A mattress topper is a layer of cushioning placed on top of a mattress. Mattress toppers are added to your bed for extra sleeping comfort. Some mattress toppers, like those made with wool or goose down, are made to give you a cozy and luxurious sleep experience.

A mattress topper is also a quick solution to a worn-and-torn mattress — just throw one on top of your mattress, and it will feel good as new. If you’re tossing and turning frequently at night and need to improve the quality of your sleep, you may want to consider getting yourself a mattress topper.

Over time a mattress topper will accumulate dust, grime, sweat, dead skin cells and other particles. When dusting off isn’t enough to remove the dirt and other particles, it’s time to give your mattress topper a proper cleaning. 

Types of mattress toppers

There are different kinds of materials used for mattress toppers. Read through to see which one will give you the best zzz’s:

Cotton mattress topper

When it comes to practicality, a cotton mattress topper is hard to beat. These mattress toppers are machine-washable and easy to clean. They’re also one of the most common mattress toppers you’ll find in stores. If you need a quick fix for your tossing and turning, a cotton mattress topper may just be what you’re looking for.

Down mattress topper

Down mattress toppers are the ultimate in sleep luxury. These plush toppers are made from the tiny feathers found on the underside of a duck or goose. They are much softer than the exterior feathers of the animal, and are there for insulation. A down mattress topper and cold weather are a match made in snooze heaven.

This mattress topper wins hands down in the softness department. When you have fluffy goose or duck down tucked in quilted cotton encasings and used as bedding, you know you’re onto something special. It’s probably the closest you’ll get to sleeping on a cloud.

Egg crate mattress topper

The egg crate foam mattress topper has a surface molded like an egg carton. The unique form has ergonomic benefits such as back pain relief and better sleep. The dents and peaks of an egg crate mattress topper produce differing pressure levels on the skin which induce a relaxing sleep experience.

Feather mattress topper

A feather mattress topper — or featherbed — is similar to a down mattress topper. The only difference between feathers and down is this: feathers are the exterior covering on the bird, and are therefore more resilient but less soft than down. Some feather mattress pads use a combination of feathers and down to achieve the right level of softness.

Latex mattress topper

Latex is a premium material used in mattress topper manufacturing. Go eco-friendly and opt for organic or 100% natural latex. There are also synthetic or blended latex mattress toppers if you prefer more traditional and less expensive ones.

Memory foam mattress topper

You can’t go wrong with a memory foam mattress topper. With their layer of memory foam and soft springs, these ultra-comfy cushions are built for a heavenly sleep experience. Memory foam mattress toppers are recommended for back support, and ideal for snuggling soundly on your bed.

Polyester mattress topper

If you have an on-the-go lifestyle and need a quick-drying mattress topper for your bed, a polyester mattress topper is the right choice for you. Polyester is a synthetic moisture-repelling material that is similar to nylon. While it’s not the most luxurious fabric around (it can have a distinctive odour when not dried properly), polyester is a cheap and practical alternative to other fabrics that require more cleaning time and attention. 

Wool mattress topper

This may sound counterintuitive, but if you’re living in a tropical climate, wool mattress toppers may be the best choice for you. Wool — which is made of fleece and is 100% natural and biodegradable —  has a special quality that regulates temperature. If you’re the type of sleeper who feels warm or cold interchangeably while sleeping, a wool mattress topper may be the best solution for you.

Can you wash mattress toppers?

Yes, you sure can! Make sure to follow instructions on how to wash your mattress topper the right way, and you’re all set.

How to wash a mattress topper

To wash a mattress topper properly, you first have to know the kind of mattress topper you’re using. The type of material your mattress topper is made with will determine which cleaning method to use. How to wash memory foam, polyester, down, and cotton mattress toppers are what we will be focusing on, as these are some of the most commonly used mattress toppers around. 

To properly wash a mattress topper, you will need:

• Mild laundry detergent (bleach-free)
• Boric acid (optional)
• Bicarb soda
• Water
• Spray bottle
• Clean cloth
• Microfibre cloth
• Paper towels

Use the step-by-step guide below to learn how:

How to wash a memory foam mattress topper

Mattress toppers made of memory foam are some of the most popular ones around. Since memory foam mattress toppers are susceptible to pressure, it’s best to give them a gentle clean manually. Follow the steps on how to wash your memory foam mattress topper correctly:

Step 1. Vacuum thoroughly

Before you start cleaning your mattress topper, vacuum off any visible particles on the entire surface of the mattress topper. This will quickly remove the top layer of dust and grime and prevent it from getting embedded further into the cushion.

Step 2. Spray with a mild detergent solution

Prepare a cleaning solution using mild laundry detergent and water. Follow the dilution instructions on the package label of your detergent for best results.

Transfer the liquid solution to a spray bottle and use immediately.

To use, lightly spray the detergent solution on the surface of the mattress topper. Remember to move the bottle as you’re spraying. Avoid spraying too much on one spot to prevent soaking the mattress topper through. 

Step 3. Spot clean stubborn stains

To remove stubborn stains on your memory foam mattress topper, use a mixture made with equal amounts of mild laundry detergent and water. Dip a clean, dry cloth in the solution and use this to spot treat the stains. Use a circular motion and gently rub. Avoid scrubbing to prevent damaging the fabric.

For hard-to-remove stains, you can use boric acid as a stain remover. Start by blotting the stained area using a cloth dipped in warm water. Sprinkle a small amount of boric acid on the surface of the mattress topper and allow the powder to work through.

When the stain has absorbed the boric acid, wipe it off using gentle circular motions. Blot the area with a moistened cloth or paper towels until there is no more boric acid left on the surface of the mattress topper. Dry the spot by letting your microfibre cloth absorb the excess moisture, then allow it to air dry.

Step 4. Deodorise

Go the extra mile and deodorise your mattress topper by sprinkling baking soda on the surface. This will remove unpleasant odours such as pet urine, sweat, vomit, and other excretions.

You can even infuse the baking soda with any essential oil of your choice! We use a combination of tea tree oil and lemon for effective antimicrobial and cleansing action. Trust us, this step will leave you with a fresh-smelling bed you can’t wait to sleep in.

Step 5. Allow to dry

Once your mattress topper is clean and stain-free, allow it to air dry completely before using. You don’t want mould and bacteria to grow on your mattress topper, and this is likely to happen if there’s excess moisture left in the foam.

Bring out your mattress to dry out in the morning sun for about thirty minutes. The duration of sun exposure depends on the weather in your area, but avoid letting it sit under direct sunlight for too long. The excessive heat may melt the fibres of the memory foam and cause permanent damage.

Transfer your memory foam mattress topper indoors and allow air to circulate well. As soon as the mattress topper is completely dry, you can proceed to place it back on your mattress.

How to wash a polyester mattress topper

Polyester mattress toppers are easy to clean and dry easily. Make sure that you read the care instructions before proceeding with the cleaning. To wash your polyester mattress topper the right way, simply follow these quick and easy steps:

Step 1. Vacuum the mattress topper

Using a vacuum cleaner, remove any particles on the entire surface of your polyester mattress topper.

Step 2. Spot treat the stains

Pre-treat the stains before washing your mattress topper by spraying on a mild detergent solution on the stained area. Gently wipe off using a gentle circular motion.

Step 3. Wash using a mild liquid laundry detergent

Set your washing machine to a low or delicate setting. Wash your polyester mattress topper using cold water and a mild laundry detergent. You can also use a liquid hand soap for this. Whatever your preferred cleaning agent is, it should be gentle and safe enough for the polyester material.

Step 4. Tumble dry

Place your mattress topper in the dryer using a low setting. We recommend adding dryer balls to prevent the mattress topper from bunching up during the cycle. As soon as it is done drying, remove immediately from the dryer and allow it to air dry completely.

How to wash a down mattress topper

A down mattress topper means luxurious sleep. The delicate material of the mattress topper also means greater care is needed when you’re washing it. Follow these steps to properly wash your down mattress topper:

Step 1. Place the mattress topper in the washer

Gently place your down mattress topper in the washing machine. When washing large pieces of fabric, we recommend using a front-loading over a top-loading washing machine.

From personal experience, a front-loading washing machine results in less wear-and-tear and wrinkles. It’s also easier to take out huge pieces of laundry when the opening of your washer is in the front.

Step 2. Set the washing machine to ‘Delicate’

Set your washing machine to low or ‘Delicate’. Warm water and a gentle liquid detergent is best suited when washing a down mattress topper. Run your mattress topper for one wash cycle.

Step 3. Rinse thoroughly

Make sure your mattress topper is rinsed thoroughly. A well-rinsed mattress topper ensures that it retains its soft and plush composition when dried.

To achieve this, rinse your mattress topper under two cycles. Using a small amount of soap also helps — less is more when using laundry detergent on a down mattress topper.

Step 4. Tumble dry

Once your mattress topper is washed, transfer it to your dryer and use a low setting. Remove immediately from the dryer when it’s ready and place on a railing to air dry completely.

How to wash a cotton mattress topper

If you own a cotton mattress topper, you’re in luck. This mattress topper is the easiest to clean! Here’s how:

Step 1. Place in the washer

After reading the instructions in the care label, place your cotton mattress topper in the washing machine.

Step 2. Wash with mild detergent

Depending on the manufacturer’s instructions, wash your mattress topper using warm or cold water and a mild laundry detergent. 

Step 3. Tumble dry

Dry your mattress topper using a low setting, then allow it to air dry before using.

Give your bedroom the ultimate clean

For the ultimate fresh-smelling bedroom, washing your mattress topper and mattress protector regularly is a must. Spruce up your bedroom even further by getting deep cleaning services for your home. With a professional top-to-bottom clean, you’ll have tidy and spotless interiors you’ll surely enjoy staying in.

The post How To Wash A Mattress Topper appeared first on Maid2Match.

Clean mattress protectors help you achieve this. This protective cover wraps around your mattress to make sure it stays spotless.

Over time, your mattress protector can accumulate sweat, dirt and debris — what we like to call the natural habitat of bacteria, fungi and dust mites. 

Luckily, there’s no need to cry yourself to sleep trying to live with all these microbes.

The good news is, a mattress protector is completely machine washable! There’s a secret to it, though. Read on to learn how to wash mattress protectors like a pro.

What is a Mattress Protector?

A mattress protector (or a mattress cover) is a thick piece of fabric with a waterproof layer.

Use one to keep your bed sheet and mattress clean and free from dirt, dust mites and other tiny debris.

The next time your mattress stays spotless after you accidentally spill something on your bed, you have your mattress protector to thank for.

Mattress Protector Washing Instructions

You will need:

• Washing machine
• Tumble dryer
• Mild liquid laundry detergent
• Laundry bag

How to wash mattress protector

Can you wash mattress protectors? Yes, you sure can! Here’s how:

Step 1. Remove the mattress cover from the bed

Before you can wash a dirty mattress protector, it’s important that you remove it carefully from the bed.

An encasement-style cover uses zippers to secure it in place, while a fitted sheet is fastened on the corners of the bed using elastic bands. 

If your mattress has a mattress topper, make sure to remove this first layer before proceeding to remove the mattress cover.

Mattress toppers are placed on mattresses to make them more plush and comfortable — we recommend exercising the same care in handling them as when you’re handling your mattress cover.

Step. 2 Add laundry detergent in the soap compartment of the washing machine

Add your preferred laundry detergent into the soap slot of your washer.

We prefer using an eco-friendly biodegradable detergent — not only is it kind to the environment, it smells even better than regular laundry soap!

Step 3. Load the mattress protector in the washing machine

Gently place the mattress protector in the washing machine.

When it comes to huge pieces of laundry, we prefer using a front-load washing machine over a top-load.

The reason is simple — it makes for easy handling and there is less wear-and-tear on the fabric.

Step 4. Program the washing cycle

Time to wash your mattress protector!

Wash mattress protectors on a normal cycle for heavier fabrics (wool or terry) or a delicate cycle for thinner fabrics (polyester or rayon).

Use a low temperature — too much heat can destroy the waterproof layer of your mattress cover.

Wash your mattress protector using the rinse cycle then proceed to tumble dry.

Step 5. Tumble dry after washing

Once the washing cycle is complete, run your mattress cover in the dryer using low heat and the low tumble setting.

Allow it to fully air dry before using.

Make washing your mattress cover more effective

How often to wash a mattress protector

To be sure, wash your mattress protector at least once every two months. There may be times when you need to wash the cover more frequently, however.

In principle, the washing schedule depends on how dirty your mattress cover can get, and how sensitive you are to dust and dirt.

If you have allergies or have pets sleeping on your bed, we recommend washing your mattress protector more frequently.

For a more effective laundering, make sure that you also clean your washer. Our step-by-step guides on how to clean a front-loading washing machine and how to clean a top-loading washing machine will show you how.

How to clean a mattress protector if it says no wash

You can still clean mattress protectors that are not machine washable.

Spot clean spills on the mattress protector with absorbent paper towels. Refrain from scrubbing to prevent paper towel fibres from spreading on the surface.

For larger stains, clean with cold or lukewarm water. Allow the mattress protector to air dry.

If you’re still unsure on how to go about cleaning your no-wash mattress pro, you can call the manufacturer.

How to wash a waterproof mattress protector

Before you put a waterproof mattress protector in the washer, check the care label for instructions on what temperature and cleaning method to use.

Run the cover on a delicate or low cycle setting, and remove immediately once the washing cycle is done.

Use a mild detergent when washing your mattress cover to prevent further wear and tear on the fabric.

Washing tips straight from the pros

Read the instructions on the care label before washing

Before laundering, always read the fabric’s care instructions and washing machine manual.

Washers have similar ways of operating, but your washing machine may require a step that’s specific to the model. When it comes to appliances, it’s better to be safe than sorry.

On that note, it pays to learn about the manufacturer’s instructions for the mattress protector as well. Always make sure that your mattress protectors are machine washable before putting them in the washing machine.

Some fabrics are also heat-sensitive and shrink or get distorted when subjected to high temperatures. A low heat setting or washing with cold water is always recommended.

First time wash

Does your mattress cover feel stiff and rough to the touch? Break your mattress protector in by washing it first.

Giving your mattress protector an initial wash softens the fibers of the fabric.

This also rids the cover of any factory smells that may still be clinging to the material.

Eco-friendly laundering

A plant-based mild detergent smells great, is good for the environment, and usually comes in hypo-allergenic formulas — perfect for when you have babies (or anyone sensitive to regular soap) at home.

It’s definitely worth giving it a try when washing your bed sheets and mattress protector! 

Laundry trick

No worries if this is your first time washing your mattress cover and aren’t feeling too confident about throwing it in the washer. It’s completely understandable.

Give your mattress protector an added layer of protection when washing by placing it inside a laundry bag.

The laundry bag will lessen the wear and tear on the material by acting as a buffer during the wash cycle. 

Say no to wrinkles

Don’t let your mattress protector — or any other laundered items, for that matter — stay too long in the dryer.

To prevent wrinkling, remove the mattress protector from the dryer immediately when it’s ready.

This isn’t the time to use your washer’s ‘wrinkle-guard’ feature (if yours has one), either. Best to turn this off when washing the mattress cover. You won’t be needing the additional spins — these will only contribute to wear-and-tear.

Ironing is a no-no

Tempting as it sounds, don’t dry clean or iron your waterproof mattress cover.

Doing so will damage the plastic layer of the fabric and render it useless against spills.

Time-saving hack 

Hit two birds with one stone with this time-saving hack.

While you’re running the mattress cover on its wash cycle, use the pocket of time to clean your mattress. This method will remove any bed bugs, dead skin cells, and dirt on the mattress surface.

Sprinkle bicarb soda on the material and let it sit for 30 minutes. The baking soda will deodorise your mattress and leave it smelling fresh. You can infuse the bicarb soda with tea tree oil for added fragrance and antibacterial action.

Once the 30 minutes are up, vacuum the mattress and spray the surface with a disinfectant.

Save on electricity bills

To save energy, wash your mattress cover with other bedding.

In all likelihood, your bed sheet, blanket, and other linen are made of a similar fabric or have similar care instructions.

Remember to launder gently using a mild detergent and to run the items on a low to normal cycle.

Have the ultimate snooze-worthy home

When it comes to getting your zzz’s, nothing beats a spotless and clean-smelling bedroom to lull you to sleep.

Take it a step further and give your whole home an intensive cleaning.

You can easily achieve a sparkling and well-maintained home even if you have a busy schedule — simply avail of a regular house cleaning service and let the pros take care of the rest. 

With a stellar house clean and the tips above, all you need to do is play relaxing instrumental music, fluff up your pillows, and dive under the covers. We guarantee you, you’ll be dozing off in no time!

The post How To Wash A Mattress Protector appeared first on Maid2Match.

General mattress cleaning involves vacuuming the surface using your upholstery attachment, then treating any stains. What cleaning solution you use depends on the kind of stain. For a blood stain or sweat stain, hydrogen peroxide and a few drops of dish soap work well. You can remove urine with water and vinegar. Then bicarb soda will handle any odours or moisture.

BTW – if you need help getting started, your house cleaning service can strip down your bed and handle the laundry. This leaves you free to tackle the mattress by itself!

You won’t get a good night’s sleep if you’re constantly worrying that your mattress is dirty. So roll up your sleeves and get your cleaning products – here’s how to clean mattress stains (plus some general maintenance tips).

What Causes Mattress Stains?

A mattress collects sweat stains throughout its lifetime. In the case of accidents, it can also suffer blood, vomit, and urine stains. Then there are lotions, oils, and even dust mites and bed bugs. These often cause a grey or yellow stain on a mattress surface.

Note that anything that’s stained your mattress will also stain your mattress protector. If you use a washable mattress pad, toss it into the laundry right away.

The Best Mattress Stain Remover

The short answer is – it depends on the mattress stain! For blood stains and other very stubborn mattress stains, a mixture of hydrogen peroxide will help clean your mattress. For milder stains like sweat or urine, you can use vinegar and water mixed in a spray bottle. Another cleaning solution is a paste of bicarb soda, salt, and water.

Extremely stubborn stains may require an enzyme remover, which you can buy from home improvement and grocery stores. Just be careful when using them, and always follow instructions!

Removing Mattress Stains

Different stains have different stain remover methods! It’s a little gross to think about, but accidents can happen, or dirt simply accumulates.

Before handling any mattress stains, strip your bed of all linens and toss any dirty ones in the laundry. This includes your mattress protector and mattress topper. If you’ve stained it, wash your doona too!

You can partner routine mattress cleaning with washing your sheets. (And yes, you should clean your mattress and change your bed sheets regularly.)

After stripping your bed, if it’s not wet, vacuum the mattress surface to remove any debris and dust that has gathered. However, if you’re treating a fresh stain, skip right to the treatment.

How to get urine out of a mattress

You need to treat urine stains ASAP, or they might seep into your mattress. Once a stain sets, it’ll be harder to get it out.

To treat a fresh urine stain:

• Blot the affected area with a clean cloth – don’t scrub.
• Make a 1:1 mixture of white vinegar and water in a spray bottle.
• Spray the urine stain, patting it with a dry cloth as you go.
• Sprinkle bicarb soda and let it sit for several hours.
• Vacuum the surface to remove any residue.

If the stain has set, then:

• Mix 1 cup of hydrogen peroxide with a few drops of liquid dish soap in a spray bottle.
• Cover the area in the cleaning solution.
• Sprinkle bicarb soda onto the stain and let it sit.
• Vacuum the mattress when dry.

How to get blood out of a mattress

Like urine, you should deal with blood stains immediately. The haemoglobin and iron in blood make it difficult to remove if you allow the stain to set, since they oxidise and dry out.

To get a blood stain off your mattress:

• Take a cloth dampened with cool (not hot!) water and dab at the stain. Don’t scrub, or else you’ll push the blood further into your mattress fibres.
• Mix bicarb soda, salt, and water into a paste.
• Smear the cleaning solution onto the affected area. Let it sit for up to an hour.
• Brush or vacuum the dried paste off, then wipe any residue away with a damp cloth.

It’s important not to use hot water, which could ‘cook’ the proteins in the blood. That causes the blood to set deeper into the mattress.

For more stubborn or old blood stains:

• Mix two cups of hydrogen peroxide with some dish soap.
• Lather some onto the stain and scrub gently with an old toothbrush.
• Let the solution sit for 5-10 minutes.
• Rub the residue off with a moist cloth.

How to clean sweat stains from a mattress

Sweat, lotions, and oils all seep through your bedding (even your mattress cover!) into your mattress underneath. To keep your mattress clean, remove mattress stains ASAP!

• Mix 3tbsp of bicarb soda with half a cup of hydrogen peroxide and 1tsp of dish soap. Combine them thoroughly. If the stains are large or numerous, double the proportions.
• Use a clean cloth to apply the solution to the affected areas.
• Let the mixture sit for 5-10 minutes, then wipe the excess away.

For more persistent stains and odours:

• Mix 3tbsp of powdered laundry detergent with a cup of water.
• Spread a thick, foamy layer onto the affected area and let it sit for half an hour.
• Remove any residue with a moist cloth.
• Get another cloth and dampen it with hydrogen peroxide.
• Wipe the affected area.
• Let your mattress air dry. Vacuum any remaining debris if needed.

How to clean vomit off a mattress

It happens – someone gets sick or has an accident. Work quickly so the vomit doesn’t set in and cake on the mattress fibres.

• Remove any solids and strip the sheets immediately. Wash these on the hottest setting available.
• Blot the stain with a fresh cloth. Don’t rub; just soak up any excess liquid.
• Spray hydrogen peroxide or a 1:1 mixture of water and vinegar.
• Let the mattress air out while the mixture dries.
• Powder the area with bicarb soda to neutralise the smell.
• Once dry, vacuum the spot.

If there’s a lot of vomit or the scent is strong, let the bicarb soda sit overnight and vacuum in the morning.

General Mattress Cleaning

You need to deep clean your mattress once every six months – at least. Meanwhile, vacuum and wipe down the surface around once a month.

Deodorise your mattress with bicarb soda every few weeks. Sprinkle a layer and let it sit, then vacuum up the powder.

Let your mattress air out 1-3 times a year to keep it fresh. This helps deter the accumulation of dust mites, mould, bacteria, and other allergens.

You can have the plushest mattress ever, but you still won’t sleep well if it’s dirty. A mattress is an investment in your personal health, so keep it clean and fresh for the best rest. Your mind and body will thank you for the effort!

The post How To Clean Mattress Stains appeared first on Maid2Match.

If you don’t use a mattress protector, dust mites, sweat stains, and other biological stains still accumulate. (Gross, we know!)

How to clean a mattress might not be your top priority, but it’s a vital chore all the same.

You’ll need to use a vacuum cleaner every month to remove surface dirt and allergens. Deep clean your mattress at least twice a year.

The general steps to cleaning a mattress are first to remove the sheets and go over the surface with your vacuum cleaner’s upholstery attachment. Then use a clean cloth and a stain remover to go over any blots.

Take it outside or by a window to air it out, then sprinkle bicarb soda and let it rest. Vacuum the mattress once more, then pop the sheets back on for a clean bed.

Ready to freshen up for a good night’s sleep? Then strip those sheets and let’s get cleaning! Here’s how to clean a mattress, from deep cleaning to general upkeep.

Cleaning Different Kinds of Mattresses

A mattress is an investment for better, healthier sleep.

Whether it’s a memory foam mattress or a latex one, you’ll need to put in the effort to keep it fresh and clean.

Memory foam mattress

Memory foam is highly absorbent – if you get it soaking wet, it’ll take ages to dry. This can lead to mould and mildew, as well as bacteria growth.

You’ll need to be careful with cleaning foam mattresses, but no worries – it’s pretty straightforward!

You can clean a foam mattress with a mixture of two parts mild detergent to one part hot water. Mix the cleaning solution in a spray bottle and spray lightly.

Make sure you let your mattress dry thoroughly somewhere sunny before replacing it on your bed.

Latex mattress

Latex mattresses are more water-resistant than foam mattresses, so you can wipe them down with a mixture of vinegar and water.

Vacuum your bed first, then proceed with a damp cloth and the cleaning solution. Let it dry out, then sprinkle the surface with bicarb soda. Let it sit, then vacuum again.

Once that’s done, air your mattress out for a little longer. Then replace your mattress and put on clean sheets.

Air mattress

Air mattresses are great if you want to set up quickly for an unexpected guest or an outdoor camping trip. They do get dirty pretty easily, though, so it’s important to keep them clean.

Start by vacuuming off any dirt or debris, then dampen a clean cloth with a 1:1 vinegar and water mixture. Wipe down the whole mattress to clean the surface.

Spring mattress

Spring mattresses also tend to absorb a lot of water, so you need to be careful when cleaning them.

Vacuum the surface to remove any dirt. Treat any stains by spot cleaning, either with an enzyme cleaner or a homemade mixture of hydrogen peroxide and water.

Let it dry near a window so the sunlight and fresh air can help dry it out.

How to Deep Clean a Mattress

You should deep clean your mattress at least 2-3 times a year to maintain its quality and freshness. Here’s a handy guide for deep cleaning a mattress.

1. Strip the bed

Take off all sheets, blankets, pillows and cases, and the mattress protector and mattress topper. Use this time to launder all your bed linens.

You can wash your doona too! Follow manufacturer directions (and make sure you wash your sheets often).

2. Vacuum the mattress surface

Use your vacuum’s upholstery attachment for this part. Don’t use a rolling brush since this could snag on the mattress surface.

3. Clean stains

See the next section for mattress stain remover methods. Just remember not to pour anything directly onto your mattress, and treat stains separately.

4. Deodorise the mattress

Bicarb soda is excellent for deodorising furniture since it has no fragrances or other components that can trigger allergies. Sprinkle a layer of it over your mattress, or see the deodorising method listed below.

Let the bicarb soda sit for a few hours, then vacuum the mattress to clean it up.

5. Repeat on the underside

Yep – you have to clean the underside of your mattress too! You need to flip and rotate your mattress regularly so it wears evenly and you don’t create any deep indentations.

You may not need to clean stains, but you should at least vacuum and deodorise.

6. Air out and put it back

Air your mattress out outside or by a sunny window so it can “breathe”. After a few hours, you can replace the mattress on your bed and change to fresh sheets.

Removing Stains from a Mattress

It’s not that difficult to remove sweat stains and other blots on your mattress!

Cleaning mattress stains is pretty straightforward, so here’s a quick run-down to help in tidying up your bed.

• Blood stains: For mild stains, use a paste made of salt, bicarb soda, and water. Don’t use hot water – it’ll make the stain set deeper. For moderate stains, mix two parts hydrogen peroxide to one part dish soap.
• Urine stains: You’ll need to treat them straight away by blotting the stain with a clean cloth. Spray the area with a 1:1 cleaning mixture of water and vinegar. Dab dry.
• Sweat stains: You can mix bicarb soda with a half cup of hydrogen peroxide and a drop of dish soap. Smear it and let it sit for 5-10 minutes. Wipe the excess off.
• Throw-up: Wipe up all solids, then strip the bed and toss linens in the washing machine. Dab a dry cloth to soak up the remaining fluid. Spray hydrogen peroxide on the area (lightly!), leave for 5 minutes, then let dry. Sprinkle with bicarb soda afterwards.

Keeping a Mattress Clean

It’s essential to maintain your mattress’ tidiness in between deeper cleaning so that you can keep it fresh!

Even with a mattress cover, your bed can develop funky smells or generally collect dirt. (Or fur, for those of us with cuddly friends.) It’ll also help keep your sheets free of dust mites and bed bugs.

BTW – make sure the rest of your bedroom is clean, too, or your tidy mattress won’t matter that much. If you want to skip the effort, you can always hire a cleaning service for that!

Neutralising Odours

Sweat and other excretions can cause a build-up of odours on our mattresses. Thankfully, everyday household items work perfectly to freshen up your bed!

In a spray bottle, mix:

• A half-cup of cold water
• One tbsp white vinegar
• Two tbsp bicarb soda

Lightly spray the cleaning solution over the mattress surface and let it sit for an hour.

Wipe down the mattress with a clean cloth, then let your mattress “breathe” and dry. Vacuum any residue afterwards, then change your sheets.

Try not to use essential oils since these could seep into the mattress. You’ll also cover them up with a mattress cover anyway!

Airing out a mattress

Airing out your mattress helps extend its longevity and maintain its cleanliness. It deters the accumulation of mould, bacteria, and allergens.

• Strip all the bedding off, including the mattress cover.
• Vacuum the mattress to remove dust, dead skin cells, and other debris.
• Take the mattress outside, on a balcony, or by a window – anywhere sunny.
• Let the mattress sit in the sun for 3-4 hours.

Do this 1-3 times a year to keep your mattress fresh.

General tips

• Change your bedsheets at least once a week, if not once every two weeks. Leave the sheets off so your mattress can “breathe” in between changes!
• Try not to eat and drink in bed – crumbs attract ants and other bed bugs, while drinks can cause mattress stains.
• Rotate or flip your mattress every 2-3 months so that it wears evenly.
• Use a waterproof mattress protector to reduce stains.
• Keep a cool bedroom – mites and bacteria thrive in warm conditions.

And of course, remember to do regular mattress cleaning! You can have the freshest sheets, and your bed will still pose a health hazard if you don’t clean the entire mattress, too.

Take an afternoon off to do some deep cleaning – you’ll sleep much better for it, we promise.

The post How To Clean A Mattress appeared first on Maid2Match.