Night fight: How to clean your mattress for healthy, fresh sleep

Research finds that dust mites and other contaminants accumulate on mattresses, affecting sleep quality and health. Learn essential tips for thorough mattress cleaning.

  (photo credit: PR)
(photo credit: PR)

Did you know humans shed between 300,000 to 600,000 skin particles each night? Over a year, that's nearly half a kilogram of skin! Add in dust from outside, sweat, blood, saliva, body fluids, and other allergens, and our mattresses are far from the sterile havens we imagine for quality sleep.

Microscopic dust mites, invisible but thriving on dead skin cells nourished by our night-time moisture, further complicate matters. A study by the American Lung Association reveals that 4 out of 5 homes in the US have dust mites on their mattresses.

A clean mattress not only enhances sleep comfort but is crucial for our health and personal hygiene. Regular mattress cleaning can extend its lifespan and significantly improve our sleep quality. Most importantly, it maintains a hygienic sleep environment.

Available on the website: dyson.co.il and selected electrical stores. Two years warranty and service at home by B.N.Z.K, the official importer of Dyson in Israel.

  (credit: PR)
(credit: PR)

So, how do we thoroughly clean our mattresses to reduce dust and stains effectively? Here are expert cleaning tips from DYSON:

Vacuuming: Use a vacuum cleaner with a suitable attachment for soft surfaces to remove as much dust, dirt, and dead skin cells as possible. Start from the top of the mattress and methodically work your way to the bottom. Don’t forget to vacuum the sides and seams where dust tends to accumulate.

Damp Cloth: After vacuuming, wipe down the mattress with a damp cloth to remove any remaining dirt and dust that wasn’t suctioned up. Use mild soap solution with lukewarm water, ensuring not to oversaturate the mattress—gentle wiping is key.

Stain Removal: Stains can be stubborn, especially if not promptly treated. Use a clean cloth and an appropriate cleaning solution for different types of stains. Organic stains like blood or sweat may respond well to a solution of water and vinegar. Oil stains can often be lifted with baking soda—sprinkle, wait, then vacuum residue.

Disinfect and Neutralize Odors: Disinfecting the mattress is another crucial step in the cleaning process. Use antibacterial products to eliminate germs and neutralize unpleasant odors. Sprinkling baking soda across the entire mattress, letting it sit for an hour, and then vacuuming it up helps absorb moisture and odors effectively.

Air Out: Natural ventilation helps keep your mattress fresh and clean. Leave it exposed to fresh air and sunlight for a few hours periodically. Sunlight exposure can also aid in killing bacteria and reducing odors.

Use a Mattress Cover: Invest in a quality mattress cover to protect against dirt and dust. These covers are washable, making it easier to keep them clean and reducing the frequency of deep mattress cleaning.

Rotate the Mattress: Regularly rotate your mattress to ensure even wear and reduce the buildup of dirt and dust in specific spots. Every few months, turn the mattress over to maintain optimal body support during sleep.

Air Filter: Consider using an air filter with a HEPA filter to trap tiny particles like dust, pet dander, and allergens that can cause respiratory issues and allergies. Improved air quality in the bedroom can significantly reduce allergens that settle on the mattress.