Mattress Care & Maintenance Tips: How to Keep Your Bed in Top Condition
A high-quality mattress is one of the most important investments you can make for your health and comfort. Even the best mattress won’t last forever without proper care. Whether you’ve just purchased a new bed from Archers Sleepcentre or want to extend the life of your current one, taking a few simple maintenance steps can make all the difference.
In this guide, we’ll cover how to look after your mattress, including cleaning tips, rotation advice, and everyday habits that help keep it supportive and hygienic for years to come.
Why Mattress Care Matters
The average person spends around a third of their life in bed, so your mattress naturally collects sweat, skin cells, dust, and moisture over time. Without regular cleaning and care, these can lead to:
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Reduced comfort and support
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Bacterial or dust mite build-up
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Unpleasant odours
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Premature sagging or wear
A well-maintained mattress, on the other hand, offers consistent support, improved sleep quality, and a much longer lifespan. In fact, with good care, most modern mattresses can last up to 8 or 10 years.
1. Rotate or Flip Your Mattress
Mattresses benefit from being rotated or flipped every few months — typically every three to six months. Rotating means switching the head and foot ends of the mattress so that pressure is distributed evenly. Double-sided mattresses can be both rotated and flipped, which helps maintain even comfort across both sleeping surfaces.
Why it matters
Over time, body impressions can form where you tend to lie. By rotating and flipping the mattress, you help the fillings settle more evenly, preventing dips or uneven wear.
Always check your mattress care label or Archers Sleepcentre product page for guidance, as rotation recommendations vary by model.
2. Use a Mattress Protector
The first step in mattress care is to protect it from spills, stains, and dust. Use a mattress protector to keep your mattress clean and fresh. A mattress protector is a thin, fitted sheet-like cover that can be placed over your mattress to protect it from spills, stains, and allergens.Look for:
- Quick drying after washing
- Quiet, No rustling
- Waterproof, protecting the mattress against stains, fungus and bacteria
- Usage guarantee
- Will not alter the comfort of your mattress
- Streamlined to mattress like a fitted sheet
Mattress Protector Recommendations
3. Keep It Clean — Hoover and Air It Out
Regular Hoovering
Dust, skin flakes, and allergens can settle on your mattress surface. Use a hoover every few weeks to keep it fresh. Focus on seams, crevices, and quilting where debris tends to collect.
Airing your mattress
Strip your bed completely every month or two and let the mattress air out for several hours. Opening windows to allow airflow helps release trapped moisture and keeps your sleep environment fresher.
Spot cleaning
For small stains or spills, blot (don’t rub) the affected area with a mild detergent and cool water. You can also use powder-based cleaning products, which will absorb moisture from spillages. Avoid soaking the mattress, as too much moisture can damage the fillings. Always allow the mattress to dry thoroughly before remaking the bed.
4. Support Your Mattress with the Right Base
Even the best mattress needs a solid, supportive base to perform at its best. A worn-out or unsuitable bed frame can cause sagging, dips, and uneven support.
If you’ve invested in a new mattress, check that your bed frame or divan base is:
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Level and stable
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Free from broken slats or weak spots
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The correct size and fit for your mattress
Some mattresses work best with solid platform bases, while others pair well with slatted frames. The team at Archers Sleepcentre can help you find the perfect match for your chosen mattress.
5. Bending or folding the mattress
Avoid bending or folding your mattress, as this can damage the springs and foam. If you need to move your mattress, get assistance to prevent bending or folding.6. Jumping on the bed
Jumping on your mattress can damage the springs and foam. It's best to avoid using your mattress as a trampoline and keep heavy items off of it. This will help prevent unnecessary wear and tear that can shorten the lifespan of your mattress.
7. Check and Clean Your Bedding Regularly
Fresh bedding isn’t just about comfort — it also protects your mattress. Wash sheets and pillowcases weekly or fortnightly at a high temperature to remove bacteria and dust mites.
Don’t forget to wash duvet covers, mattress toppers, and pillow protectors too. Layering clean, breathable materials helps regulate temperature and prevents sweat from soaking into your mattress.
8. Keep Your Mattress Dry
Moisture is one of the biggest enemies of a mattress. Avoid letting liquids soak through, and if a spill does occur, blot it immediately and use a fan or hairdryer on a cool setting to help it dry faster.
UK homes often experience condensation caused by a lack of proper heating, insulation, and ventilation, leading to mould growth and health problems. Consider using a dehumidifier in your bedroom. It helps prevent mould and mildew, especially in the corners and underneath your mattress.
9. Transport and Store It Correctly
When moving house or rearranging furniture, try no to fold or bend your mattress. Use mattress bags to protect against dirt and damage during transport.
If you need to store your mattress, keep it flat in a dry, ventilated space rather than upright or in damp conditions.
10. Replace When It’s Time
Even with perfect care, every mattress has a lifespan. If you notice sagging, lumps, or wake up with aches and pains, it might be time for a replacement.
Signs you may need a new mattress:
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It’s 7–10 years old or more
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You sleep better elsewhere (such as a hotel)
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You can feel springs or dips beneath you
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The surface looks or feels uneven
At Archers Sleepcentre, you’ll find a huge range of mattresses to suit every sleeper, all designed for lasting comfort and support.
Final Thoughts
Caring for your mattress doesn’t take much effort, but it makes a big difference to your comfort, hygiene, and the lifespan of your bed. By following these simple mattress care and maintenance tips, you can keep your sleeping space cleaner, fresher, and more supportive for years to come.
If you’re looking for a new mattress, bed frame, or mattress protector, explore the full range at Archers Sleepcentre. With expert advice, free UK delivery options, and trusted brands, you’ll find everything you need for a better night’s sleep.