If you’re like most people, you probably change your sheets on a regular basis, perhaps once a week or two. However, many forget what’s underneath: the mattress. It gets just as dirty as the sheets, yet you probably haven’t given any thought to cleaning it. It may look clean on the surface, but your mattress could be harboring harmful contaminants that can impact the air you breathe, your health, and even your sleep quality.
At 1st Class Carpet Cleaning Services, we believe a clean home starts where you rest — and that includes deep cleaning your mattress. Today we’ll explore what could be lurking in your mattress and how to safely address these problems. Hint: it starts with a thorough mattress cleaning.
What is Hiding in Your Mattress?
From dust mites to dead skin cells, here’s a look at what is hiding in your mattress.
1. Dust Mites
These microscopic pests love warm, humid environments, which makes mattresses their favorite home. Dust mites feed on dead skin cells, and there could be millions of them in your mattress just waiting for their next meal. In fact, studies show that anywhere from 100,000 to 10 million dust mites take up residence in the average mattress. Dust mites don’t bite, but they can trigger allergies and asthma.
2. Sweat and Bodily Fluids
Even when you freshly clean your sheets on a regular basis, sweat, saliva, and other bodily fluids will penetrate your mattress over time. Not only can these fluids stain the fabric, they can emit nasty odors – especially if your pets sleep with you.
3. Dead Skin Cells
Everyone sheds skin cells every single day, and many of those end up in your mattress. This is the primary food of dust mites, but even worse: they can promote an environment where bacteria can grow.
4. Bacteria and Germs
Mattresses often hide bacteria such as Staphylococcus, E. coli, and other microbes that are introduced from the skin or brought in from the outside. Not only can these bacteria cause infections and skin irritation, they can reduce your indoor air quality.
5. Fungal Spores and Mold
When you combine the poor ventilation of mattresses, as well as their propensity to trap moisture, you get the potential for the growth of mold and mildew. These substances can trigger or worsen respiratory issues.
How to Remove Mattress Contaminants
Why sleep on an unhealthy and unclean mattress? Check out these ways you can keep it clean:
1. Vacuum Regularly
Using a vacuum with a HEPA filter, vacuum your mattress on a regular basis to remove surface dust, dirt, and dead skin cells. Don’t neglect seams and crevices, which are the preferred hiding spots for dust mites.
2. Use Mattress Protectors
Waterproof, hypoallergenic mattress covers can keep sweat, dirt, and allergens from soaking through. Be sure to wash them often in hot water.
3. Air it Out
Every once in a while, such as when changing the sheets, let your mattress sit in natural sunlight to help kill mold spores and bacteria.
4. Schedule Professional Mattress Cleaning
These DIY methods can help keep your mattress clean, but they aren’t effective in reaching the deep layers of your bed where most harmful contaminants live. Here at 1st Class Carpet Cleaning Services, we use advanced steam cleaning and non-toxic sanitizing agents to eliminate dust mites, bacteria, and allergens. Our cleaning process not only eliminates odors and reduces allergens, it improves your sleep quality and extends the lifespan of your mattress.
Sleep Easy With 1st Class Carpet Cleaning & Restoration Services
We’re here to help you sleep easy, whether it’s been a year since your last cleaning or you’ve never had it done. Contact us today for a free quote on mattress and upholstery cleaning in New Hudson MI and beyond.
