Studies have shown that mattresses, like bedding and pillows, can be a haven for dust mites. These parasites feed on dead skin cells and can cause a range of health issues for humans, from mild itching and discomfort to more severe problems such as coughing, sneezing, allergic rhinitis, acne, and skin infections.
Therefore, it is essential to regularly wash your bedding, pillows, and mattress. However, mattresses can be challenging to deep clean.
Many people try to sun their mattresses, believing that this will effectively kill dust mites. However, according to a study by the Institute of Environmental Allergy Research in Tokyo, Japan, after six hours of sun exposure, the mattress still retained 96.2% of harmful substances such as dust mites.
So, what is the best way to clean your mattress effectively and easily? Follow these steps:
1. Remove pillowcases, mattress pads, and take all bedding and decorative items off the bed.
After removing all pillows, stuffed toys, and other items from the bed, take off the mattress pad and wash it in the washing machine. It is recommended to wash mattress pads, pillowcases, and sheets about once a week and the comforter once a month.
2. Treat the mattress surface.
Use a vacuum cleaner with an attached brush to thoroughly clean the top surface of the mattress. Use the vacuum’s hose to reach into the crevices, seams, and edges to remove any debris.
For regular stains, dilute some dish soap with water, pour it into a spray bottle, and spritz it onto the stain (avoid over-saturation). Wait for 5-10 minutes, then use a clean cloth to blot the stain and absorb the excess liquid.
For blood or urine stains, pour a small amount of hydrogen peroxide or enzyme-based cleaner onto the affected area. Immediately blot with a clean cloth and scrub with a brush until the stain is gone.
3. Sprinkle baking soda over the mattress.
Baking soda helps absorb moisture and eliminate any lingering odors. After completing the previous steps, generously sprinkle baking soda over the entire mattress surface. Let it sit for a few hours or, ideally, overnight, to allow the baking soda’s acid to absorb moisture and odors effectively.
Then, use a vacuum cleaner to remove the baking soda. Once the top surface is clean, flip the mattress and repeat the process for the other side. Follow the same steps for the other side of the mattress.
It is recommended to clean your mattress every 3-6 months. If you no longer use the mattress, cover it with a specialized plastic bag to protect it from water and dust.
You should also wash or sun your pillow and comforter fillings. To do this, place them in a black plastic bag and leave them in the sun for about two hours to kill bacteria and dust mites.
The Ultimate Guide to Restoring Your Stainless Steel Pot’s Shine: Banish the Black, Embrace the Sparkle!
The unsightly appearance of a stained black stainless steel pot is just one concern; more crucially, it impairs the pot’s heat conduction, resulting in unnecessary gas wastage during use.
“The Surprising New Life of Your Half-Drunk Coca-Cola”
The buildup of residue and scale inside a well-used kettle can impact the health of those drinking the water it boils, and may also reduce the kettle’s lifespan.
The Ultimate Guide to Corn on the Cob: Unlocking the Secret to Tender, Sweet Perfection
To enhance the flavor of boiled corn, there are a few secret ingredients that can make all the difference. By adding these ingredients, you’ll find that your corn is transformed into a softer, sweeter treat. It’s an easy way to take your boiled corn to the next level, and it’s a trick that every corn lover should know.
The Ultimate Guide to Washing Produce: Avoid These 3 Common Mistakes That May Do More Harm Than Good
“Rinsing vegetables with these three common habits can do more harm than good. In fact, these washing methods can cause a deeper penetration of toxins, putting your health at risk. Discover the three wrong ways to wash your veggies, as revealed by Dr. Tan Dunci from Taiwan’s Chang Geng Memorial Hospital, and learn how to effectively rid your produce of harmful pesticides.”
The Flaming Matchstick and the Toilet Bowl: A Surprising Superpower for All.
Tossing a matchstick into the toilet may seem like a mischievous act, but it could be the spark that ignites a journey of unexpected benefits and surprises.
