Mattresses are not easy things to clean - so this advice from a bed expert will come in handy for householders.
Levon Hall, from Bed Kingdom, has explained the importance of maintaining your mattress and how often you should change it. He has also given some cleaning tips on how to remove stains and help keep your mattress as good as new.
The expert said: "If your mattress is not showing signs of wear and tear, you might think there is no need to replace it. However, it is recommended that a mattress should be replaced every six to eight years.
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"As well as causing muscle, back and joint pain, an uncomfortable mattress can result in a lack of sleep, which has been linked to several other health conditions, such as diabetes, heart disease and high blood pressure. A dirty mattress provides the perfect conditions for bacteria, fungi and dust mites to thrive and reproduce, ultimately impacting your health without you realising."
Below is more advice from Levon on different types of mattresses, how often they should be changed and various ways to clean them.
The lifespan of your mattress
It is important to know the type of mattress you have, as you may be able to extend its shelf life with the right care and maintenance. How often a particular type of mattress needs to be changed depends on the quality of materials used to make it and how well it is cared for. But to give an idea of when yours is due for renewal, below are some of the most common types of mattresses and their typical lifespans.
Innerspring mattresses are common due to their affordable price point. They usually last between five to seven years but can last longer if it is double-sided. This means that it can be flipped over and be used on the other side, to prevent premature sagging, especially if you tend to sleep in the same position every night.
Memory foam mattresses are made from a foam material that contours the body, these are more expensive compared to innerspring, however, they do last longer – up to 10 years. With the correct maintenance and care, a memory foam mattress can last up to 15.
Hybrid mattresses are a fusion of innerspring and memory foam and can last up to 10 years. Another type of mattress is a latex mattress, which is combination of latex foam and either springs or reflex foam. Depending on whether the latex is natural or synthetic, these mattresses can last up to 25 years.
How you can clean your mattress
Air it out
Airing your mattress can reduce the build-up of dust and moisture which can result in mould. To air your mattress, strip the bedding and open your windows for ventilation. Ensure that there is airflow on all sides of the mattress, if you need to prop it up, do so. It can also be placed in direct sunlight to kill off any bacteria.
Vacuum and baking soda
Vacuuming is the quickest way to remove, mites, skin flakes and other allergens. For a deeper clean, sprinkling baking soda before you vacuum and letting it sit can help absorb any moisture and odour.
Spot treatment
Bodily fluids such as sweat, blood and urine can stain. In order to remove this, dilute some laundry detergent or dish soap in lukewarm water, and dab it onto the stain. Using a paper towel or brush, gently agitate the stain until it begins to fade. It is vital to be gentle here as you do not want to damage the mattress.
Vinegar
A solution of two parts water and one part vinegar in a spray bottle can be used to remove odours, and even kill bed bugs. Using the solution with baking soda can also remove stains. It is essential to allow the mattress to dry thoroughly before putting any bedding on.
How you can protect your mattress
Regular maintenance will prolong your mattress’ shelf life, but here is what you can do or buy to help you along the way.
A mattress protector is a great way to protect your mattress from spills, sweat, dust, and debris. They can be easily machine washed and are relatively inexpensive to buy. If you can afford to spend a little more, consider a mattress topper, which does the same job as a protector but adds an extra layer of comfort.
Avoid jumping on the bed, this can damage the foam or springs inside your mattress, ultimately making it uncomfortable to sleep on. Make sure to change your bed sheets regularly, as this will help prevent build-up of dirt, odour and dead skin cells.
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