What’s Lurking in Your Mattress? How and Why to Deep Clean Where You Sleep
You wash your sheets regularly. You fluff your pillows. But when was the last time mattress cleaning crossed your mind? The truth is, your mattress can be a hidden hotspot for allergens, bacteria, and buildup, all of which impact your sleep quality and your health.
At Big Big Clean, we believe a clean home starts with the spaces you use most—and your bed tops the list. In this blog, we’ll uncover why mattress cleaning matters and how to properly deep clean it for better sleep and a healthier home.
1. Why Mattress Cleaning is More Important Than You Think
Mattresses are a breeding ground for:
✔ Dust mites
✔ Dead skin cells
✔ Body oils and sweat
✔ Allergens and bacteria
✔ Mold and mildew in humid environments
Even if your mattress looks clean, it may be hosting millions of microscopic allergens. These can trigger asthma, allergies, and skin irritation—especially if you’re sensitive to dust or prone to breakouts.
2. How Dirty is Your Mattress? The Facts
- The average person sheds around 1.5 grams of skin each night, feeding a population of up to 10 million dust mites in a typical mattress.
- Dust mites don’t bite, but their droppings are a major allergen that can linger in your bed.
- Sweat and body oils can lead to yellowing, odors, and bacterial growth, especially over time.
- Pet dander, pollen, and even mold spores can collect in your mattress if not properly maintained.
Your mattress plays a key role in your indoor air quality and overall wellness, and neglecting it can impact your sleep and your health.
3. How Often Should You Clean Your Mattress?
At a minimum, you should deep clean your mattress twice a year. However, if you have pets, allergies, or are prone to night sweats, quarterly cleaning is ideal.
Signs it’s time for a deep clean:
- Odors that linger even after washing your sheets
- Visible stains or discoloration
- Waking up congested, itchy, or sneezing
- More than six months since your last cleaning
Regular mattress cleaning helps prolong its lifespan and improve the quality of your rest.
4. Step-by-Step Guide to Deep Cleaning Your Mattress
Step 1: Strip and Wash All Bedding
✔ Wash sheets, pillowcases, duvet covers, and mattress protectors in hot water to kill dust mites and bacteria.
Step 2: Vacuum Thoroughly
✔ Use the upholstery attachment to vacuum the entire mattress—top, sides, and even underneath if accessible. This removes dust, skin cells, and debris.
Step 3: Spot Clean Stains
✔ Mix a solution of mild dish soap and water or use hydrogen peroxide and baking soda for deeper stains.
✔ Gently dab (don’t soak) the stain with a cloth, working from the outside in.
Step 4: Deodorize with Baking Soda
✔ Sprinkle a generous layer of baking soda across the entire surface.
✔ Let it sit for at least 6–8 hours (or overnight) to absorb odors and moisture.
✔ Vacuum thoroughly to remove all residue.
Step 5: Let It Air Out
✔ If possible, place the mattress near a window or outside in the sun for a few hours. UV rays help kill bacteria and freshen the surface naturally.
Step 6: Flip and Rotate
✔ Rotate or flip your mattress to promote even wear. This also gives you a chance to clean both sides.
5. Mattress Maintenance Between Deep Cleans
✔ Use a waterproof mattress protector to block spills, stains, and allergens.
✔ Wash your sheets weekly to minimize buildup.
✔ Keep pets off the bed to reduce hair and dander.
✔ Avoid eating or drinking in bed to prevent crumbs and stains.
These simple habits can help maintain mattress cleaning and support a healthier sleep space.
6. When to Replace Your Mattress
Even the cleanest mattress won’t last forever. You should replace your mattress every 7 to 10 years, or sooner if it shows:
- Sagging or uneven areas
- Persistent odors or stains
- Increased allergy symptoms
- Lack of comfort and support
Mattress cleaning will extend its life, but when it’s time to upgrade, do not ignore the signs.
Why Professional Mattress Cleaning is Worth It
DIY cleaning helps, but for tough stains, odors, or deep-seated allergens, a professional service provides peace of mind.
Benefits of professional mattress cleaning:
✔ Industrial-strength vacuums and steam cleaners remove embedded debris
✔ Safe, eco-friendly products that sanitize without harsh chemicals
✔ Deodorizing treatments that eliminate odors at the source
✔ Improved air quality and reduced allergens for better sleep
At Big Big Clean, we offer mattress sanitizing as part of our deep cleaning services—helping you rest easy, literally.
Schedule a Consultation
Visit our website to learn more about our mattress and home deep cleaning services and book an appointment today. Experience the difference a clean mattress can make in your sleep and your health.
Contact Us
Phone: +1 603 892 1322
Email: [email protected]
Address: 16 Natick Street, Nashua, NH 03063
At Big Big Clean, we believe your bed should be the cleanest and most comfortable place in your home. Let us help you eliminate what’s lurking beneath the sheets and reclaim your rest.
