How To Clean A Mattress

Don't Let The Bed Bugs Bite!

An Ounce Of Prevention

As with most things, prevention is always easier than the alternative. Mattresses are no different. Before delving into how to clean a mattress wouldn't it be good to no how to prevent doing so? These big, bulky and unwieldy behemoths are a chore to do anything with other than sleep on. So what do you do to extend not only the life of your mattress but also the time between cleanings?

Flip that mattress every six months. Don't just turn it over though; rotate it from top to bottom as well. You will not only extend the time between cleanings; you will also prolong the life of the suspension materials used in the construction of the mattress.

Use a mattress pad and cover to protect the surface of the mattress. You can purchase mattresses pads with integrated anti-mite protection.

Vacuum the mattress periodically to cut down on dust and other allergens.

Pound Of Cure
Eventually even the most fastidious person will wind up with a stain. So don't worry that you are the only one, buck up and get to work. Cleaning your mattress doesn't have to be as big a job as you might think. Careful prep and the right cleaners can make short work of even a king size bed.

General mattress cleaning will require a number of cleaning supplies,

Shop vacuum with upholstery attachment

Upholstery shampoo

Mild Detergent

Water

Sponges

Baking Soda

Citrus Cleaner

Vinegar

Steps to a clean as new mattress,

1. The first thing you should do is a thorough vacuuming of all the dust from the mattress.
2. You will then want to do a general stain removal process using the citrus cleaner. Spray the affected area and blot until the stain is removed. Repeat as necessary on tougher stains.
3. Use the vinegar to treat urine and sweat stains. Dampen a sponge with the vinegar and apply to the stain. Once the stain has been removed pat dry with a paper towel. Repeat step 2 if there is any residual vinegar odor.
4. With a sponge damped with a solution of mild detergent and water, go over the mattress to remove any dust and dirt left after the initial vacuum.
5. Apply upholstery shampoo as directed by the manufacturer.
6. If any remaining odors are present sprinkle with baking soda and let sit for eight hours.
7. Since your mattress may be damp after the cleaning procedures you can dry it using the shop vacuum. This will also remove any residual cleaners or baking soda.

More information on Mattresses