How to Care for Your Mattress: Expert Tips for Comfort, Hygiene & Longevity

A high-quality mattress is an investment in your sleep quality and overall health. With proper care, your mattress can remain comfortable, supportive, and hygienic for years. At Simply Mattresses, we believe that the best sleep starts not just with choosing the right mattress, but also with looking after it properly.

This guide covers everything from mattress rotation and cleaning to storage tips, helping you extend the life of your mattress while keeping it fresh and supportive.

Why Mattress Care Matter

Your mattress supports your body night after night, absorbing pressure, movement, and moisture. Without proper care, mattresses can develop dips, uneven wear, odours, and hygiene issues — all of which can impact your sleep quality.

Regular mattress care can:

• Extend the lifespan of your mattress
• Maintain consistent comfort and support
• Improve hygiene and reduce allergens
• Help prevent sagging and uneven wear

How to Care for Your Mattress Properly

Looking after your mattress doesn’t have to be complicated. Consistent care is the key to long-lasting comfort.

Rotate (and Flip) Regularly

Proper rotation helps prevent dips, lumps, and uneven wear, but whether you should flip your mattress depends on its type:

• Pocket sprung mattresses: Rotate and flip monthly to distribute weight evenly across the springs.
• Memory foam and latex mattresses: Rotate monthly, but do not flip, as these mattresses are designed with a single sleeping surface and flipping could damage their materials.

⚠️ Please note: Not all mattresses require flipping. Many modern memory foam, hybrid, and pocket sprung mattresses with a designated top layer are one-sided. Always check the manufacturer’s instructions before flipping to avoid voiding your warranty or harming the mattress.

By following the correct rotation method for your mattress type, you can maintain comfort, support, and longevity.

Use a Mattress Protector

A mattress protector is an essential investment to maintain hygiene and prevent damage. It helps guard against:

• Stains and spills
• Sweat and moisture
• Dust mites and allergens

Protectors are easy to remove and wash, keeping your mattress fresh and clean.

Support & Ventilation Matter

Ensure your mattress sits on a suitable bed base or frame with proper support. Adequate airflow around your bed helps prevent moisture build-up, especially for memory foam and pocket sprung mattresses.

Avoid standing or jumping on your mattress, which can damage internal materials.

How to Store a Mattress Safely

If you need to store a mattress, correct storage prevents permanent damage.

Best Practices for Mattress Storage

• Store flat whenever possible
• Choose a dry, clean, well-ventilated space
• Use a breathable mattress storage bag
• Avoid damp areas, direct heat, and extreme temperatures

If flat storage isn’t possible, a mattress can be stored on its side for a short period, but never bend, fold, or stack heavy items on it.

Proper airflow and support are crucial for pocket sprung, memory foam, and latex mattresses during storage.

How Long Should You Leave a Rolled Mattress?

If your mattress arrives rolled or vacuum packed, allow it time to expand fully before use:

• Most mattresses can be slept on the same day
• For best results, leave it flat for up to 24 hours

During this time:

• Keep the room well ventilated
• Avoid placing bedding directly on the mattress
• Allow materials to settle evenly for optimal comfort and support

How Often Should You Turn a Mattress?

As a rule of thumb:

• Pocket sprung mattresses: Rotate and flip monthly
• Memory foam mattresses: Rotate monthly, do not flip

Consistent turning prevents uneven wear and helps extend the lifespan of your mattress.

Will Rotating a Mattress Fix Sagging?

Rotating your mattress can help even out minor dips caused by uneven pressure, but it cannot repair deep sagging from years of use.

If your mattress shows severe sagging, it may be time for a replacement. Starting consistent rotation early is the best way to prevent this.

How to Clean Your Mattress Effectively

Keeping your mattress clean is essential for hygiene, allergen control, and better sleep.

The Best Ways to Clean a Mattress

• Vacuum regularly to remove dust and debris
• Spot clean spills immediately with a damp cloth and mild detergent
• Avoid soaking — minimal moisture only
• Allow the mattress to dry completely before use

Using a mattress protector also reduces cleaning needs and prevents stains.

What Happens If You Never Clean Your Mattress?

An unclean mattress can accumulate:

• Dust mites
• Bacteria
• Sweat and dead skin
• Unpleasant odours

This can trigger allergies, reduce air quality, and shorten your mattress’s lifespan. Regular cleaning supports better sleep hygiene and comfort.

Common Mattress Cleaning Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common mistakes:

• Using too much water, which can damage springs and foam
• Harsh chemicals or bleach, which degrade fabrics and foam
• Not drying the mattress fully, which increases mould and mildew risk

Gentle, consistent care is better than aggressive cleaning.

Will Water Ruin a Mattress?

Excessive water can damage pocket sprung, memory foam, and latex mattresses. Always use minimal moisture and ensure thorough drying to protect your investment.

Quality Sleep Starts with the Right Mattress

At Simply Mattresses, we offer a wide selection of high-quality mattresses for comfort, support, and durability. With proper care, your mattress can deliver restful nights for years. 

Take care of your mattress, and it will take care of you — night after night.