Maintaining a clean and disinfected home is challenging, especially when we have an official job. We usually pay special attention to carpets and sofas in our house and keep them clean. However, we forget to take care of our beds, where we spend most of our time.
Why is it essential to perform a thorough mattress cleaning?
Firstly, before knowing the best way to clean mattresses properly, it is essential to analyse the reasons why performing such cleaning is vital.
Cleaning mattresses is essential to eliminate the accumulation of bacteria and dust mites, as well as other allergens that can cause skin problems, especially allergies and asthma. In fact, we spend one-third of our lives on a mattress, so keeping it clean and in the proper condition for healthy sleep is necessary.
It not only helps to remove stains but also extends the lifespan of the mattress itself by promoting the preservation of the materials it is made of.
Cleaning and disinfecting mattresses are not just about aesthetics; they significantly impact individuals’ hygiene and health.
Common mistakes we make when cleaning the mattress.
Knowing how to properly clean a mattress can be challenging. There are proper ways to do that, which many people aren’t familiar with and often make mistakes that could potentially damage the mattress. Some of the most common ones include:
Using too much water
There may be cases where a drink spills on the sleeping pad. Spills are more likely to happen if you have children. In many situations where a spill occurs, we usually wash the sleeping pad with water and cleaner to fade the stains. Too much water when cleaning your mattress can seep into the fabric and create a breeding ground for mould and bacteria, leading to many health complications.
Besides damaging the mattress’s fabric, using water to clean it can also void any warranty you may have on it. If you must use water to clean your mattress, avoid soaking it up too much and only apply a mild detergent.
Steam cleaning
There is no doubt that steam cleaning is a very effective tool for cleaning and maintenance. However, it’s not 100% reliable, depending on the model and the cleaning process efficacy.
It is definitive and safe to say that steam cleaning eliminates odours, kills bacteria, and is practical. However, one of its weaknesses is cleaning soft surfaces, fabric, foam, etc.
Not allowing the mattress to dry out completely
After steam cleaning your mattress or using water to remove stains, always make sure to thoroughly dry the mattress to prevent the growth of fungi and bacteria. You can use a fan or natural air to dry the bedding. Install a dehumidifier or keep the bedding in bright sunlight, as it will kill any potential fungal or bacterial growth.
Using harsh chemicals
Avoid using powerful chemicals or detergents when cleaning your mattress. You may irreparably damage both the surface and the inner layers of the mattress and potentially harm your health. Harsh chemicals will also make it more difficult for the fabric to breathe and get adequately aerated.
If you must use a cleaning product, make sure that it’s explicitly designed for mattresses and follow the instructions on the label carefully. In addition, avoid using multi-purpose dry cleaners. They’re great for many household chores, but mattress cleaning isn’t one of them.
Not vacuuming first
Before you start cleaning your mattress with liquids, vacuum it thoroughly to remove any build-up of dirt, dust, or debris. And keep in mind that not all vacuum cleaners suitable for cleaning floors and other surfaces will work the same way when it comes to deep cleaning a mattress. Only a high-powered vacuum cleaner is appropriate for bedding cleaning.
Aggressive scrubbing
When cleaning your mattress, avoid scrubbing it aggressively because it can damage the material and cause it to deteriorate quicker, shortening its lifespan.
Cleaning by hitting with a stick or shaking
You may recall the method used by your grandparents or parents or have seen in a movie how they hit the mattress, shake it and leave it out in the sun. Or perhaps it’s something you’ve seen someone do.
However, this can be pretty challenging, either due to the size of the mattress or the type of living space you have. It is especially valid for small apartments, so here are some tips to remember when buying a flat.
Actually, beating the bedding is not even an effective method of expelling dust from sleeping pads. It can also damage the fabric and shorten your mattress’s lifespan. And it will cause dust microorganisms to spread onto surrounding furniture and into the environment, which is quite dangerous. It may trigger allergic reactions in those who breathe in the particles released when shaking the mattress, which often contains dust mites.
Definitely, it’s one of the most harmful methods to use when cleaning your mattress. Instead of beating the bedding, it should be thoroughly cleaned with a high-powered vacuum cleaner, as mentioned above.
Not protecting your mattress
It’s a wise idea to use a mattress protector to prevent spills, stains, and other types of damage. Definitely, it will make cleaning your mattress easier, and you’ll have to do it less frequently, which will save you time.
Not cleaning the mattress regularly
It’s necessary to clean your mattress often to prevent additional build-up of filth, dust, and allergens that can negatively affect your health and sleep quality.
For urine stains, specific products are available in the market that are truly effective and easy to apply.
It is vital to maintain proper ventilation. So, 5 or 10 minutes before making the bed, you should open the window and allow the air to purify your room. This way, you improve your mattress’s ventilation.
Every three months, the mattress should be rotated and flipped. Or every six months for double-sided mattresses. It is recommended to replace a mattress every 10 years.
What happens if you don’t clean your mattress?
Suppose you fail to clean your mattress adequately. You can get dust mites, bacteria on-set, and other allergens can accumulate in your mattress with the potential to cause various health complications. What can happen as a consequence is allergy and respiratory complications.
If you have allergies, this can lead to additional sneezing, a runny nose, and itchy eyes and aggravate other symptoms. In addition to allergies, the dust and other particles that accumulate on your mattress can irritate your respiratory system. It can cause coughing, wheezing, and difficulty breathing, even if you don’t have allergies.
Besides respiratory complications, an unclean mattress can cause skin irritation. Dead skin cells and sweat can also accumulate on its surface, creating an ideal breeding environment for bacteria. Besides skin irritation, this can even cause infections.
Failing to clean your mattress regularly can also create an ideal environment for bed bugs to settle in. These tiny pests can cause itchy, painful bites and are extremely difficult to remove.
Last but not least, not performing regular mattress cleaning will shorten its lifespan because the dirt and debris accumulation will make the fabric break down more quickly. It can lead to sagging, lumps, and other issues that can decrease the comfort of the mattress. If you’re not careful and regular with mattress cleaning, you can even shrink your bed.
In Conclusion, We Say: Sleep Well, Live Well
Take care of your sleep and health by taking care of your mattress. Suppose you’re unsure how to clean your mattress correctly. In that case, it’s advisable to contact a professional cleaning service to clean it regularly. It will ensure your bedroom and home are safe and hygienic for you and your family.
With all these little secrets, you can keep your mattress in the best possible condition.