleaning process. These should be laundered following their specific care labels.
Using a vacuum cleaner
Start the cleaning process by vacuuming the entire mattress surface. This aids in removing dust, dead skin cells and other particulates. Ensure absolute precision in this process to prevent any further embedment of dirt.
Spot cleaning stains
Detects stains early, as they become more challenging to remove over time. Cleaning solutions can be homemade or commercial, but always test them on a discreet part of the mattress to avoid discolouration.
The role of baking soda
A naturally sourced deodoriser like baking soda can help eliminate any residual odours. Sprinkle baking soda (bicarbonate of soda) over the mattress surface and let it sit for a while before vacuuming it.
Dealing with mattress pests
Apart from allergens and mites, mattresses can also harbour bed bugs or lice. Regular inspection and professional treatment when needed are the best approaches against these threats.
Using professional services
Difficult stains or persistent smells may require a professional mattress cleaning service. They have specialised equipment and cleaning solutions that ensure deep cleaning without damaging your mattress.
Post-cleaning care
Let your newly cleaned mattress air out properly until entirely dry before replacing the bedding. This will prevent any moisture build-up which could harbour mildew or mould.
Maintain a regular cleaning routine
To prolong your mattresses’ life and keep infections at bay, implement a regular cleaning schedule based on how frequently you use it. Monthly vacuuming is advisable for significantly used beds.
The importance of mattress protectors
Mattress protectors are excellent investments for maintaining cleanliness; they reduce stain occurrences and make overall cleaning easier. Buy a protector that fits well and complies with your mattress material, and launder it regularly.
Replacing your mattress
With or without regular cleaning, mattresses do have expiry dates. Know when to replace yours; experts suggest every eight to ten years, depending on usage and manufacturer guidelines.
Risks of incorrect mattress cleaning
Improper cleaning techniques can harm your mattress’s performance and lifespan, damage its structure, cause shrinkage or discolouration. Therefore, continuous education on correct ways of treating your mattress is essential.
Tackling mattress dilemmas
Your mattress deserves a hygiene level that matches its importance in your life. Regular cleaning and correct methods not only keep it fresh and inviting, but also protect you from health hazards associated with a dirty mattress.
Mattress cleaning frequency
A clean mattress promotes better sleep, but how often should you be cleaning it? Most experts recommend a deep clean at least twice a year. This involves vacuuming, spot cleaning and deodorising.
Regular mattress maintenance
For mattresses used every night, monthly maintenance is advised. This can be a quick vacuum to remove dust and allergens. Rotating and flipping the mattress regularly also helps it wear evenly.
And don’t forget your pillows – wash removable covers frequently and replace pillows every 1–2 years. With some simple habits, you can keep your bed fresh, hygienic and comfortable for nightly rejuvenation.
Wrapping it up
Maintaining your safety and comfort is as simple as keeping up with regular mattress cleanliness. With this extensive guide tailored to cover all possible dilemmas concerning the care of your mattress, you’re equipped with essential information toward healthier sleep and extended mattress lifespan.