The mattress is one of the items that is used the most on a daily basis. Experts recommend cleaning it at least every six months. Bedding, such as sheets, blankets and pillowcases, often accumulate dust mites, bacteria and dirt.
We all know how it goes. You’re fast asleep when suddenly, oops! You spill something on your mattress. While it’s not ideal, it’s important to clean it up right away before the stain sets in. That’s where a quality mattress protector comes in handy. Not only will it help you avoid the hassle of cleaning your mattress more often, but it’ll also help you get a good night’s rest. The Sleep Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting healthy sleep routines, has some great tips on how to keep your mattress in tip-top shape.
To whiten a mattress and remove the musty smell, you can use a homemade mixture that is effective and safe.
Homemade mixture to bleach and remove musty odor:
Ingredients:
Baking soda: Helps remove odors and absorb moisture.
Hydrogen peroxide (hydrogen peroxide): Acts as a bleach and disinfectant.
Liquid dish detergent: Helps remove stains and dirt.
Instructions:
Prepare mixture: In a spray bottle, mix one cup of hydrogen peroxide (3%). Add three tablespoons of baking soda. Add one to two drops of liquid dish soap. Mix well and shake the sprayer to make sure all ingredients are well combined.
Apply the mixture: Spray the mixture generously on stained areas of the mattress or where there are musty odors. Allow the mixture to work for at least 30 minutes. For more stubborn stains, you can leave it on longer.
Brush and blot: Use a soft brush to scrub treated areas to help remove stains. Allow the mattress to dry completely. You can speed up the process by using a fan or, if possible, leaving it in the sun.
Vacuum the mattress: Once the mattress is completely dry, vacuum the entire surface to remove any baking soda residue.
Odor prevention: To keep the mattress fresh, you can sprinkle a light layer of baking soda on the surface of the mattress, let it sit for 15-20 minutes and then vacuum it up.
How often should the mattress be changed?
There is no set rule on how often a mattress should be changed, as this can vary depending on several factors, such as the quality of the mattress, the use it is put to and personal preferences.
Most good quality mattresses typically last between seven and ten years. After this period, they may begin to lose their firmness and support, which can affect sleep quality and comfort.
In the meantime, it should be mentioned that depending on the mattress you have, it may be beneficial to rotate it every three to six months to distribute the wear and tear more evenly.
