How to Clean a Mattress in Four Easy Steps
It might seem hard to believe, but spring cleaning season is around the corner. While most people think about little things like pantry organization or cleaning the microwave, there are some chores that are easy to forget (or easy to avoid). Some tasks are also just more daunting because you only have to do them a few times a year. So, before you set down your soap, you first need to learn how exactly you're supposed to clean that item. One major piece of cleaning wisdom is knowing how to clean a mattress. It’s not something you look at every day, so it’s easy to put it on the back burner. But, it’s a necessary evil and can help you get the most out of your mattress (and make it last longer).
Ree Drummond doesn't wait for spring to come around to clean—she'll do it whenever she's in the mood. "I just have to wait until I get possessed by the bug to clean everything, but it’s never at any one time of year," she says. So if you were thinking it's too early to start, think again!
Becky Rapinchuk of the blog Clean Mama suggests cleaning your mattress at least twice a year, so if you don’t know how to clean a mattress, you’ll want to read this article. Luckily it’s not as bad as it seems, and the below tips work for both spring and foam mattresses. While you’ve got the cleaning bug, check out how to clean your coffee maker and how to clean your oven effectively.
How to Clean Your Mattress
Step 1: Remove your sheets
And while you’re at it, throw them in the wash. That way your bed will be totally fresh when you’re done with this project. If you're on the hunt for new sheets, check out these cozy flannel sheets.
Step 2: Spot clean
Becky suggests using a white cloth and a drop of dish soap (or castile soap, if you'd prefer). Then sprinkle baking soda with a mesh sieve if you want to add a little freshness. Becky adds a little essential oil to her baking soda mixture. Check out her recipe here. Let this mixture sit for 15 to 30 minutes.
Step 3: Vacuum
Once the baking soda mixture has sat for a while, use a vacuum cleaner with the upholstery attachment to suck up the baking soda. Becky notes that you have to be sure you get in the crevices!
Step 4: Rotate
You should rotate your mattress regularly to prolong its life. It also helps keep the filling evenly spread out so you have a comfy, restful sleep.
