Your Mattress Needs More TLC Than You Think
Your mattress is the unsung hero of your bedroom. It supports you for thousands of hours every year, absorbs late night snack crumbs and survives everything from restless nights to heatwaves. By 2026, more people are realising that mattress care is essential for good sleep hygiene and better health.
This Care & Maintenance blog covers everything you need to know about cleaning, protecting and extending the lifespan of your mattress, whether you sleep on a fluffy memory foam mattress, a supportive orthopaedic mattress or a luxurious pocket sprung mattress.
How Often Should You Clean Your Mattress in 2026?
If your answer is “never”, we need to talk. Cleaning your mattress every few months keeps allergens down, improves breathability and helps the material last longer.
Here’s the golden rule for 2026:
- Refresh weekly.
- Deep clean every 3 to 4 months.
- Do a full health check every 6 months.
Your Step by Step Mattress Cleaning Routine
1. Strip the Bedding
Remove everything. Sheets, duvet covers, protectors, scatter cushions and whatever else you’ve decided to hoard on your bed. Wash bedding at the hottest recommended temperature to kill bacteria and dust mites.
2. Vacuum the Mattress Surface
Use a soft brush attachment and go over the entire surface slowly. Pay extra attention to seams where dust loves to hide.
3. Deodorise Naturally
Sprinkle a light layer of bicarbonate of soda over the mattress and leave it for up to an hour. It absorbs odours, moisture and general funkiness from daily use.
Vacuum again once done. Your mattress will smell fresher than a Yorkshire morning.
4. Treat Stains Gently
No harsh scrubbing. No bleach. No drama. Mix warm water with a mild detergent, dab gently and let it dry naturally.
For stubborn marks, repeat the process with patience.
5. Air Your Mattress
Whenever possible, let your mattress breathe by leaving it uncovered for a few hours. Fresh air works wonders and helps reduce moisture buildup.
Should You Flip or Rotate Your Mattress?
Most modern mattresses are single sided, which means flipping is a no go. But rotation is your mattress’s best friend.
Rotate your mattress:
- Every 6 to 8 weeks
- 180 degrees clockwise
This keeps comfort layers from compressing unevenly and makes your mattress last longer.
Use a Mattress Protector (Trust Us)
Spills, sweat, dust mites and daily life all take a toll on your mattress. A good protector preserves the comfort layers and keeps the fabric fresh.
If your mattress is already showing its age, explore a fresh start with our cloudlike mattress collection.
How to Extend Mattress Lifespan in 2026
- Never sit repeatedly on the edge in the same spot.
- Use a supportive bed frame.
- Air the mattress monthly.
- Rotate as recommended.
- Use a protector from day one.
To check how long yours has left, try the Mattress Lifespan Calculator.
Pair Your Mattress with a Strong Bed Base
A mattress is only as good as the bed frame underneath it. Choose a sturdy style like our handcrafted bed frames or upgrade to extra storage with a premium ottoman storage bed for better support and tidier bedrooms.
FAQ
How often should I deep clean my mattress?
Every 3 to 4 months for best hygiene and comfort.
Can I use a steam cleaner?
You can, but use low heat and minimal moisture to avoid damage to foam layers.
Why does my mattress smell?
Moisture, sweat and trapped air can cause odours. Deodorising with bicarbonate of soda helps.
When should I replace my mattress?
Every 6 to 10 years depending on use, materials and care. Use the Mattress Lifespan Calculator to check yours.
Do protectors actually help?
Absolutely. They prevent stains, reduce wear and extend overall lifespan.
With the right habits, your mattress will stay cleaner, fresher and more supportive for years. A little 2026 maintenance goes a long way when you sleep on a Funkybedz favourite.