Despite their high level of use, mattresses tend to be overlooked when it comes to cleaning in the household. Ultimately, mattresses collect all manner of things like dust, sweat, spills, odors, stains, skin cells, and pet hair, and require cleaning to maintain a fresh state.
Whenever Folks need to clean their mattresses, they usually wonder if they should attempt to do the cleaning on their own or hire a professional cleaning service. For dirt that is superficial and covering only the surface of the mattress, a lot of people choose to do this type of cleaning on their own. However, they should consider the fact that professional cleaners have better and more thorough methods that include specialized equipment.
Which choice should one make?
A lot of factors should be considered including the state of the mattress, the type of cleaning that needs to be done, the amount of time that the client has available, and the type of cleaning that needs to be done. The aim of this writing is to help the audience make a comparison between professional mattress cleaning and DIY.
What does Professional Mattress Cleaning Include?
Professional mattress cleaning is performed by professionals who use their specialized equipment and cleaning solutions to perform a thorough cleaning on the mattress.
The purpose of professional cleaning is to perform a much deeper cleaning than what is often done to clean surfaces. The type of cleaning that a professional will perform will be highly dependent on the condition of the mattress and the fabric that the mattress is made from. Cleaners may use spot cleaning, steam cleaning, extraction, and other methods.
A professional mattress cleaner assesses a mattress prior to cleaning and for good reason. Mattress materials are unique and have specific care needs.
When professional cleaning is your only option to get a mattress clean, it is typically required for:
- Heavily soiled mattresses
- Mattresses that have chronic odor issues
- Mattresses that have chronic stain issues
- Excessive dust
- Mattresses soiled by pets
- Mattresses used heavily
- Mattresses that require a deep clean
The Mattress Cleaning Melbourne Guide provides valuable local tips on mattress care and professional cleaning for those who want additional information.
What Is DIY Mattress Cleaning?
DIY mattress cleaning is the do it yourself version of cleaning a mattress.
A basic DIY mattress cleaning would include:
- Vacuuming
- Spot cleaning
- Cleaning with a fabric safe cleaner
- Deodorizing
Household cleaning can be a great low cost option for maintenance and even small spill situations where the mattress only has surface dirt.
Relying on household cleaning equipment and supplies has its drawbacks. Equipment may not be as heavy duty as professional cleaning equipment. Moisture used in a DIY clean can result in unwanted outcomes.
Pros and Cons of Professional Mattress Cleaning and DIY
cleaning Depth Equipment used Time Stain Treatment Odour Treatment Risk (over wetting) Convenience Cost Situation for which Each is Most Suitable
Professional cleaning DIY Cleaning
Dependant on skills used Mostly surface level Less effort from homeowner Professional Basic spot treatment Higher Low Deep cleaning and difficult problems
Dependant on skill used Household equipment Requires personal time Techniques Limited (dependant on cause) Lower when properly done High Moderate Routine maintenance
Cleaning Results: Which Option Works Better?
The main difference between professional cleaning and DIY cleaning is the depth of cleaning achieved.
As the name suggests, DIY cleaning treats only surface dust and spots. Regular vacuuming will remove the loose dust and dirt from your mattress surface.
However, a mattress can hide and hold a lot of materials that can’t be seen. Specialised equipment will provide the needed deep cleaning.
If built-up dirt, old stains, or unwanted strong odors are an issue, it may provide more visible results to pay for a cleaning rather than trying to do it yourself.
This is not to say that DIY cleaning is worthless. Regular cleaning will reduce the amount of dirty built up between your scheduled cleanings.
Equipment and Cleaning Tools
The equipment used will determine the cleaning result achieved.
DIY Equipment
Most homeowners have the following:
- Household vacuum cleaner
- Soft cleaning cloths
- Mild cleaning solution
- Spray bottle
- Soft brush
- Baking soda or a suitable deodorizing product
These tools will suffice for simple cleaning, but have limited use for deep cleaning.
Professional Cleaning Equipment
Cleaners are able to obtain special types of equipment to clean upholstery and mattresses. Equipment is used to facilitate extraction and can clean with an enhanced level of depth to remove dust. Some equipment improves moisture control.
Equipment is not the only value offered. Proxygenesis of equipment and an understanding of different materials mattresses are made from is an integral part of the professional cleaning process.
Where to Draw the Line Between DIY and Professional Mattress Stain Removal
Mattress stains are some of the biggest motivators for people to hire a cleaning service.
Stains can come from various sources like:
- Drinks
- Food
- Sweat
- Cosmetics
- Body oils
- Pets
- Spills
Odors from stains can vary depending on how long the stain has been present.
Newer stains are easier to eliminate than older and more permanent stains.
DIY stain removal might use some household cleaning items to remove visible signs of the stain, but there is a high risk of using the wrong stain remover or of over-staining if moisture is used.
Professional stain removal companies know the right techniques for each stain on each fabric mattress. Because of this they remove stains effectively.
If stains are really large and / or cannot be removed permanently, then you should probably pay to have it cleaned professionally.
Which method is the best for removing odors from a Mattress?
Mattresses develop smells from use and the presence of moisture, sweat, spills, and pets.
Mattress deodorizers that you can buy and use yourself might help, but the source of the problem remains and odors may continue to return.
Unwanted odors can also be from dirt and residues that build up and can be removed through a more thorough cleaning.
If you are unable to eliminate offensive odors from your mattress, professional cleaning is your best option.
Risk of Mattress Damage
There are many factors to look at when choosing to clean a mattress yourself or hire a professional.
DIY cleaning can be risky with the use of harsh chemicals and excessive moisture. It is possible to damage either the outer fabric or filling of the mattress. In fact, vacuum cleaners and steam cleaners may be too abrasive for certain surface materials. Even the power of human scrubbing can do some damage.
Caution is advised in all DIY cleaning methods.
Make sure to check the manufacturer’s instructions for the mattress bcause not all cleaning products are safe to use on a mattress. When possible, test cleaning products on a hidden area of the mattress. As much as possible…do not soak the mattress.
Cleaners who do this for a living have experience with different types and conditions of mattresses.
Drying Time: DIY vs Professional Cleaning
Drying the mattress is probably the most critical part of the entire cleaning process.
If a mattress doesn’t fully dry, issue can pop up such as an unpleasant smell, mold, etc.
DIY cleaning can be risky because people like to soak and/or spray the mattress.
However, the equipment and methods used by the professionals allow them to get a handle on the moisture used and the rate of its extraction.
The length of time needed to dry a mattress can be impacted by:
- Cleaning method
- Mattress thickness
- Amount of moisture used
- Room ventilation
- Humidity
- Weather conditions
The cleaning method should be designed to ensure the mattress dries completely before the mattress is used again.
Is DIY Mattress Cleaning Cheaper?
DIY may appear to be the least expensive choice since you don’t incur service costs. However, correct cleaning methods could be risky.
You may have the cleaning products, cloths, and vacuums needed to do minor cleaning on your own. However, in some cleaning methods, moisture is used. And moisture can be costly. You vs the weather, really.
Consider:
- Your time
- Cleaning products
- Equipment
- Potential mistakes
- The severity of the cleaning problem
- The value of the mattress
- The time required for drying
When the cleaning job becomes extensive, the money saved by doing the job yourself may not be worth the time or the cleaning equipment and set up. In this case the cleaning service you hire may save you time and get the mattress clean with specialized cleaning technology that prolong the life of the mattress.
When Can DIY Mattress Cleaning Be an Option?
There are several occasions when DIY Mattress cleaning is the best option.
Slight surface dust
The majority of surface dust can be removed by simply vacuuming the mattress.
Small fresh spills
There are several safe cleaning methods for mattresses that can easily remove spills.
Maintenance
Regular vaccuuming as well as other basic mattress care will keep your mattress clean between professional cleanings.
Deodorizing
Sometimes light odor can be addressed by a safe deodorizing method. Always follow the manufacturer’s advice for your mattress and avoid over dampening.
When Should You Go With Professional Mattress Cleaning?
Clearly, professional cleaning is the only option when DIY methods fail.
The Mattress Has Heavy Dirt
A mattress that has not been cleaned in along time may need a deep cleaning.
There Are Stubborn Stains
Old or extreme stains can be unreceptive to any cleaning effort.
Odors Keep Keep Coming Back
If you have attempted deodorizing and the smell keeps coming back, it is time for a deeper cleaning effort.
The Mattress Has Pet Accidents
Pet urine stains and odors can be almost impossible to get rid of and require intense cleaning.
You Want A Deep Refresh
A professional mattress deep cleaning can be done for routine maintenance but when you want an extreme refresh.
You Do Not Have the Right Equipment
Most homeowners do not have professional cleaning equipment.
Benefits of Professional Mattress Cleaning
There are many reasons a homeowner might choose to use a professional cleaning company.
A Deeper Clean
The right equipment enables a mattress cleaner to achieve a more thorough cleaning than what can be done at home.
Better Stain Treatment
It is important to remember that equipment is just one component of cleaning. The cleaner must know how to treat various stains.
Saved Time
It takes time to thoroughly clean a mattress.
Specialist Knowledge
Each kind of mattress, covering, or stuffing can have individual cleaning requirements.
Controlled Moisture
The right equipment is just a component of cleaning. Thorough cleaning should control moisture.
Convenient Service
Professional cleaning is the most convenient option for households lacking the equipment to clean a mattress.
DIY Mattress Cleaning Tips
For concerned homeowners, DIY cleaning is better than having a dirty mattress.
Step 1: Determine what Care Instructions Say
Check the care label before applying cleaning supplies.
Step 2: Remove Everything
Pull off all bedding.
Step 3: Thorough Vacuum
Vacuum the top and side surfaces as well as any other accessible areas.
Step 4: Small stain treatment
Apply stain removal product.
Step 5: Adequate Drying
Leave the mattress out to dry completely in an open space.
Step 6: Placing a Mattress Protector On
This will minimize future stains and spills of dust.
How Often Should a Mattress Be Cleaned?
- Frequency of use.
- Type of mattress material.
- Environmental factors of the bedroom.
- How often the mattress is cleaned.
- Presence of pets.
- Presence of children.
- Frequency of spills and stains.
- Mattress type and materials
- Mattress severity of dust and dirt
Simple Habits to Extend Mattress Cleanliness
Vacuuming your mattress, extra airflow in your bedroom, not eating on your mattress, and regular bedding changes are excellent habits for a cleaner mattress.
Use a Mattress Protector
A protector helps keep stains and spills from soaking into the mattress. Once the protector is soiled with everyday dirt, stains and spills are easier to clean.
Wash Bedding Frequently
Spreading an easy to clean surface like a bed protector or clean bed sheets helps maintain a sleeping space that is odor and stain free.
Vacuum Mattress
Vacuuming helps remove loose dirt.
Avoid Eating on Mattress
There are greater risks for stains and crumbs.
Clean Spills Fast
Immediately cleaning a spill is the best way to control potential stains.
Add Air Flow to Bedroom
Excess moisture in a closed space leads to mildew.
Professional Mattress Cleaning for Melbourne Households
Daily activities in your home equip your mattresses with dust, humidity, spills, and even physical stress from wear. Unsanitary mattresses may also affect your household’s health, which is why mattresses should be cleaned regularly.
When booking a mattress cleaning service in Melbourne, be sure to hire a service that uses different methods for different materials.
This article can be tied to other corresponding articles of yours, such as your Carpet Cleaning Melbourne Guides. Bed and carpet cleanliness is important in maintaining a safe and healthy home.
Common Mistakes to avoid when Mattress Cleaning
DIY cleaning, if done right, can save on costs.
Don’t Soak Mattress
Fabric and other layers of the mattress may take a long time to dry.
Don’t Use Harsh Chemicals on the Mattress
Some Chemicals may permanently ruin the fabric or the coating on the mattress.
Don’t Scrub
Mattresses are made up of many layers, relatively fragile. Scrubbing may damage the uppermost layer.
Don’t Ignore Drying
Never leave the mattress covered.
Don’t assume all Mattresses can be Cleaned the same
Mattresses may have a variety of coatings and layers. Always follow the instructions and check the construction of the mattress before cleaning.
Professional Cleaning vs DIY: What is Best?
There is no Best solution for every scenario.
You should go for Mattress Cleaning DIY if:
- Mattress has light surface dirt
- Mattress needs regular light surface dirt removal
- There are newly formed small spots on the Mattress
- You have the Required equipment
You have good time to completely clean and dry the Mattress
If the Mattress has:
- Heavy dirt build up
- Persistent stains
- Dirt Odor that cannot be removed
- Mattress has a heavily built up dirt
- You do not have Cleaning Equipment
- Humph, you want to save time and effort
For most households, it is best to opt for a combination of both. Regular Mattress cleanliness should be done by yourself as routine maintenance with Professional Mattress Cleaning being performed to restore deep cleaning.
Final Thoughts
How you choose to approach the professional mattress cleaning vs the DIY route is contingent on the state of your mattress and the level of cleaning.
DIY cleaning should be attempted for light maintenance and surface spill cleaning. It is low cost and can be efficient for spill clean up (while the majority of the mattress is still fully dry). DIY mattress cleaninghas it’s limitations as it can be ineffective for deeper cleanings, heavy dirt build up, stubborn stains, and odors.
The advantages of professional mattress cleanings can be worth the cost, as they use specific machinery, methods, and have extensive experience. This can help homeowners avoid missteps caused by moisture and cleaning product combinations and save time.
The most effective mattress care technique is to create a schedule for mattress cleaning, then be on top of a more thorough cleaning schedule. Keep the mattress build up free by regular vacuuming. Clean spills right away and use a mattress protector, and follow the instructions left by the manufacturer of your mattress. Opt for a professional deep mattress cleaning as needed.
Cleaning your mattress is a key part of a cleaning routine because it helps your bedroom feel more comfortable and fresh.
FAQs
Of the two options, professional or DIY cleaning for mattresses, which is better?
Professional cleaning is more cost effective, given the extent of cleaning it does over the DIY cleaning option.
How often should I schedule a professional cleaning for my mattress?
That is highly dependent. Deep cleaning should be done if the manufacturer instructs it, and if there are spills, pets, and heavy mattress use.
Can a do-it-your self stain removing product be used to remove stubborn stains?
Most stain removing products are not designed to handle setup stains, and a do it yourself stain remover is likely to fail when dealing with stubborn stains. You may be better off contacting a professional stain removal service to get your stains cleaned.
Is professional mattress cleaning able to remove stains and odors?
It is cost effective to choose to have your mattress professionally cleaned as it save you the work colleagues will remove stains and odors that embed in your mattress from daily use. It is better to have a professionally cleaned mattress than not to clean it at all.
Can I spot clean my mattress with water?
As long as you stay within the moisture recommendations, some mattress fabrics can tolerate small amount of moisture. However, too much moisture can damage your mattress beyond repair. Always check the manufacturer’s recommendation on how to spot clean your mattress and always give it the recommended time to dry completely.
How long does it take for a professionally cleaned mattress to dry?
The different methods used for cleaning a mattress, the materials the mattress is made of, how well the mattress is able to be aerated during the drying process, and how much moisture was used before the mattress was cleaned all affect how long it will take for the mattress to dry. Your cleaning service will give you a better idea on how long to expect the process to take.
Will professional mattress cleaning eliminate odors?
Mattress cleaning services are not miracle workers, but cleaning your mattress will help remove dirt and grime built up over time as well as stains and spills that may be the source of your odor problems.
Which faithful method is the easiest to keep a mattress clean?
A thorough cleaning of your mattress should involve several steps. First, you should use a vacuum with a soft brush attachment to clean the mattress at least once a week. In addition, place your mattress inside a waterproof mattress protector. Remove and wash your bedding and mattress pad as least once each week. Look for messes and use the opportunity to let your Mattress air out. As a final step, whether through DIY methods or a deep mattress cleaning, eliminate the odors when they begin to cause discomfort.
Is Steam Cleaning mattresses safe?
It depends on the fabrics used to construct your mattress. Like all furniture, fabrics require different cleaning methods. Always reference the instructions that the manufacturer of your mattress provided to learn the best cleaning method for your mattress.
Do you think I should do the mattress cleaning myself or hire a professional?
Cleaning and scrubbing the mattress to remove small or medium sized stains and eliminate odors should work well. You should hire a mattress cleaning service for extremely heavy soiling and stains where do it yourself cleaning is not sufficient.