Spring mattress cleaning

A clean and hygienic spring mattress is the key to a healthy and quality sleep. The mattress is where we spend up to a third of our lives, so it is essential to pay attention to its cleaning and maintenance. Regular care not only prolongs the life of the mattress, but also prevents the accumulation of dust, bacteria, dust mites and allergens that can negatively affect our health. In this guide, we’ll look at detailed mattress cleaning instructions, recommended methods, necessary tools, as well as tips on how to keep your mattress clean and fresh for longer.

The trade mark POTEMA® defines the branded technology concept of a professionally qualified Carpet Service® implementation company dedicated to the regular maintenance, cleaning, disinfecting, impregnating 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.

A spring mattress is a type of spring mattress that differs from traditional spring mattresses in its construction. Each spring in a spring mattress is contained in its own textile “pouch” or pocket. This ensures that the springs move independently of each other, allowing for better pressure distribution and increased body support. Thanks to this construction, each part of the mattress is able to respond individually to pressure and weight, resulting in greater comfort and better orthopaedic properties.

Each spring in a spring mattress moves independently, which means that if two people are lying on the mattress, one will not feel the movements of the other. This is a difference to traditional spring mattresses where the springs are connected and the movement of one person can disturb the other. Thanks to the individual springs, the spring mattress adapts to the exact contours of the body, which promotes correct spinal alignment and reduces pressure on joints and muscles. This effect is often referred to as “point elasticity” and is one of the main benefits of spring mattresses.

Why it is important to clean spring mattresses

Many people don’t realize how easily a mattress can accumulate dust, sweat, grease and dead skin cells, creating an environment for microbes and dust mites. These microscopic organisms can cause allergies, asthma or skin irritation. Cleaning your mattress not only improves hygiene, but also helps prevent unpleasant odors and promotes sleep quality. So having a clean mattress is not just about more comfort, but also better health.

Health risks associated with a dirty spring mattress

A dirty mattress can contribute to a number of health problems. Among the most common are:

• Allergies and asthma: Dust mites, mold and dust can cause or worsen allergic reactions and asthma symptoms.
• Skin problems: Bacteria, sweat and oils from the skin can contribute to rashes and other skin problems.
• Sleep disturbances: Unpleasant odors or the knowledge that you are sleeping on an unclean mattress can affect sleep quality.

That’s why it’s important to not only clean your mattress regularly, but also focus on preventing harmful organisms and mold.

How often to clean a spring mattress

The frequency of spring mattress cleaning depends on various factors such as the type of mattress, how it is used, the environment in the room, and specific needs (such as allergies). In general, a few basic rules apply:

• Light cleaning (such as vacuuming) should be done at least once a month.
• Deeper cleaning should take place at least once every six months.
• Cleaning after soiling (for example, after spilling liquids or if the mattress becomes a source of unpleasant odor) should be done immediately.

Regular cleaning is especially important for people with allergies or asthma, as it can help reduce the amount of allergens in the mattress.

Methods for disinfecting spring mattresses

There are several methods of disinfecting mattresses that vary in effectiveness, time and cost. Hotels can choose according to their needs and budget.

Mechanical cleaning

Mechanical cleaning involves removing dirt, dust and allergens from the surface of the mattress. This is usually done using industrial vacuum cleaners with HEPA filters to ensure that even the smallest particles are captured. Mechanical cleaning is the first step, which should be complemented by other disinfection methods.

Chemical disinfection

Using chemical agents is one of the most common methods. Special disinfectant solutions are applied to the surface of the mattress to destroy bacteria, viruses and mould. It is important to use products that are safe for human skin and do not irritate the respiratory tract. After chemical disinfection, the mattress must be dried thoroughly.

Steam cleaning

Steam cleaning uses high-temperature steam to disinfect mattresses. This method is environmentally friendly as it does not require chemicals and is very effective in killing bacteria and mites. In addition, the hot steam penetrates deep into the mattress fibers, ensuring thorough disinfection.

UV-C cleaning

UV-C technology is increasingly being used to disinfect mattresses in hotels. Ultraviolet radiation of this wavelength destroys the DNA of microorganisms, thus completely inactivating them. This method is fast, effective and does not require the use of chemicals. Modern machines allow the application of UV-C radiation directly to the surface of the mattress.

Ozonisation

Ozonation is another innovative method that uses ozone to destroy microorganisms. Ozone has strong oxidizing properties that effectively eliminate bacteria, viruses and odors. This method is particularly suitable for hotels as it can also remove lingering unpleasant odours caused by smoking or animals.

When should professional cleaning be considered?

In some cases, cleaning with baking soda may not be sufficient 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.

The mattress is one of the most important products that has a major impact on our health, well-being and quality of sleep. When choosing a mattress, we pay close attention to its material, firmness 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. Our goal with professional cleaning is to primarily use deep disinfectant dry cleaning. Below is an overview of the partial steps that professional and thorough mattress cleaning and disinfection involves.

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

Cleaning with special chemical cleaners: Professional antibacterial disinfectants and cleaners from the manufacturer and brand POTEMA® / Dr. Schutz® bring an environmentally friendly, anti-allergenic way of disinfecting 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 the allergy manifesting as itching, mucous membrane inflammation, bronchitis, asthma and shortness of breath can be added. This condition can be prevented by professional cleaning and deep dry disinfection thanks to UV-C radiation or vacuum ozonation of the mattress with thorough machine vacuuming and above all regular maintenance.

When it’s time for a new mattress

Despite regular care and cleaning, every mattress has a lifespan. If a mattress is more than 8-10 years old or shows signs of damage, odor, mold or allergic reactions, it may be time to replace it.

Cleaning your mattress is an important process that should not be overlooked. Careful maintenance, the right products and prevention can extend the life of your mattress and ensure a healthier and more restful sleep. Whether you choose natural or commercial remedies, the key is regularity and consistency.