It's no secret that a high-quality mattress is a significant investment. So, it only makes sense to put in time and effort to properly care for it.
Good quality mattresses typically last around seven to ten years, but bad maintenance can shorten their lifespan. You'd naturally want to prevent this if you want to enjoy your money’s worth. To maximize your mattress and, possibly, keep it for longer, you need to take care of it. So, where do you start?
Read on to learn some basic mattress maintenance tips.
1. Always Protect the Mattress
Use a waterproof mattress protector starting from day one—it's non-negotiable. A high-quality mattress protector shields spills, sweat, dust mites, and allergens. These things can accumulate over time if the mattress is left unprotected, making it dirty and smelly, and potentially causing allergy symptoms.
There are two main designs for mattress protectors. Fitted mattress protectors are similar to fitted sheets and are cost-effective and easy to use. However, they only protect the tops and sides of the mattress. Encasement mattress protectors cover the entire mattress with a zipper enclosure, offering more protection against dust and common allergens. But they are typically more expensive and can be harder to put on and take off.
Note that a mattress pad and a mattress topper aren't the same as a mattress protector. While they may provide some level of protection, they're primarily designed for comfort. So, if you have to choose, you might want to pass on the mattress pad or topper for now and go for a high-quality protector instead.
The Naturepedic® mattress protector is made of 100% cotton and is completely waterproof. It achieves its waterproofing by tightly weaving a fine thread of cotton that prevents water from passing through. Unlike many others made of vinyl or PVC, this protector is crafted from organic cotton for a soft, cool, and gentle experience.
2. Ensure the Foundation Is Solid
Even the perfect mattress can only go as far as the quality of the bed frame—a solid bed frame plays a crucial role in extending the lifespan of your mattress.
A flimsy, unstable bed frame can't properly support the weight of the mattress. Over time, the instability can lead to increased stress on the internal structure of the mattress. As a result, the coils may deteriorate more rapidly from inconsistent support, while the foam can lose shape over time.
Solid bed frames help evenly distribute your weight on the mattress, keeping its shape intact for a longer time. Plus, they work together with the mattress to deliver proper body support while you sleep, which is important for your overall well-being.
3. Rotate and Flip if Possible
Rotating and flipping your mattress (depending on mattress type) helps distribute wear and tear more evenly. Think about how you sleep in the same spot every night. One area would eventually compress more than the rest, leading to a saggy dip.
Mattresses were typically dipped and rotated every free month. Today's modern mattresses, particularly one-sided models, might only need rotating at 180 degrees every three to six months to distribute evenly. This not only helps a mattress last longer but also ensures you get consistent support across the entire sleeping surface.
4. Vacuum on Schedule
Aim to vacuum your mattress at least twice a year to help prevent a build-up of dust, dirt, allergens, and sweat. Pay special attention to the seams where the dirt usually gathers.
For better cleaning, use baking soda to deodorize the mattress before vacuuming. This is a classic way to prevent bad odor from developing in your mattress. Simply sprinkle a layer of baking soda on the mattress and let it sit for at least two hours. Then, vacuum up the baking soda using a handheld vacuum cleaner with an upholstery brush.
Establish a schedule to vacuum your mattress when you rotate it. This ensures you don't forget and helps you develop proper care habits for its upkeep.
The Modern Platform Bed Frame from T.Y. Fine Furniture is designed to fit standard bed sizes, withstand daily use, and provide sturdy support for both you and your mattress.
5. Spot Clean Spills Promptly
Spot clean spills and stains on your mattress immediately. For starters, fresh stains are much easier to remove. The longer it sits, the deeper it penetrates mattress fibers, making them more difficult to clean.
Cleaning up stains quickly also prevents the growth of bacteria, mold, and mildew, which thrive in damp conditions. When left unattended for too long, they not only leave permanent stains but also cause an unpleasant smell and, worse, damage the mattress fibers.
Also, it's important to keep a clean mattress to ensure a smooth warranty claim. If the mattress is poorly maintained, it could be seen as neglect and the manufacturer might not fully honor the mattress warranty.
6. Wash Bedding Regularly
Don't slack off on washing your bed sheets just because you have a mattress protector. Remember that your bed linens serve as a barrier, trapping sweat, dead skin cells, and dust. The longer it sits, the deeper it can penetrate, even passing through the protector and into the mattress. So, wash your bedding regularly, ideally weekly.
7. Dehumidify and Air Out When Needed
In humid climates, a dehumidifier may be necessary to protect your mattress. Dust mites and mold thrive in humidity. A dehumidifier helps create a less hospitable environment for them, discouraging them from growing and settling on your mattress.
Aside from using a dehumidifier, naturally airing out your mattress with sunlight is also beneficial. Sunlight is a natural disinfectant and helps dry out any residual moisture trapped in the mattress, preventing mold, dust mites, and musty odor.
8. Avoid Eating in Bed
Avoiding eating in bed is a smart move to protect your mattress. Crumbs, spills, and oils from your hands attract pests and create stains that become a breeding ground for mold and bacteria, especially if they sink into mattress fibers. Plus, they may also leave a lingering odor that might be tricky to remove.
However, indulging in bedtime snacks can be cozy and comforting. If you feel like you have to eat in bed, remember to use a tray or a folding table. The protector shields your mattress, of course. But it certainly pays to be extra mindful.
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While these tips don't absolutely guarantee that your mattress lasts longer, you can at least prevent it from degrading faster. Remember, a good quality mattress is an investment, so it's important to give it some love. Treat it right and it'll treat your right back with a good sleep experience.
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