If you've had your mattress for a few years, you've probably noticed that it feels like your mattress is getting heavier every time you have to move it. Don't worry, it's not you, this phenomenon isn't your imagination.Your mattress is gaining weight!
Related Blog: Keeping Your Bed Clean and Why It’s Important
A Look Inside Your Mattress
Not all mattresses are a mix of springs and foam anymore. There are dozens of kinds of mattresses, all based on studies and theories from sleep experts. But no matter how modern the design, all mattresses pick-up a little weight throughout the years. But why?
Most mattresses have been constructed out of cotton but fabric in general is made to breathe and allows substances to pass through them. That's why it takes so long to dry up an accidental spill in the bed—the material is made to be absorbent.
In theory, this is a good thing. It means you're getting the support you need to keep you comfortable while you sleep, and can bounce back after a good night's rest. The problem (especially with organic fibers like cotton) is that they don't just absorb your weight. Mattresses also absorb dust, mites and skin cells.
With clothing and linens, this isn't such a big deal, because a quick cycle in the washer will remove any dust or skin cells that have built up on the fabric. As you might've guessed, that's the problem with mattresses- there's no big enough washer to throw your mattress in and relax. So how do you remove all of that build up, and feel at peace knowing your mattress is fresh and clean?
Tips for Keeping Your Mattress Healthy
1. Flip Your Mattress
Flipping your mattress over every six months helps prevent it from getting worn down in the same places over and over (everyone has their favorite spot in the bed!). This will make sure dust and skin cells don't settle very deep within the material, and the mattress can be exposed to fresh air regularly.
Keeping your mattress in good condition isn't the only factor to keep in mind. Every time your body shifts on the mattress, you are releasing a small cloud of the debris caught in your mattress's fibers, which you then breathe in.
Regular exposure to all this mattress pollution can create respiratory problems, including asthma, allergies, and sinus issues. So how do you remove these particles when they're already inside your mattress?
2. Vacuum Your Mattress
Even with careful treatment and regular flipping, your mattress will end up gaining weight over time. So how do you manage to remove the extra pounds without searching for an old-fashioned carpet beater and taking out the quarantine stress on your mattress? Vacuum it! Make sure to disinfect the vacuum and clean it out before vacuuming your mattress.
3. Deep Cleaning
To deep clean your mattress, you will need a mixture of hydrogen peroxide and dish soap to treat any stains or spots, or an enzyme spray for any pet, child, or adult accidents. Be aware that if your mattress is made from memory foam (or other non organic materials) the fabric should never get wet beyond a slight dampness, as liquids damage its structure.
After treating spots, sprinkle baking soda across the entire mattress and allow it to sit. After a half hour, vacuum it again, and let it breathe for as long as you're able.
4. Replace the Mattress
The best way to make sure you continue to have a clean space to sleep at night that doesn't give you mattress health related nightmares is to replace your old mattress as soon as you notice your current one gaining weight. Memory foam mattresses and other mattresses not made with organic materials usually stay cleaner than traditional mattresses, but they can be more difficult to clean. Take time to learn about what sort of mattress is best for your lifestyle and needs, and keep track of how old your mattress is. It might be time for a new one!
If you’re noticing significant changes in your mattress that have taken away its comfort and your ability to get a good night of sleep, it might be time for a new one. Come see us at one of our two Sarasota and Bradenton locations or contact us today to sleep on a new mattress tonight!
