I regularly deep clean my mattress to keep it fresh and free of allergens. A clean mattress helps me sleep better and avoids health issues caused by dust mites, mold, and other irritants that build up over time. Here are my top tips for deep cleaning a mattress thoroughly.
Why Deep Clean Your Mattress
Dust mites thrive in mattresses. These microscopic critters feed on dead skin cells that people shed each night. Their droppings can cause allergic reactions. Vacuuming alone won’t remove all dust mites and debris. Deep cleaning is required to eliminate dust mites, allergen particles, and reduce odors.
Mold and mildew can grow in mattresses. Spills, sweat, moisture seeping through the mattress cover, and humidity can lead to mold. Mold spores aggravate allergies and asthma. Deep cleaning kills mold and mildew growing deep inside the mattress.
Bacteria and germs accumulate in mattresses over time. Dead skin cells and body oils provide food for bacteria. Stains also harbor germs. Deep cleaning sanitizes the mattress, destroying bacteria, viruses, and germs. A disinfected mattress may improve sleep quality.
Odors and stains build up on a mattress, even when using a mattress pad. Sweat, oils, urine stains, etc. can leave lasting odors. Thorough deep cleaning deodorizes mattresses by removing staining and neutralizing odors.
Supplies Needed
Gather these supplies before deep cleaning the mattress:
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Vacuum cleaner – Use a vacuum with strong suction. Attach the upholstery attachment.
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Baking soda – Baking soda deodorizes and absorbs odors.
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Distilled white vinegar – The acetic acid in vinegar kills bacteria, mold, and germs.
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Enzyme cleaner – Use an enzyme-based pet odor remover for urine stains.
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Hydrogen peroxide or tea tree oil – Their anti-microbial properties disinfect the mattress.
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Clean cloths, scrub brush, gloves, safety goggles, face mask – For scrubbing the mattress surface.
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Fan – To dry the mattress thoroughly after cleaning.
Step-by-Step Deep Cleaning
Follow these steps for deep cleaning a mattress:
1. Strip the Mattress
Remove all bedding: sheets, mattress pad, pillows. Take off any mattress covers until you reach the bare mattress surface.
2. Vacuum Top and Sides
Use the upholstery attachment to thoroughly vacuum all sides and the surface. Reach corners and crevices where dust collects.
3. Apply Baking Soda
Sprinkle a thin layer of baking soda over the entire mattress surface. The baking soda draws out odors and absorbs moisture.
4. Scrub Stains
Use an old toothbrush or scrub brush to gently scrub stains. Take care not to damage the mattress surface. Rinse and dab dry with a cloth.
For urine stains, first dab with an enzyme cleaner. Let it soak 15 minutes before scrubbing.
5. Disinfect Surface
Wipe down the mattress surface with a cloth soaked in vinegar or tea tree oil solution. Use 1 cup vinegar per 1/4 cup water. This disinfects and kills germs.
Alternatively, spray 3% hydrogen peroxide solution and let it bubble up to disinfect. Avoid bleach which could damage fabric.
6. Dry Thoroughly
Allow the mattress to air dry completely before replacing bedding. Place a fan nearby to accelerate drying. Repeat blotting with towels to soak up moisture.
7. Vacuum Again
Once fully dry, use the upholstery attachment to vacuum up all the baking soda from the mattress. This also sucks up any remaining allergens and dust.
Deep Clean Mattress Every 6 Months
I deep clean my mattress every 6 months for optimal cleanliness. But any time allergies act up, it’s a sign to clean the mattress immediately. Always use mattress covers and wash bedding weekly to prevent buildup between deep cleans. With regular deep cleaning, you can keep your mattress fresh and allergen-free for better rest.
