Mattresses are among the most used items in our homes, yet many people overlook the importance of cleaning them regularly. There are some daily steps you might want to take to clean your mattress from dead skin and body fluids.
According to Steve Adams, CEO of Mattress Online, there is a vital reason to consider giving your mattress a thorough cleaning "at least every six months." Adams told the British newspaper Express, "Over the years, mattresses can accumulate a lot of dirt. In fact, after seven years, your mattress will, on average, absorb two full bathtubs worth of body fluids and about three kilograms of dead skin."
The expert added that you should not simply rely on the appearance of your mattress to determine whether it is clean or not. He explained, "Even if it looks clean to the eye, our mattresses can harbor thousands of dust mites and dead skin cells, which can exacerbate allergies and result in an overall unhealthy mattress over time."
Regular cleaning helps keep mattresses in good condition, reduces the unwanted buildup of bacteria, dust mites, and dead skin cells, and enhances the overall sleep experience by keeping your bed fresh.
Although cleaning your mattress may seem daunting, Mr. Adams shared some "cost-effective" and "easy" tips for cleaning. He stated that there is one straightforward task that takes just 20 minutes, which can help maintain your mattress's cleanliness. He recommended airing out your mattress every morning for at least 20 minutes, allowing air to circulate and helping excess moisture to evaporate.
Investing in a mattress protector can also extend the time between cleanings. Mr. Adams said, "A mattress protector can be a great addition to your bed to help keep the mattress in good condition. It’s also a cost-effective and easy way to keep your mattress clean, as the protector can be simply removed and washed. It’s also a good idea to vacuum your mattress every time you change your bedding to avoid dirt and dust accumulation."
### How to Deep Clean Your Mattress
When it comes to deep cleaning, you don’t necessarily need to buy expensive specialized products. In fact, according to the expert, some kitchen basics can be used to keep your mattress smelling fresh.
Adams explained, "My tip for keeping your mattress smelling fresher longer is to mix a small amount of baking soda with water and an essential oil like soothing lavender in a spray bottle, and lightly mist the mattress, being careful not to dampen it too much."
If you notice stains in a particular area, they can also be treated individually. Just use a mild cleaner, like the one you already use for your upholstery, and mix a small amount with warm water. Use a clean, damp microfiber cloth to dab the solution onto the stain, being careful not to overly wet the mattress.