clean your bed
Ensure your bed remains germ-free, fresh and looking good
We’re not just talking sheets!
1 SPOT CLEAN STAINS
Always deal with any stains on your bed, bedding or mattress as soon as they happen. Soak them with a dry absorbent cloth, then dab away with cold water and a sponge. Avoid using hot water as it could set the stain. If it isn’t shifting, try using a specialist stain remover.
2 TACKLE YOUR MATTRESS
Vacuuming or steam cleaning your mattress should remove and/or kill the majority of allergen-inducing dust mites, but always check your mattress label first (or contact the manufacturer), as cleaning could damage the filling.
3 SPRUCE UP YOUR BED FRAME
Wooden and metal bed frames and headboards are naturally easier to clean than fabric ones, but they do gather dust quickly and easily so remember to give them a regular wipe down with a damp cloth. Fabric beds are best tackled using natural products like vodka and bicarbonate of soda as both are less harsh than chemical cleaners. Vodka can be used neat on stains, while bicarb should be sprinkled on any fabric (bed frame, headboard and even mattress), left for a couple of hours and then vacuumed off to remove any smells.
4 WASH YOUR BEDDING
While everyone regularly washes their bedlinen, the bedding within (duvets, pillows and protectors) is often overlooked and needs regular washing, too. Check the label first – synthetic bedding should be fine in a machine, while feather and down fillings usually need professional cleaning. Provided your washing machine is large enough, choose a mild detergent and wash on a gentle cycle. All bedding should be completely dry and aired before it is used again.
5 LAYER UP FOR LIFE
Mattress and pillow protectors add another layer of protection against stains. Choose quilted designs for extra comfort, or waterproof layers for practicality. Look out for machine-washable options, too, so they can be easily cleaned with your linen.
Every morning, leave the covers pulled down for a good half hour, then give your duvet a shake and plump your pillows