Clean Your Mattress Naturally

From Mattress Mayhem to Reset and Clean: Let’s end the Secret Germ Party You Didn’t Know You Were Hosting

We’re peeling back the covers (literally) on a topic that’s sure to make you squirm: the surprisingly dirty truth about your mattress. The cosy cocoon you’ve been snuggling up in could be harbouring more nasties than you ever imagined. Read on to find our top tips for getting your mattress clean naturally – we’re going to lean in on our non-toxic cleaning staples baking soda, natural soap and essential oils.

My mattress isn’t that dirty. Is it?

So, picture this: you’re getting ready to hit the hay after a long day of adulting when suddenly it hits you. Your mattress isn’t just a fluffy cloud of comfort – it’s also a VIP lounge for dust mites, dead skin cells, and more. Cue the horror movie music.

Before you go running for the hills (or at least the nearest mattress store), let’s talk facts. You see, mattresses are like magnets for all sorts of nasties, thanks to a little thing called human biology. In 8 hours of sleep, we shed skin cells and exhale water vapour like there’s no tomorrow, and guess where that ends up? That’s right, nestled snug as a bug in your mattress.

Dust mites – Let’s kick them out!

Dust mites, those microscopic critters that thrive on dead skin cells and moisture, love nothing more than to cosy up in your mattress. These little critters can live for up to100 days, & during this period, boy oh boy, do they multiply! With each dust mite laying between 60-100 eggs, it’s like a tiny population explosion happening right under our noses. And if that isn’t enough, each one churns out approximately 2000 faecal pellets. It’s like a miniature factory of allergens right in your mattress!

And let’s not forget other allergens like pet dander, mould spores and pollen along with other uninvited guests that can wreak havoc on your health and sleep quality.

That Stuffy Nose is your sign to get cleaning

All these things can contribute to some pretty unpleasant health consequences, the mildest being waking with a stuffy nose, lung irritation, dry mouth, or a morning cough. It’s particularly vital for asthmatics to keep their sleeping environment clean, as any of these allergens can trigger asthma attacks.

That’s why keeping up with regular mattress cleaning and maintenance is key. It’s not just about tidying up; it’s about curbing allergens and creating a healthier sleep haven.

Worry not, because we’re about to drop some natural cleaning wisdom that will have you resting easy in no time. While it’s routine for many to swap out their sheets every week or so, it’s easy to overlook the fact that our mattresses need some attention too, just like our sheets. However, taking care of your mattress isn’t just about keeping it clean – it’s about creating a healthier sleep environment for yourself. Even just a quick refresh every six months can work wonders, ensuring your mattress stays in tip-top shape. Your mattress will thank you, and you’ll feel confident knowing you’ve given it the care it deserves.

Here’s our favourite tips for banishing germs and reclaiming your mattress:

1. Head to Bed Clean: The cleaner you are slipping between the sheets the less grime, oil and dirt will be transferred to your sheets and make it’s way down to your mattress.
2. Wash All Bedding: Before diving into deep cleaning your mattress, start by washing all bedding, including toppers and mattress protectors, in hot water using Figgy Laundry Powder. This helps eliminate any surface contaminants and creates a clean foundation for your mattress.
3. Vacuum Like a Boss: Break out your trusty vacuum cleaner and give your mattress the deep clean it deserves. Use the upholstery attachment to suck up dust, dirt, and other debris lurking beneath the surface. Think of it as a mini spa day for your mattress. Remember, this step is particularly crucial for asthmatics or those with other respiratory conditions, as it helps remove allergens that can trigger respiratory issues. Don’t forget it’s important to vacuum under the bed as well. The same microscopic nasties can be found living on the floor under your bed too and is often missed in your regular cleaning routine. So, muscle up and push the bed out of place to allow a thorough vacuum here.

2. Stain-Fighting Superpowers: Got mystery stains that just won’t budge? Fear not! We’ve got three powerful options to tackle those stubborn marks and keep your mattress looking fresh. Be sure to let your mattress dry thoroughly before remaking.
   • Figgy Bar Soap: For smaller stains, try rubbing Figgy bar soap directly onto the wetted-up mark, then rinse/wipe off with a damp cloth. It’s a gentle yet effective solution to lift away dirt and grime.
   • Diluted Home Cleaning Castile Soap: Another option is to dip a cloth into diluted Home cleaning castile soap, then apply it to the stain. Afterward, be sure to rinse thoroughly to remove any residue.
   • Bissell Cleaner: For tougher stains, consider using a Bissell cleaner with diluted Home cleaning castile soap as the cleaning solution (1-2 tsp per litre). This powerful combination can help tackle even the most stubborn marks, leaving your mattress looking as good as new.

2. Flip and Rotate: Extend the life of your mattress and prevent sagging by flipping and rotating it regularly. It’s like giving your mattress a little yoga session to keep it in tip-top shape.
3. Deodorise your Mattress with Baking Soda: Sprinkle your mattress with baking soda and let it works its odour banishing magic! After an hour or so vacuum it up and sweep away the smells.
4. Essential Oil Elixir: Say goodbye to funky odours with our DIY linen and room spray made from 100mls boiled and cooled water, 50ml vodka and 20-30 drops of essential oils. Shake to combine the Essential oils of your choosing and Vodka then top up with cooled boiled water – shake well before use, and this spray will be set to use time and time again. Lavender, tea tree, and eucalyptus are all great options for keeping your mattress smelling fresh and clean.

So, there we have it, the not-so-dirty truth about mattresses and the germ-filled adventures that lie beneath the surface. Armed with a little know-how and a whole lot of elbow grease, you’ll be sleeping soundly in no time. Now go forth and reclaim your sleep sanctuary – you’ve got this!