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A third of our life is spent sleeping. This makes your mattress a significant part of your life and, surprisingly, your health. Yet, when was the last time you gave your mattress a good, deep clean?
Just like any other item in your house, your mattress accumulates dust, dirt, dead skin cells, and even the dreaded dust mites, all of which can interfere with a good night’s sleep and affect your health.
Our journey to explore the “how to deep clean a mattress at home” starts here – let’s dive in!
Why Deep Clean Your Mattress?
Deep cleaning your mattress isn’t just about keeping it looking good. It’s about ensuring a healthier sleep environment. Dust mites, allergens, and bacteria find a cozy home in the warm crevices of your bed, contributing to health issues like asthma, allergies, and eczema.
Regular deep cleaning helps mitigate these risks, extending not only the life of your mattress but potentially improving your sleep quality and overall health.
Professional Mattress Cleaning Techniques
Steam Cleaning: A Hot Solution
Professionals often start with steam cleaning. This method uses high-temperature steam to kill bacteria and dust mites, providing a chemical-free disinfection. While steam cleaning is effective for surface-level cleaning and disinfection, it may not be the ultimate solution for deeply embedded dirt.
Mattress Shampooing: More Than Just Surface Clean
Shampooing goes a step further by treating the entire mattress with a cleaning solution. The process involves applying shampoo and then extracting it, pulling out more deeply lodged dirt. However, patience is a virtue here, as the mattress needs time to dry thoroughly afterward.
Deep Extraction: The Professional's Choice
For a thorough clean that reaches deep into the mattress fibers, professionals turn to deep extraction techniques. Specialized equipment is used to remove dust, dirt, and allergens without wetting the mattress, ensuring it remains dry and extends its lifespan.
DIY Mattress Cleaning: Step-by-Step Guide
Not ready to call in the pros? Here’s how you can give your mattress a deep clean at home:
Gather Your Cleaning Supplies
You’ll need a vacuum with an upholstery attachment, baking soda, a mild detergent, and cold water for spot cleaning.
The Cleaning Process
Take a note of the following supplies you need for a carpet clean:
- Strip the Bed: Remove all bedding and wash in hot water to kill dust mites and remove allergens.
- Vacuum Thoroughly: Paying special attention to seams and crevices, vacuum the entire mattress surface to remove dust and debris.
- Spot Clean Stains: Apply a mild detergent and water solution to any stains, blotting gently to remove.
- Deodorize: Sprinkle baking soda over the entire mattress and leave it for several hours to absorb odors.
- Vacuum Again: Once the baking soda has done its job, vacuum the mattress again to remove the baking soda and any loosened dirt.
When to Call in the Professionals
1. Persistent Deep Stains:
When stains have settled deeply into the mattress fabric and remain after several DIY cleaning attempts.
2. Mold Issues:
If you notice mold growth on your mattress, which poses health risks and requires professional remediation.
3. Severe Allergies:
When the presence of dust mites, pet dander, or other allergens in the mattress exacerbates allergy symptoms, indicating the need for a deep, professional clean.
4. Unpleasant Odors:
If your mattress has developed persistent, unpleasant odors that home remedies can’t eliminate, professionals can use specialized treatments to freshen it up.
5. Post-Incident Cleaning:
Following significant spills, accidents, or if the mattress was affected by water damage, professional services are essential to thoroughly clean and sanitize the mattress.
Maintenance Tips for a Fresh Mattress
Keeping your mattress clean doesn’t end with a deep clean. Regular maintenance is key to ensuring it stays fresh and extends its life.
Use a Mattress Protector
A mattress protector is an unsung hero, guarding against spills, stains, and the accumulation of dust and dander. Opt for a breathable, waterproof protector to shield your mattress effectively without affecting your comfort.
Regular Vacuuming
Make it a habit to vacuum your mattress every time you change your sheets. This simple step can remove dust and allergens, keeping your sleeping environment clean and hygienic.
Rotate and Flip
Rotating and flipping your mattress every 3-6 months ensures even wear and tear, preventing dips and sagging that can affect your sleep quality.
Spot Cleaning Spills Immediately
Accidents happen, but how you respond can make all the difference. Blot any spills immediately with a clean cloth and use mild cleaning solutions to treat the area, preventing stains from setting in.
Recognizing When It's Time for a New Mattress
Even with meticulous care, every mattress has its lifespan. Here are signs that it might be time to consider a replacement:
Visible Sagging or Lumps
If your mattress shows significant sagging or you can feel lumps, it’s a clear sign that its structure is compromised, affecting your sleep quality.
You Wake Up Sore
A good mattress should support your body comfortably. If you start waking up with back pain or stiffness, it could be due to an old or unsupportive mattress.
Increased Allergy or Asthma Symptoms
An old mattress can accumulate allergens and dust mites over time, potentially worsening allergy or asthma symptoms. If you notice a significant increase in symptoms, your mattress might be the culprit.
It’s Been 7-10 Years
Most mattresses have a lifespan of 7-10 years. If yours is within this age range and you’re noticing a decline in comfort or support, it might be time to start shopping for a new one.
Wrapping Up
Maintaining a clean mattress is crucial for ensuring healthy, restful sleep, impacting both well-being and quality of life. Whether opting for DIY or professional cleaning, it’s a step towards better health and comfort.
Now informed on keeping your mattress pristine, consider whether it’s time for a deep clean or even a replacement to enhance your sleeping experience. Reach out to us for quick quotes, appointments and further details.
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