Your mattress is one of the most used pieces of furniture in your home — and one of the most important for your health and comfort. But like any investment, it needs proper care to last. Whether you’ve just bought a brand-new orthopaedic mattress or you’re trying to extend the life of your current one, these mattress care tips will help keep it clean, supportive, and comfortable for many years to come.
1. Use a Mattress Protector – Always
A waterproof, breathable mattress protector is your mattress’s first line of defense. It protects against:
Sweat and body oils
Spills and stains
Dust mites and allergens
Bacteria and mould buildup
It’s far easier to clean a mattress protector than to deep-clean a mattress. Wash it every 1–2 months for best results.
2. Rotate or Flip Your Mattress Regularly
To avoid sagging or uneven wear, rotate your mattress 180° every 3–6 months. If you have a double-sided mattress (rare these days), flip it too.
Pocket spring and memory foam: Rotate only
Double-sided innerspring: Flip and rotate
Orthopaedic or zoned mattresses: Follow manufacturer guidance
3. Vacuum Your Mattress to Remove Dust and Allergens
Use your vacuum’s upholstery attachment to gently clean the mattress surface every 1–2 months. This helps remove:
Dust mites
Dead skin cells
Hair and other debris
For deeper freshness, sprinkle bicarbonate of soda, leave it for an hour, and then vacuum thoroughly.
4. Avoid Sitting on the Edges Regularly
Mattress edges are not built to support concentrated weight day after day. Sitting on the same edge can:
Damage the edge support
Lead to sagging
Deform the mattress over time
Try to sit in the centre or rotate where you sit if using your bed as a seat.
5. Air Out Your Mattress
Let your mattress breathe. Strip the bed occasionally and open windows to release built-up moisture and humidity. If possible, lean it upright near a window for a few hours.
This is especially important in humid climates or colder months when mould can form under poorly ventilated bedding.
6. Keep Pets Off the Mattress (If Possible)
We know how cosy it is to cuddle up with your pets — but fur, dander, and the occasional accident can shorten your mattress’s lifespan. If you do allow pets on the bed:
Use a washable cover or extra blanket
Vacuum more frequently
Use a mattress protector beneath it all
7. Don’t Jump on the Bed
It may sound obvious, but jumping on the bed damages the internal structure. This applies to kids and adults. Even the best quality mattress won’t survive heavy impact without wear and tear.
8. Spot Clean Stains Immediately
If you spill something, act fast:
Blot (don’t rub) with a dry towel
Use mild detergent and cold water
Avoid over-wetting the mattress
Allow to fully air dry
Avoid harsh chemicals or steam cleaners — they can damage materials and void warranties.
9. Support It With the Right Bed Base
An unsupportive or broken bed base can shorten your mattress’s life. Make sure:
Slats are no more than 7cm apart
The frame is stable and not sagging
The base type suits your mattress (e.g., pocket springs prefer a solid base)
If you’ve purchased from us, your mattress and bed base are already well-matched — but regular checks still help.
10. Know When to Replace Your Mattress
No mattress lasts forever. With proper care, a high-quality mattress can last 7–10 years. Replace yours if:
You wake up with back or neck pain
You feel springs or sagging spots
There’s visible wear, stains, or smells
It’s affecting your sleep quality
Final Thoughts
Taking care of your mattress doesn’t take much time — just a little regular attention goes a long way. With the right habits, your bed will stay cleaner, more comfortable, and more supportive for years to come.
Looking for a replacement or upgrading to an orthopaedic or hybrid mattress? Explore our handcrafted mattress collection, made with care and designed for lasting performance.
Need help choosing or caring for your mattress? Contact our team — we’re happy to help.
