Mattresses can easily become stained due to sweat and body oils getting into the fabric (Image: Getty)
Cleaning a mattress is one of the most overlooked chores but with spring almost here it is important to ensure it is in the best possible condition so you get a better night’s sleep.
We spend hours nightly on top of our mattress which means sweat, moisture and other can seep into the fabric if it is not regularly.
Having excess grime on your can cause an allergic reaction and irritate your skin, not to mention it can make your bedroom smell unpleasant.
It may seem obvious to steam your mattress to get it clean again but Andrew Seed, the managing director of , has warned against this method.
Andrew explained: “We’ve seen that more and more people are searching for tips on steam cleaning their mattresses. However, what many don’t realise is that this isn’t only ineffective, it can often do more harm than good.
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It is better to clean a mattress with hydrogen peroxide rather than steaming it (Image: Getty)
“Steam introduces moisture deep into the mattress, which creates an ideal environment for mould to grow.
“Such mould doesn’t just reduce the lifespan of your mattress; it could also pose health risks and worsen allergies – we’re talking respiratory issues, skin irritation, headaches, and worsening of issues like asthma.”
How to properly clean your mattress
Instead of using steam many natural remedies can clean your mattress, and they do not cost a lot of time or money.
If you have yellow, brown or dark patches on the mattress then you are likely dealing with a sweat stain which often happens during the winter time if you have the heating on at night.
Andrew said: “Removing sweat stains from a mattress doesn’t have to be complicated. A simple soapy solution with hydrogen peroxide can work wonders on discolouration and odours.
“Gently blot the stain, apply the solution, and let it sit. For stubborn spots, an enzymatic cleaner can break down sweat without damaging the fabric, leaving your mattress fresh and clean.”
Your mattress will be fresh, clean and stain-free in time for spring (Image: Getty)
Hydrogen peroxide is highly effective at breaking down sweat as it is an oxidising agent, which means it reacts to the proteins and oil in sweat to dissolve them.
Not only is hydrogen peroxide great for getting a mattress clean but it is also a disinfectant, which means it will kill any bacteria or mould on your bed to make it more hygienic.
Once you have your mattress clean then you will need to eliminate any horrible smells the stains caused, and this can be done with one simple kitchen ingredient.
Andrew said: “To remove odours, baking soda can be your best friend. Simply pour baking soda over the mattress, let it sit overnight, and then hoover it up the following day. You can add essential oils if you wish.”
Baking soda is an alkaline and can neutralise any acidic smells in the air to help freshen up your mattress.
It is also highly absorbent to lift any moisture or smells that have seeped into the fabric, so you can enjoy a fresh stain-free mattress this spring without having to spend ages cleaning it.