If you have started to notice some unusual things with your mattress, you may have a mould issue on the mattress. There are a few telltale signs that we will share to help you determine if it is mould, as well as the potential causes of the mould. We will also share some tips on cleaning your mattress so you can enjoy mould-free healthy sleep.
Before we start, it is important to note that the natural latex in our mattresses is highly regarded for its antimicrobial properties. It has naturally strong resistance to the build-up of mould, dust mites and other microbes that can disturb sleep. However, this does not guarantee complete protection, as neglecting proper mattress care can lead to potential mould growth. Mould reproduces through microscopic spores that travel through the air. When these spores land on a moist surface, they can grow and spread, leading to visible mould patches.
What are the signs of mould?
The first thing you need to do is identify if the mattress has a mould issue. To do this you need to know what to be looking out for. While most signs are fairly obvious to recognise, there are some subtle indicators to be aware of:
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Visible Spots/Stains: Unusual or mysterious stains can appear on a mattress and are often challenging to identify. Look out for strange spots or stains in shades of black, green, or white, which may indicate potential issues. These stains often start small but can grow significantly if left untreated. Early detection and attention to these spots are essential for preserving the quality and hygiene of your mattress.
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Musty Odor: If you notice a particularly musty (or earthy) smell every time you are near your mattress, this is a strong indicator of mould. This is often the first thing you will notice as mould has a very distinctive smell.
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Allergy Symptoms: If you have started to notice any allergies triggering regularly, like sneezing and coughing, this is a sign of the potential presence of mould. All of these symptoms can play an aggravating role in preventing peaceful sleep.
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Dampness: If your mattress and sleeping environment are damp and humid it can become a breeding ground for mould spores. If you are sleeping in a room with poor ventilation it can increase the likelihood of a damp mattress, leading to the growth of mould.
What is causing it?
Here are some of the main causes of mould in mattresses:
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High Humidity/Damp Environment: Mould thrives in humid and damp environments as it encourages its growth. If your bedroom is consistently hot and damp, this can seep into your mattress which will create the growth of mould.
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Poor Ventilation: If your mattress does not have adequate airflow it can cause moisture to build up underneath it, which can lead to mould. This is a common problem with mattresses that are placed directly on the floor or unsuitable bed bases. This is why it is essential to have the right bed frame for your mattress.
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Spills and Liquids: Any spills or accidents that happen on the mattress can create mould if it is not cleaned, dried and treated properly. It is best to clean these issues immediately when they happen to avoid this.
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Inadequate Drying: If you have cleaned the mattress (particularly for a spill) it is important to make sure that the mattress is completely dry. Any moisture that is left within the mattress can encourage the formation of mould.
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Old Mattresses: This is fairly standard as the mattress ages, but older mattresses are generally more susceptible to mould. They are naturally subjected to moisture over time as they are used (such as sweating) and the resistant properties of the material gradually decline. If your mattress is old it is worth looking into upgrading it.
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Poor Mattress Maintenance: Failing to clean and air out the mattress regularly can lead to the accumulation of moisture and dust, creating an ideal environment for mould.
Cleaning tips for mould on a mattress
We have an in-depth guide for cleaning mould from your mattress that you can view, so this will be a quick summary of the tips you can use:
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Use protective gear to prevent coming into contact and breathing in any mould spores
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Vacuum both sides of the mattress to eliminate spores. Don't forget to vacuum the bedframe base as well. Be sure to empty & clean your vacuum immediately afterwards, to prevent spreading the spores.
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Wash the areas affected by mould by using a mix of mild detergent and water (or isopropyl alcohol). Avoid using liquids like harsh detergents, solvents or bleach to prevent further damage to the mattress material.
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Make sure you dry the mattress as any remaining moisture could cause the mould to regrow. Use a fan or hairdryer on the cool setting to dry out, as well as naturally air it out.
If this does not work then we would advise that you look into getting a new mattress to avoid suffering any health issues with mould. The Peace Lily Latex Mattress is the perfect anti-microbial option that will last you many years, but you must make sure to maintain regular mattress care.
Ideally, it is best to prevent the growth of mould before it gets to the point of cleaning. Make sure to keep your mattress dry and protected from moisture, and ensure that the mattress is on a suitable bedframe to promote breathability. Along with regularly cleaning your mattress, here are some additional tips to promote the growth of mould:
- Ensure proper ventilation by keeping a window open in the room and leaving space around the mattress
- Keep the area under the bed clear to ensure adequate airflow
- Regularly rotate the mattress (as instructed)
- Use a breathable mattress protector
- Periodically allow the mattress to air out by removing the bed sheets for a period of time.
Feel free to reach out to our customer service team at info@peacelily.com.au if you have any additional concerns or questions.
