Cleaning mattresses in nursery

Cleanliness and hygiene are key factors in the nursery environment where young children spend most of their day. Children’s immunity is not fully developed, which means they are more susceptible to infections and allergies. One of the biggest sources of potential contamination is the mattresses that children use while resting or sleeping. This text focuses on the detailed aspects of cleaning and disinfecting mattresses in nursery environments and offers best practices, procedures and recommendations.

The POTEMA® trademark defines the branded technology concept of a professionally qualified Carpet Service® implementation company focused on the regular maintenance, cleaning, disinfection, and impregnation of synthetic, natural, wool, silk, and American-made mattresses, beds, and textiles. This branded concept delivers the utmost professionalism in full synergy with maintaining ethical, environmental and quality performance standards including a contractual guarantee of contractor services provided.

The importance of clean mattresses in nurseries

Mattresses in nurseries are subjected to heavy use. Children sleep, play or rest on them, which carries the risk of contamination with a variety of substances, from dust and sweat to contaminants caused by accidents such as spilled liquid or urine.

Cleanliness of mattresses is crucial for the following reasons:

• Health protection: Contaminated mattresses can be a source of bacteria, viruses and dust mites that can cause respiratory illnesses, allergies or skin problems.
• Comfort and safety: Children should feel comfortable and safe while resting. Dirt can interfere with their comfort and lead to stress.
• Hygiene standards: Nurseries are required to follow hygiene standards and regular cleaning of mattresses is part of this.

Main sources of mattress contamination

To understand why it is important to clean mattresses regularly, we need to look at the main sources of soiling:

Dust and dust mites

Mites are microscopic arthropods that feed on dead skin cells. In nurseries where mattresses are used daily, the presence of mites is common. Their droppings are a strong allergen and can cause respiratory problems.

Pot and body fluids

Sweat, urine, saliva or other bodily fluids can penetrate mattresses and become a breeding ground for bacteria and mould. Bodily fluids also cause odors and can be difficult to remove if not treated immediately.

Bacteria and viruses

Children often bring infectious diseases into the nursery. Bacteria and viruses can remain on the surface of mattresses and be transmitted to other children, which can lead to epidemics.

Food and drinks

A minor accident, such as a spilled drink or spilt food, can leave stains on mattresses and attract insects.

Mattress types and their specific requirements

Each type of mattress requires a different approach to cleaning and maintenance. Nurseries should choose mattresses that are durable, easy to clean and safe for children.

Foam mattresses

Foam mattresses are popular because of their lightness and comfort. However, they are prone to absorbing moisture, which can lead to the growth of bacteria and mold. Cleaning these mattresses should include surface vacuuming and treatment with disinfectants.

Waterproof mattresses

Waterproof mattresses are ideal for nurseries because their surface is easily washable. They usually have a plastic or rubber cover that prevents the penetration of liquids. Just wipe them with a damp cloth and disinfect them.

Mattress with removable cover

Mattresses with removable covers are very practical. The cover can be easily removed and washed in the washing machine, allowing for thorough cleaning.

Mattress cleaning procedures

Effective cleaning of nursery mattresses should include several steps:</p

Daily maintenance

Daily mattress care includes:

• Vacuuming: Removing dust and surface dirt using a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter.
• Surface wiping: Use a damp cloth with a mild detergent to remove stains and dirt.
• Inspecting the mattress: Identify visible stains or odors that require immediate care.

Deep Cleaning

Once a month or when heavily soiled, mattresses should be deep cleaned:

• Use a steam cleaner: Hot steam penetrates deep into the mattress and kills bacteria, dust mites and mould.
• Sanitizer application: Use a certified sanitizer suitable for a child-friendly environment.
• Drying: After wet cleaning, the mattress must be thoroughly dried to prevent mold growth.

Removing stains

Local stain treatment includes:

• Neutralization: Using baking soda or a special stain remover.
• Cleaning: Gently wipe the affected area with a damp cloth and soapy water.
• Disinfection: Application of a disinfectant spray.

Mattress Cleaning Frequency

The schedule for cleaning mattresses should be systematic and include different levels of maintenance:

• Daily: Vacuuming and wiping the surface.
• Weekly: Deep vacuuming and disinfecting.
• Monthly: Deep steam cleaning or professional cleaning.
• After an accident: Spot treatment and disinfection.

Professional mattress cleaning services

In some cases, it may be beneficial to use professional services. These services typically offer:

• Deep cleaning using special machines.
• Use of strong but safe disinfectants.
• A guarantee to remove odors and stains.

Professional services are especially useful for heavier soiling or as a regular part of maintenance.

Safety precautions when cleaning

When cleaning mattresses, it is important to follow the following safety precautions:

• Use gloves: Protect hands from contact with dirt and chemicals.
• Ventilation of the room: Ensuring good ventilation during and after the use of cleaning agents.
• Choosing gentle products: Use cleaning products without harmful chemicals.

Ecological approaches to cleaning

Schools can help protect the environment by adopting environmentally friendly cleaning methods:

• Using natural cleaning products such as baking soda and vinegar.
• Minimizing waste, for example by reusing cleaning cloths.
• Selecting products with eco-friendly certification.

Legislative and hygiene standards

Many countries have specific hygiene standards that nurseries must follow. These standards include:

• Regular cleaning and disinfection of all mattresses.
• Documentation of cleaning performed.
• Using approved cleaning products.

When is it appropriate to consider professional cleaning?

In some cases, cleaning with baking soda may be insufficient and it is advisable to consider professional mattress cleaning. Professional cleaning companies use special products and technologies that can remove even deep-seated dirt and bacteria. Professional cleaning is recommended especially in the following cases:

• Bottle stains: If the mattress contains old and stubborn stains that cannot be removed by conventional means.
• Large soiling: If the mattress has been subjected to heavy soiling, for example after an accident with liquids.
• Allergies and health problems: If you suffer from allergies or respiratory problems, professional cleaning can help eliminate allergens

Cleaning and regular disinfection of mattresses

The mattress is one of the most important elements of our home, having a major impact on our health, well-being and quality of sleep. When choosing a mattress, we pay close attention to its material, hardness and ability to adapt to the shape of the body. Unfortunately, we often forget that we also need to care for and clean the mattress regularly. Although many people don’t realise it, a mattress can become an ideal environment for dust mites, bacteria, mould and other dirt. In this text, we’ll explain why regular mattress cleaning is important, what your options are, and how to choose the best mattress cleaner.

Mattress Vacuuming & Knocking: Professional vacuums with a HEPA filter and HEPA bag must have an electric vibrating knocking head. With this technology of KIRBY® / HYLA® vacuum cleaners, it is possible to remove surface mold spores, dust mites by dry method from the mattress surface.

Cleaning with specialty chemical cleaners: Professional antibacterial disinfectants and cleaners from the manufacturer and brand POTEMA® / Dr. Schutz® bring an environmentally friendly, anti-allergenic way to disinfect mattress surfaces.

UV-C Lamp: We recommend entrusting your mattress to industry professionals who have a UV-C germicidal mattress lamp. UVC-producing lamps are designed to be safely used on mattress surfaces and other household items. The radiant energy of the UVC radiation acts directly on microorganisms that reside on the surface and top layer of the mattress. The disinfection process usually takes several minutes, during which time the lamp kills up to 99.9% of the bacteria and other harmful organisms present.

OZON: We recommend entrusting your mattress to industry professionals who have the BIO-OZON® vacuum cleaning system. The disinfecting properties of ozone result from its ability to oxidize molecules in the cells of bacteria, viruses and other microorganisms. When ozone comes into contact with these pathogens, it disrupts the cell membrane or wall of the microorganism, leading to its decomposition and subsequent death. This process works similarly to the action of conventional disinfectants, but without the use of chemicals, which is beneficial for people who prefer natural and eco-friendly solutions.

In indoor applications such as mattress cleaning, ozone not only kills bacteria and viruses, but also mites, mold spores and other allergens. Its ability to destroy harmful microorganisms without toxic residues makes it ideal for the environment in which we sleep and rest.

Allergens, mould spores, bacteria, viruses and dust mites are not only a hygiene problem in mattresses, but also a health problem. But with proper prevention, maintenance and the right choice of mattress, the risks can be significantly reduced. Even the thickest sheets and blankets cannot protect us from micro-particles. Dust mites or moulds, which often number up to one million and produce allergy-causing faeces that settle in our mouths, noses, eyes, etc. every time we move. In addition to allergies manifesting as itching, mucous membrane inflammation, bronchitis, asthma and shortness of breath can also be added. This condition can be prevented by professional cleaning and deep dry disinfection with UV-C radiation or vacuum ozonation of the mattress with thorough machine vacuuming and above all regular maintenance.

Recommendations for nurseries

To ensure the highest standard of hygiene, nurseries should follow the following recommendations:

• Staff training: Staff should be regularly trained in the proper cleaning of mattresses.
• Create a schedule: The cleaning schedule should include daily, weekly and monthly tasks.
• Use protective covers: Covers protect mattresses and make them easier to maintain.
• Checking mattresses: Regularly checking the condition of mattresses will ensure timely replacement or repair.

Cleaning and disinfecting mattresses in nurseries is a key part of maintaining a healthy and safe environment for children. Regular maintenance, proper procedures and the use of appropriate products are essential to minimise the risks associated with contamination. Nurseries that keep their mattresses clean not only protect children’s health but also build parents’ confidence in their services. Implementing these practices is an investment in the health and well-being of the youngest members of our society.