Mattress types
With so many types of mattress on the market, it’s no surprise that there are different ways to care for each of them. Depending on the type of mattress you have, you might have to adapt your care or cleaning methods - so always check the manufacturers’ instructions for your particular mattress before getting out the cleaning supplies.
Your guide to buying a mattress
Not sure which mattress is right for you?
Why should I clean my mattress?
Great question! A quality mattress is not only one of the largest furniture investments you’ll make in your home, but they also get some of the most use; as most of us spend around a third of our lives in bed. If you want to make sure you’re spending your money wisely, and ensuring you’re getting the best night’s sleep possible - it really pays to take a little extra time and effort to take care of your mattress.
How long should a mattress last?
The average lifespan of a mattress is between five to ten years, and The National Bed Federation recommend replacing your mattress around every seven years - but many factors affect how long a mattress might last in your home, including how well the mattress is cared for, the sleepers’ body weights, and the type of mattress. Generally, higher quality mattresses with premium fillings and construction will last much better than budget mattress ranges, but all mattresses will soften over time as they are slept on. If you want your mattress to last as long as possible, look for a mattress that includes a longer guarantee, and check out our suggestions below.
How to look after your mattress
Want to ensure you keep your new luxury mattress in tip-top condition for as long as possible? Follow our simple tips below and relax in the knowledge you’re taking great care of your mattress, so it can take great care of you.
Air your mattress regularly
It might surprise you to know that one of the best ways to look after your mattress is to give it a regular airing - which means pulling back the sheets daily, or as often as you can! This helps any moisture to evaporate and avoid odours becoming trapped in the mattress fillings. Airing your mattress is particularly important when it’s new, as odours from the manufacturing process need time to escape - this is a completely normal process called ‘off-gassing’, and while it might smell a bit unpleasant, these smells will dissipate within a day or two. However, even when your mattress is no longer brand new, airing it as often as possible will help it to last longer and give you a better night’s sleep.
Wash your bedding weekly
Washing your bedding weekly not only keeps your bed feeling hygienic, but it can actually protect your mattress too - stopping odours and debris from settling into the mattress. If the wash care instructions on your bedding allow you to do so, we recommend washing on a 60 degree cycle to give your linens a good deep clean and kill any bacteria hiding in there - particularly important if you have kiddos or pets that like to climb into bed with you!
Don’t forget - your duvet and pillows should be cleaned or replaced regularly too. As long as you’re changing your bedding regularly, you can limit washing your duvet to just twice a year. Pillows generally aren’t machine washable, as it can break down the FR treatment - so it’s best to just replace these when they are no longer comfortable. Check the care labels on your duvet to see if it is safe for your washing machine - you might have to take it to the launderette or dry cleaners.
Use a mattress protector or topper
Using a mattress protector, topper or both really goes a long way in protecting your mattress from the majority of debris they can tend to collect while we are sleeping - think sweat, dead skin cells, and… well, we’re sure you can imagine the rest! Most are also machine washable - unlike your mattress - and can be washed with your bed linens to keep them fresh and clean.
Turn and rotate your mattress monthly
Turning (or flipping) and rotating your mattress is important because it helps to more evenly distribute wear across the mattress, which will make it last longer. Some mattresses are double sided and designed to be turned over and slept on either side, while others are single sided and should always have the sleeping surface on top. If you aren’t sure which yours is, check your mattress details on the retailer or manufacturers’ website, or look for a sticker that says ‘sleeping side’, which would indicate your mattress is single sided. Both kinds of mattresses can be rotated top-to-toe though, and you should turn or rotate yours every month to ensure you get optimum wear out of it.
Vacuum under the bed every month
Dust and dirt can really collect under your bed, so it’s a good idea to vacuum underneath and behind it at least once a month. This will help your bedroom to stay clean and fresh!
Air your bedroom every day
Keep any musty smells at bay by airing your bedroom every day - throw back the curtains, open the windows and let that fresh air sweep away the stale air! You should do this every day, including the winter months, even if only for a few minutes.
Clean up spillages immediately
We’ve all splashed our morning cuppa on the bed once or twice - but don’t panic! Any spills or splashes should be soaked up immediately with a dry cloth or paper towels, to stop them soaking into the mattress. A good mattress protector should also prevent much liquid reaching the surface of the mattress - and for any stains, you can follow our cleaning advice below.
Clean your mattress every couple of months
As well as washing your bedding and mattress protector regularly, it’s best to give your mattress a deep clean every couple of months too.
How to clean your mattress
Keep your mattress fresh and hygienic by treating it to a good deep clean every couple of months. Since we spend so much time on them, mattresses can be a magnet for sweat, dirt, dead skin and even dust mites (yuck) so it really is worth giving yours a regular clean - particularly if you suffer from allergies. Our tips below are a general guide to cleaning your mattress, but you should always check the manufacturers’ cleaning instructions for your specific mattress, as different filling types and cover fabrics all require different care.
Avoid vacuuming or harsh cleaners directly on the mattress
Vacuuming the surface of your mattress can actually displace the fillings, and is best avoided, particularly if your mattress features any natural fillings. Harsh cleaners can also damage the covers and fillings on your mattress, so it’s best to stick to gentle or natural cleaning solutions. Cool soapy water is a great option - use washing up liquid or unscented laundry powder to make your suds. For stubborn odours, baking soda can be sprinkled onto your mattress, left for an hour or two, and gently brushed away - it does a great job of neutralising any lingering smells.
Remove stains gently
If you’re tackling any stains, it’s best to use a soft cloth with your cool soapy water and dab gently. Don’t pour water directly on the mattress or scrub at any stains - it may damage the fabrics or displace the fillings! If you’re dealing with any bloodstains, warm water will actually help the stain to set in rather than remove it - which is why we always recommend cool soapy water instead.
Allow to air dry thoroughly
Once you’ve cleaned your mattress, don’t cover it with your bed linens again right away - it’s best to leave it to air dry for a few hours to ensure any moisture has evaporated. Trapping moisture in the mattress can encourage lingering odours and the growth of bacteria.
How can I make my mattress last longer?
A good quality mattress is one of the biggest furniture investments you will make in your home - and since we spend around a third of our lives in them, it pays to choose the best quality you can afford. But with a considerable outlay, it’s no surprise many of us want to make sure our mattresses are going to last for many years of slumber. Want to find out how you can make your mattress last as long as possible? Check out our tips below.
How to select the right bed for your mattress
There are three main types of bed base types that affect how the mattress will sit - sprung slat, solid slat, and divan bed bases. All are suitable for most types of mattresses, but there are considerable differences in cost, style, and how they feel to sleep on.
Sprung slat bed frames
Sprung slat bed frames, sometimes known as bent wood slats, are the most luxurious option, made from gently curved wooden slats that provide extra flex and support under your mattress. These types of beds often require assembly when they arrive, but because the sprung slats simply pop into the frame, they can be much easier to put together than a solid slat bed frame. Since they cradle the mattress and provide additional support that flexes with movement, sprung slat beds generally prolong the life of your mattress. They also allow air to circulate under and around the mattress, helping keep your bed feeling cool and fresh.
Solid slat bed frames
Solid slat bed frames are generally more affordable than sprung slat bed frames, and are usually what you will find on budget-friendly bed frame ranges. This style of bed frame uses rows of solid wooden slats to distribute the weight of the mattress across the bed. Most beds like this will require assembly and need the slats screwing in - although sometimes you will find the slats linked with strips of fabric, ready to simply be laid on the bed. You should always ensure solid slats are positioned no more than 7cm apart, screwed in securely (if required) and make sure to replace any broken slats, to ensure the weight of your mattress is evenly distributed. Just like sprung slat bed frames, solid slats also allow air to circulate under and around the mattress, helping keep your bed feeling cool and fresh.
Divan bed bases
A divan bed base really shines when you’re tight on space. These bed bases are made from a sturdy wooden frame, covered in soft wadding and fabric all over. Because they’re made to the exact same size as your mattress, they really minimise the footprint your bed takes up, so they’re ideal for smaller spaces. So what’s the catch? Well, divan beds might feel a bit firmer to sleep on than slatted bed frames; they also offer less natural ventilation; and there aren’t quite as many options when it comes to stylish shapes or detailing.
