Your bed . . . It’s the place that you look forward to laying your head every night. The place you struggle getting out of in the morning. A place where there are endless tickle-fights and lumps of hiding children. Are you aware that it’s also a sanctuary and breeding ground for dust mites, sweat, and dead skin cells?
Dust mites are microscopic bugs that feed on dead skin cells and are known to cause allergies. Even with an allergen-protecting mattress cover, dust mites become trapped inside the mattress, as the cover prevents them from getting to the bed sheets. It is a good idea to clean your mattress at least once a year to keep dust mites contained.
Fortunately there is a simple, all-natural, and inexpensive way for you to give your mattress a deep and refreshing clean!
Ingredients (double for larger mattresses):
- 1 cup baking soda
- 4-5 drops essential oil of your choice
There are many essential oils to choose from. If you’re not familiar with them, here are a few suggestions:
- Lavender has antibacterial properties and is a natural calming aid that improves sleep.
- Sage can help lower your blood pressure
- Peppermint has been shown to decrease stress
- Orange oil can calm anxiety
You will want to research which oil works best for you. If you don’t enjoy the smell or the scent makes you more alert, you probably don’t want to use it on your mattress.
Place your ingredients in a mason jar or some other closeable container and shake to mix. Make sure that all of your bedding has been stripped from the mattress and washed in very hot water. Lightly coat your bare mattress by shaking the baking soda mixture all over the top – a sifter might be helpful for even distribution. Leave it for at least an hour to soak up moisture and odor.
After the hour has passed, use the upholstery attachment for your vacuum and thoroughly vacuum the mattress. You will want to be slow and meticulous to make sure the vacuum sucks up all the junk pulled out by the baking soda, and to fully remove the dust mites.
Now lie back, inhale the freshness, and enjoy your nice, clean mattress!