How to Clean and Disinfect Your Mattress the Right Way
Your mattress works hard for you, so giving it a thorough cleaning every now and then isn’t just good for hygiene—it can also help extend its life. The good news? Disinfecting your mattress is easier than you might think. Here’s how to get it done step by step.
Step 1: Strip Everything Off
First things first, strip your bed down to the bare mattress. Remove all the sheets, pillowcases, and that cozy mattress topper if you use one. Toss the linens straight into the washing machine and get a load going while you tackle the mattress itself. Two birds, one stone, right?
Step 2: Vacuum Thoroughly
Grab your vacuum cleaner and give the mattress a good once-over. Be sure to focus on all the nooks and crannies where dust and debris like to hide. The edges and seams are often hotspots for dust mites and dead skin buildup. If your vacuum has a brush attachment, it can make the job even easier.
Step 3: Handle Stains with Care
Mattresses see their fair share of life’s messes, so if there are any stains, now’s the time to treat them. Mix a teaspoon of dish soap or enzyme cleaner with a cup of water. Dab the solution on the stain using a clean towel—less is more here since you don’t want to soak the mattress. Once applied, blot the area with a dry section of the towel to lift the stain.
For tougher spots like blood stains, an enzyme cleaner (like those made for laundry) works wonders. Just follow the package instructions to dilute it properly, then apply and blot as described.
Step 4: Freshen Things Up with Vinegar
Now for the disinfecting! Mix equal parts distilled white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Lightly mist the mattress surface with the solution—just a light spray will do. The vinegar helps neutralize odors and has natural disinfecting properties to help kill germs.
Step 5: Sprinkle on the Baking Soda
While the vinegar solution is still damp, sprinkle baking soda over the entire surface of your mattress. Pay extra attention to seams and crevices, breaking up any clumps of baking soda so it spreads evenly. This step not only helps with odor but also lifts dirt from deep within the fabric.
Step 6: Let It Sit
To give the vinegar and baking soda time to work their magic, drape a clean sheet or a few towels over your mattress. Let everything sit for a few hours—this is a great time to finish the rest of your laundry or just take a break.
Step 7: Vacuum Again
Once the wait time is up, remove the towels or sheet and vacuum the mattress thoroughly again. Use the brush attachment for the best results, making sure to pick up all the baking soda. Don’t forget to empty the vacuum canister afterward—you don’t want any of that gunk hanging around.
And that’s it! With these simple steps, your mattress will feel fresh, clean, and ready for a good night’s sleep. Make it part of your routine every few months, and your mattress will thank you (in its own way).
