How to Clean Your Mattress
It's finally summertime in Calgary, so it's time for some summer cleaning. Let's face it; cleaning is a chore that everyone ignores for a few days or a couple of weeks if you're feeling really lazy. But, eventually, you get around to cleaning the house, and it feels great! But, there's one thing that you're forgetting. Your mattress. Be honest, when was the last time you cleaned your mattress? Have you cleaned it at all since you purchased it? Don't be embarrassed; you're not the only one who forgets.
Did you know every night, your body sweats about half a litre, and you shed a gram of skin. Where does all this go? Most likely living in your mattress. Your mattress could be harbouring some fungal spores, bacteria, and dust mites. Without regular cleaning, your mattress can be the dirtiest thing in your home. But how do you exactly clean a mattress?
1. Gather your cleaning supplies.
Most of the supplies you require should already be in your home. You will need:
- Vacuum with an upholstery attachment
- baking soda
- towels or rags
- laundry detergent
- hydrogen peroxide
2. Strip your bed.
Remove all sheets, pillowcases, mattress covers, and duvet covers, throw them in the wash, and let that run while cleaning your mattress. Washing all your bedding should be washed in hot water to get rid of any dust mites.
3. Vacuum your mattress.
Vacuum the entire surface of your mattress, be aware of the sides, crevices and any seams. Vacuuming does not remove any stains, but it will remove any external dust and dead skin.
4. Spot clean your mattress.
Mattresses are an investment. You tend to hold onto a mattress for 7-10 years. There are many reasons for stains on your mattress, sweat, urine, blood or vomit. For these stains, it is important to use an enzyme-based cleaner. If you do not have an enzyme-based cleaner, don't fret! You can make one at home. Combine hydrogen peroxide, baking soda, and laundry detergent into a spray bottle. For stains with odours, you can add a few drops of your favourite essential oil. Spray all stains generously and blot the stained area with a towel or rag.
5. Sprinkle baking soda.
Sprinkle baking soda all over your mattress and leave it for a few hours. The longer you can leave it on, the better. Baking soda will break down acid and soak up any moisture.
6. Vacuum again and air out.
Once you've left the baking soda on for a few hours, vacuum up all the baking soda. Let the mattress dry for about 10 hours. If you need to use it that night, put a fan on it or lay the bed outside in the sun.
7. Flip and repeat.
Now that one side is spotless, flip and repeat steps 1 to 6, so both sides are fresh and clean.
Mattress cleaning isn't in our regular routine, so it's no surprise that it is often overlooked. It is important to try to clean your mattress at least every six months regularly. Be sure to purchase mattress protectors too!
Happy cleaning, and sleep tight!
