Most of us are quick to wash our sheets and pillowcases, but the mattress underneath is often overlooked. Over time, dust, sweat, body oils, and odour can build up beneath the surface, leaving your bed feeling less fresh than it should. If this sounds all too familiar, it may be time to give your mattress a good cleaning.
Cleaning a mattress is something that’s often overlooked, but it plays an important role in keeping your sleep environment fresh and hygienic. Regular care can help reduce odours and stains, but also protect the mattress from early wear and tear, ensuring your mattress stays comfortable and supportive for a longer time.
This guide teaches you how to clean a mattress, why you should do it, and what specific steps to take to restore its freshness and keep it in top condition.
Why You Should Clean Your Mattress
Your mattress is one of the most crucial components of good sleep, so keeping it fresh and hygienic is an absolute must. If you think cleaning a mattress is just a hassle, you might want to consider the benefits of doing so.
Leads to a Cleaner, Sounder Sleep
It's easier to relax and get comfortable when your bed feels clean and fresh. Over time, mattresses can trap dust, sweat, and other particles that may leave them feeling stale.
Cleaning your mattress every so often helps remove this build-up and keeps your sleeping environment feeling fresh.
Prevents Allergies and Skin Irritation
A dirty mattress becomes a breeding ground for dust mites, bacteria, allergens, and other things that could affect your health. For people with allergies, asthma, or sensitive skin, this build-up may contribute to symptoms like sneezing, congestion, itchy eyes, or irritation.
Regular cleaning helps reduce the amount of allergens sitting in your mattress. It can also remove sweat, oils, and dirt that may irritate sensitive skin.
Promotes Better Hygiene and Cleanliness
Sweat, dead skin, spills, and everyday dirt can work their way into the materials below your sheets. Cleaning your mattress helps keep these things under control and prevents unpleasant odours from developing over time.
It also helps create a cleaner bedroom overall, especially when combined with regularly washing your bedding and using a mattress protector.
Increases Mattress Longevity
Regular cleaning helps keep your mattress in better condition and can prevent small issues from becoming bigger problems. It also gives you a chance to spot stains, mould, or signs of damage early. With proper care, your mattress is more likely to stay comfortable and supportive for longer.
A Step-By-Step Guide To Cleaning Your Mattress
Cleaning a mattress doesn't have to be complicated. In most cases, a few basic cleaning steps are all it takes to freshen it up and remove dust, dirt, and odours that build up over time.
What You’ll Need
To clean your mattress, you may need:
- Vacuum with upholstery attachment
- Bicarb soda
- Mild dishwashing liquid
- White vinegar diluted with water
- Clean cloths or towels
- Spray bottle
- Hydrogen peroxide or enzyme cleaner for tougher stains
Before using any cleaning products, always check your mattress care label and test the solution on a small, hidden area first.
1. Strip the Mattress
Start by removing everything from the bed, including sheets, pillowcases, mattress protectors, blankets, and any bedding accessories. Look for spills, marks, or signs of moisture so you can target these areas when cleaning.
2. Vacuum Your Mattress
Vacuuming helps remove dust, dead skin cells, pet hair, and other particles that can settle into the mattress over time. Pay particular attention to the edges, corners, and stitched areas where dust and debris tend to collect. Use the upholstery attachment if you have one, as it works well on fabric surfaces and seams.
3. Wash the Linen
Using freshly cleaned linen is an important part of the process. While the mattress is airing out, wash all bedding according to the care instructions on the labels. Regular washing helps remove sweat, body oils, dust, and allergens that naturally build up from daily use.
4. Air Out the Mattress
If possible, place your mattress in a sunny, well-ventilated area to air it out. Sunlight and fresh air can help reduce moisture and musty smells. If you can’t move the mattress outside, open nearby windows and curtains to improve air circulation while your mattress dries.
5. Apply Bicarb Soda
Bicarb soda or baking soda is one of the easiest ways to freshen a mattress. Sprinkle a generous layer across the entire surface and leave it for several hours. If you have the time, leaving it on for a full 24 hours often produces the best results.
6. Vacuum Your Mattress Again
Once the bicarb soda has had time to sit, vacuum the mattress thoroughly to remove the powder and any absorbed odours. Go slowly across the surface and pay extra attention to seams and edges.
How to Remove Stains From Your Mattress
Most light stains can be removed using a few household products and a gentle cleaning approach. The key is to treat stains as soon as possible and avoid soaking the mattress.
Blot, Don’t Rub
When you notice a stain or spill, your first instinct might be to scrub it. Instead, gently blot the area with a clean cloth or paper towel to absorb as much liquid as possible. Work from the outside of the stain towards the centre to avoid spreading it further.
Gather Cleaning Agents
The cleaning product you use will depend on what's caused the stain. For light to moderate stains, such as drool, sweat, or food stains, a solution of dish detergent and distilled white vinegar should be enough.
For tougher stains like blood, urine, or vomit, hydrogen peroxide or enzyme cleaners may be more effective.
Clean It Up Immediately (For Heavier Stains)
For larger spills or tougher stains, it's best to act quickly. The longer a stain sits, the more chance it has to soak into the mattress and become difficult to remove.
Before you start, gather everything you'll need, including a bucket, clean towels or cloths, gloves, and your chosen cleaning solution. As you clean, use gentle pressure rather than scrubbing aggressively.
Create a Cleaning Solution
A simple solution of warm water, a few drops of dish detergent, and a small amount of white vinegar is often enough. Add the mixture to a spray bottle and lightly mist the stained area. Avoid saturating the mattress, as excess moisture can be difficult to remove.
How Often Should You Clean Your Mattress
As a general rule, it's a good idea to give your mattress a thorough clean every six months. This helps remove dust, dirt, allergens, and odours before they have a chance to build up.
Some mattresses may need more frequent attention. If you have allergies, pets, young children, or tend to sweat during sleep, cleaning your mattress every three to four months can help keep it fresh and hygienic.
You should clean spills immediately if possible, as it can leave a permanent stain if left for too long.
Enjoy a Fresher Sleep Experience with Bevmarks
A clean mattress can mean the difference between a restful sleep and a disruptive one. Cleaning your mattress regularly can help keep it fresher for longer. But if your mattress is starting to sag, is stained beyond repair, or no longer giving you the support you need, it may be time to consider a replacement.
At Bevmarks, our team can help you find a mattress that suits your specific preferences and budget. We’re committed to ensuring that our customers have a better night’s sleep. Visit your nearest Bevmarks store or send us a message, and we’ll help you find the right mattress that fits your needs.