(NC)-When it comes to cleaning and caring for items in and around our home, it's easy to think of cars and household appliances, but we tend to forget about a critical piece of furniture that we spend more than 2,000 hours on each year - our beds.
You can lose up to 90 litres of sweat per year while sleeping, on top of shedding skin cells and leaving crumbs from late-night snacks on top of our beds. Our mattresses work hard for us each night, so it only makes sense for us to take care of the very thing we rely on for our own health and comfort.
So if you're looking for a supportive, comfortable and hygienic place to sleep year-round, The Better Sleep Council Canada offers the following mattress care tips:
• Is it getting the support it needs? Use a sturdy bed frame. If it's a queen or king size set, make sure your frame has the adequate center support that will prevent bowing or breakage
• Don't dry clean: the chemicals in dry cleaning agents and spot removers may be harmful to the fabric or underlying materials. Vacuuming is the only recommended cleaning method
• If you're determined to tackle that stain: use mild soap with cold water and apply lightly. Do not ever soak a mattress
• It's not a trampoline: no matter how much they beg you, don't let the kids jump on your sleep set. Their rough-housing could do damage to the interior construction, as well as to themselves!
• It's not a storage unit: It's important to clear off your bed surface of books, remotes, food, pets and other items that may transmit dirt or sleep-hindering allergens
• Check for wear and tear: check your mattress at least twice a year to see if it's still working for you - look for stains, sagging and other damage that might be compromising its ability to support you
Out with the old, in with the new: a mattress maintains its optimal comfort and support levels for eight to 10 years - look to replace it when its time
For more mattress care and better sleep tips, visit www.bettersleep.ca.
Credit: www.newscanada.com