Mattress Care | A complete guide for cleaning and Disposing off

Introduction

A clean and hygienic mattress is an important factor for a good night’s sleep. Dust mites, allergens, and bacteria can cause discomfort and interrupt your sleep which directly leads to tiredness and fatigue throughout the day. For both hygiene and durability, keeping your mattress clean is vital. Sweat, pet hair, skin cells, and dust mites can gather over time, which can cause allergies and odors. 

How to Clean a Mattress

Here is some good news for you, cleaning a mattress is easier than you may think. Here’s a step-by-step guide on cleaning different types of mattresses:

Wash the Bedding

Initially, you will need to strip the bed and wash the pillowcases,  sheets, and blankets. Check the tag on your pillows to see if you can wash these in the machine. If possible, wash bedding in hot water to remove dust mites. It’s also essential to follow the instruction manual to prevent potential fading or shrinkage. We suggested washing sheets weekly which will help to keep your mattress clean.

Assess the Damage

The best method to clean a mattress usually depends on how dirty it is and which type of stains are present. The procedure to clean your mattress daily will be different from the technique used to remove a stain or spill. You will need to check closely your mattress for stains, smells, discoloration, and other signs that will tell us about the particular area that needs special attention.

Gather Supplies

To clean your mattress properly, you will need to collect the following supplies:

• Baking soda
• Cold water
• Rags or towels 
• Dish soap, or an enzyme cleaner
• A lenient, bleach-free, and scentless laundry detergent
• Vacuum cleaner with upholstery attachment

You should be careful while using soaps and cleaning products on your mattress. Don’t use anything too hard that could destroy the sensitive fabric of your mattress. Consider that it’s tough to eliminate detergents from a mattress completely that’s why you should need to choose products with a mild scent.

4. Vacuum Thoroughly

Use your vacuum with an upholstery attachment and clean the whole area of the mattress. Ensure to vacuum the edges of the bed to eliminate dust, and stretch the fabric to wipe out waste from seams.

5. Spot-Clean Where Needed

Check stains and discoloration areas. Clean these areas carefully by using the following procedure:

• Initially, apply a small quantity of cleaning solution to a clean cloth.
• Blot the stained surface with the cloth softly. 
• Then apply cold water to a different clean cloth.
• Blot the stained surface softly with the water-soaked cloth.
• Repeat this procedure if essential, until the stain is removed.

Use a small amount of cleaning solution. To apply and remove the solution, use a clean rag. For different stains, you should use different solutions but the procedure remains the same. Sometimes it takes several attempts to remove the stain completely.

6. Apply Baking Soda

Apply a thin layer of baking soda across the whole area of the mattress when the visible stains are removed and the mattress cover is dry. It helps to soak up moisture and neutralize odor.

All you have to do is let the baking soda remain on the mattress for a few hours or longer. Then open your windows for ventilation.

7. Vacuum Thoroughly

After applying baking soda, vacuum it up with the help of the upholstery attachment. You may need to do again steps six and seven again if the mattress is very dirty.

8. Flip and Repeat

After flipping the mattress over, go back to steps 4 through 7. Although there probably won’t be any visible stains on the underside of your mattress, it can still be abundant dust, moisture, etc. Even if your mattress fails to be flipped over, you may still clean the bottom; just be careful and don’t put too much pressure on it.

Cleaning Specific Mattress Types:

For different mattress types, here are some precautions:

1. Memory Foam Mattress:

• For memory foam mattresses, use minimal moisture and be cautious with water.
• Clean the spot with a damp cloth and mild detergent.

2. Innerspring:

• Observe seams and edges where dirt can accumulate.
• Vacuum entirely, and spot clean as needed.

3. Latex:

• Prevent harsh chemicals; adhere to a mild soap solution.
• Ensure complete drying to avoid mold growth.

4. Pillow Top Mattress:

• Treat stains of pillow top mattresses fast to prevent them from setting.
• Use extra care during cleaning to avoid damaging the pillow’s top layer.

How to Get Urine Out of a Mattress When Dry

Here is the procedure to get urine out of a mattress when dry:

1. Firstly, strip the bed and load all your bedding in the washing machine immediately.
2. Collect the necessary materials. You must require baking soda, white vinegar, water, a vacuum, a spray bottle, and some cleaning towels.
3. With the use of a cleaning towel or paper towel, blot the wet areas gently to absorb as much liquid as possible. Avoid scrubbing or rubbing the mattress as this could cause the pee to absorb further into the bed.
4. Make a solution of water with distilled vinegar, and fill a spray bottle.
5. Then spray the area affected with your vinegar solution.
6. Again, use towels to blot away extra wetness. 
7. Sprinkle a thick layer of baking soda over the surface.
8. Allow the baking soda to stay on the mattress for at least 8 hours.
9. After removing the baking soda with a vacuum, check the mattress to look for any traces of stains or urine odors.
10. If needed, carry out steps 5 through 9 again to remove the stains and odors completely.

Due to this process, the urine smell from a mattress will mostly be removed, and avoid persistent stains. Make sure you use an appropriate amount of baking soda and give it enough time to absorb all of the extra moisture.

Preventive measures for future accidents:

The best method to prevent stains and odors from collecting on your mattress is to ensure it’s protected properly. We suggested using a mattress protector that is waterproof and of high quality.

Washing your sheets and other bedding daily helps to protect your mattress from accumulating unpleasant odors. It’s our suggestion to wash sheets and pillowcases one time a week.

How to Remove Stains from a Mattress

Regular mattress cleaning will extend its life as well as protect you against allergens, bacteria, and a variety of other unwanted sleeping companions.

Specific solutions for common stains:

Here’s a method to remove different types of stains:

Removal of  Blood Stains:

These are common mattress stains. When you clean off blood from sheets and your mattress, wear gloves.

• In a spray bottle, put a mixture of 50% cold water and 50% white vinegar.
• By using a clean dry cloth, blot the stain.
• Spray the mixture, then allow it to dry.
• Repeat this procedure if needed.

Removal of Sweat Stains:

To treat the sweat stains, use the following process:

• A mixture of hydrogen peroxide, liquid dish soap, and water in equal parts.
• Put in essential oils if required.
• In a spray bottle, shake up.
• Then blot the stain if wet.
• Let it remain for 20 minutes after spraying it.
• Use a clean, dry rag to blot once again.
• After sprinkling it with baking soda, leave it overnight.
• Remove any leftover baking soda by vacuum. 

Removal of Yellow Stains:

Yellow stains on mattresses can be caused by various means. You should treat yellow stains like urine stains. It might be caused as a result of oxidation that happens naturally as the mattress ages and can indicate that it’s time to buy a new mattress if they do not come out after repeated treatment.

Tips for maintaining a stain-free mattress:

Maintaining a stain-free mattress is necessary for a healthy and comfortable sleep. Here are some tips for maintaining a stain-free mattress:

• Use a Mattress Protector: Invest in a high-quality mattress protector to act as a barrier between your body and the mattress. This waterproof cover will prevent stains,  spills, and dust mites from sticking out the mattress.
• Wash Bedding Daily: Wash your pillowcases, sheets, and mattress protector daily to avoid any possible stains. This helps to detach oils, sweat, and other materials that may shift to the mattress.
• Act Quickly: If a spill occurs, clean it instantly. The longer a stain remains, the more it becomes difficult to remove. Use a clean cloth or paper towel to blot the stain and soak up the liquid.
• Avoid Eating in Bed: If you eat in bed then it maximizes the spills and stains risk. To decrease the accidents chance, you must try to keep food and beverages in particular areas.
• Vacuum Regularly: Use a vacuum cleaner with an upholstery attachment to separate dirt, dust, and waste from the mattress area. It can help to prevent particles from settling and causing stains.
• Sunlight and Fresh Air: Display your mattress to sunlight and fresh air regularly. This may help to get rid of smells and stop bacteria growth.
• Manufacturer’s Instructions: Follow the care instructions provided by the mattress manufacturer. Different materials might be required for specific cleaning techniques, and utilizing the wrong items could harm the mattress.
• Use Mild Cleaning Solutions: Use mild cleaning solutions if you want to clean a stain. Make a mixture of a small amount of detergent with water or use a solution of water and white vinegar in equal parts. Firstly, test a small and unnoticeable surface to make sure that it won’t destroy the fabric.
• Rotate and Flip: Rotate and flip your mattress frequently to ensure even wear. By doing this, you can avoid deep-set impressions and make the mattress less vulnerable to stains.
• Keep Pets Away: Pets should generally not sleep on beds. Pet accidents can leave behind difficult-to-remove stains and smells.

How to Deep Clean a Mattress

Deep cleaning of the mattress is an important part of keeping a healthy sleep environment. Here’s a complete guide with specialized techniques for thorough mattress cleaning, including dealing with stubborn stains and odors:

Materials Needed:

• Baking soda
• Hydrogen peroxide
• White vinegar
• Mild dish soap
• Essential oil (optional)
• Clean cloths or paper towels
• An old toothbrush or soft brush
• Waterproof mattress protector

Instructions:

Some instructions to follow:

• Strip the Bed: Remove all bedding, including pillowcases, sheets, and mattress protectors. Wash each of these items separately.
• Vacuum the Mattress: Vacuum the mattress by using a vacuum cleaner with an upholstery attachment. Remove dust, debris, and loose particles.
• Spot Clean Stains: For stubborn stains, use a mixture of hydrogen peroxide and mild dish soap in equal portions. Spread the solution onto the stain using a clean cloth. Blot the stain gently, working from the outside to inward, to prevent spreading. Allow it to air dry.
• Treat Odors: Spray baking soda across the whole mattress area. Then add a few drops of essential oil to the baking soda for a fragrance. Let it remain for many hours or overnight to absorb odors.
• Vacuum Again: Then vacuum the mattress thoroughly to remove both the baking soda and the absorbed odors.
• Handle Biological Stains: If dealing with biological stains (blood, urine, etc.), test a small, unnoticeable surface and then apply the solution to the stain. Blot by using a clean cloth and keep it in the air dry.
• Deodorize with Vinegar: Spray the mattress lightly with white vinegar. Vinegar is a natural deodorizer. Let the mattress air dry completely.
• Brush and Vacuum Edges: Use an old toothbrush or a soft brush to scrub the corners and seams of the mattress. Vacuum the brushed areas to separate any loosened particles.
• Flip and Rotate (if applicable): If your mattress is flippable, flip and rotate it to ensure even wear. This can also assist in exposing both sides to the cleaning treatments.
• Use a Waterproof Mattress Protector: Use a waterproof mattress protector to prevent future stains and spills. 
• Air Out the Mattress: Leave the mattress in a well-ventilated room to air out for a few hours if possible.
• Make the Bed: When the mattress dry completely, make the bed with clean sheets and bedding.

How to Clean a Memory Foam Mattress

Follow these easy instructions to remove any stains and freshen up your memory foam mattress. 

1. Check the care instructions

Every memory foam mattress has different care instructions, so check the care instructions. The reason is that the manufacturer will suggest the best cleaning process for your specific mattress.

2. Wash your mattress cover

Most removable covers can easily be washed by machine. However, if your mattress has no cover, follow the next steps to spot-clean any stains.

3. Clean stains with laundry detergent and water

Avoid getting your memory foam mattress too wet when washing stains because this can damage the foam filling inside. Spray slightly warm water onto the stain and blot it with a wet cloth.

4. Try not to let stains dry

If possible, try to remove the stains when they are still wet because this makes them easier to remove. Clean the mattress with a wet cloth and try to absorb as much liquid as possible. 

5. Vacuum regularly

Vacuum your mattress when you exchange your sheets. The reason is that it removes any dust, dirt, hair, and dead skin cells which provides you with a clean area. This is helpful for those who suffer from allergies.

6. Let your mattress air-dry

After cleaning,  you should try to give it an air dry. It will prevent it from being wet for a longer period. It’s necessary to make it dry before putting any bedding.

7. Scatter baking soda to keep it fresh

If you want your mattress to smell fresh, try scattering baking soda across the area. Make sure to cover the entire mattress and leave it for a few hours. After that vacuum the leftover baking soda and this will make it odorless.

8. Wash sheets and bedding 

Wash your bedding frequently and sheets by using high heat can kill bacteria and dust mites. By doing this, you may prolong the life of your mattress while keeping it clean.

How to Dispose of a Mattress

Disposing of a mattress in an environmentally friendly manner involves recycling options and adhering to local regulations. Here’s a guide to help you dispose of your mattress:

1. Check Local Regulations:

• Research local laws and regulations regarding mattress disposal. Some areas have particular rules to prevent illegal disposal.

2. Donate or Sell:

• If the mattress is in good condition, think about donating it to charities, shelters, or organizations that allow used mattresses.
• Another option is to try selling it online through platforms like Facebook Marketplace, or local classifieds.

3. Recycling Centers:

• Search for mattress recycling facilities in your province. Many parts of a mattress, such as foam, metal springs, and fabric, can be recycled.
• Contact local recycling centers and check online directories to find facilities that accept mattresses.

4. Manufacturer Take-Back Programs:

• Check with the mattress manufacturer if they have a return or recycling program. Some companies provide recycling services for their products.

5. Mattress Recycling Council (MRC):

• The Mattress Recycling Council conducts programs for mattress recycling in some areas. Visit their website to find information on recycling facilities and drop-off locations.

6. Municipal Pickup Services:

• Some municipalities offer special pickup services for large items like mattresses. Research your local waste management or sanitation department for details.

7. DIY Recycling:

• If recycling facilities are not easily available, consider stripping the mattress yourself. Separate materials like metal, foam, wood, and fabric, and dispose of them under local regulations.

8. Landfill as a Last Resort:

• If no other options are accessible, and landfill disposal is the only choice, check local guidelines for proper preparation and disposal. Some landfills have specific requirements for the disposal of mattresses.

9. Hire a Mattress Disposal Service:

• Contact those companies that specialize in mattress disposal and recycling. These companies usually pick up the mattress from your location and ensure proper disposal.

10. Upcycle or Repurpose:

• Try creative methods to recycle the mattress, like using the materials for DIY projects or re-using it in your home.

Important Considerations:

• Always give priority to legal disposal methods to prevent fines or penalties.
• Be careful of illegal disposal because it can harm the environment and result in legal outcomes.
• Keep a record of disposal receipts or documentation, specifically if using a recycling facility or service.

How Often Should You Replace Your Mattress

Knowing when to replace your mattress is an important factor for maintaining a comfortable sleep environment. Here are some instructions:

Average Lifespan:

• The average lifespan of a mattress varies which depends on the type and quality. Generally,  most mattresses are between 7 to 10 years old. Although, this can be shorter or longer based on factors like mattress type, usage, and care.

Assess Comfort and Support:

• Take note of how your mattress feels. If you’re feeling discomfort like sagging, loss of support, or the development of lumps and bumps, then it is time for a replacement.

Changes in Sleep Quality:

• If you notice a decline in your sleep quality, waking up with aches and pains, or feeling more restless nights, it could be an indication that your mattress is no longer giving sufficient support.

Visible Wear and Tear:

• Examine your mattress daily for clear signs of wear and tear, such as sagging, indentations, or sticking springs. If you feel these issues, it’s a sign for you that your mattress is coming towards the end of its life.

Allergies and Irritations:

• After some time, mattresses can collect allergens like dust mites. If you’re suffering from allergy symptoms or irritations, it can be an indication that your mattress needs replacement.

Changes in Lifestyle:

• Major life changes, such as weight gain or loss, can directly affect the support your mattress gives. Think about replacing your mattress if your body’s requirements have significantly changed.

Partner Disturbance:

• If you share your bed and realize increased motion transfer or disturbance when your partner moves, it may be a sign that the mattress is no longer efficiently isolating motion.

How Long Does a Mattress Last:

Understanding the following features will help you make informed decisions about when to replace your mattress.

Innerspring Mattresses:

• These mattresses normally have a lifespan of about 8 years. The durability can be affected by the quality of materials used and the coil count.

Memory Foam Mattresses:

• These mattresses can last between 10 to 15 years. Higher-density memory foam tends to be more durable, but its overall longevity can be affected by temperature and humidity.

Latex Mattresses:

• These mattresses are known for their durability and can last between 12 to 20 years. Natural latex tends to resist synthetic latex.

Hybrid Mattresses:

• Hybrid mattresses, combining innerspring and foam or latex layers, normally last between 10 to 15 years. The lifespan may vary depending on the materials used.

Factors Affecting Mattress Durability:

The following factors affect the mattress’s durability:

Quality of Materials:

• Higher-quality materials usually result in a more durable mattress. Search for reputable brands and mattresses with good reviews.

Usage and Care:

• Proper care, such as using a mattress protector, regular cleaning, and rotating or flipping (if necessary), can increase the life of a mattress.

Body Weight:

• Heavier persons may put more pressure on a mattress, possibly reducing its lifespan. Consider mattresses made for heavier weights for greater durability.

Environmental Factors:

• Exposure to intense temperatures, humidity, or direct sunlight can impact the longevity of a mattress. Use mattress protectors and maintain a suitable environment.

Frequency of Use:

• Mattresses in guest rooms or spare bedrooms may have a longer lifespan than those in sleeping areas due to less frequent use.

Conclusion:

Maintaining a clean and well-cared mattress is necessary for both hygiene and sleep quality. Regular cleaning, quick stain removal, and proper disposal support the overall longevity of your mattress. By following all these instructions, you can enjoy a comfortable and healthy sleep environment for years to come.