​The homify guide on how to clean a mattress

Johannes van Graan Johannes van Graan
Upholstered Bed Frames, Button & Sprung Button & Sprung Modern style bedroom
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I just makes sense that a surface on which we sleep every night will also harbour its fair share of dust, germs and mites. And even though the thought of a dirty mattress will cancel any chances of sweet dreams, it’s a fact of life that even the best mattresses also deserve a decent cleaning every now and again.

After all, we regularly (hopefully) clean the other elements in our bedrooms, such as the floor, walls, headboards, bedside tables, etc. Then why not the mattress? 

Let’s be honest: a good mattress is not the cheapest thing you can buy. That’s why we fully understand why anyone, after making the investment of buying a top-notch mattress for a good night’s sleep, will want to keep it in tip-top shape.

But how does one go about cleaning it properly? Well, you could start by reading our guide on how to clean a mattress the right way…

​1. How to clean a mattress: Dust it properly

Dust mites live off dead skin cells and love humid environments; hence, it’s no surprise that mattresses are breeding grounds for them. 

Fortunately, vacuuming or steam-cleaning your mattress will remove / kill the majority of mites and their allergens. However, check with your mattress manufacturer first, as steam could damage the filling and/or springs.

And pay special attention to the sides and seams, and break out the crevice attachment to get any hidden dirt or dust. 

homify hint: To clean your linen, remove all sheets, pillowcases, and mattress covers and treat them to a spin in the washer and dryer. Washing in hot water will help get rid of any dust mites. Always double-check the care label to see if your pillows are machine-washable.

2. How to clean a mattress: Let it breathe

Allowing your mattress to breathe every day will avoid stale sweat smells penetrating the surface. This will save you the hassle of having to clean it every day. 

Make airing your mattress a daily routine. In the morning, pull off the covers and let the mattress (and sheets) breathe for about 20 minutes. Afterwards, you can make it. 

homify hint: If our UK weather doesn’t allow you to put the mattress out in the sun and fresh air for a few minutes, baking soda is a proper plan B. Sprinkle a layer over the entire top of the mattress and leave for several hours. After the baking soda has worked its magic, thoroughly vacuum it up.

​3. How to clean a mattress: Use natural cleaners (when possible)

Did you know that natural cleaners (like bicarbonate of soda and even vodka) are less harsh than chemical solutions? So, try these before opting for the harder options.  

Use vodka neat on stains or mix it with water in a spray bottle and sprits your mattress to remove odours. Allow the mattress to air-dry completely before you make the bed again. 

Other well-known options include:

• Treating stains with a combination of hydrogen peroxide, liquid dish soap, and baking soda. Mix them into a spray bottle and treat the stained area. Blot and/or rub with a clean rag. 

• Using non-toxic, natural enzyme cleaners (such as Simple Solution) that chemically break down stains and odours. 

• Making a paste of lemon juice and salt. Apply the mixture to the stain and allow to stand for 30 – 60 minutes. Wipe off the salt with a clean towel.

​4. How to clean a mattress: Remove stains

Take care of mattress stains as soon as they happen. Soak up the spill with a dry absorbent cloth, then dab it away with cold water and a sponge. Don’t use hot water – this will only set the stain. 

It becomes trickier with existing spots, for which you’ll have to use a stain remover. 

homify hint: Spot-cleaning a mattress will depend on its type, plus the makeup of the stain. For coil-spring mattresses, use upholstery cleaner or an enzyme-based cleaner. Another way to gently clean a mattress is by mixing dish soap with water and applying just the resulting foam to the stain. Foam mattresses require an enzyme-based or the aforementioned foam method. Apply the cleaner to the stained area only.

​5. How to clean a mattress: Cover and protect it

After your mattress has been properly cleaned and dried, cover it with a mattress protector. Preserving the surface with a mattress protector will go a long way in helping to keep it clean. Opt for a design with quilting and extra padding for comfort, or wicking and waterproof top layers for practicality. 

Keep an eye out for a machine-washable design, which you can toss in along with your bed linen.

​6. How to clean a mattress: Know when to replace it

A decent mattress should last between 8 to 10 years, so it’s important to invest wisely. But even if your old mattress still feels comfortable and supportive, it still would have softened over time. 

It’s also recommended to replace a mattress for hygienic reasons. 

Mattress nice and clean? Now let’s look at Bedroom lighting ideas that guarantee to dazzle.

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