Homeowners have been urged to check mattresses (Image: Getty)
have been warned about the dangers of mattress and how it could impose serious health risks this winter.
Sleep experts at have provided useful tips to help identify and mould on .
Mould thrives in moist, warm environments. Factors like sweat, spills, and poor ventilation can encourage mould growth in the bedroom and on mattresses in particular.
Mattress mould is generally more common in the colder months, when homes are typically closed up to retain heat which reduces ventilation and increases humidity – ideal conditions for mould growth.
The temperature difference between a warm room and the cooler surfaces of walls, floors, and mattresses can also lead to condensation, adding moisture that mould needs to thrive.
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Mould can often have a distinctive smell (Image: Getty)
For those who are unsure what mould looks like it can be identified by a musty smell and discoloration such as dark spots which may appear fuzzy or slimy. Always be sure to wash hands after contact with suspected mould.
When checking mattresses for mould be sure to remove all bedding and check the corners, edges, and, if possible, between layers, as these are the common areas for growth.
A spokesperson for WinstonsBeds.com said: “If mould has developed on your mattress, it’s likely due to inadequate care. Mould only grows in environments with humidity, warmth, and dust.
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Make sure to vacuum the mattress (Image: Getty)
“We recommend rotating your mattress about once a month to promote good airflow, which can help prevent mould.
“Maintaining good hygiene, such as promptly cleaning spills and regularly washing linens, also discourages mould growth. Avoid drying damp clothes or towels in the bedroom or near the bed, and be sure to open a window to ventilate the room when it’s humid.”
Here are five steps on how to treat mattress mould:
Vacuum
Vacuum both sides of the mattress thoroughly to loosen and remove dirt and mould. Make sure to empty the vacuum afterwards to avoid more mould spreading.
Mix cleaning solution
Mix equal parts warm water and rubbing alcohol, lightly dab a clean cloth into the solution then onto the affected area in a circular motion. Be sure not to soak the cloth as this may make the situation worse by adding more moisture to the area.
Let solution sit
Allow the solution to soak into the mattress and then continue to scrub all the visible mould. Scrub over the edges to kill any invisible spores that may be there then allow the mattress to dry.
Spray disinfectant
After the mattress has been dried and aired out, spray it with an upholstery disinfectant as an extra precaution.
Allow to dry
Ideally allow the mattress to dry in direct sunlight, as this will help the mattress to dry quickly and prevent additional mould growth. Finish by vacuuming to remove any remaining debris.