Mattresses get dirty over time, just like any other piece of furniture in your house. Maintaining a healthy sleep environment and extending the lifespan of your mattress requires regular cleaning. There are, however, some common mistakes people make when cleaning mattresses.
Throughout this article, we’re going to discuss some of the mistakes people commonly make when dealing with this important task so you can avoid them and keep your mattress in top condition for years to come.
Common Mistakes When Cleaning Mattresses
To achieve a clean and comfortable sleeping space, avoid these common mattress cleaning mistakes:
Not Reading Care Instructions
The manufacturer may provide specific care instructions for each mattress. Failure to follow these guidelines can result in damage or voiding the warranty.
Using Too Much Water
A mattress can become mouldy or mildewed due to excessive moisture. When cleaning your mattress with water, avoid soaking it up too much and only use a mild detergent. Spot cleaning should be done with a minimal amount of water, and the mattress should be completely dry before the next use.
Harsh Chemicals
Avoid harsh chemicals, bleach, and abrasive cleaners on your mattress. In addition to damaging the fabric, these can cause irritations to your skin and lungs as well. The fabric will also be unable to aerate properly when exposed to harsh chemicals. If you must use a cleaning product, make sure it is designed explicitly for mattresses and follow the instructions on the label carefully. Avoid using multi-purpose dry cleaners as well. Although they’re great for many household chores, mattress cleaning isn’t one of them.
Not Vacuuming Before Cleaning
The surface of the mattress can accumulate dust, allergens, and dust mites. Remove any dirt, dust, or debris buildup from your mattress before cleaning it. It’s essential to clean your mattress regularly to prevent an accumulation of allergens that can negatively affect your health and sleep.
Scrubbing Vigorously
Don’t scrub the mattress aggressively when dealing with stains. Instead, gently dab or blot the stain to prevent it from spreading. Cleaning your mattress aggressively will damage it and cause it to deteriorate faster, shortening its lifespan.
Cleaning Products Overload
Using too many cleaning products at once can leave residue on the mattress. Concentrate on one effective cleaning method at a time.
Keep in mind that mattress types (e.g., memory foam, innerspring, latex) may require different cleaning methods. To ensure the longevity and cleanliness of your mattress, always follow the manufacturer’s cleaning instructions.
Do not risk damaging your mattress by cleaning it yourself if you are uncertain of the fabric or method. Instead, contact a professional upholstery cleaning company to help you.
What Happens if You Don’t Clean Your Mattress?
Mattresses can accumulate bacteria and other allergens if they aren’t cleaned properly, which can cause a variety of health problems. Complications related to allergies and respiratory problems can result. Itchy eyes, runny noses, and sneezing may occur more frequently.
Unclean mattresses can also cause skin irritations. A layer of dead skin cells and sweat can also accumulate on its surface, which can create an ideal breeding environment for bacteria.
Additionally, not regularly cleaning your mattress will shorten its lifespan as dirt and debris accumulation will cause the fabric to break down faster. There can be sagging, lumps, and other problems that can reduce the comfort of the mattress.
How to Make Your Mattress Last Longer
Keeping your mattress in good condition extends its lifespan and ensures a comfortable and healthy sleep. You can extend the life of your mattress by following these tips:
- The use of a mattress protector prevents spills, stains, and dust mites from entering the mattress. A great way to keep your mattress clean!
- Rotate and flip your mattress regularly (about every six months) if it is double-sided. Wear and tear is distributed evenly across the mattress this way.
- Make sure that your mattress is placed on a sturdy, supportive foundation or bed frame. Your mattress can wear out more quickly if it has a sagging or damaged foundation.
- Cleaning your mattress will keep dust and debris away. Clean stains immediately, but avoid excessive moisture.
- Ensure your bed frame has adequate centre support if your mattress is a larger size (queen, king, or California king). This prevents the mattress from sagging and extends its life.
- To prevent sweat, dirt, and body oils from seeping into your mattress, regularly wash your sheets, pillowcases, and mattress protector.
- Avoid placing excessive weight on your mattress, such as heavy storage boxes or sitting on the edge for a long time.
- You should occasionally remove the bedding from your mattress and open the windows to allow it to air out. Odours and moisture are reduced this way.
- Make sure you follow the care and maintenance guidelines provided by the mattress manufacturer. The recommendations include cleaning, rotating, and flipping.
- A mattress topper can add an extra layer of comfort and protection to your mattress, potentially extending its lifespan.
With these steps, you can significantly extend the life of your mattress, ensuring a comfortable and restful sleep for years to come.