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How to Clean a Mattress and Why It is Important

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Your mattress is one of the most important pieces of furniture in your home. It’s where you spend a third of your life, after all. So it’s important to keep it clean and free of bacteria, dust mites, and other allergens. A dirty mattress can give rise to a number of problems, including allergic reactions, skin irritation, odor problems, and reduced mattress lifespan. Fortunately, cleaning your mattress is a relatively easy activity. In this write-up, our experts here at Mattress Pundit, will run through some simple tips, using which you can keep your mattress clean and comfortable for years to come.

Step-by-Step Guide to Clean a Mattress

We spend almost one-third of our life in bed. That’s a lot of time to be exposed to bacteria, dust mites, and other allergens that can build up on your mattress. Hence it is crucial to clean your mattresses regularly. Listed below is a step-by-step that you can follow:

Get All Required Mattress Cleaning Supplies

To get started you will first need to get all the required cleaning supplies:
  • Vacuum Cleaner with an upholstery attachment
    Vacuum Cleaner with an upholstery attachment
  •  Baking Soda
    Baking Soda
  • White Vinegar
    White Vinegar
  • Mild detergent
    Mild detergent
  • Clean Cloth
    Clean Cloth
  • Sponge
    Sponge
  • Stain Remover
    Stain Remover
  • Hair Dryer
    Hair Dryer

Strip the Bed and Wash all the Bedding

Start by stripping the bed and washing all the bedding. This includes the sheets, pillowcases, and comforter. Be sure to wash the bedding in hot water and dry it on high heat.

Read More:How to Remove Tough Stains from Mattresses

Assess the Damage

Once the bedding is washed, take a look at the mattress. Look for any stains or damage. If there are any stains, you will need to spot-clean them. If there is any damage, you may need to call a professional mattress cleaner.

Vacuum the Mattress Thoroughly

Use a vacuum cleaner with an upholstery attachment to vacuum the mattress thoroughly. This will remove dust, dirt, and dead skin cells. Be sure to vacuum all sides of the mattress, including the top, bottom, and sides.

Spot-clean Your Mattress With a Stain Remover

As mentioned previously, you may need to spot-clean using a mild detergent to remove tough stains. Alternatively, you can also use commercial stain removers and water solutions for the same purpose. Apply the stain remover to the stain and blot it with a clean cloth. Be sure to blot in the direction of the grain.

Sprinkle Baking Soda All Over The Entire Mattress

After you have vacuumed and spot-cleaned the mattress, sprinkle baking soda all over the mattress. Baking soda is a natural deodorizer and will help to absorb any odors. Let the baking soda sit on the mattress for at least 30 minutes.

Vacuum Again

After 30 minutes, vacuum up the baking soda. This will remove the baking soda and any odors that have been absorbed.

Flip the Mattress and Repeat the Process

If your mattress is flippable, flip it over and repeat the process. This will ensure that both sides of the mattress are clean.

Clean the Bed Frame

While you are cleaning your mattress, be sure to clean the bed frame as well. Use a damp cloth to wipe down the bed frame and remove any dust or dirt.

Protect the Mattress

To help keep your mattress clean, invest in a mattress protector. A mattress protector will help to protect your mattress from stains, spills, and pet hair.

Keep Out Dust With a Fitted Sheet

Finally, be sure to always use a fitted sheet on your mattress. A fitted sheet will help to keep dust and dirt out of your mattress.

Benefits of Getting Your Mattress Cleaned

A clean mattress is not a luxury, it is in fact a necessity. Listed below are some of the key benefits of having a clean mattress:

  1. Increased Air Quality – A clean mattress can help to improve the air quality in your bedroom. This is because dust mites, which are microscopic insects that live in mattresses, can trigger allergies and asthma. When you clean your mattress, you remove these dust mites and their droppings, which can help to improve your breathing and overall health.
  2. Remove Dust – A clean mattress can also help to remove dust from your bedroom. Dust can contain allergens, bacteria, and other harmful particles. When you clean your mattress, you remove these particles, which can help to improve your health and well-being.
  3. Reduces the Risk of Allergies and Itching – As mentioned above, a clean mattress can help to reduce the risk of allergies and itching. This is because dust mites, which are a common trigger for allergies, are removed when you clean your mattress. Additionally, cleaning your mattress can help to remove dead skin cells and other debris that can also trigger allergies.
  4. Prolonged Lifespan of Your Mattress – A clean mattress can also help to prolong the lifespan of your mattress. This is because dirt, dust, and other debris can break down the materials in your mattress over time. When you clean your mattress, you remove these harmful substances, which can help to extend the life of your mattress.

    Also Read: When should you buy a new mattress?

  5. Improves the Overall Look of Your House – Finally, a clean mattress can also improve the overall look of your house. This is because a dirty mattress can look messy and unkempt. When you clean your mattress, you remove dirt, dust, and other debris, which can make your bedroom look neat and tidy.

Deep Cleaning the Mattress vs Regular Cleaning

When it comes to maintaining a clean and healthy sleep environment, cleaning your mattress regularly is crucial. However, there is often confusion between regular cleaning and deep cleaning. Let’s delve into the key differences and benefits of each approach.

Regular cleaning primarily involves routine maintenance to keep your mattress in good condition. It includes simple tasks such as vacuuming, spot cleaning, and flipping or rotating the mattress. Vacuuming eliminates dust, dead skin cells, and other debris that accumulate on the surface. Spot cleaning tackles stains and spills promptly to prevent them from seeping into the mattress. Flipping or rotating the mattress helps distribute the wear evenly, ensuring prolonged comfort and durability.

On the other hand, deep cleaning involves a more thorough and intensive process. It is recommended every few months or when specific issues arise, such as stubborn stains, odors, or allergens. Deep cleaning methods may include steam cleaning, using upholstery cleaners, or hiring professional mattress cleaning services. These techniques penetrate deeper layers of the mattress, extracting dirt, allergens, and bacteria that regular cleaning might miss.

While regular cleaning maintains basic cleanliness, deep cleaning offers additional benefits. It eliminates deeply embedded dirt, dust mites, and allergens that can affect sleep quality and trigger allergies. Deep cleaning also helps revive the mattress’s freshness, remove unpleasant odors, and extend its lifespan.

Easy Tips to Keep Your Mattresses Clean

Maintaining a clean mattress is crucial for a healthy sleep environment. Here are some simple yet effective tips to help you keep your mattress fresh and hygienic:

1. Use a mattress protector to guard against spills, stains, and dust buildup.
2. Regularly vacuum your mattress to remove dust, allergens, and debris.
3. Rotate or flip your mattress every few months to prevent uneven wear.
4. Spot clean stains immediately with mild detergent and water.
5. Air out your mattress by opening windows or using a fan to reduce moisture buildup.
6. Avoid eating or drinking on the bed to prevent spills and crumbs.
7. Wash your bedding regularly to minimize the transfer of dirt and oils to the mattress.
8. Keep pets off the bed to prevent pet hair, dander, and accidents.
9. Consider using baking soda to deodorize your mattress. Sprinkle it on, let it sit, and then vacuum it off.
10. Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for cleaning and care specific to your mattress type.

Frequently Asked Questions - Cleaning a Mattress

1. How often should I clean my mattress?

It is recommended to clean your mattress at least twice a year. Regular maintenance such as vacuuming and spot cleaning can be done more frequently.

2. Can I use a steam cleaner to clean my mattress?

Yes, steam cleaning can be an effective method for deep cleaning your mattress. Follow the instructions provided by the steam cleaner manufacturer and ensure that your mattress is suitable for steam cleaning.

3. Can I use bleach to remove stains from my mattress?

It is not recommended to use bleach on your mattress as it can damage the fabric and discolor the mattress. Instead, opt for mild detergent or a commercial stain remover specifically designed for mattresses.

4. How long does it take for the mattress to dry after cleaning?

The drying time will depend on various factors such as the cleaning method used, humidity levels, and air circulation. It is best to allow your mattress to dry completely before putting bedding back on it to prevent mold or mildew growth.

5. Can I clean a memory foam mattress in the same way as other mattresses?

Memory foam mattresses require special care. Avoid excessive moisture when cleaning and use a mild detergent or specialized memory foam cleaner. It is essential to follow the manufacturer's instructions for cleaning and care.

6. Do I need to hire a professional to clean my mattress?

Hiring a professional mattress cleaner can be beneficial if you have specific concerns such as deep-set stains, strong odors, or if you prefer to have a thorough and expert cleaning. However, regular maintenance and spot cleaning can be done effectively at home.