How to Keep Your Mattress Clean and Fresh

We wash our sheets regularly, but the mattress beneath them can go years without any attention. Yet it absorbs sweat and dust every night. Here is how to keep it fresh, and how to know when it needs professional help.

Start with a protector

A washable mattress protector is the easiest step you can take. It forms a barrier against sweat, spills and accidents. Choose a breathable one, and wash it every month or so.

Change your bedding regularly

Wash sheets and pillowcases weekly. Wash duvets and pillows according to their care labels, or have them cleaned every few months.

Let your bed breathe

Pull back the covers for a little while after you get up, and open a window. This allows moisture to escape, which helps to keep your mattress fresh.

Vacuum it

Every month or two, vacuum the surface, seams and sides with an upholstery attachment. This removes dust and skin flakes before they can build up.

Rotate your mattress

Turn the mattress end to end every three to six months, so that it wears evenly. Flip it only if the manufacturer says that you can.

Dealing with spills and accidents

1. Remove the bedding.
2. Blot as much as you can with a dry cloth.
3. Dab with a little mild detergent and cool water.
4. Blot with a clean damp cloth.
5. Sprinkle baking soda to absorb moisture and smells.
6. Vacuum once it is dry.

Do not soak the mattress. Foam dries slowly, and trapped moisture can lead to odors and mould.

Dealing with musty smells

Air the mattress in a well-ventilated room or in the sunshine if you can. Baking soda can help with mild smells. If they persist, there may be a moisture problem.

Place it correctly

Use a suitable bed frame, and avoid placing a mattress directly on a concrete floor, especially in cool, damp rooms. Trapped moisture is a common cause of mould in the rainy season.

How often should a mattress be professionally cleaned?

Every 6 to 12 months is a sensible guide. Consider it sooner if:

• You have children or pets who share your bed
• Someone in the home has been ill
• You have moved into a furnished home
• The mattress has stains or smells
• You run an Airbnb or guest house

When to replace a mattress

Cleaning cannot fix a sagging or lumpy mattress. If you wake up sore, or if you can feel the springs, it may be time for a new one. Many mattresses last around 7 to 10 years, but it depends on the quality.

Different mattresses, different care

Foam mattresses are the most common in Kenyan homes. They absorb moisture and dry slowly, so they should never be soaked. Spring mattresses need turning to avoid sagging, and they should be protected from damp, which can affect the metal inside. Memory foam should be kept away from heavy pressure, and it may not need flipping. Follow the manufacturer's instructions if you have them.

Children's mattresses and accidents

Young children and accidents go together. A waterproof yet breathable protector will save you a lot of trouble. Keep a second one on hand for night-time changes. If an accident reaches the mattress, blot right away, clean with a little mild detergent and allow it to dry well before making the bed. If you notice a smell, a professional clean can help.

Mattresses in guest houses and hostels

Mattresses used by many different people need a clear routine. Use protectors on every bed, and inspect seams for signs of bed bugs between guests. Air the rooms regularly. Keep a record of which mattresses have been cleaned, and plan batches for periods when occupancy is low. Replace any that are sagging or damaged, as they will soon appear in your reviews.

Frequently asked questions

How do I check for bed bugs?

Look at the seams and corners for small brown insects, tiny dark spots or pale shells. If you find signs, act quickly and arrange proper pest control.

Can a mattress be cleaned in the sun?

Sun and fresh air help to air a mattress and reduce moisture. Avoid leaving it on dirty ground, and do not wet it before airing.

Does cleaning remove dust mites?

Vacuuming and regular washing of bedding reduce dust and dust mite build-up, although they do not eliminate them completely.

Macky Group provides mattress cleaning for homes, apartments, hotels and other establishments in Nairobi and Thika. Request a free quote today.