How to Clean a Mattress: 9 Steps

Unlike bedding, mattresses cannot be cleaned in a washing machine thanks to their bulky size. This leaves us wondering how to properly clean a mattress. However, a mattress that is not cleaned regularly is likely to be infested with dust mites. In this article, we will introduce you to nine easy steps to clean your mattress and keep it free from dust mites.

Step 1: Gather Cleaning Supplies

• Washing machine
• Vacuum cleaner
• Baking soda
• White vinegar
• Rubbing alcohol
• Alkaline solution or soapy water
• Towels
• Unused toothbrush
• A basin of clean water
• Hydrogen peroxide solution with a concentration of 3% or more

Step 2: Strip the Mattress

Before you begin cleaning, make sure that your mattress is as exposed as possible. Most mattresses have a layer of protective covering, which must be removed before cleaning. You can start by moving the mattress slightly away from the bed frame to access all corners and check for any remaining coverings.

Step 3: Clean Bedding and Sheets

Wash all the bedding and sheets separately in a washing machine using normal settings. This will ensure that they are thoroughly cleaned and free from any dust mites. If the textiles are delicate and require specialized care, it is recommended to take them to a professional laundromat.

Step 4: Vacuum the Mattress

Use a vacuum cleaner to clean the entire mattress thoroughly. This will remove any dust, dead skin cells, and other skin or insect debris that may have accumulated on the surface of the mattress. Be sure to pay extra attention to crevices and gaps where dirt may be hiding.

Step 5: Spot Clean Stains

For damp stains on the mattress, sprinkle baking soda evenly over the affected area and let it sit for at least two hours. If your mattress has not been cleaned in a long time, you can leave it for longer. Then use a vacuum cleaner to remove the baking soda and absorb any moisture or liquid stains on the mattress. For stubborn stains, refer to the additional knowledge section below for specialized cleaning methods.

Step 6: Deodorize the Mattress

Sprinkle baking soda evenly over the surface of the mattress and let it sit for half an hour until the odor is eliminated. Then use a vacuum cleaner to remove all the baking soda from the surface of the mattress.

Step 7: Flip and Repeat

This is the easiest method to ensure that your mattress is cleaned regularly. Every time you change your bedding, flip the mattress over and repeat the above steps until both sides of the mattress are thoroughly cleaned.

Step 8: Clean the Bed Frame

Once you have cleaned the mattress, move it to an open, ventilated area with someone's help. Use a vacuum cleaner and cloth to clean the bed frame thoroughly. If your bed frame is made of wood, it is recommended to use a vacuum cleaner to remove any debris on the surface and then wipe it with a dry cloth to avoid water damage. For metal or other materials, try not to clean them directly with water. Instead, use a damp cloth followed by a dry cloth.

Step 9: Restore Everything

After cleaning the bed frame, place the mattress back on top of it immediately. If possible, cover it with a clean mattress cover and place a comfortable bed sheet on top.

How to Effectively Clean Different Mattress Stains

1. Mold Stains

If your mattress is moldy due to high humidity, use a concentrated soapy solution to scrub the affected area and wipe it with a damp cloth several times. Replace white vinegar with vinegar for the same effect. To ensure that all mold is removed, spray some disinfectant after cleaning and leave it in the sun for a while until the disinfectant evaporates before using it again.

If your mattress is seriously moldy, we recommend that you should replace a new mattress. Because you would never know how big the moldy area inside the mattress is, and it will negatively impact your health and overall hygiene of your room.

2. Beverage Stains

For beverage stains on your mattress, use rubbing alcohol to remove them. The ethanol in rubbing alcohol dissolves organic substances found in beverages such as cola and juice. To prevent further staining, use a highly absorbent towel dipped in rubbing alcohol to wipe the affected area.

3. Urine Stains

For urine stains on your mattress, spray diluted white vinegar on the affected area and let it sit for at least an hour before using a damp cloth to press and clean it gently with cold water. Do not wipe or rub vigorously as this may cause stains to spread. If cleaning with a damp cloth is not effective, use a toothbrush to scrub away stubborn stains in small areas before drying with a hairdryer.

4. Blood Stains

For fresh blood stains, place an absorbent washcloth on top of the stain and let it sit for about 10 minutes before soaking it in an alkaline solution or soapy water and pressing gently. Rinse several times with cold water and air dry. For stubborn blood stains, spray hydrogen peroxide solution with a concentration of 3% or more on the surface of the stain until it foams up, then rinse with cold water and dry with a clean towel.

5. Vomit Stains

If you accidentally vomit on your mattress, use a dry towel to absorb as much liquid as possible before sprinkling baking soda on top of the affected area for half a day or longer until all liquid is absorbed. Use a vacuum cleaner to remove all baking soda from the surface of the mattress before air drying.

6. Oil Stains

For fresh oil stains, use a specialized dry cleaning spray for immediate removal. For stubborn oil stains, use gasoline or banana water first before using dry cleaning spray for better results.

7. Unknown Stains

For unknown stains on your mattress, spray citrus-based detergent on top of the stain and wait for five minutes before using an absorbent white cloth to press down gently until all detergent is absorbed. Do not wipe or rub vigorously as this may cause stains to spread.

How Often Should You Clean Your Mattress?

For traditional mattresses that do not have designated top or bottom sides, flip them over every three to six months for even wear and tear. For mattresses that have designated top and bottom sides, rotate them 180 degrees every three to six months for even wear and tear while cleaning them at the same time.

_{Take Care of Your Mattress Corners}

Do not sit or lie on the edge of your mattress for extended periods as this may cause damage to its four corners where edge springs are most vulnerable. When moving your mattress, avoid bending or folding it as this may cause excessive deformation that affects its lifespan.

Conclusion

Cleaning your mattress regularly is crucial for maintaining good health and hygiene in your bedroom. Follow these nine simple steps to keep your mattress clean and free from dust mites and other harmful substances. If you have any creative ideas or suggestions, feel free to contact us anytime as we love hearing from our readers!

Mattresses

Toppers

Pillows