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Taking care of your mattress

Proper care and maintenance of a mattress is important for comfort, hygiene and the longevity of your bed. According to Dale Harley, marketing executive at Restonic SA, taking good care of your bed can prolong the lifespan of your mattress, improve your sleep quality and prevent health issues.

“Taking good care of your mattress prevents premature wear and tear and sagging, which can shorten the mattress lifespan,” he says. “A well-maintained mattress provides better support and comfort. Plus, it’s healthier – over time, mattresses can accumulate dust mites. Regular cleaning and maintenance can create a healthier sleeping environment.”

Basic care practices

Harley recommends the following practices to keep your mattress in tip-top condition:

  • Use a waterproof mattress protector. This creates a physical barrier that helps prevent dust mites and allergens from penetrating the mattress. A quality mattress protector will help to shield your mattress from stains and spills too. “Mattress protectors also make it difficult for bed bugs to access and hide within the mattress,” says Harley. “They can also prevent sweat, body oils, and dead skin cells from seeping into your mattress.”
  • Rotate your mattress once a month, promoting even wear and tear and reducing sagging. Some mattresses need flipping vertically as well as horizontally. If you have a no-turn mattress, you should only turn it horizontally (i.e. keep the same surface facing up and just pivot the mattress on the bed base).
  • Keep it clean. Regularly vacuum your mattress to remove dust, dirt, and allergens. Spot-clean the mattress with mild detergent and water.
  • Air it out. Occasionally remove your bedding and allow your mattress to air.
  • Avoid jumping on the bed, which can damage internal components.
  • Handle it with care. When moving the mattress, do not lift it by pulling the tape edging. It’s preferable to have two people work together to move the mattress carefully.

Common mistakes to avoid

Harley says aside from not using a mattress protector and regularly turning and cleaning their mattresses, some of the most common mistakes people make when it comes to mattress maintenance is using harsh chemicals or excessive liquids for cleaning. “This can damage the mattress materials or result in it not drying properly, which can cause a damp smell or even mould or mildew growing on it,” he says. “If you do need to spot clean your mattress, try to use a mild cleaning agent and ensure you give the bed time to dry afterwards before replacing the bedding.”

Another mistake is putting off replacing your mattress if it’s past its best. “Mattresses only have a lifespan of around 7 to 10 years on average,” says Harley. “If your mattress is reaching that age, or if it’s visibly worn or sagging, it might be time to replace it. People also find their needs change in different stages of life, such as marriage, pregnancy, illness or ageing. Remember, you spend a third of your life sleeping on your bed. Investing in a good bed and maintaining your mattress care and hygiene is crucial, as this will improve your sleep quality and thus your life. That’s the power of sleep.”

For more sleep info and advice, visit the Restonic SA website.

THE AUTHOR

SA Home Owner Online

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