Mattress Maintenance & Cleaning Tips to Extend Its Lifespan

Your mattress is one of the hardest-working pieces of furniture in your home, but it’s also one of the most overlooked when it comes to care.

We wash our sheets regularly and tidy our bedrooms often, but the mattress itself? It tends to be “out of sight, out of mind.” Yet, a well-maintained mattress can last years longer, save you money, and even help you sleep better.

Let’s break down what every mattress owner (and retailer) should know about cleaning, caring for, and preserving one of the most important items in the home.

Why Mattress Maintenance Matters

A quality mattress isn’t cheap, but neither is replacing one before its time. The Sleep Foundation reports that a typical mattress lasts between 7 to 10 years, but proper maintenance can stretch that number even further.

Over time, dust, body oils, and allergens build up. Moisture can lead to mold growth, and body impressions can form if the mattress isn’t rotated regularly. These small issues, left unchecked, can quickly turn a comfortable sleep surface into a hygiene problem and a costly replacement.

Regular cleaning and care not only keep your mattress fresh but also:

• Improve sleep quality
• Reduce allergens and odors
• Prevent sagging and lumps
• Protect your warranty coverage
• Maximize your investment

A clean mattress also helps preserve the comfort materials that make it supportive in the first place. Here’s how you can best take care of your mattress:

1.   Rotate and Flip Your Mattress Regularly

Mattresses naturally wear down where the most pressure is applied, usually the hip and shoulder zones. Rotating your mattress every 3–6 months helps distribute that wear evenly.

If your mattress is double-sided, flip it completely. For single-sided (non-flippable) models, rotation is still beneficial to maintain balance and comfort.

Tip: Mark your calendar with a “Mattress Rotation Reminder” every six months. It’s a small step that can add years to your mattress’s life.

For retailers, this is also a great post-purchase engagement opportunity. A quick reminder email or social media tip from your store can keep your brand at the top of your mind long after the sale.

2.   Use a High-Quality Mattress Protector

A mattress protector acts as your first line of defense against sweat, spills, dust mites, and allergens. It’s an inexpensive way to prevent permanent stains and damage.

Choose one that’s:

• Water-resistant but breathable (so it doesn’t trap heat)
• Machine washable
• Deep-pocketed to fit snugly without bunching

For retailers, you might advise customers with children, pets, or allergy concerns to use a mattress protector, which can help keep a mattress looking and smelling new.

3.   Clean Your Mattress Properly

Here’s a simple process your customers can follow every six months or after a spill or stain:

Step 1: Vacuum Thoroughly

Use the upholstery attachment on your vacuum to remove surface dust, hair, and debris. Don’t forget seams and crevices; dust mites love to hide there.

Step 2: Spot Clean Stains

For stains, mix a small amount of mild detergent with cold water. Lightly dab (don’t soak) the area with a clean cloth. For biological stains like sweat or urine, a solution of hydrogen peroxide, baking soda, and dish soap can help neutralize odors.

Avoid harsh chemicals, as they may damage mattress fibers and could affect manufacturer warranties.

Step 3: Deodorize Naturally

Sprinkle baking soda across the surface and let it sit for a few hours. This helps absorb moisture and neutralize odors. Then vacuum again.

Quick Tip: For a natural refresh between deep cleans, lightly mist your mattress with a 50/50 solution of water and white vinegar. Let it air dry completely before putting bedding back on.

For people with allergies, aim to deep-clean your mattress at least twice per year. If you live in a humid region or have pets, quarterly is even better.

4.   Keep It Dry and Well-Ventilated

Moisture is a mattress’s enemy. It encourages mold and bacteria growth, especially in humid climates.

To keep your mattress fresh:

• Always air out your bed for a few minutes before making it each morning.
• Avoid placing your mattress directly on the floor. Use a breathable foundation or platform.
• On sunny days, strip your bed and open windows to let natural airflow keep the materials dry.

If your mattress does get wet, use fans or a dehumidifier to dry it completely before covering it again. And if you want to go the extra eco-mile, choose natural cleaning products like baking soda and vinegar over harsh commercial sprays. They’re effective, inexpensive, and safer for your indoor air quality.

5.   Support It Properly

Even the best mattress will sag if it’s not properly supported. Check your bed frame and box spring periodically for signs of wear or bending.

A weak foundation can cause uneven pressure and shorten your mattress’s lifespan. Most modern mattresses perform best on slatted or platform-style bases with good center support.

For heavier hybrid or memory foam mattresses, make sure slats are spaced no more than 3 inches apart for even weight distribution.

6.   Handle with Care During Moves

If you’re moving homes or rearranging furniture, never fold or bend your mattress sharply; it can damage internal coils and materials.

Use mattress bags to protect against dirt and moisture during transport. Keep the mattress upright in a moving truck, and don’t place heavy objects on top.

Retailers can also use this as part of post-purchase education. Sending customers a “Mattress Care 101” guide with every purchase helps strengthen brand trust.

1.   Keep Pets and Food Out of Bed

We know it’s hard to say no when the dog looks that cozy. But food crumbs attract insects, and pet dander can embed deep in the fibers.

If your customers have pets, recommend a washable cover or designated pet blanket. These small measures can drastically cut down on stains, odors, and allergens.

2.   Address Spills Immediately

Accidents happen, especially in homes with kids or pets. When a spill occurs, act fast:

• Blot up as much liquid as possible with a clean towel.
• Apply a mild cleaning solution (water + gentle detergent).
• Air dry completely before replacing bedding.

Quick action prevents stains from setting and mold from forming beneath the surface.

3.   Replace Bedding Regularly

Your mattress can only stay clean if what’s on top of it stays clean, too. Wash sheets and pillowcases every one to two weeks, and blankets or comforters every month or so.

Using breathable, moisture-wicking materials like cotton or bamboo also helps regulate temperature and reduce sweat buildup on the mattress surface.

4.   Know When It’s Time to Replace

Even with excellent care, every mattress eventually reaches its limit. Signs it’s time to replace include persistent sagging or soft spots, new aches or stiffness upon waking, visible wear, stains, or damage, and allergies that worsen during sleep.

5.   Don’t Forget About the Warranty

Most mattresses come with a warranty that lasts anywhere from 5 to 25 years, depending on the brand and materials. But here’s what many people don’t realize: a warranty doesn’t cover every kind of damage, especially if it’s caused by neglect or improper maintenance.

For example:

• Stains can void a warranty because they indicate exposure to moisture or biological contaminants.
• Using the wrong type of foundation (or no foundation at all) can lead to premature sagging and disqualification from coverage.
• Failing to rotate your mattress regularly can cause uneven wear, which isn’t considered a manufacturer’s defect.

That’s why proper cleaning, rotation, and support isn’t just about hygiene; it helps them protect your investment.