Are you feeling foggy-headed and exhausted after waking up in the morning? Odds are, you’re suffering from a bad night’s sleep. If you can’t get to REM sleep, your body is forced into an ANS cycle, which is known to cause all sorts of health problems. What can you do to clean your mattress without resorting to harsh chemicals?
Baking soda is a great natural alternative for cleaning everything from windows to toilets. It has a pH level of 6, which means it’s effective at destroying bacteria, fungi, and odors. All you need is some baking soda and water!
To clean your mattress using baking soda, first mix a tablespoon of baking soda with one cup of water. Soak the mattress pad in the mixture for about 30 minutes. After soaking, wring out the excess moisture and place the pad on top of the dry mattress. Use a vacuum cleaner to clean the surface and bed frame. Remember to replace the pad every three months!
Step 1: Strip the Bed and Wash the Bedding
To begin the mattress cleaning process, remove all sheets, blankets, or duvets from the bed. These items should be washed in the washing machine using detergent on the hottest water setting suitable for the fabric. This step helps kill germs and remove any dirt or dust present on the bedding. Once washed, dry them on the high heat setting to ensure any remaining germs or bacteria are eliminated.
Step 2: Vacuum the Mattress
Using the upholstery attachment on your vacuum cleaner or a powerful handheld vacuum, remove any dirt, dust, or debris from the surface of the mattress. It’s important to ensure that the nozzle or attachment is clean before starting to avoid transferring any debris onto the mattress. Pay attention to crevices, seams, and other areas where dirt and dust tend to accumulate.
Step 3: Apply Baking Soda
In a bowl, mix 1 cup of baking soda with a few drops of lavender essential oil. Lavender oil adds a pleasant fragrance to the baking soda and enhances its odor-absorbing properties. Once mixed, transfer the baking soda mixture to a strainer. Evenly distribute the fragranced baking soda over the entire mattress. Alternatively, you can sprinkle the baking soda directly from the box, ensuring comprehensive coverage.
Step 4: Rub the Baking Soda Mixture
Using a circular motion, rub the baking soda mixture into the mattress. This rubbing action helps the baking soda penetrate the fabric and absorb any odors present. Take your time to cover the entire mattress, paying extra attention to areas that might be more prone to odor retention.
Step 5: Allow the Baking Soda to Absorb
Leave the baking soda on the mattress while you finish washing and drying your bedding. This allows sufficient time for the baking soda to absorb any odors and moisture effectively. The longer you leave it on, the better the results will be.
Step 6: Vacuum the Baking Soda
Once your bedding is ready, it’s time to remove the baking soda from the mattress. Use the upholstery attachment on your vacuum cleaner or a powerful handheld vacuum to thoroughly vacuum the mattress. Be meticulous in your approach, ensuring that all the baking soda is removed. Leftover residue can potentially cause skin irritation, so it’s important to be thorough in this step.
Additional Tip: Using Vinegar for Stains
If your mattress has stains, you can incorporate vinegar into the cleaning process. Fill a spray bottle with vinegar and spray it directly on the stained areas. Allow the vinegar to dry completely. Once dry, sprinkle baking soda generously over the mattress and let it sit for a few hours. Afterward, vacuum up the baking soda, and you should notice that the stains have significantly diminished or disappeared.
Conclusion
Cleaning your mattress with baking soda is a simple yet effective way to refresh and sanitize it. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can ensure that your mattress remains clean, odor-free, and conducive to a restful sleep. Remember to regularly clean your mattress to maintain its freshness and extend its lifespan.
FAQs
- Can I use any other essential oil instead of lavender oil? Yes, you can use other essential oils such as tea tree oil or lemon oil for a different fragrance.
- How often should I clean my mattress with baking soda? It is recommended to clean your mattress with baking soda every few months or as needed.
- Can I leave the baking soda on the mattress for an extended period? Yes, you can leave the baking soda on the mattress for a longer duration, such as overnight, to maximize odor absorption.
- Is it necessary to vacuum the baking soda off the mattress? Yes, it is essential to vacuum the baking soda thoroughly to remove any residue that may cause skin irritation.
- Can I use this method to clean a memory foam mattress? Yes, the baking soda cleaning method can be used for memory foam mattresses as well. However, be cautious with the amount of moisture introduced to the mattress.
