How To Clean A Moldy Mattress? A Must Read Guide

To remove mold from a mattress, what is the best way to clean it? Stinky mattresses are the worst. Molds!

Smells like vomit and is an eyesore, especially if the mattress has already been stained by them.

In addition to making your bed smell bad, they also make it look bad, which is a no-no!

It may seem impossible, but after doing some study, I’ve found that removing these stains is actually rather simple.

Sun exposure, vacuuming, rubbing alcohol, hydrogen peroxide and baking soda are the six best ways to remove mold from a mattress.

Want to learn how to get rid of the stains on your mattress? If you’d like to learn more, keep reading!

Reasons for Mold Growth

Unlike other fungi, mold prefers a warm, dark, and moist environment to thrive. Because of the following factors, your mattress might rapidly become a hostile environment:

• High levels of moisture in the air. If you reside in a humid area, the extra moisture in your mattress might soak through the layers and then condense in the foam pores. Microbial development can occur even in naturally ventilated or naturally long-lasting mattresses.
• Breathability is low. Putting your mattress on the floor, keeping it out of fresh air, or using synthetic bedding can all reduce the amount of air circulation in your mattress and increase the risk of mold formation.
• There is a leak of liquid. Mold spores can swiftly grow in the mattress’ deepest layers if liquids leak in. As soon as the mold is apparent on the surface, it is likely to spread into the mattress and necessitate a replacement.
• Type of bed. Memory foam mattresses have a higher risk of developing mold compared to other mattress kinds. Why? Memory foam has the ability to soak up moisture due of its soft structure. For one thing, mold thrives in temperatures that are just right for it to thrive.

Additionally, RV mattresses are vulnerable to mold growth since RV bed frames are often solid and flat, limiting air circulation. In this instance, a waterproof mattress protector should be used from the start to reduce the risk of mold formation and extend the life of the mattress.

The Main Signs of Mold Infestation

One thing you need to know about mold is that it is a fungus.

Fruiting bodies are the dark or pink dots you see on the mattress’ surface. In order to reproduce, the fungi needs spores, which are found in these structures.

If you don’t see the visible part of the mycelium, you may be missing out on an enormous amount of room.

As a result, early detection of mold infestation is critical before it becomes visible. Listed below are the items to look for:

• Smell. The scent is the most obvious sign of mattress mold. You’ll notice an unpleasant musty smell in your mattress if you have mold growing in it, and it can get worse with time. You can tell if you’ve spilled something on your bed by the smell.
• Asthma or respiratory issues are a common occurrence. You will inhale mold’s spores and mycelium if you are exposed to it. Lung irritation and hypersensitivity are possible side effects of breathing in these particles. Asthma (2) or a worsening of an existing respiratory illness has been linked to specific mold strains.
• Spots of mold are clearly visible. There may be dark gray, crimson, or black stains on the mattress’ surface or around its seams as the final sign of mold growth inside the mattress. In this case, a chemical treatment or a total mattress replacement is necessary to rid the mattress of the mold.

In addition, some molds create mycotoxins, which can harm a person’s liver or kidneys if they are exposed to them for an extended period of time. That’s why it’s important to keep an eye on the state of your mattress and cure it as soon as possible if you want it to last for a lengthy period of time.

Steps To Clean Mold Off Mattress

What is the best way to remove mold from a mattress?

Cleaning mold from a mattress can be accomplished in seven different ways.

Method #1. Sun exposure

Natural anti-microbial sources like the sun can successfully kill mold and mildew on surfaces exposed to the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) and heat rays.

You may be able to get rid of your mold problem by exposing your mattress to the sun for a long length of time.

Because of this, the rays can go deep into the mattress and eliminate any microorganisms that have accumulated there.

If you’re going to be removing mold using liquids, exposing your mattress to the sun will help dry the beddings out even more.

How to dry a mattress is explained in this article.

Method #2. Vacuuming

If so, where do you keep it? If you’ve got mold, this will help you get rid of it.

Determine where these moldy areas are on your mattress and remove them.

After that, use your vacuum to remove any mold or debris that may have risen to the surface from the bedding.

The collected garbage/vacuum filter must be disposed of quickly to prevent future mold growth.

Method #3. Rubbing alcohol

Mold can be removed from your mattress using a mixture of one part water and one part rubbing alcohol.

In addition to disinfecting and sanitizing your mattresses, rubbing alcohol also kills germs and other microbes.

Applying the solution after vacuuming and letting it dry in the sun for an extended period will improve its efficiency.

When you use these methods, you get better absorption and greater efficacy from the alcohol.

Method #4. Hydrogen peroxide

It’s not just wounds that this chemical can help with! It also brightens and sanitizes your mattress with the help of this product.

Mold can be removed at any moment with hydrogen peroxide.

Measure three parts warm water and one part hydrogen peroxide to lose its potency.

Remove the mold by scrubbing the bedding and allowing it to air dry, ideally in direct sunlight.

If the mold hasn’t been eliminated, continue the same procedure.

Method #5. Baking soda

Almost everyone has it in their kitchen, and it’s also a fantastic mattress cleanser!

With a thick paste of sodium bicarbonate, baking soda may successfully erase tenacious stains.

It is possible to make the paste by mixing baking soda and warm water.

It is then necessary to apply the paste and scrub until all of the dirt has been removed. Leave the area outside to dry once you’ve washed it.

Method #6. Lemon mixture

Do you prefer a more natural and organic product? For mold removal, keep in mind the option of using a lemon mixture.

Mold may be effectively removed from any surface because to the inherent anti-microbial qualities found in lemons.

Additionally, the citrus aroma of lemon will permeate the entire room, allowing you to have a good night’s sleep.

To lessen the acidity, you can dilute lemon juice with a little lukewarm water to create a mattress cleanser.

Make use of a spray bottle to administer the solution uniformly to the affected area.

These moldy areas can be cleaned up further more with nylon brushes.

Immediately after completing the above steps, place the bedding outside and let it to dry in the sun.

Method #7. Mattress cleaning solution

You were not satisfied with any of the options presented? If that’s the case, then this is your final option.

There are a variety of mattress cleaning solutions on the market, and these substances are specifically manufactured and formulated for the purpose of cleaning mattresses.

A broad variety of brands and smells are available to suit your own preferences.

Using a gentle brush, remove all mildew and grime from the mattress’s indicated portion with these cleaning solutions.

To get rid of any lingering mold or mildew, expose the beddings to the sun and the outdoors.

How To Prevent Mattress Mold Growth?

It’s hard to eradicate mold spores from your home, so the only option left is to create an environment that makes it tough for mold to flourish. And here is how you go about it:

• Adjust the room’s humidity level. Use a dehumidifier if the air in your bedroom is excessively wet. Many various versions are available that are effective in reducing humidity while using little or no electricity.
• Regularly aerate the mattress. A mattress aeration is also a wonderful alternative. Open your windows, turn on the air conditioner, and occasionally remove your sheets to allow your mattress to breathe.
• Choose mattresses that are resistant to mold. Latex and plant-based foam mattresses are more resistant to mold growth than synthetic mattresses. However, coil mattresses are ideal for a no-sag mattress because of the coil unit’s ability to circulate air.
• Use a mattress protector to cover the mattress. The lifespan of a mattress can be extended by using a waterproof encasement to keep moisture out and mold spores at bay.
• It is not recommended to put a mattress directly on the floor when moving a bed. To begin with, the floor isn’t a sanitary surface, and spores might be dispersed by foot traffic. Secondly, the floor surface restricts airflow, which encourages mold growth. To reduce the amount of time the mattress is in touch with the floor, consider using a bed frame, plywood sheets, or thick carpets.
• The mattress should be cleaned and rotated regularly. Mold spores are removed by vacuuming the mattress every two months, which extends its lifespan. Removing moisture from the mattress’s layers is made easier by rotating (and flipping the mattress, if your mattress permits this).

How your mattress cleaning price is formed

Cleaning a bed may appear simple to someone who has never done it before. It’s important to note that the final quote from the specialists is based on a variety of factors, including:

• Size of a mattress. One factor that has a significant bearing on the final cost of service is the mattress size. As an example, you may anticipate to pay far less for a mattress treatment for a single or double bed than for a queen or king-sized mattress.
• Methods for removing stains. Your licensed specialist will use either hot water extraction or dry cleaning to clean your mattress, depending on the materials used in its construction.
• Comprehensiveness. You have the option of cleaning only the top of the mattress, which is less expensive, or cleaning both sides, which is more time consuming and more expensive.
• Stain the type. Cleansing up some stains is a lot easier than others. As an example, Fantastic Services will price less to remove typical food and beverage stains (such as coffee and fruit), but will charge more to remove urine, vomit, and other tougher stains (such as coffee and chocolate).
• Today is the scheduled appointment date. If you reserve a service at the last minute (same-day, next-day), over the weekend, or on an official holiday, some companies will raise the price.
• Additional services are offered. Some professional cleaners can also perform bed bug and other pest treatments, as well as odor removal and stain protection spray treatments, depending on your requirements and at an additional fee.

You don’t have to pay a thing to find out how much a mattress cleaning service in your area costs with Fantastic Services. For a free, customized quote, simply provide as much information as possible about your mattress and schedule an appointment.

What is the average cost for professional mattress cleaning?

Our mattress cleaning prices are as follows: Any mattress (single, double, king size) can be cleaned for as little as £26 using hot water extraction (steam), which includes free stain protection, or as much as £36 using dry cleaning and any mattress type. Please feel free to look over the whole variety of treatments currently being offered for mattress cleaning in the following price list:

Mattress cleaning methods and how they work

Hot water extraction (HWE) and dry cleaning are the two most commonly used methods by mattress stain removal firms, with Fantastic Services being one of them (using powder or foam).

The HWE mattress cleaning method (Steam cleaning)

When it comes to cleaning stains, the hot water extraction method is excellent for eliminating stains of all kinds. The professional will analyze your mattress to assess the sort of stain and pre-treat it with an appropriate detergent before doing a steam cleaning.

An expert machine will then be used to inject hot water and detergents into your mattress. The dirt and the fluids will subsequently be reclaimed. Almost any mattress on the market can benefit from this incredibly effective technique, which can be used on:

• Latex, polyurethane, or viscoelastic foam mattresses;
• Mattresses made of polyester, cotton, or wool are available.
• Mattresses and mattress toppers with a nonwoven fiber pad.

How much does it cost to steam clean your mattress?

You’ll pay £26 for stain prevention on any mattress type and all sides.

The dry powder mattress cleaning method

In terms of renewing your mattress, dry cleaning is a terrific option, however stain removal is not as successful as HWE. The technician will use a machine with tiny brushes connected to sprinkle dry powder uniformly over the mattress. A powerful hoover is used to remove the powder as well as the dirt, dust, and other debris from the mattress, leaving it clean and fresh-smelling.

The dry foam mattress cleaning method

You may safely use dry foam treatment on a variety of mattress and upholstery kinds. The foam is first applied on the mattress in a precise manner. The foam hardens in approximately 10 minutes. A powerful vacuum equipment is then used to remove the crystallized foam. The mattress can dry out in as little as an hour.

How much does it cost to have your mattress dry cleaned?

All sides and any sort of mattress will cost you £36.

Some extra services and how they work

UV treatment

Since no liquids or chemicals are used in this process, it is excellent for delicate mattresses that are not water resistant. In place of this, a certified technician will use a handheld UV light emitting machine.

Using a UV light to kill dust mites and other dangerous organisms on your mattress can ensure that it is free of allergens and odours. You will be able to use your mattress immediately after the service because the treatment has a 72-hour protection effect.

Bed bug control

These transparent, microscopic insects can sometimes be found in hotel rooms or on the sale racks of garage sales. These pests, once inside your mattress, are extremely difficult to get rid of because of their exceptional resistance to most commercial pesticides.

Pest control experts at Fantastic Services will conduct two separate treatments and use two different products on the affected bed to achieve complete bed bug removal.

Scotchgard stain protection

Most firms will spray your mattress with a preservative if you ask them to do so. Mattresses that have been treated with Fantastic Services’ Scotchgard solution will dry out on their own in around four or five hours. The best thing is that we incorporate stain prevention in our hot water extraction procedure at no additional cost to you.

Reasons to keep your mattress fresh

In order to combat unpleasant odors generated by the release of physiological fluids, as well as by accidental food and beverage stains, you should regularly refresh your mattress These odors have definitely kept you up at least a few times during the night, if not more.

Here are a few additional good reasons to clean your bed on a regular basis:

• A dust-mite-free mattress is a clean mattress. The dead skin cells of your body are the primary food source for dust mites, according to numerous studies. You can prevent allergic reactions like eczema or asthma by keeping your mattress clean and free of these pests and their excrement.
• You inhibit the growth of bacteria and mold. A mattress that is covered with mold and bacteria may appear clean from the exterior, but the stench and health risks it poses can be easily remedied by regularly changing your mattress.
• You extend the life of your mattress by using a mattress protector. Despite the fact that you can’t halt the aging process, you may extend the life of your mattress by keeping it in good condition.

FAQs

Can a moldy mattress make you sick?

No, not right now, but absolutely. Mold spores can cause allergic reactions, asthma, breathing difficulties, migraines, and other health issues if they are inhaled.

What mattresses are immune to mold growth?

Certain materials, such natural latex and plant-based foams, can slow down the formation of mold on mattresses.

How quickly mold spreads inside the mattress?

Mold begins to form on surfaces within 24 to 48 hours, according to the Federal Emergency Management Agency, and it spreads swiftly, especially if the humidity level is high.

How often should I clean my mattress?

If you want to keep your mattress in peak condition, you should vacuum it at least twice a year, but there is no “golden standard” that you should follow. You can put off washing your mattress for a little while longer by rotating it on a regular basis.

Can you give me some post-service maintenance advice?

Count me in! Make it a point to vacuum your mattress at least once a week in order to remove organic material like hair and skin flakes. When fresh stains form, you should immediately blot them and apply a mixture of water and laundry detergent to them.

How quickly will my mattress dry out after a hot water extraction treatment?

This can take anywhere from four to eight hours, depending on the amount of air movement and the temperature in the space. Your technician will place an air mover inside the room for free if you book a treatment with Fantastic Services.

How can I find out which cleaning method is most suitable for my mattress?

This is unnecessary, since your specialist will perform the proper cleaning procedure immediately following the inspection, according to industry standards. To help you better understand what each cleaning code represents, we’ve put up a list of frequently asked questions: Only solvents, vacuuming, brushing, and using water are safe methods of cleaning; “WS” refers to mild detergent or dry foam only.

What if a mattress isn’t cleaned correctly?

The fibres of a mattress might be permanently damaged if they are cleaned incorrectly. Consequently, hiring a professional cleaning service is your best option. Using a store-bought cleaning product or a home remedy won’t yield the same results as hiring a professional to treat your mattress, but you’ll save money in the long run.

Final Words

Sunlight, vacuuming, rubbing alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, baking soda and a lemon-lime mixture are the seven most effective methods for removing mold from a mattress.

Selecting an option that is appropriate for your budget and your mattress is an important consideration.

Whenever possible, use approaches like the ones described in this article that are less expensive but still effective. All the best!