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Last updated: June 2026
The average UK adult has had the same mattress for 6.4 years, and 22% have had theirs for nine years or more. The key to helping your mattress last longer is consistent care that starts as soon as it arrives. A few easy habits can help maintain comfort, support and performance, as well as keep your sleep space hygienic. In this guide, we’ll take you through everything from first-night setup to stain removal, so you can get the most from your mattress and your sleep.
Good care starts the moment your mattress arrives. The first few weeks set the tone for how it performs and how long it lasts. Here's what to do from day one.
You can sleep on your new mattress the same day it arrives. However, it will often need some time to air, depending on the type. Memory foam mattresses benefit most from a few hours of ventilation before first use to let any initial freshness disperse, while spring mattresses are ready almost immediately. Check your specific mattress's instructions to see how long it should air for.
Rolled mattresses need up to 48 hours to fully expand to their intended size. You can usually sleep on one sooner, but giving it the full time means better comfort and support from the start. Standard (non-rolled) mattresses are ready to use straight away, but make sure to check the product specifications first.
1 in 4 UK adults have never cleaned their mattress. Only 6% clean it weekly. Over time, dead skin cells, sweat and dust mites build up inside the fabric, affecting air quality and overall sleep hygiene. Regular cleaning keeps things fresh and extends the life of your mattress. The exact method depends slightly on the type: memory foam needs less water than a sprung mattress, but the basic steps are the same for most. Here's how to deep clean a mattress step by step:
If you have a memory foam mattress, use as little liquid as possible throughout. For more specific guidance, see our memory foam mattress care guide.
Yes, but with caution. Steam cleaning can kill bacteria and dust mites, but too much moisture can damage the internal materials, especially in memory foam mattresses. If you use a steam cleaner, keep it moving and always allow the mattress to dry completely before putting bedding back on.
It's not recommended. Carpet cleaners use too much water for most mattress types, and oversaturation can encourage mould growth inside the mattress. Stick to spot cleaning with a damp cloth and the baking soda method for a thorough, safe clean.
Aim to clean your mattress every three to six months. If you sweat heavily, have allergies, or share your bed with pets, cleaning more often helps maintain a fresh, hygienic sleep environment. How often you wash your bedding matters too, as clean sheets reduce the build-up on the mattress surface.
Stains are an inevitable part of life, and accidents happen. The key is to act quickly and use the right method. Whether you're dealing with fresh marks or dried-in patches, follow the steps below to help you remove stains from your mattress, including those that have already dried. Most importantly, always blot rather than rub, and avoid soaking the mattress with water.
For blood stains, use cold water only, as warm water can set the stain, and work quickly.
For dried blood, make a paste of baking soda and cold water, apply to the stain and leave for 30 minutes before dabbing away. Allow the area to air dry fully before replacing your bedding.
If the urine is still wet:
If the urine has already dried:
Sweat stains are usually yellow and can be stubborn if left. However, they usually respond well to simple household ingredients.
The method for removing odours from a mattress depends on what's causing the smell. Here are a few common culprits and how to deodorise them.
This depends on whether your mattress is single-sided or double-sided. Single-sided mattresses should be rotated 180 degrees (head-to-foot) once a week for the first three months, then once a month after that. Double-sided mattresses need both flipping and rotating on the same schedule. Always check your manufacturer's label first. For a full breakdown, see our guide on single-sided vs double-sided mattresses.
Always store a mattress flat indoors. Resting it on its side for extended periods can permanently damage the internal structure. Keep it away from garages, sheds or anywhere damp, as moisture damages the fillings regardless of mattress type. If you won't be using it immediately, it's worth rescheduling your delivery date to a better time.
A clean mattress is one of the easiest things you can do to improve your sleep. These habits don't take long, but they make a real difference to your sleep hygiene over time.
Follow the link below to view your manufacturer’s care guidance online.
Memory foam mattresses cleverly mould around your body's contours to give you a comfortable and supported night's sleep.
If you’ve ever wondered what goes inside a mattress, this article will reveal all.
At Dreams, we 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.