You can get a MOLDY mattress this winter if you skip a 10-second task
MOLD can grow quickly on mattresses if a simple job is overlooked during the winter months.
An expert revealed that their biggest tip for preventing the unsightly and dangerous growth takes less than a minute.
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Manchester-based company Winstons has built a reputation for its luxury beds and mattresses.
An expert from the brand warned that the build-up of condensation around the home, combined with reduced ventilation and sweat, could create a breeding ground for mold.
“Mold only grows in environments with humidity, heat and dust,” they said The Express.
“We recommend turning your mattress about once a month to promote good airflow, which can help prevent mold.”
Condensation is caused by warm, moist air coming into contact with cool surfaces such as walls, ceilings and windows.
These surfaces tend to be colder in the winter, as homeowners also try to prevent heat from escaping from their homes.
The condensation problem is exacerbated by the increasing use of tumble dryers, central heating and excess water vapor from hot showers.
The expert added that opening a window to ventilate rooms can help prevent water droplets that promote mold growth.
Wet clothing should also be dried away from furniture such as beds to avoid creating an environment for growth to thrive.
Rotating the mattress monthly is a simple task that only takes a few seconds.
A mattress that is already visibly growing mold can be saved by taking action before the mold spreads.
Experts recommend removing dirt and mold by vacuuming both sides of the mattress.
It is important to empty the vacuum after the step to prevent the mold from spreading to other parts of the house.
Then, use a clean cloth dipped in equal parts water and rubbing alcohol to lightly clean the area of the mattress in a circular motion.
The household items that you don’t clean often enough
If you want to make sure your home is spotless, you need to listen carefully. Below are the household items you forget to clean, and how to get them sparkling…
Remote controls: Wipe with a disinfectant cloth. Use a cotton swab for crevices.
Light switches: Wipe with a disinfectant wipe. For stubborn stains, use a mild soap solution.
Door handles: Clean with an antibacterial spray. Wipe regularly.
Under and behind devices: Vacuum or sweep regularly. Mop with a suitable cleaning agent.
Shower Curtains and Liners: Wash in the washing machine. Use a bleach for stubborn mildew.
Kitchen sponges and dishcloths: Microwave damp sponges for one minute. Wash dishcloths in the washing machine.
Computer keyboards and mice: Use compressed air to remove dirt. Wipe with a disinfectant wipe.
You may need to scrub the mold if it is stubborn, but don’t use too much of the solution at once.
After allowing the mattress to dry and air out, applying a disinfectant to the upholstery can prevent the mold from growing back.
Direct sunlight is the best way to dry the mattress quickly before vacuuming again to ensure no dirt is left behind.
Untreated mold spores can cause serious health problems, such as difficulty breathing and worsen respiratory problems.
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