We can say that summer is now over to make way for the cooler months, and among the things to do around the house we must remember to turn the mattress to the right side. Before doing this, however, it is good to check for any particular stains, as, during the night, our skin tends to release sweat, natural oils and dead cells, which end up soaking into the mattress. Therefore, today we will see together how to refresh the mattress before turning it over on the winter side so that we always have it clean on both sides!
Baking soda
The first remedy we propose to refresh your mattress is baking soda, which is known for its cleaning, degreasing and stain removing properties. Before we see how to use it, however, we recommend that you vacuum or brush it so as to rid the mattress of excess dirt or any dust mites and their eggs. After that, sprinkle the entire surface of the mattress with the baking soda and scrub with a soft brush so that it can penetrate the fabric. Finally, leave it for at least a couple of hours, then, remove the excess baking soda with a vacuum cleaner or brush. Not only will you have refreshed and deodorized your mattress, but you will also have limited bacterial growth, thanks to baking soda’s ability to inhibit the production of mite eggs. As if that were not enough, then, this method can also be used to refresh and clean carpets and fabric sofas.
Vinegar
Another pantry ingredient that can refresh and clean your mattress is vinegar, which is also known for its anti-odor function. In fact, we remind you that it is used to remove odors in the refrigerator. So, in a bucket with water, pour some vinegar, dip a cloth in the resulting solution and wring it out well, making sure that it is always damp and not wet, so that the excessive amount of water does not penetrate the mattress. After that, wipe it over the entire surface of the mattress and let it dry preferably outdoors. For the most effective effect, we recommend that before proceeding with this operation, you air out the room and leave your mattress in the sun for a few hours so that the heat generated by the sun can dry out any traces of moisture in the mattress.
Talcum Powder
Similar to baking soda is talcum powder, the white powder used for its ability to soothe skin irritation. Yet, this product boasts a strong absorbent action, able to soak up dirt and grease that settles even on pillows! Pour, then, the talcum powder over the entire surface of the mattress and let it act for a while. After that, remove excess dust with a brush-your mattress will look as clean as ever!
Tea bags
This may sound like a rather wacky remedy to you, yet it does seem to be able to refresh and scent your mattress! What are we talking about? Tea bags, which also help prevent dust. All you need to do, then, is to steep 2 tea bags in 2 cups of hot water for about 5 minutes and let the mixture cool. After that, decant it into a spray bottle, spray the resulting mixture on the mattress and let it dry, preferably outdoors, taking advantage of the sunlight.
DIY deodorant
So far we have seen how to refresh and clean the mattress without, however, bringing a good smell. What if we want to, instead, scent it as well? Here is the remedy for you: the DIY deodorant.
All you need to do is mix 2 cups of distilled water with 2 tablespoons of baking soda and then add 25 drops of essential oil of the fragrance you prefer. We recommend, however, that you prefer tea tree oil, which boasts antibacterial and anti-odor properties that can sanitize the mattress, or fragrances such as lemon, cinnamon, lavender and eucalyptus, which are a godsend against dust mites. At this point, decant the mixture into a spray bottle, spray it on the mattress and let it dry. The baking soda will help not only eliminate odors but also absorb moisture that can cause mold and mildew.
If there are stains
Before turning the mattress over, it would also be good to do an inspection for stains and take advantage of their removal. In case, then, of blood stains, you can mix some hydrogen peroxide, table salt and liquid dish soap until you get a sort of paste-like mixture and apply it, then, on the stain. Let it, then, dry for a while, brush it off and dab it with a white rag soaked in hydrogen peroxide, following movements from the outside to the center of the stain. If, on the other hand, there are urine stains, dab a rag soaked in a solution of water and organic soap several times.
Finally, if your mattress should have food or drink stains, mix half a glass of vinegar and three tablespoons of lemon juice, pour the resulting mixture over the stain, after which, wipe with a microfiber cloth. Finally, let it dry and you’re done!
Warnings
After cleaning your mattress, always let it dry thoroughly so as not to leave it damp and to avoid encouraging the formation of stains and mold.
