Spring is here and it’s time for spring cleaning! One important but often overlooked part of spring cleaning is giving your mattress a deep clean. A clean mattress can help you sleep better at night and wake up feeling refreshed. Follow this guide for tips on how to deep clean your mattress this spring.
Why Deep Clean Your Mattress?
Your mattress accumulates lots of dirt, dead skin cells, dust mites, and allergens over time. A buildup of these materials can cause:
- Allergic reactions – Dust mites and their waste are a major trigger for allergies and asthma.
- Unpleasant odors – Sweat, body oils, and dead skin cells can make your mattress smell unpleasant.
- Unsanitary conditions – Dirt, bacteria, mold, and dust mites thrive in mattresses. This can lead to illness.
Deep cleaning your mattress 1-2 times per year eliminates these problems and helps provide a clean, healthy, odor-free sleep environment.
How to Deep Clean A Mattress
Follow these steps for a thorough mattress deep cleaning:
1. Strip the Mattress
- Remove all bedding – sheets, mattress protector, duvet cover.
- Take off the mattress topper if you use one.
- Vacuum the surface of the mattress to remove loose dirt and debris. Make sure to get into crevices and seams.
2. Treat Tough Stains
- Mix warm water and a few drops of dish soap. Use a soft bristle brush or cloth to spot treat any visible stains on the mattress surface.
- Allow to soak for 5-10 minutes then blot dry with a clean towel.
- Sprinkle baking soda on stubborn urine, sweat or food stains. Let sit for an hour before vacuuming. Baking soda helps deodorize and lift stains.
3. Disinfect Mattress
- Combine 1 cup hydrogen peroxide, 1/4 cup baking soda, and a few drops of essential oil like lavender or tea tree. The peroxide kills germs, baking soda deodorizes, and essential oils provide a light scent.
- Put the cleaning solution in a spray bottle and evenly mist over the entire mattress surface.
- Allow it to fully dry before putting sheets back on. This eliminates mold and bacteria.
4. Vacuum Again
- Use the crevice tool on your vacuum to go over the entire mattress, including the sides and underside if possible. This picks up any remaining debris and dead skin cells.
- Flip and rotate your mattress. Vacuum the other side. Rotating helps even out wear.
5. Air Out In Sunlight
- If weather permits, carry your mattress outside and let it air out in sunlight for a few hours. The UV rays from sunlight kill microbes and freshen the mattress.
- If you can’t take it outside, open windows to increase airflow and freshen the mattress.
6. Encase In Mattress Protector
- Put a waterproof mattress protector on before replacing sheets. This safeguards against future stains and dust mites.
Deep Cleaning Tips
- Clean mattresses made of memory foam by spot cleaning only. Do not soak memory foam or use baking soda.
- Check manufacturer instructions for cleaning requirements before using any liquids or cleaners.
- Shampoo cleaners can be used for a deeper clean in place of the peroxide solution. Make sure they are approved for mattress cleaning.
- Steam cleaners kill germs and allergens without harsh chemicals. Look for a model designed for mattresses.
- Replace your mattress every 5-7 years or if it has visible sagging or damage.
A deep clean 1-2 times per year keeps your mattress fresh and allergen-free. Follow these steps and recommendations for a healthier, more comfortable night’s sleep!
