A mattress is among the most used items in your home, yet, it is often neglected when it comes to regular cleaning. Every night, your mattress undergoes the accumulation of sweat, skin cells, dust, hair and other types of debris that can settle on its surface and lead to the formation of spots, unpleasant odours and overall dirt.
That is when mattress cleaning services can step in and help. Professional cleaning can be a much more effective and thorough option as compared to regular vacuuming or changing bed linens. Depending on the material of your mattress, professional cleaners can use an array of specialised equipment and techniques to eliminate dirt, spots and odours from your mattress.
Whether you have concerns regarding spots, unpleasant smells emanating from your bed or simply want to maintain your mattress in good condition, it is important to understand how mattress cleaning works and what options you have at your disposal.
In this comprehensive guide, we will discuss the advantages of professional mattress cleaning, outline suitable techniques, advise on the frequency of mattress cleaning and much more. We will also examine how you can prolong the cleanliness of your mattress between professional cleanings.
What Are Mattress Cleaning Services?
Mattress cleaning services are professional cleaning solutions that target the accumulation of dirt, dust, spots, unpleasant odours, and other types of debris from a mattress. In contrast to spot cleaning, professional mattress cleaners use suitable equipment and cleaning products, depending on the type and material of the mattress.
The process of mattress cleaning can vary depending on the condition of the mattress. A number of considerations need to be taken into account, as memory foam, latex, jumbo pocket springs and other materials require different approaches to cleaning.
In general, the process of professional mattress cleaning comprises the following steps:
• Inspection of the mattress
• Surface vacuuming
• Spot treatment
• Deep cleaning
• Elimination of odours
• Low moisture or other suitable extraction methods
• Final drying and inspection
Before proceeding with any form of treatment, a professional cleaner should examine the care instructions for the mattress, in order to determine the most appropriate method of cleaning.
Why Is Professional Mattress Cleaning Important?
While changing bed sheets is an important hygiene practice, the surface of the mattress below can still host a variety of bacteria, allergens and other microorganisms. In addition to that, dust, sweat, skin cells and other particles of organic origin can settle inside the fabric of the mattress, contributing to the formation of spots or unpleasant odours. Professional cleaning can help eliminate these impurities.
The advantages of professional mattress cleaning services include:
1. Elimination of the accumulation of dust and dirt:
Over months or years of use, your mattress can accumulate a considerable amount of dust and dirt. Professional cleaning can effectively target these deposits and remove them from the surface and interior of the mattress.
2. Removal of spots:
Spots on a mattress can be caused by a variety of reasons. In any case, professional cleaning can help eliminate them.
3. Elimination of unpleasant odours:
Moisture and spots can cause your mattress to emit unpleasant odours. Professional cleaning can effectively target the source of the smell and eliminate it.
4. Spot cleaning:
In cases when your mattress only requires minor maintenance, a professional cleaner can target the affected spots and clean them.
5. Time-saving:
Compared to trying to deep clean your mattress on your own, hiring professional cleaners is a much more convenient and time-saving option.
6. Prolonging the life of the mattress:
While cleaning cannot eliminate mechanical damage, it helps keep your mattress in good condition.
Professional Mattress Cleaning Vs DIY Mattress Cleaning
When it comes to mattress cleaning, many homeowners wonder whether they should opt for professional cleaning or attempt to clean the mattress themselves.
While DIY cleaning is a viable option for light maintenance cleaning tasks, such as vacuuming, there are cases when professional cleaning is a better choice.
DIY Mattress Cleaning Professional Mattress Cleaning
Light maintenance cleaning Deep cleaning
Household equipment Specialised equipment
Effective against surface dust Eliminates deep-seated dirt and spots
Requires more effort and time Saves time and effort
Limited stain removal options Stain removal method selected in accordance with the type of mattress
Problems with moisture after wet cleaning Drying instructions provided by professionals
In any case, a combination of both DIY cleaning and professional maintenance is the best option for keeping your mattress clean.
For a more detailed analysis of the advantages of professional vs DIY cleaning, you can consult our full guide:
Internal Link 1: Professional vs DIY Mattress Cleaning
Common Mattress Cleaning Methods
Depending on what type of mattress you have, you should opt for a different method of cleaning. It is critical that you examine your mattress manufacturer’s care instructions, in order to select a method that is compatible with the type of material. The following are some of the most common techniques for mattress cleaning:
Vacuum Cleaning
Vacuum cleaning is perhaps the most basic method of cleaning, as it only targets the removal of dust, hair and other loose particles from the surface of the mattress. Although it is an important step in light maintenance cleaning, vacuum cleaning cannot be considered an effective method of deep cleaning your mattress.
Steam Cleaning
Also known as hot water extraction, steam cleaning involves the use of a steamer to extract the dirt from the mattress. It is a deeply penetrating method that can effectively remove spots and odours from the mattress, but it leaves the mattress damp, requiring additional drying time.
Low-Moisture Cleaning
Low-moisture cleaning is another effective method of deep cleaning your mattress. Compared to steam cleaning, it is less damaging to the integrity of the fabric and requires less time for drying.
Spot Cleaning
As the name suggests, spot cleaning targets the spots on your mattress and removes them with the use of a suitable cleaning product. It is important that the product you use is compatible with the type of fabric or material your mattress is made of.
How Does a Professional Cleaning Service Work?
While the procedure may vary depending on a number of factors, a general overview of a professional mattress cleaning service should give you an idea of what the process will approximately look like:
Step 1: Inspection
Prior to the actual cleaning process, a professional cleaner should take a closer look at the mattress, in order to determine the most appropriate method of cleaning.
Step 2: Vacuuming
The first step of the cleaning process usually involves vacuuming the surface of the mattress. This will effectively remove any loose particles of dust, hair or dirt from the surface of the mattress.
Step 3: Spot Treatment
In cases when there are spots on the mattress, a spot pretreatment with a suitable stain remover should be administered, prior to the next step.
Step 4: Deep Cleaning
The next step involves using a suitable cleaning product, in accordance with the material of the mattress and the nature of the dirt or spots. Professional cleaners will provide you with specific instructions for the drying process.
Step 5: Odour Elimination
If there are any unpleasant odours emanating from the mattress, a suitable deodorising product should be used to eliminate them.
Step 6: Drying
Once the cleaning process is finished, allow the mattress to dry completely in accordance with the instructions provided by the professional cleaner.
Step 7: Inspection
Before the cleaning process is concluded, make sure that all the spots have been eliminated and that the mattress is dry.
Mattress Cleaning Melbourne: What To Know Beforehand
If you are searching for mattress cleaning Melbourne services, you should keep in mind that there are several different mattress materials to consider. Every material requires a slightly different approach to cleaning.
Based on the type and condition of your mattress, a professional cleaner will be able to recommend the most appropriate method of mattress cleaning,
Considering the number of people who sleep on the bed, the presence of pets and children, the state of ventilation in the bedroom, seasonal variations and the frequency of use, professional cleaners will be able to advise you on the most suitable frequency of cleaning, in order to prolong the cleanliness of the mattress.
When selecting mattress cleaning Melbourne services, make sure to examine the experience of the service providers, as well as their approach to cleaning, stain removal and drying.
You can also consult our dedicated page for mattress cleaning Melbourne services:
Mattress Cleaning Melbourne
How Often Should You Use Mattress Cleaning Services?
There is no universal recommendation as to how often you need to have your mattress professionally cleaned. For most homeowners, an annual cleaning schedule is a good rule of thumb, but it can be modified, depending on the specific condition of the mattress.
Hire a professional cleaner if:
• Your pet sleeps on your bed
• Children regularly sleep on your mattress
• You tend to sweat a lot
• There are frequent spills on the mattress
• The mattress has visible spots
• There are unpleasant odours emanating from the bed
• Everyone in the household sleeps on the mattress
• The bedroom is located in a damp area
• The mattress has not been professionally cleaned in a while
In addition to that, regular vacuuming of the mattress should be performed, in order to maintain its cleanliness.
For more information on the frequency of mattress cleaning, you can consult the following article:
: How Often Should You Clean Your Mattress
What Are the Signs That Your Mattress Needs Professional Cleaning?
Your mattress needs professional cleaning when:
1. There are visible spots on the surface
Spots, including yellow stains or other discoloured areas, are usually the result of spills, which penetrate the fabric of the mattress and leave behind a stain.
2. There are unpleasant odours emanating from the bed
The presence of sweat, especially if it has soaked through the sheets and into the mattress, can cause an unpleasant smell to develop.
3. There is excessive accumulation of dust
Regular vacuuming of the mattress surface will prevent the accumulation of excessive amounts of dust.
4. Pet hair has accumulated on the surface
Dogs and cats that sleep on the bed regularly will shed hair on the surface of the mattress.
5. The mattress has not been professionally cleaned for a long time
If the mattress has not been professionally cleaned within the past 6-12 months, it is time to arrange for a cleaning service.
6. The mattress is damp
If you notice that the surface of the mattress is damp, you should take measures to dry it, in accordance with the instructions of the manufacturer.
How Can Mattress Cleaning Help With Stains?
One of the primary reasons why a homeowner would want to invest in professional mattress cleaning services involves stain removal. There are many types of stains, which require different techniques and products to be removed.
As a result, professional cleaners will first examine the type of spot, in order to select an appropriate cleaning solution.
While it is possible to completely eliminate most mattress stains, some spots cannot be removed with cleaning products. In those cases, it is best to consult a professional cleaner, who will be able to provide you with an estimate of the cost and time required for stain removal.
How Can You Maintain Your Mattress Between Professional Cleaning Services?
While a professional cleaning service is an important measure for deep cleaning your mattress, there are several other actions you can take in order to prolong the cleanliness of your mattress.
Use a Mattress Protector
One of the best things you can do in order to keep your mattress clean and free of spots involves purchasing a mattress protector. A washable protector will prevent sweat, excess liquid and other substances from penetrating the surface of the mattress.
Vacuum Regularly
In order to prevent the accumulation of excessive amounts of dust, make sure to regularly vacuum the surface of the mattress.
Wash Bed Linens Frequently
In addition to a mattress protector, washing your bed linens frequently will prevent the accumulation of sweat, dirt and other substances on the surface of the mattress.
Make Sure the Room Is Well-Ventilated
Keeping the room well-ventilated is important for eliminating any unpleasant odours.
Treat Spots Immediately
If an accident occurs and a substance has penetrated the surface of the mattress, make sure to treat the spot immediately with a suitable cleaning product.
Read the Manufacturer’s Care Instructions
Before attempting to treat the mattress with a cleaning product, make sure to read the care instructions for the mattress, in order to ensure compatibility.
How Can You Select the Appropriate Mattress Cleaning Service?
Since there are different types of mattresses, each of which requires a slightly different approach to cleaning, it is important to choose a service provider, who will know how to clean your specific type of mattress.
In selecting an appropriate service provider, consider the following factors:
Experience
Make sure that the service providers have the necessary expertise in dealing with your specific type of mattress.
Cleaning Method
Ask them about the cleaning method they use and make sure that it is suitable for your mattress.
Equipment
Professionals will have the appropriate equipment at their disposal, which will be necessary for eliminating stubborn spots and dirt.
Drying Procedure
Ask them about the drying procedure, as it can affect the overall comfort and integrity of the mattress.
Spot Removal
If you are particularly concerned with removing spots from your mattress, make sure that the service providers will be able to effectively remove them.
Transparent Pricing Policy
A competent service provider will be able to give you a detailed estimate, in accordance with the time and effort required to clean the mattress.
Customer Reviews
In addition to the above-mentioned criteria, make sure to examine customer reviews, in order to ensure the quality of the service.
Types of Mattress Cleaning
Depending on the type of material, your mattress will require a slightly different approach to cleaning.
The following are some general guidelines:
Memory Foam Mattresses
Avoid using excessive amounts of water on memory foam mattresses, unless the care instructions explicitly state that it is possible.
Latex Mattresses
Avoid using harsh chemicals on latex mattresses. Always follow the care instructions provided by the manufacturer.
Innerspring Mattresses
Make sure that water does not penetrate deep into the inner layers of the mattress.
Hybrid Mattresses
Hybrid mattresses, which combine different types of materials, require a specialised approach to cleaning. Ask the service providers about their experience in dealing with hybrid mattresses.
Pillow-Top Mattresses
Avoid using excessive amounts of moisture on the surface of the top layer.
Common Mistakes When Cleaning a Mattress
Even if you attempt to provide the best possible care for your mattress, it is highly likely that you will make a common mistake when attempting to clean it. The most common errors that people make when cleaning a mattress include:
Using Excessive Amounts of Water
Using excessive amounts of water can dampen the mattress, which will require additional effort to dry it.
Using Harsh Chemicals
Using inappropriate cleaning products can damage the surface of the mattress.
Ignoring Care Instructions
Always make sure to follow the care instructions provided by the manufacturer.
Putting Sheets on a Damp Mattress
Never put sheets or a mattress protector on a damp mattress.
Scrubbing the Mattress Too Hard
Avoid scrubbing the mattress, unless you are certain that it will not damage the surface of the mattress.
Using the Wrong Equipment
Using the wrong equipment can lead to improper cleaning of the mattress. It is best to leave this task to professionals.
Can Mattress Cleaning Remove Bad Odours?
It is possible to eliminate the majority of bad odours from a mattress, depending on what caused them in the first place. If the mattress is damp or if there was a spill on the mattress, it is best to call for a professional cleaning service.
While a cleaning service can effectively remove bad smells from the surface of the mattress, it will not be able to eliminate smells that originate from the deeper layers of the material. If there is an unpleasant, lingering odour emanating from the bed, it is best to arrange for professional cleaning.
Does Mattress Cleaning Make Your Mattress ‘New’ Again?
Unfortunately, it is not possible to make an old mattress as good as new. Professional cleaning can only remove dirt, spots and bad smells from the surface of the mattress.
It cannot repair broken springs or other structural damage, such as tears or holes in the fabric. Moreover, it will not reverse the natural degradation process of the material.
If your mattress is in poor condition, the best thing you can do is invest in a new one.
How Much Does Mattress Cleaning Cost?
The cost of a cleaning service will depend on a number of different factors. The condition of the bed, the type of material and the number of stains are just some of the elements, which will affect the final price.
Make sure to obtain a detailed estimate before selecting a cleaning service. The best thing about hiring professional cleaners is that you will receive an estimate, which will detail the type of cleaning that will be performed and the total cost.
Mattress Cleaning and Hygiene
Mattress cleaning only constitutes a small part in a broader context of keeping your home environment clean. Other types of domestic upholstery also require regular cleaning and maintenance.
If you are also considering carpet cleaning services for your home, you can consult the following guide:
Carpet Cleaning Melbourne: Complete Guide
Preparations Prior to Professional Mattress Cleaning
In order to prepare your mattress for cleaning by a professional cleaner, you should:
• Ensure that the bed is devoid of any sheets, blankets, or pillowcases
• Remove the mattress protector
• Clear the space around the bed
• Inform the cleaner about the spots on the bed
• Provide information about the type of the mattress
• Keep the care instructions for the mattress at hand
• Reserve enough time for the cleaning and drying process
• Make sure not to place any sheets or mattress protector back on the mattress, until it is completely dry
By preparing the bed for cleaning, you will give the professional cleaner a better opportunity to thoroughly examine the mattress.
Final Thoughts
Mattress cleaning services can be a wise investment for any homeowner, who wants to keep their mattress clean and free of spots. While regular vacuuming of the mattress and use of a mattress protector are good maintenance practices, they cannot replace professional cleaning.
In most cases, it is recommended that you invest in a professional cleaning service once every 6-12 months. However, this recommendation may vary, depending on the type of the mattress, the number of people who sleep on it or the presence of any additional risk factors (pets, children, etc.).
The most important rule concerns the selection of an appropriate cleaning method, depending on the type of mattress. A competent professional cleaner will know how to treat your mattress appropriately and will not use any cleaning products, which may be detrimental to its condition.
With proper maintenance and occasional professional cleaning, you will be able to keep your mattress in good condition for a long time.
FAQs
What are mattress cleaning services?
Mattress cleaning services are professional solutions, which target the removal of dirt, dust, spots, odours and other types of debris from your mattress.
How often should I use mattress cleaning services?
Depending on the type of mattress, the number of people who sleep on it and the presence of additional risk factors, it is recommended that you invest in a professional cleaning service once every 6-12 months.
Is professional mattress cleaning better than DIY cleaning?
DIY cleaning is suitable for light maintenance tasks, while professional cleaning is required to effectively target spots, odours and deep-seated dirt. The best approach involves using both professional and DIY cleaning techniques.
Can mattress cleaning remove stains?
In most cases, yes. However, there are certain types of spots, which cannot be completely removed from a mattress. The success of stain removal will depend on the nature of the spot and the type of fabric, from which the mattress is made.
Is mattress cleaning safe for memory foam?
It can be, as long as you avoid using excessive amounts of water or moisture. Always follow the care instructions provided by the manufacturer.
How long does mattress cleaning take?
The time required for the cleaning process will depend on the size and condition of the mattress, as well as on the method used for cleaning.
Can mattress cleaning remove unpleasant smells?
It can, depending on what caused the unpleasant odours. If they emanate from the surface of the mattress, it will be possible to eliminate them. Otherwise, the situation will have to be examined on an individual basis.
Should I vacuum my mattress between professional cleaning services?
Yes, you should, as it is an important maintenance measure. Vacuuming your mattress on a regular basis will help you remove any loose dust, hair or dirt.
Can I sleep on my mattress right after professional cleaning?
It is better to wait until it is completely dry, as advised by your cleaning service provider. Your provider will be able to give you a more precise estimation of the time required for drying.
How can I keep my mattress clean for longer?
Use a mattress protector, vacuum regularly, wash your bed linens frequently, maintain good air circulation in the bedroom, treat spots immediately and arrange for professional cleaning services on a regular basis.