A clean mattress means a healthy sleep environment. If you’re considering buying a new mattress, knowing how to care for it can extend its life and improve your sleep. Learn some practical steps for cleaning a mattress, including tips on washing and shampooing.
Why Should You Clean Your Mattress?
A clean mattress is more than just comfort—it’s essential for good health. Dust mites, dead skin cells, and allergens can build up over time, potentially triggering allergies or respiratory issues. Regular cleaning helps reduce these risks so you wake up feeling refreshed.
A dirty, neglected mattress can also attract pests. Without properly airing things out and changing the bedding, you could be making a home for bed bugs, for example. Keeping your mattress clean saves time, money, and energy compared to calling an exterminator.
An unclean mattress can harbor bacteria and mold in humid conditions, leading to unpleasant smells and stubborn stains. Routine maintenance keeps these problems at bay and extends the life of your mattress.
How to Clean a Mattress: Step-by-Step Guide
Cleaning your mattress doesn’t have to be complicated. You don’t even need to call in the pros. Just follow these six easy steps to keep your mattress clean and healthy.
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Gather Your Cleaning Supplies
Start by collecting what you’ll need for proper cleaning: a vacuum with an upholstery attachment, baking soda, mild detergent or a commercial cleaner, and some cleaning cloths.
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Strip the Bed
Remove all bedding, including sheets, pillowcases, and mattress protectors. Wash them according to the care labels to ensure they’re thoroughly clean. Fresh bedding enhances the cleanliness of your mattress.
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Vacuum the Mattress
Use the upholstery attachment to vacuum the entire mattress surface, especially the seams and crevices where dust and debris gather. Regular vacuuming helps keep allergies at bay, so don’t cut corners.
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Spot Clean Stains
If your mattress has any stains, apply a small amount of mild detergent or a suitable cleaner to a cloth and gently dab the spot. Avoid soaking the mattress, as too much moisture can lead to mold. Follow the cleaner’s instructions for best results, especially since misuse could lead to even more staining.
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Deodorize With Baking Soda
Sprinkle baking soda generously over the mattress and let it sit for several hours or overnight. This helps absorb moisture and neutralize odors, leaving your mattress smelling fresh.
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Vacuum Again
Once the baking soda has done its job, vacuum the mattress thoroughly to remove any residue. Don’t try to neutralize the baking soda with an acid or something like that, as this isn’t necessary. Just removing it from the surface is sufficient.
Additional Tips for Mattress Maintenance
To extend your mattress’s life, flip and rotate it regularly to maintain its shape and prevent uneven wear. You can further protect your investment by using a mattress protector. These covers act as a barrier against spills, dust, and allergens, making it easier to keep your mattress in pristine condition.
They are often machine washable, adding an extra convenience to your cleaning routine. Additionally, it’s wise to air out your mattress periodically. Simply remove the bedding and allow fresh air to circulate the mattress for a few hours. This helps to eliminate any lingering odors and moisture, contributing to a fresher sleeping environment.
Keep Your Mattress Clean for a Better Night’s Sleep
Keeping your mattress clean makes for a healthy and comfortable sleep environment. Follow these steps to ensure your mattress stays fresh, enhancing sleep quality. If you’re considering a new mattress, Unlimited Comfort offers options tailored to your needs. Come into our showroom today and experience the ultimate in support and comfort. Because when you sleep better at night… we do too.
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