How to freshen up and clean a mattress
A clean, fresh mattress forms the foundation of healthy sleep, yet it’s often overlooked in our regular cleaning routines. Considering we spend roughly a third of our lives sleeping, maintaining proper mattress hygiene directly impacts our comfort, health, and how well we rest each night. For those with adjustable beds, keeping your mattress clean ensures you continue enjoying all the therapeutic benefits your investment provides.
Over time, every mattress accumulates dust, sweat, skin cells, and occasional spills that can create odours and attract dust mites. These unwanted guests can trigger allergies and affect sleep quality, making regular mattress maintenance essential for anyone who values good rest. The good news is that keeping your mattress fresh doesn’t require expensive equipment or harsh chemicals—most effective cleaning can be done with common household items.
Navigation guide
- Why mattress cleanliness matters for your health
- Simple methods to keep your mattress fresh
- Deep cleaning techniques for thorough maintenance
- Protecting your mattress investment
- Recognising when replacement becomes necessary
- Special considerations for adjustable bed mattresses
- Making mattress care manageable
- Your path to cleaner, healthier sleep starts here
1. Why mattress cleanliness matters for your health
A clean mattress plays a crucial role in maintaining good health. Dust mites, microscopic creatures that feed on dead skin cells, thrive in mattresses and can trigger asthma and allergy symptoms. Their waste products become airborne during sleep, potentially causing respiratory irritation and disrupted rest.
Body oils and sweat gradually seep into mattress layers, creating an environment where bacteria and fungi can flourish. This buildup not only causes unpleasant odours but can also lead to skin irritation and poor air quality in your bedroom. For people who spend extended time in bed due to health conditions or mobility limitations, these hygiene concerns become even more significant.
Regular cleaning helps preserve your mattress’s supportive properties as well. When dirt and oils accumulate in mattress materials, they can affect the structure and comfort that help you sleep well. This is particularly important for those using therapeutic sleep systems where optimal support is essential for managing pain or other health conditions.
A fresh, clean mattress also contributes to better sleep psychology. When your bed smells pleasant and feels clean, you’re more likely to relax and fall asleep easily. This mental comfort factor shouldn’t be underestimated in its impact on overall sleep quality.
2. Simple methods to keep your mattress fresh
Maintaining mattress freshness doesn’t require intensive deep cleaning every week. Regular light maintenance prevents buildup and keeps your bed pleasant between more thorough cleaning sessions.
Regular vacuuming for lasting freshness
Every few months, give your mattress a thorough vacuuming using your vacuum cleaner’s upholstery attachment. This removes the dust, dead skin cells, and dust mites that naturally accumulate over time. Don’t forget to vacuum the sides and, if possible, underneath your mattress as well.
For those with adjustable beds, you can use the bed’s positioning features to your advantage during cleaning. Raising the head or foot sections slightly can help you access the sides more easily—just remember to unplug the bed first for safety. This simple vacuuming routine significantly reduces allergens and helps maintain that fresh mattress feeling.
Baking soda for natural deodorising
When you notice any slight odours or want to give your mattress a freshness boost, baking soda provides an excellent natural solution. Sprinkle a generous layer across the entire mattress surface and let it sit for at least fifteen minutes, though longer periods—even several hours—provide better results.
Baking soda works by absorbing odours rather than simply masking them, making it particularly effective for dealing with the natural body odours that accumulate over time. After the waiting period, vacuum up all the baking soda thoroughly, leaving your mattress noticeably fresher.
Air circulation and sunlight benefits
When you strip your bed for washing, take advantage of the opportunity to let your mattress breathe. Even fifteen to thirty minutes of fresh air circulation while your sheets are in the wash can make a noticeable difference. If possible, open windows to create airflow and let natural light reach your mattress.
Sunlight provides natural antimicrobial benefits and helps eliminate moisture that can contribute to mould or mildew growth. This simple airing-out process costs nothing but can significantly improve your mattress’s freshness and hygiene.
3. Deep cleaning techniques for thorough maintenance
Once or twice a year, depending on your needs and any specific health concerns, your mattress benefits from more thorough cleaning. This deeper approach addresses embedded dirt and stubborn odours that routine maintenance might miss.
Preparing for deep cleaning
Start by stripping all bedding and washing everything in the hottest water appropriate for the fabric—typically 40 to 60 degrees Celsius. Washing at this temperaturehelps kill dust mites and removes accumulated oils and dirt from your linens.
While your bedding washes and dries completely, vacuum your mattress thoroughly from top to bottom, including all sides. If you need help lifting the mattress to reach underneath, don’t hesitate to ask for assistance—thorough cleaning is worth the extra effort.
Addressing stains and spots
Inspect your mattress for any visible stains or discoloured areas. Rather than soaking the entire mattress, focus on treating individual spots with appropriate cleaning methods. Always test any cleaning solution on a small, hidden area first to ensure it won’t damage or discolour your mattress fabric.
When treating stains, work gently with a blotting motion rather than aggressive scrubbing, which can push stains deeper into the mattress layers. Use minimal amounts of liquid to prevent oversaturation, particularly important with memory foam mattresses that can be damaged by excess moisture.
Effective stain removal methods
Different types of stains respond better to specific cleaning approaches. White vinegar works excellently for general stains, sweat marks, and odours. You can apply it directly to stains or dilute it slightly with water, then let it sit for about thirty minutes before blotting clean. The natural acidity helps break down organic stains effectively.
For more stubborn stains or those requiring disinfection, hydrogen peroxide provides powerful cleaning action. This is particularly effective for blood stains and biological spills. However, always wear gloves and test a small area first, as hydrogen peroxide can bleach some fabrics. Apply it to the stain, allow it to fizz and work for about five minutes, then blot clean with a dry cloth.
Greasy stains and food spills respond well to mild dish soap mixed with warm water. Create a light, soapy solution and gently work it into the stain, then rinse with minimal water and blot dry. This approach effectively cuts through oils while being gentle on mattress fabrics.
Final deodorising and drying
After spot cleaning, apply baking soda across the entire mattress surface for comprehensive deodorising. Allow it to work for several hours—even all day if possible—to absorb any remaining moisture and eliminate lingering odours. Vacuum thoroughly to remove all traces of baking soda.
Ensure your mattress is completely dry before remaking the bed. Use fans to circulate air and speed drying if necessary. A damp mattress enclosed under sheets creates ideal conditions for mould and mildew growth, so patience during this drying phase is essential.
4. Protecting your mattress investment
Prevention often proves more effective than cleaning when it comes to mattress maintenance. Several strategies can significantly reduce how often you need deep cleaning while extending your mattress’s lifespan.
Rotation for even wear
Rotating your mattress every three to six months helps distribute wear evenly and prevents the development of permanent body impressions. Turn your mattress 180 degrees so the head becomes the foot. This practice is particularly important during your mattress’s first year, when initial settling occurs most rapidly.
Most modern mattresses are designed with specific top and bottom layers, so avoid flipping unless your mattress is specifically designed for it. However, regular rotation helps maintain support and comfort levels much longer than leaving it in one position.
Mattress protectors as your first line of defence
A quality mattress protector represents one of the best investments you can make in mattress hygiene. These removable, washable covers fit over your mattress like a fitted sheet, creating a barrier against spills, sweat, and stains. Many are waterproof yet breathable, protecting your mattress while maintaining comfort.
Washing your mattress protector every couple of months along with your regular bedding keeps this protective barrier clean and effective. It’s much easier to replace a worn protector than to deep clean a damaged mattress.
Smart bedroom habits
Simple lifestyle choices can dramatically reduce mattress cleaning needs. Showering before bed removes the day’s accumulated oils and dirt that would otherwise transfer to your mattress. Keeping food and drinks away from the bedroom eliminates most spill risks, though if you do enjoy occasional breakfast in bed, use a stable tray and ensure that mattress protector is in place.
Pet lovers should consider washable pet blankets rather than allowing animals to sleep directly on the mattress, particularly if they shed or aren’t completely house-trained. Regular bedroom cleaning, including dusting and vacuuming around the bed, prevents dirt from settling into your mattress.
Maintaining optimal room conditions
Your bedroom environment affects your mattress’s condition. Maintaining appropriate humidity levels prevents moisture buildup that can lead to mould growth. If your room tends to be humid, a dehumidifier can help protect your mattress investment.
Regular airflow also benefits mattress hygiene. Opening windows periodically or using fans helps prevent the stagnant air conditions that can contribute to dust mite populations and moisture accumulation.
5. Recognising when replacement becomes necessary
Even with excellent care, mattresses don’t last forever. Recognising the signs that cleaning can no longer restore your mattress’s performance helps you make timely replacement decisions.
Age and structural indicators
Most mattresses provide optimal support and hygiene for six to eight years, depending on quality and use. After this period, even well-maintained mattresses may struggle to provide the support and cleanliness you need for quality sleep.
Visible sagging, permanent indentations, or lumps that don’t spring back indicate structural breakdown that cleaning cannot address. If you notice a valley where you typically sleep or if the mattress edges are collapsing, these are clear signs that replacement time has arrived.
Comfort and health signals
How you feel upon waking provides valuable information about your mattress’s condition. If you’re consistently waking up with aches, pains, or stiffness that you didn’t experience when the mattress was newer, it may no longer be providing adequate support.
Worsening allergies or respiratory symptoms, particularly those that improve when you sleep elsewhere, can indicate that your mattress has become a reservoir for allergens that cleaning cannot adequately address. Sometimes older mattresses develop mould or bacteria in layers that home cleaning cannot reach.
Performance comparisons
If you consistently sleep better in hotels or guest beds than in your own bed, this suggests your mattress may not be meeting your current needs. Our bodies can gradually adapt to declining mattress quality, making the contrast with better sleeping surfaces particularly noticeable.
6. Special considerations for adjustable bed mattresses
Adjustable beds require additional care considerations to protect both the mattress and the sophisticated mechanisms that provide therapeutic positioning. These beds often represent significant investments in health and comfort, making proper maintenance particularly important.
Safety during cleaning
Always unplug your adjustable bed before beginning any cleaning activities. This prevents accidental movement while you’re working around or under the bed. The bed’s positioning features can help with cleaning—raising sections can provide better access to sides and underneath areas—but always make these adjustments before unplugging for safety.
Never attempt to manually force adjustable bed movement. Use the remote control to position the bed as needed, then disconnect power before cleaning. When you’re finished, plug the bed back in to readjust to your preferred position.
Protecting electrical components
Water and electronics don’t mix, so extra caution is essential when cleaning around adjustable beds. Use minimal liquid when spot-cleaning your mattress, and consider placing waterproof protection on the base if you’re doing extensive stain treatment.
When cleaning the adjustable base itself, use only lightly damp cloths rather than soaking wet ones. Wipe down metal frames and accessible parts gently, ensuring all components are completely dry before reconnecting power. If spills do occur near electrical components, disconnect power immediately and thoroughly dry everything you can reach.
Mattress compatibility considerations
Adjustable bed mattresses (typically memory foam and hybrid mattresses) require gentle cleaning approaches. These materials can be damaged by excessive moisture or heat, making the low-liquid cleaning methods we’ve discussed particularly important.
Adjustamatic’sAirFlow orthopaedic mattress, for example, is designed specifically for adjustable beds with features that make maintenance easier while providing superior comfort. When considering mattress protectors or toppers for adjustable beds, ensure they’re designed to flex with the bed’s movement without slipping or bunching.
Maintaining mechanical components
While cleaning your mattress, take the opportunity to inspect your adjustable bed’s moving parts. Gentle dusting or vacuuming of accessible mechanisms helps maintain smooth operation. Check for any obvious loose components, though always consult your manufacturer’s guidelines before attempting any maintenance.
Keep the area around motors and adjustment mechanisms free from dust and debris. This simple maintenance helps ensure the quiet operation that makes adjustable beds so appealing for maintaining good sleep quality.
7. Making mattress care manageable
Effective mattress maintenance doesn’t need to be overwhelming or time-consuming. Developing simple routines makes cleanliness manageable while protecting your sleep environment investment.
Creating sustainable cleaning schedules
Incorporate basic mattress care into your regular household routines. When you change sheets weekly, take a moment to check for any new stains or odours that might need attention. Every few months when you rotate your mattress, add a quick vacuuming session.
Schedule deeper cleaning sessions for times when you can allow proper drying—perhaps during spring cleaning or when you’ll be out of the house for several hours. Having supplies like baking soda and white vinegar readily available makes addressing issues promptly easier.
Adapting to your specific needs
People with allergies might benefit from more frequent cleaning, while those with limited mobility might focus on prevention strategies like high-quality mattress protectors. Adjust these guidelines to fit your health needs and physical capabilities.
If you have an adjustable bed primarily for medical reasons, maintaining cleanliness becomes even more important for supporting your health goals. A fresh, clean mattress contributes to the overall therapeutic benefits your bed provides.
8. Your path to cleaner, healthier sleep starts here
Has reading about mattress cleaning made you realise it might be time for a fresh start? If your current mattress is showing signs of age or you’re struggling to maintain the cleanliness and comfort you deserve, Adjustamatic offers the perfect solution with mattresses designed for lasting hygiene and superior sleep quality.
Advanced mattress technology for easier maintenance
At Adjustamatic, we understand that maintaining a clean, healthy sleep environment becomes increasingly important as we age. That’s why our mattresses incorporate innovative features that not only provide therapeutic comfort but also resist the common hygiene challenges that plague traditional mattresses.
The AirFlow advantage for cleaner sleep
Superior ventilation design
Our AirFlow orthopaedic mattress features advanced airflow technology that promotes circulation and reduces moisture buildup—the primary cause of odours and dust mite proliferation. This intelligent design helps your mattress stay fresher longer while providing the firm support recommended for spinal health.
Easy-care materials
Crafted with high-quality fabrics and foams that resist staining and odour absorption, our mattresses make cleaning routines more effective and less frequent. The materials we use are specifically chosen for their durability and ability to maintain freshness over years of use.
Adjustable bed optimisation
Unlike standard mattresses that may not flex properly with adjustable bases, our adjustable mattresses are engineered for adjustable beds. This perfect compatibility means no bunching, slipping, or premature wear that can create hygiene problems and compromise your cleaning efforts.
British manufacturing standards
Every mattress is crafted in our North Wales facility under strict quality controls, ensuring consistent materials and construction that support long-term cleanliness and comfort. Our manufacturing process emphasises durability and hygiene from the very first stitch.
Complete sleep environment solutions
Why struggle with maintaining an old mattress when you could enjoy the peace of mind that comes with a complete sleep system designed for your needs? Our adjustable beds and mattresses work together to create an environment where cleanliness and comfort are built-in features rather than ongoing challenges.
Our experienced team understands that choosing a new mattress—especially for an adjustable bed—involves important health and comfort considerations. We provide detailed guidance about which mattress features will best support your specific needs and lifestyle.
Protection from day one
Every new Adjustamatic mattress comes with expert advice about protecting your investment from the start. We’ll recommend the right mattress protectors and care products specifically designed for adjustable bed mattresses, helping you maintain that new-mattress freshness for years to come.
Our comprehensive aftercare support means you’re never alone in maintaining your sleep environment. From initial setup advice to ongoing care guidance, we’re committed to helping you maximise both the cleanliness and therapeutic benefits of your new mattress.
Make the change that matters
Sleep quality affects every aspect of your health and daily comfort. If mattress maintenance has become a burden or if your current mattress can no longer provide the cleanliness and support you need, it’s time to explore what modern sleep technology can offer.
Our specialists can explain how our mattress technologies specifically address the hygiene challenges you’ve been facing and demonstrate the difference that proper design makes in maintaining a fresh, healthy sleep environment.
Ready to discover how much easier maintaining a clean, comfortable mattress can be? Contact our team to learn about our current mattress options and find out how an Adjustamatic sleep system can transform your rest quality.
Call us today free on 0800 689 9823 (lines open 9am-5pm Monday to Friday) or send us a message to request information about our advanced mattress solutions and schedule your free home consultation.
