Memory Foam Mattress Care and Maintenance
Memory foam mattresses have contouring, supportive, and pressure relieving properties because they are made from materials derived from petroleum. Although these mattresses can aid in restful sleep, they quickly lose their supportiveness and comfort if not properly maintained.
Unlike conventional mattress materials, memory foam has a number of distinct advantages. Polyurethane foam harbors odors from body fluids, skin flakes, and dust mites. If you clean your mattress on a regular basis, you can keep your bed free of allergens, dirt, and odors.
Here, we'll go over some mattress care basics, including how to vacuum it, clean any stains, and get it dry as soon as possible. We'll also go over the benefits of using a mattress protector and other preventative measures for keeping your mattress in pristine condition.
If you want to know how to take care of your mattress properly, look no further than the label or manufacturer's website. If you don't follow these care instructions, you could end up with a damaged mattress. Our mattress care guide is your best bet in the absence of care instructions.
Vacuuming
Using a handheld vacuum cleaner or an upholstery attachment is the quickest and most efficient way to pick up the trash. These cleaners are lightweight and portable; anything heavier could tear the mattress cover.
We recommend weekly sheet changes (and subsequent mattress vacuuming) for optimal hygiene.
- Cleaning the buttons and cracks of the furniture will require a powerful vacuum.
- Dead skin cells and dust tend to accumulate in the crevices, so be thorough.
- Don't forget to clean under your mattress.
- Turning or rotating your mattress should be followed by a thorough vacuuming about once every six months. If you haven't flipped your mattress in a while, check the manual to see if you need to.
- When cleaning up after a pet, it's important to use a vacuum that is made to handle pet hair and dander.
Cleaning Up Old Stains
As soon as a stain is noticed, it should be removed. A fresh stain can be more easily removed if you clean it right away, but if you don't get to it right away, you can still remove it with some effort.
When checking to see if a stain has penetrated a zippable mattress cover, it's a good idea to unzip the cover and look inside. If it has, you'll need to be ready to spot clean the stain on the mattress and the cover.
The foam components will degrade if bleach or other strong chemicals are used on them. Use a homemade solution made by shaking together one part mild detergent and two parts water in a spray bottle. Spray the solution lightly on the bed. Only enough to produce a light lather on the fabric's surface is required.
If you use too much of the solution, it could compromise the materials. A memory foam mattress is similar to a sponge in that it takes time to dry after being wet.
There is a risk of mildew and mold growth on the mattress if it doesn't dry out within 24 hours.
- Use a rag and spray the stain before scrubbing it in a circular motion. If you scrub too vigorously, you could force the cleaning solution deep into the mattress, ruining the foam.
- After the stain has been removed, remove any remaining solution by wiping the area in a circular motion with a clean, damp rag. Removable mattress covers can be washed in the washing machine using cold water and a gentle cycle after the stain has been removed.
- Applying pressure with a clean, dry rag to a wet spot on the mattress will cause the area to dry off quickly. Then, dry the bedding naturally by hanging it up to dry or placing it under a fan and the sun. Cover the mattress with fresh sheets once the foam has dried.
Problematic Stains
To remove stubborn stains, try a mixture of one part vinegar to three parts warm water. Hydrogen peroxide is an alternative to vinegar for those who can't stand its odor. Keep in mind that using hydrogen peroxide on your mattress can cause permanent discoloration and damage the fabric, rendering the warranty null and void.
When finished, this mixture will be stored in a bowl, unlike the detergent solution.
- Use the liquid to scrub the stain away using a rag.
- Use a clean, wet rag to remove any remaining cleaning solution.
- Applying pressure from a dry towel can help remove excess moisture before you dry the area in the sun or with a fan.
Wet Marks
Mishaps can happen to anyone, at any age. Cleaning up a spill of a dark colored drink is more challenging than that of a lighter one, but it can be done if you act quickly.
- Absorb as much of the fluid as you can with paper towels. Towels should be used until they stop soaking up water.
- Use a spray bottle filled with white vinegar to mist the area, and then blot it dry with another paper towel.
- After the wet area has been covered with baking soda, let it sit for 8-10 hours. Baking soda is great for removing odors and excess moisture.
- Pull the baking soda with a vacuum. It's best to wait until the stain is completely dry before replacing the sheets. Mattresses that still have an odor after being exposed to the sun and baking soda are recommended. The mattress will be freshened up by doing this.
How to Get the Memory Foam Mattress Dry in a Hurry
Like we mentioned before, memory foam mattresses are more akin to sponges. Because of their high density, they readily absorb water but take a long time to dry. Quick drying is dependent on adequate ventilation, so open the door and window.
To speed up the drying process, use a small fan or hairdryer on low heat. You shouldn't use the highest heat setting on the hair dryer, as this could melt the foam.
Memory Foam Mattress Care: A Guide
Preventing your mattress from getting dirty and damaged should be your first priority. Mattress protectors and encasements offer additional protection against dirt and allergens like dust mites, pollen, and bed bugs, in addition to the cleaning benefits of regular vacuuming and spot cleaning.
Those who like to eat and drink in bed can feel more secure with the help of waterproof protectors and encasements.
Some mattress manufacturers condition warranty coverage on the use of a mattress protector or encasement. Most manufacturers have a policy that says any stains or discolorations will render the warranty null and void.
A mattress topper can also provide some security, but only at the expense of comfort. Because liquids can seep through the fabric and the sides aren't encased, dust and dirt can easily settle onto the sleeping surface.
MaintenanceĀ Tips
You can get more use out of your mattress by cleaning it regularly. However, there are additional methods of maintenance that can lengthen the life of your mattress.
- Ensure that your memory foam mattress has a stable base. A memory foam mattress requires more structural integrity than an innerspring one. When concentrated stress is applied to a small area, the material can break down. The weight of the mattress will be distributed over a larger area, preventing pressure points from breaking down the mattress, on a base with slats no more than 3 inches apart, as recommended by us.
- Every four to six months, you should rotate your mattress. That way, your mattress will wear out more evenly over time.
- Don't store the bed in the basement. Sunlight eliminates odors from memory foam. A foam mattress left out in the sun will maintain its cleanliness and freshness for a longer period of time.
- Bedding and mattress covers should be washed every week. If your mattress cover is zippered, you can clean it along with your sheets in lukewarm water.
FAQs
How can I prevent stains on my mattress?
Put on a mattress protector, ideally one that completely encases the mattress on all sides. Waterproof protection is essential, so be sure to shop around. An anti-bed bug and anti-dust mite protector is also recommended.
Inquiring about the possibility of shampooing a memory foam mattress
To clean your mattress, you should only use a mild detergent.
Is there a special method for cleaning a memory foam mattress?
Apply detergent to a damp cloth and rub the stain in a circular motion on the mattress. A further option is to dab at the stain until it disappears.
The origin of those annoying yellow stains on the mattress
Old mattresses often have noticeable yellow stains from years of sweat. The steps in this article will show you how to get rid of them.
Conclusion
At least one-third of your life is spent on your mattress, where dust and dirt can easily accumulate. Allergen buildup and the bed's early demise are the results of neglecting to clean these items. One of the best things we can do for our health is to regularly vacuum and spot-clean our beds. As an added bonus, a fresh and well-supported mattress can help you get some shut-eye by warding off sags and germs.
-
7 Spaces Dust Mites Invade (Even Your Bed!) and How to Get Rid of Them 2023-05-26 00:03:10
Dust mites may not pose a significant threat to health, but their existence can cause trouble for allergy sufferers. When symptoms flare up, many people are left wondering how to get rid of these pesky nuisances.Dust mites thrive in numerous areas throughout a home, including mattresses, and are often
-
"Revamp Your Space with these Easy Tips to Compress Memory Foam Mattress at Home!" 2023-05-26 00:03:01
Are you moving to a new location and cannot bear the thought of leaving your beloved memory foam mattress behind? Fear not, for it is possible to pack it up and bring it along with you! While mattresses may seem too cumbersome to pack up, there is a way to compress it for easier transport and protection
-
"Transform Your Hard Mattress into a Plush Oasis: 6 Tips to Create a Softer Sleeping Surface" 2023-05-25 01:13:37
Are you suffering from uncomfortable nights on your new bed? Fear not, for we have a plethora of tips to help you achieve the softer and comfier sleeping surface you desire.Perhaps you made the grave error of trying out mattresses after a long and tiring day, where anything could have felt comfortable
-
6 Simple Solutions to Keep Your Mattress from Sliding 2023-05-25 01:13:05
A comfortable and uninterrupted night's sleep can be easily disrupted by a mattress that constantly slides around on its frame. In fact, sleeping on a surface that continually shifts and moves can feel like dosing off in a funhouse room with an unstable floor.The good news is that a sliding mattress is