Your mattress is one of the most used pieces of furniture in the home. If you get eight hours of sleep each night, you will spend around 3,000 hours on your mattress each year. Most mattresses should last around ten years but to help your mattress stay comfortable, it’s important to take care of it. Here are some basic mattress maintenance tips for your household.

Make Sure the Mattress is Properly Supported

Having your mattress properly supported is essential for it to retain its structural integrity. Purchase the foundation or box spring at the same time as your mattress so that they will wear at similar rates. An old foundation can cause a new mattress to break down faster and may not be able to support its weight.

The kind of support needed depends on the type of mattress. A mattress made with springs generally requires a box spring and a bed frame. Memory foam mattresses and other specialty mattresses need a sturdy bed frame or a compatible foundation. Whatever type of support you use, inspect it at least once each year for cracks or other damage as part of basic maintenance.

Invest in a Mattress Protector

Purchasing a quality mattress protector is one of the best ways to make sure your mattress stays in good condition for years. The best mattress protectors are made from breathable materials and offer waterproof protection. They protect your mattress from sweat, dust, dirt, and dander. Wash your mattress protector at least every two months or more often, if needed.

Regular Vacuuming as Part of Mattress Maintenance

Vacuum your mattress to help keep it in good shape. Vacuuming should be part of your regular maintenance for furniture, upholstery, and your mattress. Use a handheld upholstery attachment to clean the surface, sides, and edges, which will reduce surface dust and allergen build-up on your mattress.

Clean Mattress Stains Properly

Mattress stains need to be treated quickly. Many manufacturers include specific directions for stain removal and general cleaning in their paperwork, but most stains can be spot-cleaned using warm water and a mild detergent. Harsh chemical products should not be used as they can damage the mattress.

When cleaning your mattress, use as little water as possible to complete the job. Moisture trapped in a mattress can become a breeding ground for mold. Make sure that the surface has dried completely before making the bed. A liberal sprinkling of baking soda on the mattress will help absorb moisture and neutralize unpleasant smells.

Mattress Maintenance Means Rotating it Regularly

Rotating a mattress regularly helps promote even wear. A brand new mattress should be rotated 180 degrees every two weeks for the first four months, then three or four times a year for the life of the mattress. Rotating the box spring every six months should also be part of your mattress maintenance.

PRIME Home Inspections offers inspections to customers in Western Washington state. Contact us to request our services.