How to Properly Maintain Your Mattress

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A mattress can be a substantial investment and the last thing you need is to have your mattress fail you before its time. Here are tips on how to property maintain your mattress, adding longevity to your investment and helping you get a good night’s sleep.

Proper Foundation

The first step in maintaining your mattress is to create a proper foundation on which it will rest. This means making sure the bed frame is built to offer support. The ideal frame supports around the bed’s edges and also through the center. A minimum of one beam should go through the middle of the bed to prevent sagging. Multiple beams spaced throughout the length of the bed can offer additional support.

The box springs are another area that should not be ignored. If possible, choose box springs that are paired specifically with your mattress. This allows you to have optimal support and increases longevity. If your box springs become fractured or broken, invest in new ones before your mattress is affected. Leaving a mattress atop non-supportive box springs can result in earlier replacement times.

Rotate and Flip

With many mattresses, regular rotation is encouraged to promote even wear over time. Rotate your mattress every three or four months. Perform the rotation in conjunction with seasonal changes to make it easier to remember. While the majority of mattresses no longer need to be flipped, particularly those with a pillow top, there are a few where flipping assists in longevity. For these, two or three flips per year should suffice. Before engaging in any rotations or flipping, however, be sure to verify the recommendations given by the manufacturer as there are a few mattress types that do not require either. 

Protectors

Allergens, dust, and dust mites affect mattress over times, leading to the breakdown of the materials and the build-up of contaminants within the mattress overtime.  Invest in a mattress protector that covers the entire mattress and is both waterproof and allows breathability. This will not only keep out allergens and other pollutants, but it also provides a barrier from bed bugs and other infestations. In addition, your mattress will be protected from spills, stains, and other messes that can occur from time to time. It reduces chances of mold and mildew that may accompany moisture that is otherwise absorbed.

Clean

Even with a mattress protector, regular cleaning is still imperative. Wash bedding in hot water to kill dust mites and vacuum the mattress itself. Remove stains and spots with the use of upholstery cleaner and allow ample time to dry before covering again. Reduce dust and allergen buildup in the rest of the room to keep it from settling on and in your bed.  Keep the room cool and at a low humidity level to reduce dust mites, which thrive at warm temps and high humidity.

Ban the Bounce

Despite the fun accompanied by jumping on the bed, the high impact on a small area of the mattress can wreak havoc on it, reducing longevity. Avoid sitting on the bed regularly, especially in the same spot. This practice also places your weight all on a small space on the mattress as opposed to having weight evenly distributed over a large area the way it is when lying down.

Keep your mattress in tip top shape with proper maintenance to ensure a good night’s sleep. It will also help keep your wallet from emptying out earlier than need be for a replacement.  If it is time for a replacement, companies like Mattress.com are leading the industry in providing affordable mattresses online.