What is the Best Way to Clean a Mattress
Maintaining a clean mattress isn’t only about aesthetics – it directly impacts your health and sleep quality. Mattresses accumulate dust, sweat, skin cells, and various allergens over time. Regular mattress cleaning can prevent allergens, bacteria, and odours, making it an essential part of household hygiene. This guide will walk you through professional, effective methods to clean and maintain your mattress.
Why Cleaning Your Mattress Matters?
Studies show that the average person spends about a third of their life sleeping, making your mattress one of the most-used pieces of furniture in your home. Given that, mattresses naturally accumulate a range of contaminants, including:
- Dust mites: Microscopic creatures that feed on dead skin cells, with up to 10 million found in an average mattress.
- Sweat and body oils: Even with bed sheets, sweat and natural oils seep into mattresses, creating a breeding ground for bacteria.
- Allergens and bacteria: Pet dander, pollen, and mould spores can settle into a mattress, especially if it’s not cleaned regularly.
Mattresses should be thoroughly cleaned at least twice a year, especially if you have allergies or asthma. According to a report by the Sleep Council, a clean mattress can significantly improve the quality of sleep, leading to better overall health.
How to Clean a Mattress Effectively
Cleaning a mattress doesn’t require expensive equipment, but it does need a methodical approach. Here is the easiest way to clean a mattress that remains hygienic and comfortable.
1. Strip and Wash Bedding
Start by removing all sheets, pillowcases, and mattress protectors. Wash them in hot water to kill any dust mites or bacteria. Experts recommend washing sheets weekly and mattress protectors monthly to reduce allergen build-up.
2. Vacuum the Mattress Thoroughly
Use a vacuum cleaner with an upholstery attachment to remove surface dust and dirt from your mattress. Vacuum all sides of the mattress, paying special attention to seams and crevices where dust mites might be hiding. Studies indicate that a single mattress can contain up to 1.5 million dust mites, so vacuuming is a critical step in minimising allergens.
3. Spot Clean Stains Using Natural Solutions
Mattresses often have stains from sweat, spills, or pet accidents. For general stains, mix mild dish soap with water and use a cloth to gently blot the stain without soaking the mattress, as too much moisture can lead to mould growth.
For tougher stains, here are some targeted solutions:
- Sweat and oil stains: Use a solution of hydrogen peroxide and baking soda. Spray it lightly onto the stain, then blot with a clean, dry cloth.
- Urine or blood stains: Make a paste using baking soda and cold water. Apply to the stain, let it sit for 30 minutes, and then vacuum off.
Odours: Sprinkle baking soda generously over the mattress and let it sit for several hours (or overnight) to absorb odours. Vacuum it off completely before remaking the bed.
4. Deodorise with Baking Soda
Baking soda is a natural deodoriser that can help eliminate odours. Sprinkle it generously over the entire mattress, leave it for a minimum of 30 minutes, and vacuum it off thoroughly.
Baking soda not only helps with odours but also absorbs excess moisture, which helps keep the mattress dry and resistant to dust mites. According to a 2021 survey by the National Bed Federation, about 68% of UK homeowners use baking soda to refresh their mattresses.
5. Disinfect the Mattress
Although deep disinfecting is challenging without industrial-grade equipment, you can still reduce bacterial presence using a few effective methods:
- Rubbing alcohol spray: Dilute rubbing alcohol with water and lightly spray it across the mattress, avoiding saturation.
- Essential oils: Adding a few drops of essential oils (like tea tree or eucalyptus oil) to your cleaning spray can provide antibacterial properties and leave a fresh scent.
- UV light: If you have access to a UV light sanitiser, use it to kill bacteria and dust mites, especially in corners and crevices. Studies show UV-C light can effectively eliminate up to 99.9% of bacteria and allergens.
6. Consider a Steam Cleaner (Optional)
For those with more persistent allergies or asthma, using a steam cleaner on your mattress can be beneficial. Steam penetrates deeply into the mattress, helping to kill dust mites, bacteria, and mould spores. Ensure the mattress dries completely to avoid mould growth.
If you’re unsure about steam cleaning yourself, hiring a professional mattress cleaner in Manchester could be a sound investment, particularly if you’re dealing with severe allergies.
7. Air Out the Mattress
Whenever possible, let your mattress air out in direct sunlight. Sunlight naturally kills bacteria and dust mites while freshening up the fabric. If it’s not feasible to move your mattress outside, ventilate the room well by opening windows and using fans to help with drying after cleaning.
Additional Mattress Care Tips
To extend the life and cleanliness of your mattress, here are some recommended practices:
- Use a Mattress Protector: A waterproof mattress protector is essential for keeping your mattress free from spills, dust mites, and allergens. Wash it monthly to maintain its effectiveness.
- Rotate Your Mattress: Rotate your mattress 180 degrees every three to six months. This ensures even wear and prevents sagging, which can compromise comfort and hygiene.
- Don’t Eat in Bed: Food crumbs can attract pests and create unsanitary conditions. Avoid eating or drinking on the bed to keep it as clean as possible.
Need Carpet Cleaners
How Often Should You Clean Your Mattress?
For optimal hygiene, deep cleaning your mattress twice a year is ideal. However, spot clean any spills as they happen and vacuum monthly to maintain a low level of dust and allergens. According to a recent poll, around 40% of people in the UK only clean their mattresses once a year or less – a practice that could lead to allergen build-up and affect sleep quality.
Professional Mattress Cleaning Services in the UK
If you’re seeking a thorough cleaning that goes beyond DIY methods, professional mattress cleaning services in Manchester can provide deep sanitisation. Prices range from £30 to £70 depending on the size of the mattress and type of cleaning (steam cleaning, UV light, etc.). Some of the top UK mattress cleaning providers include:
- Fantastic Services – Known for eco-friendly solutions and reliable service.
- Zero Dry Time – Offers dry mattress cleaning, suitable for delicate fabrics.
- The Carpet Cleaners Manchester Ltd – Provides all round deep mattress cleaning options with trained professionals.
Professional cleaning services are recommended if you’re dealing with severe allergies, persistent odours, or bedbug infestations.
Maintaining a clean mattress is essential for a healthy, restful sleep. By following these simple but effective and easiest ways to get stains out of your mattress, you can reduce allergens, extend the life of your mattress, and enjoy a fresher, more hygienic sleep environment. Whether you choose to clean your mattress yourself or enlist a professional service, regular care will keep your mattress in top condition for years to come.
A clean mattress isn’t just a matter of comfort – it’s a matter of health. Take the time to clean it properly, and your body (and sleep) will thank you!
FAQs related to Mattress Cleaning
It’s recommended to deep clean your mattress twice a year. However, spot-clean any stains as soon as they occur, and vacuum monthly to reduce dust and allergens. Regular cleaning helps maintain a hygienic and comfortable sleeping environment.
Baking soda is excellent for neutralising odours. Sprinkle it generously over the mattress, leave it for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for strong odours), then vacuum it thoroughly. Essential oils can also add a fresh scent while helping to disinfect.
Yes, you can use a steam cleaner on your mattress if it’s appropriate for the material. Steam cleaning can help kill dust mites, bacteria, and mould. Ensure the mattress dries completely afterward to avoid moisture buildup, which can lead to mould growth.
A mattress protector is highly recommended as it helps prevent spills, dust, and allergens from penetrating the mattress. A waterproof protector also adds a barrier against sweat and bodily fluids, making regular maintenance easier and extending the life of your mattress.
While professional cleaning can effectively remove most stains, allergens, and odours, some deep or old stains might not be fully removable. However, professional services generally provide a much deeper clean, especially with options like steam or UV light, which can significantly reduce allergens and bacteria.
