As a homeowner, you would often vacuum your bedroom carpet, clear out your wardrobe and wipe down any furniture, but are you taking care of your mattress? While you might think your mattress doesn’t need any maintenance because it is always covered with bed sheets, the truth is, all mattresses do need some maintenance and care if you want it to last longer. To help you extend the lifespan of your current mattress, continue reading as we share the following mattress maintenance tips.
1) Deodorise & Clean
While mattresses come in different types and from different manufacturers, they can slightly differ in terms of maintenance and care. Before you clean your mattress, make sure to read the manufacturer’s instructions. As a guideline, you should deodorise your mattress every 6 months to keep it fresh.
First, remove all your bedding and sprinkle baking soda over your mattress. Baking soda is a natural deodoriser and it works by neutralising bad odours such as sweat. Next, add a few drops of lavender or chamomile essential oil to the baking soda for a nice and refreshing scent. Lavender and chamomile are also known for aiding sleep. Allow it to sit for up to 2 hours, then vacuum your mattress to remove the residue.
2) Wash Your Bed Sheets Regularly
While your mattress is being deodorised, this is a good opportunity to wash your bed sheets. However, it must be said, you should be washing your bed sheets at least every two weeks. As we sleep, we naturally shed sweat, body oils, hair and skin cells. Without being washed, this causes a build-up on bed sheets, creating an ideal environment for bacteria and dust mites.
The best temperature to wash bed sheets is between 40 and 60 degrees with washing detergent to kill bacteria and germs. While fabric conditioner is known for softening fabrics and adding a nice fragrance, it can leave a build-up on the fabric, weaken the fibres and cause holes. In saying that, it is always recommended to read the care label on your bedding, as cotton and silk materials have different washing instructions.
3) Spot Clean Stains
If you notice any stains on your mattress from food, hot drinks or pets, it’s important to treat it as soon as possible before it dries down. Absorb any liquid by dapping it with a clean cloth, Avoid rubbing the stain as this can cause the stain to seep further into the mattress. Select a cleaner of your choice: white vinegar, washing detergent, washing up liquid and specialist mattress cleaners. Apply it to the area with a damp cloth and gently dap the stain until it lifts. Leave to air-dry before dressing the bed.
4) Invest in a Mattress Protector
If you want to prolong the life of your mattress and prevent stains, the best way is to invest in a mattress protector. This removable and breathable liner sits on top of your mattress and underneath your fitted sheet. Most mattress protectors have waterproof abilities to protect against moisture, liquid spills and allergies as well as a temperature-regulating technology for a comfortable night’s sleep. Mattress protectors can also be washed according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
5) Keep Pets Off The Bed
This one is quite controversial, but pets should be kept off beds. While dogs and cats make cute and cuddly sleeping companions, they can also invite dirt, hair, bugs and germs onto the bed sheets. If you insist on letting your dog or cat sleep on your bed, make sure to wash your bed sheets weekly, check your pets for fleas and bathe them regularly for a clean sleeping environment.
6) Flip Your Mattress
Sleeping in the same position every night can cause your mattress to dip in the middle overtime and provide less support during the night. It is recommended to flip your mattress every 3 to 6 months to prevent severe sagging on one side and to get the most out of your mattress. However, it’s worth noting that not every mattress can be rotated. For instance, some foam mattresses are only one-sided, so ensure your mattress is double-sided for continuous support.
Replace With A Quality Mattress From UK Bed Store
You can clean and flip your mattress as many times as you want, but when it gets to a point where it has wear and tear or is no longer supportive, it’s time to replace it. UK Bed Store is home to a range of quality mattresses by leading manufacturers. From coil spring and pocket spring to memory foam, latex and combination mattresses, our range is available in small single to super king sizes to suit all beds and bedrooms. If you are also looking for a new bed frame, we also offer a range of divan beds. For more information on delivery or if you have a question about our mattresses, please get in touch today.