The mattress is an intimate space that accumulates daily traces of our body, such as sweat and natural oils, as well as millions of dead cells. And if you tend to snack before bedtime, the situation is even more so.
Therefore, the mattress needs to be cleaned regularly. Is there a correct way to do this? There is, and it has been shared by experts for The Guardian.
Although washing it like other textiles is impossible to put into practice, it still needs to be properly maintained, especially in the case of foam mattresses, which are sensitive to moisture.
Why It's Important to Clean Your Mattress
A dirty mattress is not an immediate danger, but dirt build-up can promote mold growth, trigger allergies, and shorten the product's lifespan. Experts recommend cleaning it every six months.
During sleep, the body releases a "cocktail of sweat, oils, and dead cells," and under certain conditions (stress, menopause, or medication), a person can sweat up to a liter per night. Some of these residues inevitably end up in the mattress, creating an environment conducive to bacteria and dust mites.
According to allergist José Costa, "most allergens cause nasal symptoms such as runny nose, sneezing, and stuffy nose," and dust mites are a factor in the development of allergic asthma. The issue is not the dust mites themselves, but their residues: "the proteins in their excrement are what trigger allergic reactions."
Steps for Cleaning the Mattress
The first step is, of course, removing the bedding and washing it at 40-60 degrees Celsius. Next is airing, which is essential. Even a light ventilation helps to eliminate moisture.
The next step is vacuuming, focusing on seams and edges where dust accumulates. However, for wool mattresses, vacuuming is not recommended.
To eliminate odors, baking soda can be a solution. It absorbs moisture and odors if left to act for a few hours. For persistent cases, a combination of diluted vinegar and baking soda can help.
When dealing with stains, the main rule is to avoid excess water. "Do not wet the mattress, as moisture can lead to mold," warns another expert, Erin Parker.
For foam mattresses, shaving foam is suitable due to its low liquid content.
Drying, a Critical Stage
After cleaning, the mattress must be completely dried, ideally in a well-ventilated space or even in the sun. Any trace of moisture can promote unpleasant odors or mold growth.
Experts recommend washing bedding weekly and using a mattress protector. Additionally, daily bed airing helps reduce moisture and dust mite populations.