How to Remove Mould From A Mattress

Key Takeaways

  • High humidity, poor ventilation or even a water leak from an appliance can cause mould
  • Dirt or dust can attract moisture and lead to mould growth
  • If you do find yourself with a mouldy mattress, try using natural solutions like white vinegar, tea tree oil or lemon juice
  • Airing your mattress will help prevent further mould growth
  • If the mould has spread too far, consider calling professionals 

Mould on your mattress can be a very unpleasant and potentially dangerous problem. Not only can it cause health issues, but it can also attract pests and other harmful organisms. Fortunately, removing mould from your mattress is not as difficult as you think. 

You can easily eliminate mould and keep your mattress looking and smelling fresh with the right instructions and products. This guide will provide step-by-step instructions on how to effectively remove mould from your mattress

We'll also tell you what products and materials you need to do the job right. With these tips, you'll be able to get rid of mould quickly and easily and keep your mattress in top condition for years to come. 

how to remove mould from a mattress

What Cause Mould In Your Mattress

Mould can only continue to thrive in cool, damp places where it won't be disturbed. The mattress cover helps by blocking light and wicking away perspiration while you sleep. 

Dark Environment

Mould thrives in a dark, damp environment, and your mattress can provide just that. The moist air from your body heat and sweat, combined with the lack of light, creates a prime breeding ground for mould spores.

An American Academy of Allergy Asthma & Immunology study found that dark environments are more likely to be affected by mould growth than lighter environments. 

Moisture

When there’s too much moisture in the air or on your mattress, it creates a breeding ground for mould spores. These spores then settle on the mattress surface and can start to grow over time if they aren’t removed.

The most common sources of excess moisture are high humidity levels, condensation from other parts of the house, damp bedding or clothing left on the bed, and liquid spills that aren’t cleaned up quickly enough. 

How To Know If There is Mould On My Mattress?

Mould is a common problem, especially in humid climates. It can cause health issues and costly damage to your mattress. But how do you know if mould has made its way onto your mattress? Here are some telltale signs that you may have a mould problem:

Discolouration 

Look at the surface of your mattress for any discolouration or spots which can indicate mould growth. Colour changes are typically yellow or green, but black spots could also indicate growth.

Unpleasant Odour 

If you notice a musty smell coming from your mattress, it may be due to mould growth. Mould releases spores which can cause an unpleasant smell that lingers in the air around your bed.

Stains

Stains on the surface of the mattress are another sign that mould may be present. These stains may look like darkened patches on the fabric. This occurs when moisture has been trapped in the material and caused mould spores to grow and thrive instead of evaporating away as normal water would normally. 

Allergy Symptoms

If you start experiencing allergies after sleeping on your mattress, this could be due to a buildup of dust mites or mould. 

How To Remove Moulds From A Mattress

1. Remove Bed Sheets 

Firstly, take off all of the bed sheets and pillowcases. Put them in the washing machine with detergent and hot water.

2. Vacuum Your Mattress 

Use a vacuum cleaner with an upholstery attachment to suck up any loose dirt or dust that could be harbouring mould spores. Make sure you pay special attention to seams, crevices, and tufts where mould might hide.

3. Soap The Mouldy Area 

Once you’ve vacuumed the entire mattress, use a sponge, or soft cloth dipped in soapy water (dishwashing liquid will do) to gently but firmly clean the affected area of your mattress. Be careful not to press too hard when scrubbing, as this could damage your mattress further.

4. Rinse the Area 

Soaked in hot water and wrung out Take care not to introduce too much moisture to the mattress by soaking the cloth since this will promote additional mould growth. 

5. Dry The Area

Put it outside in the sun. It will prevent further mould growth while the mattress is drying out. sunlight kills mould. 

6. Use Baking Soda To Absorb All Liquid

Once you’ve finished cleaning off all of the moulds, sprinkle baking soda liberally over the area to help absorb any remaining liquid or moisture from the affected area of your mattress

How To Prevent Mould Under Mattress

1. Keep the Area Dry

Mould needs moisture to grow, so a dehumidifier or air conditioner must keep the area under the mattress dry.

2. Regularly Check for Wet Spots

It’s also a good idea to regularly check for wet spots on the mattress, as this can be an indicator of a leaky pipe or other issues that could lead to mould growth.

3. Use a Mattress Cover

A waterproof mattress cover helps prevent moisture from getting into the mattress. Moisture i a breeding ground for mould and mildew spores.

4. Clean Up Quickly After Spills

If you experience any spills on your mattress, clean them up quickly and thoroughly with an antimicrobial cleaner like bleach or vinegar solution. This will help reduce any chances of mould growth.

5. Elevate your bed

If possible, elevate your bed off the floor to increase air circulation beneath it and help reduce moisture buildup (and thus reduce the chance of mould growth). 

FAQs

1. What Kills Mould On Mattress?

White vinegar, tea tree oil, lemon juice or isopropyl alcohol

2. Can I Sleep On A Mouldy Mattress

If a mattress smells musty or moulds, it's not safe to sleep on. It's crucial to get rid of the mould or get a new mattress as soon as you identify a problem because of the potential for short-term and long-term health effects. 

3. Can Mold On Mattress Make You Sick

Yes, it can.

4. Can I Leave Vinegar On Mold Overnight?

No. Spray vinegar onto the mould area and leave it for one hour. Afterwards, use a wet cloth to remove debris and dry the area completely. If there is a scent, it should dissipate after a few hours.

5. How Fast Does Mold Grow In Mattress

The Federal Emergency Management Agency reports that mould can begin developing on surfaces after 24 to 48 hours (3) and can spread rather quickly, especially in areas with high humidity. 

Conclusion

Mould can be found in many different types of places, often in hidden spots that you wouldn't think would bother you. Whether on the kitchen counter, on the TV remote, or inside your mattress, it can make you and your family very sick if it grows in your home.

If you find yourself with a mouldy mattress, you can remove the mould from your mattress by using different remedies and cleaning products. The most important thing to remember is to be prepared. Make sure you have the right equipment, supplies, and know-how to remove the mould from your mattress. 

If you use these tools and take care of your mattress, you should be able to keep it free of these types of problems.


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