Guide on Mattress Cleaning: Memory Foam Edition
In the quest to keep your home clean and comfortable, maintaining your memory foam mattress is essential. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to clean your memory foam mattress using household ingredients, while avoiding mold or mildew.
Cleaning a memory foam mattress can help prolong its lifespan. To do so, prepare a gentle cleaning solution by mixing about 1 cup of 3% hydrogen peroxide, 3 tablespoons of baking soda, and a few drops of mild liquid dish soap in a spray bottle. Shake gently to dissolve the baking soda.
For spot cleaning, lightly spray the solution on any stains or affected areas. Avoid soaking the mattress as memory foam absorbs moisture easily, which can lead to mold growth. Let the solution sit for 15–20 minutes to break down stains. You might see bubbling, indicating it is working.
Gently blot the area with a clean cloth to lift stains and excess moisture. Avoid scrubbing to prevent pushing stains deeper into the foam. After stain treatment, apply baking soda over the entire mattress surface and let it sit for several hours (or ideally with good air circulation like an open window or fan) to absorb moisture and odors. Vacuum thoroughly using an upholstery attachment to remove the baking soda and loosened debris.
Ensure the mattress is completely dry before covering it with sheets. Proper drying is essential to prevent mold and mildew growth since memory foam’s porous structure quickly absorbs moisture.
Additional tips to avoid mold/mildew include avoiding steam cleaning memory foam mattresses as the excess moisture can damage the material and promote mold. Use a dehumidifier or air conditioner to keep bedroom humidity low, ideally below 50%, to deter fungal growth. Clean spills immediately and dry the mattress thoroughly. Vacuum regularly with a HEPA filter vacuum, but only when the mattress is dry.
By combining careful spot cleaning with minimal moisture and thorough drying, you can safely clean your memory foam mattress using household ingredients while minimizing the risk of mold or mildew development.
Other methods to deodorize a foul-smelling mattress include using a solution of water and vinegar, cornstarch, baking soda, essential oils, or a combination of these. A waterproof mattress cover may offer peace of mind about the cleanliness of the mattress it covers, but it is not a guaranteed preventive method. If an odor or stain persists, a person may need to consider replacing their mattress.
To prolong the lifespan of your memory foam mattress, clean it whenever changing sheets or as necessary. Avoid using harsh detergents and cleaners on a memory foam mattress. Cleaning stains on a memory foam mattress as they occur can prevent them from becoming permanent. Using a mattress protector on a new mattress can help prevent stains, spills, and odors.
With proper care, memory foam mattresses can last for years. However, avoid submerging a memory foam mattress in water as it can cause damage and dampness. Using too much water when cleaning a memory foam mattress can lead to mold or mildew growth. To clean a memory foam mattress, vacuum the entire surface, make a cleaning solution, spray the solution onto stains, and dry the mattress using a hairdryer or fan. For stubborn stains or odors, use a mixture of water and white vinegar, or sprinkle baking soda onto odor-causing stains. Using a mattress cover can be an affordable alternative to replacing a mattress.
By incorporating regular cleaning with household solutions, such as hydrogen peroxide, baking soda, and mild dish soap, into your home-and-garden routine, you can effectively prolong the lifestyle of your memory foam mattress. To prevent mold or mildew, it's crucial to minimize moisture exposure when cleaning and ensure proper drying, as memory foam easily absorbs water.
