When you look at the things in your house that need attention this spring, do you see your mattress anywhere on the list? Probably not, and you’re not alone. Few people realize how important mattress care is – not only to your spine and sound sleep. Respiratory health depends on it, especially if you have asthma or allergies.
Most people don’t know that mattresses actually need to be cleaned every season, not just in the spring. Read this blog to learn all the little-known tips for how to take care of your mattress. And, some things you should definitely NOT do if you want to properly take care of your mattress.
Do you know what you’re sleeping on?
Before you start you need to know exactly what type of mattress you own. There are many different types of mattresses on the market. And each type needs a different care routine.
FOAM – Foam mattresses are made from many different types of foam that are used in combination to create different densities for comfort and support. Foam mattresses are easy to care for: simply spot clean stains with an ecofriendly spot cleaner and vacuum it on a regular basis to keep allergens to a minimum.
GEL – If it is made of gel, care for your mattress just like you would a foam mattress. Keeping it aired out and vacuumed is very important.
INNERSPRING – These mattresses are usually covered in a fabric which absorbs moisture and dust. Vacuum innerspring mattresses on a regular basis to maintain a healthy sleeping place and easy breathing. Using a mattress cover will keep your mattress free from stains, dust and moisture. It is a worthwhile investment to help you take care of your mattress.
Mattress Do’s
- Turning your mattress on a regular basis distributes wear evenly. You should turn the mattress from side to side and also from top to bottom. Turning should be done once every three months to prolong the life of the mattress. Do not flip your mattress.
- Vacuum your mattress every time you change your sheets. Use an upholstery tool on your vacuum to vacuum the mattress top and sides as well as the mattress frame.
- Let your mattress air out as often as you can. When changing the sheets, it makes sense to strip the bed in the morning and let the mattress air out during the day. We sweat a lot while we sleep and our mattresses absorb that moisture. Giving it time to air out and dry will keep it fresh. Martha Stewart suggests stripping the bed before going on vacation so that the mattress can air out all week.
- As necessary, spot clean mattresses with a gentle spot cleaner. Use extremely diluted dish soap (a drop or two is all you need) in a 16-ounce spray bottle and a microfiber cloth to spot wash dirty areas.
- Invest in a mattress cover to keep your mattress clean and free from moisture. A mattress cover can also seal in allergens so that you won’t be affected by dust mites and their “dirt”. Do your research and choose a mattress cover that will repel water and seal in allergens.
Mattress Don’ts
- Don’t let your mattress get wet. Moisture in a mattress takes a long time to evaporate and can actually cause a mold problem. If the mattress does get wet, you can sprinkle corn starch on the area to absorb the moisture and then let the mattress air dry.
- Don’t sit on the edge of the bed. The pressure and weight of your body will work to break down the sides that support the mattress.
- Never use harsh chemicals around your mattress. Your mattress is like a huge sponge and the fumes from the chemicals will stay inside it for a long time, exposing you to those chemicals while you sleep.
- As much as we think it’s okay, don’t put a board between the mattress and box springs. This will work against the support system in your mattress.
- No more jumping on the bed. This damages the mattress (plus it’s unsafe!) so no more jumping on the bed during pillow fights.
For more information on cleaning for Asthma and Allergies, visit:
https://www.maidbrigade.com/blog/choose-the-best-vacuum-cleaner/
https://www.maidbrigade.com/blog/how-to-clean-books-and-bookcases/
For more green cleaning tips from Leslie, visit her Green Cleaning Coach web site.
