Mattresses play a crucial role in having a good night’s sleep; their condition can determine the quality of rest one gets. The mattress should give the right amount of support and help one relax. However, this is impossible if it has accumulated dirt, grime, bacteria, and allergens. Many unhealthy habits one unwittingly follows make a mattress dirty, affecting health and sleep quality. So, one must learn about some common habits that make a mattress dirty.

1. Snacking or eating meals in bed
Many people find it relaxing to curl up in their bed with a snack or beverage as they stream their favorite show or read a favorite book. While snacking and lounging on the bed or even breakfast in bed may be reserved for special occasions, it should not become a regular habit. This is because crumbs and spills will drop on the sheets and may even get in between the sheets and on the mattresses. This will attract bugs and insects, which are not only health hazards but can also cause damage to the mattress.

2. Putting bags from outside on the bed
It is quite commonplace to place one’s bags on the bed once back home from outside. However, this unhealthy habit can definitely make a mattress dirty over the long run. These include bags one carries to supermarkets, workplaces, restaurants, or any other place and lays it on different surfaces. All these are massive breeding grounds for germs such as bacteria, viruses, and fungus, and it is quite likely that these will transfer from the bag to the bed. 

3. Lying on the bed right after stepping in from outside
Bags are not the only things on which germs from the outside cling to. One’s clothes can also be the culprit that brings home allergens and germs from the outside, particularly from public transport, restaurants, cafes, or hospitals. Moreover, bacteria, viruses, and fungi may cling to exposed areas of one’s skin. So, if one has a habit of directly lying down on their bed after stepping in from outside, it’s time to stop it. The germs will get to the mattress, making it dirty and unhygienic. Over the long run, this unhealthy habit can cause several health problems.

4. Skipping the regular cleaning of the mattress
Mattresses easily accumulate dust, debris, grime, and germs over time. In general, sweat, dead skin cells, and other bodily fluids also quickly build up on mattresses. This can cause unhygienic conditions, leading to respiratory issues and skin allergies. Therefore, it is important to ensure that the mattress is regularly cleaned. Usually, cleaning mattresses once every six months is recommended. One should take the help of professionals to ensure thorough cleaning is done.

5. Forgetting to vacuum the mattress
Along with deep cleaning of the mattress by professionals, one should also use a vacuum to keep it clean. It is recommended to vacuum a mattress at least once a month. This will help remove dust, debris, food crumbs, and allergens from its surface. Also, regularly vacuuming is important since skipping this step will cause the particles to go deeper into the mattress, making it even more difficult to clean later. Therefore, it is essential to maintain this habit.

6. Not washing the bedding regularly
It is not just that the mattress should be thoroughly kept clean. The bedding must also be taken care of. Sheets, pillowcases, and blankets are the barriers between any object and the mattress. So, if these are not washed regularly, the accumulated dead skin cells, sweat, and other bodily fluids will transfer onto the mattress. Thus, despite thoroughly cleaning the mattress, unclean bedding can cause unhygienic conditions. It is recommended to change the bedding at least once every week.

7. Not flipping or rotating the mattress
Irregular rotation or flipping a mattress can lead to uneven wear and tear. Over time, the mattress will start to sag and develop lumps in different spots. This will make it difficult to clean the mattress and maintain its quality. For instance, if one vacuums such as a mattress, it won’t be clean evenly since the brush of the vacuum cleaner will not be able to move over the lumpy areas.

8. Not using mattress protectors
Not using mattress protectors is another unhealthy habit that can quickly make a mattress dirty. Mattress protectors prevent dust mites, allergens, and spills from getting into the mattress. This helps in avoiding damage and dirt accumulation. One simply needs to change their protector every one or two years. However, if there has been a massive spill or the protector has gotten dirty, it is recommended to change it immediately to prevent any damage to the mattress and protect it against unsanitary conditions.

9. Not paying attention to the manufacturer’s instructions
Most manufacturers provide instructions and guidelines for mattress care. Following these will ensure that the mattress stays in good shape for a long time. However, ignoring these instructions can lead to premature damage, making the mattress more prone to getting dirty quickly.

10. Bringing pets to the bed
Pets bring in dirt, fur, and outdoor contaminants. Allowing them on the bed without proper grooming and cleaning can significantly contribute to a dirty mattress.