What’s Lurking in Your Mattress? And How to Clean It Properly

When was the last time you cleaned your mattress? If you can't remember, you're not alone. Most people regularly wash their sheets but overlook the mattress itself. However, your mattress is a hidden hotspot for dust, allergens, and even bacteria. In this guide, we'll uncover the shocking facts about mattress hygiene and show you how to clean it properly for a healthier night's sleep.

What’s Lurking in Your Mattress?

1. Dust Mites

These microscopic creatures feed on dead skin cells and thrive in warm, humid environments—like your bed. While they’re harmless to most, their waste can trigger allergies and asthma.

2. Dead Skin Cells

The average person sheds about 1.5 grams of skin each day, much of which ends up in your mattress, creating a feast for dust mites.

3. Sweat and Body Oils

Over time, sweat and oils seep through your sheets into the mattress, leading to stains, odors, and bacterial growth.

4. Bacteria and Fungi

Studies have found that mattresses can harbor bacteria like Staphylococcus and fungi, which can cause infections or aggravate allergies.

5. Pet Dander and Hair

If you share your bed with pets, you're adding fur, dander, and possibly even flea dirt to the mix.

6. Mold and Mildew

Moisture from sweat, spills, or humidity can lead to mold growth, especially in poorly ventilated mattresses.

Signs Your Mattress Needs Cleaning

• Unpleasant or musty odors

• Visible stains or yellowing

• Increased allergy symptoms (sneezing, itchy eyes)

• Dust buildup when patting the mattress

• Waking up feeling stuffy or congested

How Often Should You Clean Your Mattress?

• Deep Clean: Every 6 months

• Spot Clean: As needed for spills or stains

• Vacuum: Monthly to remove dust and allergens

• Flip/Rotate: Every 3-6 months to prevent sagging

Step-by-Step Mattress Cleaning Routine

1. Strip the Bed Completely

Remove all bedding, including sheets, pillowcases, mattress protectors, and toppers. Wash them in hot water to kill dust mites and bacteria.

2. Vacuum Thoroughly

Use the upholstery attachment on your vacuum cleaner to remove dust, hair, and debris. Pay attention to:

• Seams and crevices

• Sides and edges

• Underneath the mattress (if accessible)

3. Spot Clean Stains

For Fresh Stains:

• Blot with a clean cloth to absorb as much liquid as possible.

• Mix mild dish soap with cold water.

• Dab the stain gently (don’t rub!) with a sponge.

• Blot again with a dry cloth.

For Stubborn Stains:

• Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle.

• Lightly mist the stain.

• Blot with a clean cloth until the stain lifts.

4. Deodorize with Baking Soda

Sprinkle a generous layer of baking soda over the entire mattress. Let it sit for at least 4-6 hours (or overnight for best results) to absorb odors.

• For added freshness, mix a few drops of essential oil (like lavender) with the baking soda.

5. Vacuum Again

After the baking soda has done its job, vacuum the mattress thoroughly to remove all residue.

6. Air It Out

If possible, let your mattress air out near an open window. Fresh air and sunlight help kill bacteria and dust mites naturally.

7. Flip or Rotate

If your mattress is double-sided, flip it. Otherwise, rotate it 180 degrees to ensure even wear.

Bonus Tips for Mattress Maintenance

• Use a Mattress Protector: It acts as a barrier against spills, dust, and allergens.

• Change Bedding Weekly: Reduces the buildup of skin cells, oils, and dust.

• Keep Pets Off the Bed: Or at least use washable pet blankets to minimize dander.

• No Food in Bed: Crumbs attract bugs and can cause stains.

• Maintain Low Humidity: Use a dehumidifier if necessary to prevent mold growth.

When to Replace Your Mattress

Even with regular cleaning, mattresses don’t last forever. Signs it's time to replace yours:

• Sagging or lumps

• Persistent odors

• Worsening allergy symptoms

• Waking up with aches or poor sleep

• Mattress age exceeds 7-10 years

Final Thoughts

Your mattress is where you spend nearly a third of your life, so keeping it clean is vital for your health and well-being. Regular maintenance not only extends its lifespan but also ensures you get a better night's sleep.

Feeling overwhelmed? Let Maids of Livermore handle the deep cleaning for you. Call or text 925-264-9646 to schedule your professional cleaning service today. Sleep soundly knowing your home is fresh and spotless!