Quck answer
Cleaning an old mattress is essential to sanitize it from dust mites and mildew. Follow these steps for an effective cleaning process:
1. Remove all bedding and vacuum the mattress thoroughly to remove loose dirt and dust.
2. Treat any stains using a mixture of mild detergent and water. Gently scrub the stained area and blot with a clean cloth.
3. Sprinkle baking soda all over the mattress to absorb odors. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes before vacuuming it off.
4. If there are any lingering odors, sprinkle some white vinegar on the mattress and let it air dry. The vinegar will help neutralize the odors.
5. Finally, use a fabric spray or mattress protector to prevent future dust mites and mildew growth.
Regularly cleaning and maintaining your mattress will ensure a healthier sleeping environment and prolong its lifespan.
Old mattresses can pose health risks in various ways. When stored, mattresses can develop mold, mildew, and accumulate a large number of dust mites. Even if left out in a room, mattresses will attract dust mites. If you plan to use an old mattress or if your current mattress hasn’t been cleaned in a while, it’s important to follow these tips to properly clean and sanitize it.
Step 1
Take a washcloth and soak it in water. Apply a generous amount of dish/hand soap to the washcloth and thoroughly scrub the affected areas of the mattress. If the mattress has been unused for a while, it’s recommended to scrub the entire surface to ensure complete sanitization.
Step 2
Spray a citrus cleaner on the mattress or soak a washcloth in a mix of detergent and water (1/8 cup detergent per gallon of water) or vinegar and water (8 cups vinegar per gallon of water). Dab the affected areas of the mattress and then scrub it thoroughly.
Step 3
Once you finish scrubbing the mattress, open a window or place it outside for several hours to allow it to dry.
Step 4
Apply a generous amount of baking soda to the areas of the mattress that have an odor. Let the baking soda sit undisturbed for approximately 8 to 10 hours, then take the mattress outside and shake it vigorously to remove all the baking soda.
Step 5
Move the mattress to a sunny area and leave it there for several days (a sun porch with large windows is ideal). After it has been exposed to sunlight for at least 24 hours, vacuum the entire surface thoroughly. This will eliminate any dried-out mold/mildew spores as well as dust mites. Follow either steps 1 and 3 or steps 2 and 3 to complete the sanitization process for your mattress.
