How to Clean A Mattress

One often overlooks the importance of having to clean a mattress. Say goodbye to restless nights and welcome the blissful embrace of a well-maintained mattress. Let’s go through a few easy ways that you can deep clean your mattress at home. Elevate your sleep sanctuary to a whole new level of cleanliness and comfort. Let’s get started! 

 

Do You Need To Clean Your Mattress? 

Unseen to the naked eye, your mattress might be harboring dust mites, allergens, and bacteria. These invisible invaders can disrupt your sleep and even pose health risks. Here are all the reasons why it’s important to clean your mattress: 

• Allergen Elimination: Your mattress, over time, becomes a breeding ground for dust mites and allergens. These microscopic creatures can trigger allergies and respiratory issues, compromising the quality of your sleep. Regular cleaning ensures a hygienic sleep environment, free from these unseen invaders.

• Bacterial Invasion Prevention: Our bodies naturally shed skin cells, and when combined with sweat and other bodily fluids, it creates an ideal breeding ground for bacteria. Cleaning your mattress prevents the accumulation of bacteria, reducing the risk of infections and promoting a healthier sleeping space.

• Odor Control: Ever noticed a lingering, unpleasant odor in your bedroom? Your mattress might be the culprit. Regular cleaning, including deodorizing techniques, helps neutralize odors, ensuring a fresh and inviting atmosphere for a peaceful night's sleep.

• Prolonged Mattress Lifespan: Investing in a quality mattress is an investment in your well-being. Regular maintenance, including cleaning, can significantly extend the lifespan of your mattress. This not only protects your investment but also ensures a consistently comfortable and supportive sleep surface.

• Enhanced Sleep Quality: A clean mattress provides the foundation for a restful night's sleep. Removing allergens, bacteria, and odors contributes to an overall improved sleep environment. Experience the difference in the quality of your sleep by prioritizing the cleanliness of your mattress.

How To Easily Clean Your Mattress 

This technique works well for mattresses of all sizes, from a twin mattress or queen mattress to a California king.

The Equipment

• Small Vacuum: If you have a smaller vacuum with a handheld attachment, that would work best. 

• Stain Remover: Any store bought stain remover will do the trick. If you prefer a more natural stain remover, there are many diy recipes that work great. 

• Scrub Brush: Look for a sturdy scrub brush with firm bristles. 

• Paper Towel: You will need a few sheets of paper towels. 

• Baking Soda: This is optional if you would like to remove any odors. 

Easy Mattress Cleaning: Step-by-Step

• Step 1: You’re going to want to take all of the covers and sheets off your mattress.

• Step 2: Next, you’re going to vacuum your mattress. If you have a smaller vacuum, you can simply run that over your mattress, making sure to get deep into each of the nooks and crannies. If you have a larger vacuum with a handheld attachment, you can use that to clean the mattress as well.

• Step 3: Now you’re going to want to tackle any stains that you see on your mattress. Use a carpet and upholstery stain remover*, preferably with the scrubbing attachment. Squirt the cleaner over any stains you see and let it sit for about one minute. If the stain remover doesn't come with a scrub attachment, make sure to pick up a scrub brush as well, unless you already have one.

• Step 4: After letting the stain remover sit and soak into the stains, you can take the scrubbing attachment and scrub the stain out. Feel free to repeat this process if needed.

• Step 5: Take a paper towel and blot up any excess liquid left over where you cleaned the stains.

• Step 6: We’re almost done! The last thing we are going to want to do is to cover the mattress with baking soda to absorb any excess liquid and to soak up any odors.

• Step 7: After letting the baking soda sit for a good 20 minutes or so, vacuum it up.

• Step 8: Let the mattress air out for a few hours without any covers on.

• Step 9: If you haven’t already done so in the past six months, you’ll want to give your mattress a 180-degree turn. It’s good to get into the habit of turning your mattress (so where you used to put your feet is now by your head) every six months.

• Step 10: All that’s left to do now is put your covers back on and enjoy your nice, clean mattress.

*Stain Remover Substitute: If you don’t have any stain remover and don’t want to go to the store to grab some, we have a substitute for you. You can use a solution of two parts hydrogen peroxide and one part dish soap. A solution of 50% white vinegar and 50% water will also get the job done. You can use an old toothbrush as a scrubber.

 

 

How To Deep Clean a Mattress

This section is for the die-hard do-it-yourselfers who want to clean their mattress like the pros. So the first thing we are going to need to do for a very soiled mattress is to make sure we have everything we need to clean the mattress.

The Equipment

• Enzyme Cleaner: You are going to want a good enzyme cleaner that either comes already in a spray bottle or, if it comes in a jug, you’ll need to pour the cleaner into a spray bottle.

• Brush: You’ll need a brush to scrub your mattress. Mattress cleaning pros will use a rotary brush such as a Dewalt variable speed polisher with a soft brush attachment. If that’s a bit too serious for you, a regular scrub brush will do just fine.

• Spray Extractor/Wet Vacuum: These machines are great for cleaning furniture, carpets, and now your mattress. They allow you to spray water onto what you’re cleaning, while simultaneously vacuuming it up.

Deep Cleaning: Step-by-Step

• Step 1: This is a simple process now that you have all of your gear. After stripping the sheets off and mattress top off your mattress, you can start by generously spraying the mattress with the enzyme cleaner of your choice. This process is also known as spot cleaning or spot treatment.

• Step 2: Next, you’ll need to get whatever scrub brush you’re using and scrub your mattress working in small squares of space at a time. For areas with the most staining, feel free to use extra cleaner and spend some extra time scrubbing those areas.

• Step 3: Lastly, you’ll want to get your spray extractor and start working your way from the top to the bottom of your mattress working in strips (like you’re mowing your lawn). The first time around you’ll simultaneously spray and vacuum. After going over the mattress one or two times like that, go over it one more time with just the vacuum.

 

 

Take Your Sleep To The Next Level

Whichever path you took, you should have ended up with a clean and fresh mattress. So congratulations, and we hope that you will enjoy your well-deserved good night’s sleep!

If you are looking for the best mattress stores near you, come visit Silica’s mattress store in Fond du Lac. You can find mattresses for sale at our convenient location. Whether you are looking for memory foam mattresses, innerspring mattresses, or hybrid mattresses, we have everything you need to find the right fit for you. 

Related Readings: 

• Everything You Need To Know About Hybrid Mattresses

• Mattresses that Contour to Your Body

• How Often Should You Change Your Mattress?

 

 

Mattress Cleaning: Commonly Asked Questions 

How often should I clean my mattress?

Ideally, you should clean your mattress every six months. However, if you suffer from allergies or have a history of spills or accidents, more frequent cleaning, around every three months, is recommended.

Can I clean my mattress by myself, or do I need professional help?

You can clean your mattress yourself! If you find odors and stains still lingering after cleaning, then consider having your mattress professionally cleaned. 

What is the best way to remove stubborn stains from my mattress?

For stubborn stains, create a mixture of mild detergent and water. Gently blot the stained area, avoiding excessive moisture. If the stain persists, consider using a specialized mattress cleaner following the product instructions.

How can I protect my mattress from future stains and spills?

Invest in a quality mattress protector. These waterproof and allergen-resistant covers act as a barrier against spills, allergens, and dust mites, preserving the cleanliness and longevity of your mattress.

Can I use bleach or harsh chemicals to clean my mattress?

It is not recommended to use bleach or harsh chemicals on your mattress, as they can damage the fabric and leave harmful residues. Stick to mild detergents or specialized mattress cleaners for effective and safe cleaning.

How long should I let my mattress air out after cleaning?

After cleaning, allow your mattress to air out for at least a few hours or until it's completely dry before making the bed. This helps in dissipating any remaining moisture and ensures a fresh sleeping environment.

Does mattress cleaning help with allergies?

Absolutely. Regular mattress cleaning removes allergens like dust mites and pet dander, providing relief for allergy sufferers and contributing to a healthier sleep environment.

Can I use baking soda to deodorize my mattress?

Yes, baking soda is an excellent natural deodorizer. Sprinkle a thin layer over your mattress, let it sit for at least an hour, and then vacuum it off for a fresh and pleasant scent.

When do I need a new mattress? 

If your mattress is over 7-10 years old, then it’s time to consider getting a new one. If you have any visible wear and tear, persistent discomfort, allergies, irritations, or unrestful sleep, this may indicate that you are in need of a new mattress.