(Do and Don't) Caring For your mattress
A new mattress, just like many other things, needs to be given the proper care in order to function properly. Recommendations from the manufacturer of your mattress should, of course, be followed. But here are some standard care tips to get you started:
Installation is #1
Proper installation is key to starting your new mattress relationship off right. Make sure whoever is setting it up secures the bed frame, box spring and mattress, as incorrect installation will enormously decrease the life of the mattress and may affect how the mattress feels on
every night basis.
Living on the Edge
Edge support is a very important component of mattress structure. But be sure not to repeatedly sit on the same part of the edge when putting on clothes and shoes, first waking up in the morning, or just sitting for a few moments. Just like the center of the mattress, repeated pressure could wear away at those edges.
Flipping/Rotating
If you have an older sleep set (hopefully not over 10 years!), you should be used to flipping or rotating your mattress to avoid harmful body impressions. You may be happy to hear that the days of flipping your mattress are slowly coming to an end, thanks to new technology and innovation in mattress construction. But don't be fooled, these new and improved mattresses may be "no-flip", but they still need to be rotated to prolong the life of your mattress. New mattresses should be rotated, on average, every 3 months. But use your best judgment and if you feel a bit of a sag or can see one with the naked eye, it might be best to rotate your mattress more often. And make sure you don't forget your foundation! Your nightly slumber can weigh heavily on a box spring as well, so rotate your box spring every 6 months, but be sure to never, EVER flip it.
Protect yourself
Stains, spills and moisture won't only spoil the look and feel of your mattress, but can also void your warranty and make you sick. Keep your warranty and hygiene in mind by protecting your sleep set with a mattress protector.
Jump around...
Somewhere other than your mattress! In addition to ruining the coils in your innerspring and fibers in your foam mattress, jumping on the bed can cause harm to your most important investments (and we're NOT talking about your mattress). Keep your sleep set and your family safe and keep the jumping outdoors.
Cleaning is Caring
Your mattress should be vacuumed as often as possible to remove any and all dust particles. If you have spilled something directly on your mattress and it is necessary that you wet it, do so sparingly! Use a small amount of soapy water and rub the stain with a towel. Moisture is the prime ingredient for mold growth, so make sure the mattress is completely dry before placing the sheets back on top. To combat any odors, sprinkle baking soda a top the surface of the mattress, wait 20 minutes, and then vacuum.
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