Mattresses are a significant investment, and you spend a lot of time on your bed. Caring for your mattress can help extend its life and prevent issues like lumpy beds. Incorporating mattress care into your other housekeeping routines can make it easy.
1. Rotate your mattress
One of the classic care tips for mattresses is to rotate and flip them. Moving your bed every six months can help the materials wear evenly rather than cause depression or sagging on one side.
Innerspring mattresses will benefit from being flipped entirely upside down. Newer options, like organic mattresses, may have a right side up, so only rotate these beds 180 degrees.
Switching where your head and feet lay will help distribute the weight uniformly, especially on newer beds that are still breaking in.
2. Find proper supports
Properly supporting your mattress can also help reduce sagging or prevent lumps. Search for information about your bed from the manufacturer to find the best type of frame.
Spring mattresses usually have box frames, and bigger sizes may need extra supports like middle bars.
Many memory foam options require solid support to prevent sinking or misinforming. Be extra careful with these options, as some beds can’t sit on top of slats with wide spaces.
3. Keep your mattress and linens clean.
While you sleep, your body releases oils, dirt, and dead skin particles. Wash your sheets at least every two weeks to stay healthy and keep your mattress in the best shape.
You can also wash some mattresses at home. Most have similar cleaning steps, but check your bed care instructions before starting.
Generally, you can clean a mattress by following these steps:
- Remove all linens and protectors
- Vacuum with an upholstery attachment
- Blot stains with cleaners
It can also be helpful to clean blankets before storing them for the winter. Cleaning your blankets helps prevent odors or grime when you take them out next season.
4. Consider mattress protectors
Find a mattress protector you like when you purchase your bed, so you won’t have to worry about finding one after you’ve already had an issue.
Mattress protectors are often waterproof to protect the fabric from spills and stains. They also prevent dust and other allergens from embedding into the fibers of your bed.
Opting for a mattress protector can save you lots of time cleaning in the future and ensure your bed stays in the best condition.
5. Stay guarded against pests like bed bugs.
Pests like bed bugs can significantly threaten your mattress and health, sometimes causing you to remove the bed entirely.
While certain situations are unavoidable, you can prevent bed bugs by avoiding furniture found on the street. You should also keep backpacks and purses away from areas where you sleep.
Most importantly, thoroughly check any secondhand furniture, hotel beds, or other places you sleep as a guest.
Final thoughts
Mattress care doesn’t have to be challenging, and putting in the effort to maintain your bed will help your health. A clean, well-maintained bed will have fewer allergens and sags to keep your body comfortable while you sleep.