How to – clean a mattress
Are you asleep at the switch when it comes to maintaining your mattress? It’s recommended to clean your mattress twice a year, and for good reason: dust, dirt, stains, mites and other undesirables can accumulate in your mattress. Treat yourself to a better night’s sleep and help your mattress last longer by following the cleaning steps below.
Tools and Supplies:
- Vacuum with upholstery and crevice attachments
- Upholstery cleaner, enzyme-based pet odor remover or water and mild detergent
- Clean white cloth or rag
- Baking soda
Step 1
Begin by removing all bedding and washing them with the hottest water and dryer settings the fabrics can accept accordingly to their labels. Don’t forget to wash your pillows if needed, too.
Step 2
Vacuum the top and sides of the mattress using your vacuum cleaner’s upholstery attachment. Pay special attention to the nooks and crannies where debris can collect, and use the crevice attachment to get into tight places.
Step 3
Check for stains, and spot treat them with a clean cloth or rag and a suitable product such as upholstery cleaner or enzyme-based pet odor remover. A solution of 1 teaspoon mild dish detergent to 1 cup of warm water may also be effective. Use liquids sparingly so they don’t soak into the core of your mattress. It’s a good idea to also consult the care label or guide for your mattress.
Step 4
To deodorize the mattress, sprinkle banking soda over its entire surface. If this is your first cleaning in a long time, don’t be shy about using a full 1-pound box for the job. Letting the baking soda sit for 24 hours will yield the best results, however, several hours should have a sufficient effect. If possible, expose the mattress to bright sunlight while the baking soda works.
Step 5
Once the time is up, use your vacuum’s upholstery attachment again to vacuum up all the baking soda. If your mattress can be flipped (i.e. it doesn’t have a designated top and bottom), go ahead and turn it over.
Conclusion
This routine should keep your mattress clean and healthy. If you don’t already use a mattress pad and cover, consider investing in them to help keep your mattress pristine. Sleep tight!