Mattress is one of those things in the house which is used daily, but its cleaning is often ignored. Due to prolonged use, sweat, body oil, dust, dead skin and moisture can accumulate in the mattress. This is the reason why after some time a strange smell starts coming from the mattress.
However, there is no need to change the mattress or get professional cleaning done every time. With some easy home remedies and regular cleaning habits, the mattress can be kept clean and fresh to a great extent.
Remove dust with vacuum cleaner
Start cleaning the mattress by removing dust and dirt from its surface. Slowly run the vacuum cleaner over the top, sides and stitching areas of the mattress. Dust, hair and small particles can accumulate more in these places.
If possible, vacuum clean the mattress at least once a month. This can reduce the amount of dirt accumulation.
exposure to sunlight is also beneficial
Exposing the mattress to sunlight for a few hours can help in reducing the excess moisture present in it. If it is not possible to keep it outside, then keep it in a place where it can get adequate sunlight and air.
Keep turning the mattress occasionally, so that air and light can reach both sides. Especially in humid or rainy weather, it is important to keep the mattress completely dry.
Remove bad smell with baking soda
Baking soda can be used to reduce mattress odor. Sprinkle a light amount of baking soda on the surface of the mattress and leave it for about 6 to 8 hours. After this, remove the powder thoroughly with the help of a vacuum cleaner.
If you want fragrance, there is also an option to add a few drops of essential oil to baking soda. However, before using anything on the mattress, check its material and manufacturer's instructions.
Use white vinegar with caution
If the smell is coming from a particular area of the mattress, a mild spray can be made by mixing equal amounts of water and white vinegar. Use it in very small quantities on the affected area instead of directly soaking the mattress.
After this, gently pat the area with a clean cloth to remove excess moisture and let the mattress dry completely. Avoid wetting the mattress too much, because if there is moisture inside, there may be a problem of mold.
Cleaning of bedsheets and pillow covers is necessary
Many times, the cause of bad smell coming from the bed is not the mattress, but the bedsheet, pillow cover or mattress protector that has been used for a long time. Therefore, bedsheets and pillow covers should be changed and washed regularly.
By doing this, less dirt from sweat, dust and body oil reaches the mattress.
Install a Mattress Protector
Mattress protector can be used to keep the mattress clean for a long time. This helps prevent sweat, dust, liquids and stains from directly reaching the mattress.
One advantage of this is that if needed, the protector can be washed more easily than the mattress.
turn the mattress periodically
By rotating or flipping the mattress every few months, it can be avoided from having constant pressure on one place. This can help keep the mattress surface in better condition for a longer period of time.
Apart from this, avoid eating food in bed. Small particles of food can accumulate in the mattress and cause dirt and odor. If there are pets in the house, their hair and dirt can also reach the mattress, so keep this in mind.
It is most important to protect from moisture
To protect the mattress from odor and mold, it is most important to keep it dry. Keep adequate ventilation in the room and maintain air flow by opening windows for some time if possible during humidity or rain.
If water, tea or any other liquid spills on the mattress, clean it immediately and allow the mattress to dry completely before using it. If persistent odor, moisture, or mold is noticed, professional mattress cleaning or mattress replacement should be considered instead of relying solely on home remedies.
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