Can you steam clean a mattress? Many people ask this when trying to eliminate stains, odours, or dust mites.
Steam cleaning sounds like a quick fix, but it isn’t always as simple as it seems.
Before you grab a steamer, it helps to understand its benefits and drawbacks so you can make the best choice for your sleep and comfort.
Can You Steam Clean a Mattress?
Yes, you can steam clean a mattress; for some people, it can be an effective way to give it a deep clean.
Steam cleaners work by using hot vapour to sanitise and refresh surfaces without the need for chemicals. The high heat they produce is what makes them so powerful.
What Can It Remove?
Steam can help with some common issues, including:
- Surface odours from sweat or light spills
- Dust mites and bacteria that live in the upper layers of the mattress
- Minor stains that aren’t too deeply set
What Steam Cleaning Won’t Fix
Unfortunately, steam cleaning has its limits. It may not be the right answer if you’re dealing with:
- Deep stains like wine, coffee, oil or pet accidents that have soaked through
- Lingering odours that come from inside the mattress layers
- Allergens
What are the Pros and Cons?
Before you decide if steam cleaning is the right choice for your mattress, it helps to weigh the pros and cons of using a steam cleaner.
Pros of Steam Cleaning:
- Deep Sanitisation: The biggest benefit is the high heat. It kills germs, bacteria, and dust mites, giving you a sanitised surface.
- Chemical-Free Cleaning: No harsh chemicals are needed. This is great for people with sensitive skin or who want to use a natural cleaning method.
- Stain Help: The steam can make it easier to remove stains that haven't set for too long.
Cons of Steam Cleaning:
- Risk of Mould and Mildew: If your mattress gets too wet and doesn't dry completely, you could have a mould and mildew problem inside. This is bad for your health and can ruin your mattress.
- Long Drying Time: Mattresses are thick and absorb a lot of moisture. It can take a very long time for a steam-cleaned mattress to dry, sometimes 24 hours or more. You must be patient and make sure it's fully dry before putting your sheets back on.
- Potential to Void Your Warranty: Be sure to check your mattress warranty. Many companies state that using a steam cleaner or getting the mattress too wet can void the warranty.
Are There Better Alternatives?
If you’re worried about steam cleaning, there are safer and easier ways to keep your mattress fresh:
- Vacuuming: Use an upholstery attachment to remove dust, dead skin, and allergens.
- Baking soda: Sprinkle it over the mattress, let it sit for a few hours, then vacuum it to absorb odours.
- Spot cleaning: Blot gently with mild soap and water instead of soaking for small stains.
-
Mattress protector: A quality protector prevents spills and odours from settling in the first place.
Time to Upgrade? Find Your Perfect Mattress at Beds4U
When your mattress no longer gives you the comfort or cleanliness you need, it may be time for an upgrade.
At Beds4U, you’ll find a wide range of NZ-made mattresses backed by our best price guarantee, so you can rest easy knowing you’re getting quality sleep at the best value.
Check out our collection today and find the perfect mattress for your best night’s sleep.
