Mattress Care Tips

Get the most life out of your mattress with the right support. The right foundation helps support your body and extends the life of your mattress. To ensure you get the most out of your mattress, be sure to check your manufacturer’s recommendations. Many mattresses and foundations are sold as a set. The wrong foundation may void the warranty, but also weaken your mattress or put a strain on your back.

Mattress covers (which are different from pads or toppers) keep your mattress clean, dry and serve as a protective barrier against dust and allergens.

Resist the urge to remove the mattress tag. This tag can help consumers identify the mattress manufacturer, and perhaps how to find warranty information and care instructions.

Make sure your kids know that beds are for sleeping, not jumping. A king- or queen-sized mattress may look like the perfect surface for your little ones to jump and play, but it is not. Their jumping jacks could damage the interior construction of the mattress.

Get into the habit of vacuuming your mattress and washing your bedding regularly. Use your vacuum’s furniture attachment to remove dust, hair, crumbs and other debris from every crevice. Check with your manufacturer, as some suggest lightly sprinkling your mattress with baking soda and then vacuuming it to freshen and deodorize.

When you are washing your sheets the time is a great opportunity to air out your bed. If possible, open the windows for some fresh air. When going on a vacation or if you won’t be using your bed for a while, it’s a good idea to keep the mattress bare so it can air while not in use.

Most mattress manufacturers suggest that users rotate (or even flip) their mattresses every three months or so. Doing so will help even out the wear on certain areas and ensure you get the most out of your mattress. Again, you can get specific suggestions for rotating or flipping your mattress by consulting your manufacturer.

Your mattress manufacturer is the first place to check for cleaning solutions. The manufacturer’s website will often list cleaning suggestions. Can’t remember your manufacturer? Check that tag.

Don’t fret. If you spill, remove the liquid as quickly as possible. The mattress cover will help prevent any liquid from soaking through, but you still want to blot the wet surface until the liquid is fully removed. Before using a cleaning solution, check your mattress manufacturer’s website, which often lists cleaning suggestions. Do not make the bed until the mattress has completely dried.

Before using a cleaning solution, check your mattress manufacturer’s website, which often lists cleaning suggestions. Some may suggest commercial cleaning products. If not, some home remedies listed on DIY websites might be of aid, usually consisting of warm water, vinegar, and soap. Baking soda and salt are suggested for difficult stains. No matter what you use, make sure to lightly spray the stain, never soak it, and dab, don’t rub, the affected area. Allow your mattress to completely dry, vacuum and remake your bed.