You could get a MOULDY mattress this winter if you skip 10-second job – do it every month
MOULD can rapidly grow on mattresses if a simple chore is overlooked during the winter months.
An expert revealed that their biggest tip for preventing the unsightly and dangerous growth from occurring takes less than a minute.
Manchester-based company Winstons has built a reputation for its luxury beds and mattresses.
An expert for the brand warned that the build-up of condensation around the home combined with reduced ventilation and sweat could create a breeding ground for mould.
“Mould only grows in environments with humidity, warmth, and dust,” they told The Express.
“We recommend rotating your mattress about once a month to promote good airflow, which can help prevent mould.”
Condensation is caused by warm, moist air coming into contact with cool surfaces such as walls, ceilings, and windows.
These surfaces tend to be colder in winter, while homeowners are also trying to keep heat from escaping their houses.
The condensation problem is worsened by the increased use of tumble dryers, central heating, and excess water vapour from hot showers.
The expert added that opening a window to ventilate rooms can help prevent water droplets that promote mould growth.
Wet clothes should also be dried away from furniture such as beds to avoid creating an environment for growth to thrive.
Rotating the mattress each month is a simple task that takes just a few seconds.
A mattress that already has mould visibly growing can be salvaged by taking action before it spreads.
Experts recommend removing dirt and mould by vacuuming both sides of the mattress.
It’s important to empty the vacuum after the step to prevent the mould from spreading to other areas of the home.
A clean cloth soaked in equal parts water and rubbing alcohol should then be used to lightly clean the area of the mattress in a circular motion.
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Remote Controls: Wipe with a disinfectant cloth. Use a cotton bud for crevices.
Light Switches: Wipe with a disinfectant wipe. Use a mild soap solution for tough stains.
Door Handles: Clean with an antibacterial spray. Wipe down regularly.
Underneath and Behind Appliances: Vacuum or sweep regularly. Mop with a suitable cleaner.
Shower Curtains and Liners: Wash in the washing machine. Use a bleach solution for stubborn mildew.
Kitchen Sponges and Dishcloths: Microwave damp sponges for one minute. Wash dishcloths in the washing machine.
Computer Keyboards and Mice: Use compressed air to remove debris. Wipe with a disinfectant wipe.
It may be necessary to scrub the mould if it’s stubborn but avoid applying too much of the solution at one time.
Once the mattress has been left to dry and air out, applying an upholstery disinfectant can keep the mould from growing back.
Direct sunlight is the best way to get the mattress to dry quickly before vacuuming again to be sure there is no debris remaining.
Untreated mould spores can cause serious health issues such as difficulty breathing and exacerbate respiratory problems.