Sleep is an essential part of your mental and physical health, but it’s not just about the number of hours you sleep. Sleep quality outweighs the hours, and the bed you sleep on can impact this quality more than you think.
Here is a complete guide on improving sleep quality by cleaning your mattress and pillows.
Signs That Your Mattress and Pillows Need to Be Cleaned
If your mattress or pillow has visible spots, stains, or a strange odor, it’s time for a thorough cleaning. Furthermore, if you’ve been having heightened allergy symptoms like itchy eyes, coughing, or sneezing, and washing your bedding hasn’t helped, a dirty mattress might be the culprit.
If cleaning does not eliminate stains or odors, or if you see a mold buildup, it is time to replace your mattress and pillows.
How to Clean a Mattress
First, you’ll want to use a vacuum to clean the whole mattress surface. Vacuum the bed’s sides to remove dust, and stretch the fabric to remove dirt from seams.
It is important to exercise caution while using cleansers and cleaning chemicals on your mattress. You don’t want to use anything that may harm the delicate fabric of your mattress. Remember that it is impossible to eliminate detergents from a mattress, so use products with a light scent.
Never put the cleaning solution directly on the bed; apply and remove the solution with a clean towel. Commercial enzyme solution is often the best option. You may also use a combination of dish soap and water, concentrating on the frothy suds that build on top.
Sprinkle baking soda on the mattress surface after removing any obvious stains and allowing it to dry fully. Baking soda absorbs moisture and neutralizes odors, and let the baking soda rest for at least a few hours before vacuuming. You can always use use housekeeping service to get a clean home.
How to Clean Your Pillows
If your pillow is washable, throw it into the washing machine every six months or more frequently if you sweat a lot, eat in bed, or have pets sleep on your bed with you.
Drying the pillow is critical; otherwise, mildew will grow. If the weather is nice, you can dry most pillows on the clothesline until completely dry. You should check whether the pillow is fully dry on the inside, too, by squeezing it and feeling for any dampness.
Once your pillow is completely dry, you can throw some fresh sheets on your now clean mattress and pillows and enjoy a good night’s sleep!