Keeping your mattress in great shape isn’t just about making it last longer; it's about ensuring every night's sleep is as cozy as the first. But did you know every day habits can cause damage without us even realizing it?
Spills, jumps, and even the wrong frame can turn comfy into lumpy. Let’s look at easy ways to avoid these pitfalls and keep your mattress in good shape for longer.
1. No More Monkeys
Jumping on the bed might seem like harmless fun, especially for kids who see the mattress as a mini trampoline. However, this common activity can seriously harm your mattress's internal structure and integrity.
Each leap and bounce put pressure on the springs, foam, or other materials inside, leading to potential damage over time. This can cause the mattress to lose shape, support, and comfort much faster than normal wear and tear.
2. Moving Pains
When moving a mattress, you might think bending or folding it is the easiest way to get it through tight spots. But here's the catch: doing so can mess up its insides. For spring mattresses, bending is a big no-no because it can wreck the coils and even tear the fabric. Even foam mattresses, which are a bit more flexible, shouldn't stay bent for too long.
Instead, follow these guidelines when moving it to keep your bed in the best shape:
- Straight Transport: Always keep the mattress upright on its side when moving through doorways or hallways to avoid the need to bend.
- Use a Mattress Bag: A mattress bag protects against dirt and damage. It's essential for keeping the mattress clean and makes it easier to move without bending it.
- Get Help: Moving a mattress is a two-person job. Having help ensures you can maneuver the mattress without folding or bending it, reducing the risk of damage.
3. Tucked Away
Even with a good mattress, there comes a time when you need to store it away, maybe due to a move or changing out rooms. But it's crucial to store it correctly! Keeping your mattress in a damp or poorly ventilated area can lead to mold, mildew, or even a lumpy mattress! Instead, make sure to keep to these key storing steps:
- Select a Dry, Well-Ventilated Storage Area: A dry, climate-controlled environment is your best bet for keeping it in prime condition.
- Clean Thoroughly Before Storage: Dirt, oils, and sweat accumulated over time can lead to fungus and mold if stored unchecked. So make sure to vacuum thoroughly and air it out before storing it!.
- Invest in a Quality Mattress Bag: Shield your mattress from dust, dirt, and moisture with a breathable mattress bag. Avoid thick plastic covers that trap humidity, and ensure the bag is securely sealed.
- Lay the Mattress Flat: Whenever possible, store the mattress flat to preserve its shape and prevent the internals from shifting. If space constraints require vertical storage, rotate it periodically to avoid deformities.
- Ensure Proper Climate Control: A consistent, cool temperature and good ventilation can prevent dampness and discourage mold and bacteria growth.
4. Keep it Stable!
Did you know the right bed frame is crucial for keeping your mattress in shape? A good frame prevents sagging, ensures even wear, and contributes to better sleep! So, to avoid wearing your mattress too early, you’ll need to keep a few considerations in mind!
- Match Frame to Mattress Size: Ensure the frame fits your mattress dimensions to provide proper support and prevent overhangs or gaps.
- Check Weight Capacity: Confirm the frame can support the mattress and sleepers, avoiding structural strain.
- Quality Materials: Select frames built with durable materials like solid wood or metal that offer stability and longevity.
- Consider Design for Airflow: A frame that lifts the mattress off the ground enhances airflow, which is key for temperature regulation and preventing moisture-related issues.
5. Bye Bye Spills & Stains
One of the most common causes of damage to your mattress is spills, especially if they’re not cleaned up immediately. They can seep deep into the mattress, leading to mold and mildew growth, unpleasant (and hard to remove!) odors, and attracting pests!
So, if something spills on your mattress, deal with it immediately by blotting (not rubbing) the area, using gentle cleaners like enzyme spray (for biological stains), and allowing the mattress to dry thoroughly!
Pro Tip:
You can also take preventative action by investing in a quality, waterproof mattress cover!
Bonus: Read Carefully!
You know that tag on your mattress? It’s not there just for show — it’s packed with all your care instructions to keep your mattress in good health (and under warranty!). The tag often includes guidelines for cleaning, rotation schedules, and proper support, like whether or not it can handle an adjustable bed frame.
So, when upgrading your mattress, don’t forget to look at the care instructions! But don’t forget to check out our mattress selection at Nampa Appliance TV & Mattress if you need a bed ASAP! We carry the top leading brands in sleep! And if you need help finding the right one, that’s what our sleep experts are for — contact our team today!