BERNAMA/DPA – Around eight million mattresses are discarded annually in Germany, with 95 per cent ending up incinerated and only five per cent being recycled, conservationists report. It’s not just the waste that’s concerning – constantly replacing mattresses can also strain your wallet, as a quality one doesn’t come cheap.
However, by properly maintaining your mattress, you can extend its lifespan, reduce the need for frequent replacements, and do your part to help the environment.
“At the end of the day, the best waste is waste not produced in the first place,” reminded Germany’s Association of Local Utilities.
SIX MATTRESS CARE TIPS THAT ARE EASY TO IMPLEMENT:
Turn regularly
Turn and flip your mattress at least every three months to keep it maximally comfortable for as long as possible.
Remove discolouration
Depending on the model, you can wash the mattress cover to get rid of unsightly discolouration and stains. Be sure to check the textile care label on the cover beforehand to find out at what temperature it can be washed – and whether the cover can go in the tumble dryer or needs to be air-dried.
Germany’s Industrial Association for Body Care and Detergents (IKW) recommended pulling the fabric apart once while it is damp before hanging it up so that it retains its original size.
Vacuuming
The cover can also be cleaned regularly with a vacuum cleaner when changing the fitted sheet.
Use a mattress topper
This five-to-10 centimetres thick layer of memory foam, latex, wool, or feather material is added on top of your bed, beneath the fitted sheet, to provide support and protect your mattress from stains and sagging.
Toppers are usually used with box spring beds. There are also waterproof or water-repellent variants that are suitable for babies and small children, or people living with incontinence. A mattress pad is similar to a topper but thinner – up to five centimetres thick – and provides light support, and won’t change the feel of the bed or alter the temperature.
Use an under pad or protector
These additional pads go between the slatted frame and the mattress to prevent it from slipping and getting scuff marks if it rubs against the frame during movement.
Ventilate properly
According to the IKW, a room climate with low humidity and temperatures between 17 degree Celsius (°C) and 19°C prevents mould.
To sleep well on your new mattress for as long as possible, try to test it in the shop and lie on it thoroughly before you buy. This will help you avoid returns.
