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Memory foam is one of the most popular mattress fillings around, but many people worry that they are difficult to clean and maintain. Whether you're looking to purchase a memory foam mattress or want to learn how to look after the one you have, this guide goes into detail on how to properly care for a memory foam mattress so that it lasts for as long as possible.
The lifespan of your memory foam mattress is dependent on the quality of the foam, the better quality, the longer your mattress will last. On average it’s recommended to renew your mattress every 8 years, this is especially applicable to memory foam mattresses which can lose their elasticity, leading to back problems.
However, this is often a judgement call, if you’re sleeping comfortably on your mattress without any aches or pains, it might have a few more months left in it. Alternatively, if you notice sagging or discomfort it might be time to renew.
Read more in our memory foam mattress guide.
The main concern around memory foam is that it cannot get wet, which means that it cannot be soaked, either by spills or in an attempt to clean. Due to the structure of the foam, this will lead to mould and break down the material, so it's important to avoid spillages near or around the mattress.
However, cleaning any mattress shouldn’t be a concern as long as you keep on top of washing your sheets. With bed linen, try to machine wash roughly once a week. This way you don’t have to worry about any dirt or grease making its way to your mattress.
However, accidents happen so here’s what to do:
Top tip: If it’s a stubborn stain, mix half water with half white vinegar and spritz onto the mattress. If the vinegar leaves a lingering smell, cover the area with a thin coat of baking powder to soak up the smell. Once dry gently hoover away the powder.
Generally, memory foam cannot be washed as getting it wet ruins the structure and this extends to memory foam pillows as well. Do not put your memory foam pillows in the washing machine or dryer, but you can gently hand-wash if there are spots that need a deeper clean. Try not to use harsh chemicals, instead opt for a gentle detergent or vinegar and baking soda to help de-odorise.
When it comes to something as comfortable as a luxury memory foam mattress, mattress toppers are not needed. However, if you want to add even more comfort to your bed, then there’s no harm in adding a memory foam mattress topper.
If you’re worried about spillages, or if it’s a memory foam mattress for children, then a waterproof mattress protector may be best for you. Mattress protectors and toppers are also machine washable, so there’s no need to worry should the worst happen.
As mentioned, memory foam cannot be soaked through to wash. However, for spot cleaning, we recommend following the same advice as given above for memory foam mattresses and pillows. However, please check the care instructions that come with your mattress topper as this will give the most accurate advice.
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To ensure you’re getting maximum comfort and protection out of your memory foam mattress topper, it should be replaced every 1-2 years. Although this is significantly less than the lifespan of a mattress, mattress toppers are a fraction of the price and will save you money in the long term.
This guide looks at everything you need to consider, including when to replace your mattress, how to take care of your mattress, plus general maintenance tips ensuring you get a great night’s sleep.
We run through why you should clean your mattress, how often and a step by step guide to clean your mattress.
At Dreams, we can collect your old mattress directly from your home when we deliver your new one. Your mattress then goes on to be recycled at our own specialised bed and mattress recycling centre. For details on this additional service, please click here