At A Glance
Proper mattress care prolongs its life and keeps your sleep environment clean. Regular rotation, using a mattress protector, and cleaning are key to maintaining comfort and hygiene.
Quick Tips
- Rotate your mattress regularly to prevent uneven wear.
- Use a mattress protector to keep it clean and allergen-free.
- Vacuum and spot-clean your mattress every few months.
Your mattress is the centrepiece of your bedroom and can quickly become a hotspot for dust, bacteria, and bugs. To keep it looking fresh and safeguard your health, use a mattress protector and follow other essential tips on how to take care of the mattress.
Table Of Contents
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How Do You Maintain A Mattress? |
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How To Clean A Mattress |
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Lifespan Of A Mattress |
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Frequently Asked Questions |
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Conclusion |
How Do You Maintain A Mattress?
You might be wondering, "How to care for my mattress?" Fortunately, keeping your bed in great shape is easier than you think. Just follow these simple tips, and you’ll easily extend its lifespan.
Air & Ventilate Your New Mattress
Some people think a new bed doesn't require cleaning since it comes straight from the store, but there are a few hygiene concerns to consider. For example, they can harbour dust, retain residual chemicals from the manufacturing process, or even have a lingering odour that needs to be aired out. Check out these new mattress tips to make sure you're giving your fresh bed the best start possible.
Image By Max Vakhtbovycn From Pexels
Remove Packaging Carefully: It will likely arrive wrapped in plastic, which might have collected dust and debris along the way. Make sure to remove the packaging carefully and dispose of it properly to prevent these particles from entering your bedroom.
Air It Out: Allow it to breathe in a well-ventilated room for several hours or even a few days to get rid of any lingering odours.
Vacuum Gently: Lightly vacuum the surface to remove any dust or debris that may have settled during shipping.
Rotate Your Mattress Periodically
It’s quite common for a bed to begin sagging or develop permanent indentations where people tend to sleep. To ensure the bed wears evenly and to prevent one area from becoming softer than the rest, most manufacturers suggest rotating it from head to foot on a regular basis. So, how often should you rotate a mattress?
Foam, latex, and newer innerspring mattresses should be rotated every 6 to 12 months, while older innerspring models may need rotating every 2 to 6 months. However, some mattresses are designed not to be rotated.
For instance, mattresses with a zoned design or those featuring a softer top layer and firmer support core are intended to remain in their original orientation for optimal comfort and support. Always consult your manufacturer’s guidelines on whether and how to rotate or flip your bed.
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Use A Mattress Protector
For effective mattress care, don’t overlook the importance of using a mattress protector. This essential item acts as a safeguard for your bed, slipping effortlessly under your fitted sheet. Designed to shield your bed from dust mites, dead skin, allergens, and any unforeseen mishaps, it ensures your investment stays clean and in top condition.
When choosing a good mattress protector, you should consider everything from the material to the price. However, make sure you choose one with proven waterproof protection. This will keep your bed dry and help prevent the growth of mould and mildew.
Weavve’s TENCEL™ Lyocell Mattress Protector, with its 100% polyurethane membrane, keeps your bed safe from unwanted substances. Its outer layer, made from TENCEL™ Lyocell jacquard knit, offers a hypoallergenic, silky-smooth surface. Thanks to the 360° elastic, it’s easy to fit and remove for washing, making it a simple solution for how to clean a mattress.
Featuring Weavve’s TENCEL™ Lyocell Mattress Protector
If you’re using an older bed, pairing it with a mattress topper and a protector is a smart move. Together, they create a great bedding combo, adding a bit of firmness while also shielding your bed. While a topper alone might not offer the same level of protection as a waterproof mattress cover, it does help soak up spills before they seep through, providing an extra layer of defence against stains.
Clean Your Sheets And Bedding Regularly
One crucial aspect of how to take care of the mattress is regularly changing your sheets and bedding.
Fitted sheets, flat sheets, pillows, and blankets all play a part in shielding your bed from wear and tear. Yet, they inevitably gather sweat, body oils, and grime, which can eventually seep into your bed if not swapped out regularly. Additionally, bedding can attract dust mites and other allergens, potentially disturbing the sleep of those who suffer from allergies.
To keep your sheets and pillowcases fresh, wash them at least once a week, or more often if you share your bed with pets. In warmer climates or during allergy season, you might need to wash them even more frequently.
For bedding that doesn’t come into direct contact with your skin, aim to wash duvet covers once or twice a month, comforters and blankets every 2 to 3 months, and pillow inserts every 4 to 6 months. For washing a mattress protector, once a month is generally enough, but be sure to wash it immediately if any spills occur.
Featuring Weavve’s Signature TENCEL™ Duvet Cover
Provide Proper Support For Your Mattress
Having the right support is crucial to keeping your bed in top shape, preventing it from sagging and wearing out prematurely. When it comes to proper support, there are several factors to consider. Let’s explore some of the most commonly used types in everyday life.
Platform Beds: These beds feature a solid or slatted base that provides robust support, making them ideal for any type of bed. They help prevent sagging and prolong the life of your bed. For the best support, make sure the slats are spaced no more than 3 inches apart.
Slatted Foundations: Opt for a frame featuring wooden or metal slats, designed to support the bed while allowing air to circulate freely. Perfect for everyday use, these foundations help prevent sagging and keep the mattress cool. Just make sure the slats are spaced closely together to provide even support.
Box Springs: These frames come with built-in springs or grids that add a bit of bounce and help absorb shock, making them perfect for innerspring mattresses. While they're fine for basic use, they're not ideal for foam or latex mattresses, which require a sturdier, more supportive base.
Featuring Weavve’s Weighted Blanket
Adjustable Bases: These bases allow you to adjust the bed's position for personalised comfort and support, making them a great choice for those with specific health needs. They are compatible with most foam, latex, and hybrid mattresses, although they may not be the best fit for innerspring types.
Bunkie Boards: These are thin, flat boards designed to provide a solid surface under the bed, adding extra firmness levels and support. They are perfect for reinforcing bed frames and are especially suited for foam or hybrid mattresses that need a firmer foundation and improved firmness level.
Solid Foundations: Offering a flat, sturdy base, these foundations are ideal for foam and latex mattresses, delivering consistent support and helping maintain the bed's shape. They are an excellent option for everyday use, ensuring a firm and comfortable sleep surface.
It's essential to ensure that your support system can hold not just the bed but also the combined weight of everyone sleeping on it. Most mattress guides in Singapore offer specific recommendations for suitable bases, so be sure to check those guidelines to get the best performance and comfort.
Reduce Excessive Pressure & Avoid Damaging Impact
These common mattress habits might not cause immediate problems, but if you persist with them, they could significantly shorten your bed’s lifespan. For mattress care, avoid bending, rolling, or folding your bed, as this can damage the internal springs and compromise its durability.
Additionally, steer clear of jumping or standing on your bed, as this can harm both the mattress and its base. Refraining from sitting on the edge for extended periods is also important, as it can weaken the spring retention frame.
Finally, make sure not to remove the fire resistance or base labels, as they are essential for maintaining your bed’s warranty.
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How To Clean A Mattress
Ideally, aim to give your bed a thorough clean every 6 months if it’s becoming a bit of a dirty mattress. This is also the perfect time to flip or rotate it. If your bed isn’t particularly dirty, you don’t need to go all out with a deep clean every 6 months, but be sure to stick to your regular cleaning routine. Here’s a handy guide to help you with how to clean a dirty mattress:
Regular Cleaning Steps
- Strip The Bed: Take off all your bedding, including fitted and flat sheets, pillowcases, and mattress protectors.
- Vacuum The Mattress: Grab your vacuum with an upholstery attachment to clear away dust, dirt, and debris from the bed surface, paying extra attention to seams and crevices.
- Spot Clean Stains: Treat any stains using a mild detergent or a water and baking soda mixture. Gently blot the area with a cloth, taking care not to soak the bed. For more ways on how to remove stains from a mattress, check out the detailed cleaning tips below
- Use A Carpet Cleaner: Another step in how to clean a dirty mattress at home is using a carpet cleaner. Deep clean with a home carpet cleaner on a gentle, upholstery-safe setting. Avoid over-saturating and try to extract as much moisture as possible.
- Deodorise: Sprinkle baking soda over the mattress and let it sit for a few hours to absorb any lingering odours. Then, vacuum it up thoroughly.
- Air Out The Mattress: If you can, let your bed air out for a few hours to get rid of any remaining moisture.
- Rotate And Flip: Rotate or flip the bed (if applicable) every few months to ensure it wears evenly.
- Protect With A Mattress Protector: Finish your bedding collection with a protective sheet designed to shield against spills, dust, and allergens. If you have sensitive skin, consider a non-toxic mattress protector option that provides both safety and comfort. TENCEL™ Lyocell Mattress Protector with OEKO-TEX® certification is an excellent choice, offering protection from unexpected accidents while creating a soothing, irritation-free sleep environment.
Featuring Weavve’s TENCEL™ Lyocell Mattress Protector
💡More Cleaning Tips For The Rainy Season
- Breathable Materials: To prevent moisture build-up and reduce the risk of mould on your bed, choose breathable fabrics like cotton or TENCEL™ for your mattress protector. TENCEL™ Mattress Protector, crafted from 100% TENCEL™ fabric, provides excellent moisture-wicking properties, ensuring a cool and comfortable sleep environment.
- Dehumidifiers: Place a dehumidifier in your bedroom to reduce excess moisture in the air. This is especially useful for maintaining your mattress in Singapore, particularly during the rainy season when humidity levels are at their highest.
- Air Purifiers: These devices help to reduce allergens, mould spores, and dust mites, creating a cleaner and more comfortable sleeping environment.
Handling Spills & Accidents
A mattress protector is a simple yet effective solution for handling accidental spills and stains. Without one, you might need to tackle different types of stains with various methods. Here’s your guide to keeping your bed protected and looking fresh.
Wine Stains: Blot the stain with a cloth to absorb as much liquid as possible. Apply a mixture of cold water and baking soda to the stain, let it sit for 5-10 minutes, then blot with a clean cloth.
Blood Stains: Dab the stain with cold water and a cloth to lift as much as possible. Create a paste with baking soda and water, apply it to the stain, and let it sit for 30 minutes. Blot with a cold, damp cloth to finish.
Urine Stains: Blot up excess moisture with paper towels. Spray a mix of equal parts white vinegar and water onto the stain. Blot again, then sprinkle baking soda over the area. Let it sit for a few hours before vacuuming.
Coffee Or Tea Stains: Gently blot the stain with a cloth to soak up excess liquid. Then, mix a little mild dish soap with warm water, apply it to the stain, and blot it gently. Rinse with a damp cloth and let the area air dry.
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Grease Or Oil Stains: Sprinkle cornstarch or baking soda on the stain to absorb the oil. Leave it for 15-30 minutes, then vacuum. Apply a small amount of dish soap mixed with water, gently scrub, and rinse with a damp cloth.
Vomit Stains: Remove any solid residue, then blot the area with cold water. Spray a mix of water and white vinegar, let it sit for 5 minutes, blot dry, and sprinkle with baking soda mixed with a few drops of essential oil like lavender or eucalyptus for a pleasant scent. Once dry, vacuum the area.
If you're sensitive to chemical detergents like dish soap, choose natural cleaners such as vinegar, baking soda, lemon juice, or an enzyme cleaner for a gentler option. Alternatively, you might opt for a hypoallergenic mattress protector. If an accident occurs, you can simply wash the protective cover in the washing machine for a quick and easy clean.
Lifespan Of A Mattress
What Is The Lifespan Of A Mattress?
Depending on the brand and material, a typical mattress in Singapore can last between 7 and 10 years. Higher-quality mattresses usually last longer, while those of lower quality might need replacing sooner. Frequent use can also impact its lifespan, but proper care, such as rotating the bed regularly and using a mattress protector, can help extend its life.
Featuring Weavve’s Signature TENCEL™ Fitted Sheet
When To Replace Your Mattress
If your bed shows signs of sagging, lumps, or discomfort, or if you’re experiencing persistent aches and pains, it might be time for a replacement. Typically, a mattress should be replaced every 7 to 10 years, as it gradually loses its support and pressure-relieving qualities. Let's take a closer look at the average lifespan of different types of mattresses:
- Latex: Last 7.5 to 8.5 years on average.
- Innerspring: Last between 5 and 6 years.
- Foam: Last between 6 and 7 years.
- Hybrid: Last from 6.5 to 7.5 years.
Investing in a new one is certainly worth it for your sleep and overall quality of life, but it can be a significant expense. Start by investing in a good quality mattress protector in Singapore right from the beginning. It’s a simple and cost-effective way to extend the life of your bed and keep it in top condition.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Do You Keep A Mattress Good? / How Can I Make My Mattress Last Longer?
Using a mattress protector is a smart way to extend its lifespan. Combine it with handy cleaning tips, like rotating and flipping the bed, and giving it a good airing out to keep your mattress in Singapore in top shape for the best results.
Featuring Weavve’s Waterproof Mattress Protector
What Do I Need To Protect My Mattress?
A mattress protector is the perfect, hassle-free solution for keeping your bed safe from spills, stains, and allergens. Make a small investment now, and your bed will reward you with years of worry-free comfort.
How To Keep A Mattress Hygienic?
To keep your bed fresh and hygienic, vacuum it regularly, use a protector, and clean spills promptly. Additionally, ensure proper ventilation in the room to prevent moisture buildup.
Can I Store My Mattress?
If you’re not going to use your new one right away, think about rescheduling the delivery to save yourself from having to store it. However, if storage is necessary, place it in a cool, dry spot. Cover it with a breathable flat sheet to shield it from dust and moisture. Steer clear of direct sunlight and damp areas, which can harm the materials. Ideally, keep it laid flat rather than folding or stacking it.
Featuring Weavve’s Signature TENCEL™ Flat Sheet
Conclusion
To keep your bed in top condition, dedicating just a few minutes each week is essential. Turning these practices into routine habits will significantly extend the life of your mattress. And don't forget the mattress protector—it’s a game-changer for quick clean-ups and long-term maintenance.
At Weavve, we’ve crafted a mattress protector that’s not only non-toxic and hypoallergenic but also whisper-quiet. Elevate your sleep experience and make mattress care effortless with our cover. Try it today and see the difference for yourself!
