You mattress has an impact on the quality of your sleep. It may also be the most expensive part of your bedroom. Taking proper care of your mattress will help you to protect your investment and promote better sleep.

Protection of Your Mattress



The most important part of 'Mattress Care' is mattress protection. The most important part of mattress protection is preventing your mattress from becoming wet. Moisture can come from many sources. Obviously, spilling drinks on your bed is a quick way to introduce moisture into a dry mattress. However, normal sleep is also associated with significant fluid loss from the body. It is normal to sweat and drool during sleep. Urination may also be an issue.

Using a moisture barrier on your mattress will help to reduce moisture transfer into your mattress. Some mattress protectors and mattress cases also prevent bed bugs from entering the mattress - another destroyer of your sleep investment. Some mattress protectors also have additional padding for comfort. Many are waterproof.

Mold and bacteria are the enemy of your mattress. These microorganisms thrive in moist organic materials. In addition to the discoloration that mold and bacteria bring, they also bring odor and destructive enzymes to the fabrics on the mattress.

How to Remove Stains from Mattresses



If your mattress has already been stained, or if you recently dropped fluid on your mattress, the first thing you need to do is remove the unwelcomed fluid. Blotting the wet mattress with an absorptive towel/paper towels will remove the superficial fluids. Some recommend baking soda and hydrogen peroxide for blood or urine stains. Keep in mind that the hydrogen peroxide may change the color of your mattress.

A spray bottle with mild soap will help you to control the amount of moisture that you use to clean the area. Use as little as possible, as you don't want to make the problem worse. Gentle scrubbing with a soft brush will help to remove the stain - if removable.

A vacuum with handheld vacuum attachment is a good idea to suck up any remaining moisture from this process.

After you are done cleaning the mattress, you want to aerate the mattress as much as possible. If plausible, taking the mattress outside to dry will speed up the drying the process. If you are unable to bring the mattress outside, directing a fan on the moist area will be beneficial.

OTHER MATTRESS CARE TIPS

Rotating your mattress every few months may also be beneficial for some mattresses. This process helps to offset the normal settling process that occurs by placing a weight (body) on a compressible surface.

Protecting your mattress from stains and moisture will help to prolong its use and promote good sleep. Follow these tips and find more information about mattresses and beds on the following pages.

Eventually, your mattress will need to be replaced. When you are ready to buy a new mattress, make sure that you are well informed and review the different types of mattresses that are available.