How You Should Clean Your Mattress

Make sure to like Living Green and Frugally on Facebook, Shop at Amazon to help support my site and explore our PINTEREST BOARDS  for innovative ways you can become self-sufficient.

A clean mattress is essential for a good night’s sleep and overall health. Regularly cleaning your mattress not only helps eliminate dust mites, allergens, and odors but also prolongs its lifespan. One effective, natural, and budget-friendly way to clean a mattress is by using baking soda. Here’s an in-depth guide on how to clean your mattress naturally using baking soda, including recipes and tips for different stains and levels of cleaning.

Why Use Baking Soda?

Baking soda, also known as sodium bicarbonate, is a versatile and safe cleaning agent. It’s highly absorbent, odor-neutralizing, and mildly abrasive, making it ideal for lifting stains, deodorizing, and refreshing mattresses without the use of harsh chemicals.

Spring Clean vs. Deep Clean

Spring Cleaning:

Spring cleaning your mattress involves regular maintenance to keep it fresh and free of surface debris, sweat, and odors. Follow these steps for a quick refresh:

1. Strip the Bed: Remove all bedding, including sheets, pillowcases, and mattress protectors.
2. Vacuum: Use a handheld vacuum or the brush attachment on your vacuum cleaner to thoroughly vacuum the mattress surface. Pay attention to seams, crevices, and edges where dust and debris accumulate.
3. Baking Soda Application: Sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda evenly across the entire mattress surface. Let it sit for at least 15-30 minutes to absorb odors and moisture.
4. Vacuum Again: After the baking soda has had time to work, vacuum the mattress surface again to remove the baking soda along with absorbed dirt and odors.

Deep Cleaning:

For stains, spills, and deeper cleaning needs, a more intensive process is necessary:

1. Spot Treat Stains: Blot stains with a clean, damp cloth to absorb excess liquid. Mix a paste of baking soda and water (or vinegar for tougher stains) and gently apply it to the stained area. Let it sit for 15-30 minutes, then wipe away with a damp cloth.
2. Deodorizing and Refreshing: Follow the steps for spring cleaning, but focus more on stained or odorous areas. Sprinkle baking soda directly onto these spots, allowing it to sit for a few hours or even overnight for thorough odor absorption.
3. Sunlight Exposure: If possible, take advantage of sunlight. Sun exposure can help eliminate bacteria and odors. Place the mattress in direct sunlight for a few hours to naturally disinfect and freshen it up.

Baking Soda Cleaning Recipes:

General Mattress Refresher:

• Ingredients: Baking soda
• Instructions: Sprinkle an even layer of baking soda over the entire mattress surface. Let it sit for 15-30 minutes, then vacuum thoroughly.

Stain Removal Paste:

• Ingredients: Baking soda, water (or vinegar for tougher stains)
• Instructions: Mix baking soda with water (or vinegar) to create a paste. Apply the paste to stains, let it sit for 15-30 minutes, then gently wipe or blot with a damp cloth.

Stain-Specific Tips:

• Urine or Sweat Stains: Blot excess liquid, then apply a baking soda paste and let it sit before cleaning.
• Blood Stains: Use cold water to dampen the area before applying the baking soda paste.
• Odor Removal: Sprinkle baking soda liberally and let it sit for several hours or overnight before vacuuming.

Final Tips:

• Rotate and flip your mattress regularly to ensure even wear and tear.
• Use a mattress protector to prevent future stains and spills.
• Follow manufacturer’s guidelines for specific mattress care to avoid damage.

Cleaning your mattress using baking soda is an effective, natural, and economical method that promotes better sleep hygiene and extends the life of your mattress. Whether you opt for a quick spring clean or a deep clean, regular maintenance will ensure a healthier sleeping environment for years to come.