How To Clean a Mattress (and Keep It That Way) – 5 Tips From a Professional

A mattress is a major purchase for most people. And you know it’s going to get a lot of use. This makes knowing how to clean a mattress an important bit of housekeeping. 

Here’s the thing: a dirty mattress is a problem mattress. 

When you invest in a new mattress, you can normally expect to get 7-10 years of use out of it. But that’s a very general guideline. The quality of a mattress’s materials and how it’s cared for play a big role in its longevity. 

Here are 5 tips for keeping your new mattress healthy and clean.

1. Buy a Mattress Protector

Mattress protectors prevent liquids and other contaminants from infiltrating your mattress. Ideally, you want something that’s easy to remove and machine washable. 

When shopping for mattress protectors/covers, you’ll notice they vary in price based on the materials, sizing, and promised benefits. 

Whatever you decide, any protection is better than none, but it’s best if you get one that doesn’t compromise your comfort. Lower-quality protectors with cheap water-proof backing will actually make noise when you shift your weight on them. 

Depending on what you’re willing to put up with, it’s probably wise to investigate a little before you buy.

2. Clean Your Mattress Regularly

Many people tend to forget (or ignore) their bed linens on laundry day. Yes, changing fitted sheets and duvet covers can feel like a major chore, but it is recommended that you do this at least once a week. 

Unpleasant smells and unsightly stains on bedding will usually initiate a trip to the washing machine, but what about the mattress itself?  

Unfortunately, it’s the stuff you don’t see that’s genuinely frightening.

Allergens, dead skin, dust mites, fungi and bacteria build up on mattress surfaces, even in the tidiest households.

Mattress pads and mattress protectors help, but you still need to get hands-on with regular cleaning.

3. Sprinkle Some Baking Soda

If you’re going to be stripping your bed weekly on laundry day, it makes sense to take advantage of your uncovered mattress.

Add some baking soda to a strainer and shake it over the top surface of the mattress. Give it a minimum of two hours to absorb any moisture or unpleasant smells before vacuuming it away. The longer it sits, the better the baking soda does its job. 

This process helps prevent mould, mildew, and lingering odours.

4. Give It a Good Vacuuming

A HEPA-rated vacuum is your best bet. If you don’t have one, that’s okay. Running your vacuum’s upholstery attachment across the top surface area should do the trick. 

Once a month should be sufficient for vacuuming your mattress. And don’t forget to clean the floor underneath the bed, too!

5. Spot Clean Messes Right Away

Accidents happen. And people with pets know that messes can show up anywhere. But simply covering up stains with a fresh sheet isn’t doing you any favours. 

Those unfortunate stains aren’t just embarrassing; they are a magnet for allergy-triggering bacteria and bed bugs. Ew.

If you encounter any mattress stains, you’ll want to treat those blemishes promptly.  

Only use store-bought cleaning products if they are recommended for mattresses. You can also create a homemade cleaning solution.

Mix three percent hydrogen peroxide (1 cup), baking soda (3 tablespoons), and some dishwashing liquid (a few drops) in a spray bottle. An even mix of water and vinegar can also be used on its own.

Spritz the stain delicately to avoid getting the area too damp. Scrub the area gently (a toothbrush will work). Add a quick spray or two of water after the stain has disappeared and blot dry with a cloth. A hairdryer (on the coldest setting) will speed up the process. 

Sunlight and fresh air help prevent bacteria, so remember to open those windows. 

Whatever you do, always make sure any treated area is completely dry before putting the sheets back on. 

Your New Mattress Awaits at Q Living Furniture 

No matter which style of mattress you buy, there’s nothing like that first night’s sleep on a new mattress.

Treat your mattress well, and you’ll be rewarded with years of sleeping comfort. 

Speaking of which, Q Living Furniture in Richmond, Abbotsford, and Victoria carry a range of quality mattresses and attractive bed frames to make your bedroom even more enjoyable. 

For mattresses and other home furnishing advice, stop by any Q Living Furniture today.