How to Disinfect a Mattress
Mattresses get stained and dirty with regular use, especially if you have children or pets. Used mattresses should be thoroughly cleaned because you don't know what's been on them or how well they were cared for by the previous owners. A plastic or rubber mattress cover is the best way to keep a mattress free of dust mites and dead skin. Covers also protect a mattress from urine, vomit or spills. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Baking soda
- Vacuum with upholstery attachment
- Bowl
- Water
- Detergent
- Upholstery cleaner
- Wire whisk
- Rag
- Disinfectant spray
Instructions
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1
Sprinkle the mattress all over with baking soda and let it sit for at least an hour. Baking soda can remove many odors.
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2
Vacuum the baking soda off the mattress with the upholstery attachment. Be sure to vacuum along the sides of the mattress as well. Turn the mattress over and do the same on the other side.
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3
Use a hotel trade secret to remove stains from a mattress. Mix water and a mild detergent or upholstery cleaner in a bowl according to the instructions. Beat the mixture with a wire whisk until there are a lot of suds on top. Pick up just the suds with a rag and scrub the stain. Using suds keeps the mattress from getting wet, which can cause mildew.
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4
Spray the mattress all over with a disinfectant spray, such as Lysol or similar brand. Make sure you spray both sides of the mattress and the edges. Apply enough spray so that the mattress is damp all over, but not wet.
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5
Put the mattress outside in the sun until it's completely dry, and leave it outside for longer if possible. Turn the mattress every couple of hours to make sure both sides get sun. Sunlight will help kill germs and mildew.
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Vacuum the mattress again when you bring it back indoors. This will help to remove any remaining mildew.
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7
Keep the mattress clean by vacuuming both sides once a month.
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Tips & Warnings
A very dirty mattress may require a professional cleaning, and a mattress that is badly mildewed or that has been wet for more than 24 hours should be replaced.
