A mattress is one of the most important investments you’ll make for your health and well-being. But even the highest-quality, handcrafted beds need proper maintenance to stay in good condition. Knowing how to care for your mattress not only keeps it feeling fresh and supportive, it also helps extend its lifespan, saving you money and improving your sleep in the long run.

At Somna Beds, we craft each mattress with durability in mind, but how you treat your bed day-to-day will influence how long it performs at its best. Whether you’ve just purchased a new mattress or want to revive an existing one, these care tips will help ensure it remains a reliable part of your sleep routine for years to come.

Rotate Your Mattress Regularly

One of the simplest ways to keep your mattress in good shape is to rotate it regularly. Over time, body weight can cause certain areas to soften more than others. This uneven wear may lead to dips or sagging, particularly in the places where you tend to sleep most.

Rotating your mattress every three to six months helps distribute pressure more evenly across the surface. This is especially important for foam and hybrid mattresses, where maintaining consistent support is essential for spinal alignment. Even if your mattress is labelled "no-turn," rotation alone can make a significant difference to its longevity.

Use a High-Quality Mattress Protector

A mattress protector acts as the first line of defence against stains, spills, dust, and allergens. Whether it’s a dropped cup of tea or natural body oils, daily life can leave unwanted marks on your mattress over time. A breathable, waterproof protector not only keeps your sleeping surface cleaner but also reduces the build-up of bacteria and odours.

Using a protector from day one is one of the best ways to prevent long-term damage. It’s easy to wash, replace, and far more affordable than buying a new mattress. At Somna Beds, we recommend pairing our mattresses with a soft, hypoallergenic protector that allows airflow without compromising comfort.

Keep Your Mattress Clean

Knowing how to care for your mattress includes regular cleaning, even when you’re using a protector. Vacuuming the surface every couple of months removes dust mites, dead skin, and other allergens. Use the upholstery attachment on your vacuum cleaner to gently clean all sides of the mattress, including edges and seams.

For deeper freshening, lightly sprinkle baking soda across the surface, leave it for a few hours, then vacuum it up. This can help neutralise odours and absorb moisture. Avoid using harsh cleaning products directly on the fabric, as this can damage materials or leave unwanted residues behind.

Let Your Mattress Breathe

Mattresses need airflow to stay dry and hygienic. Trapped moisture can encourage the growth of mould or mildew, especially in humid environments or if the mattress is placed directly on the floor. To avoid this, ensure your mattress sits on a ventilated base — such as slatted bed frames — rather than a solid, non-breathable surface.

Every few weeks, pull back your bedding during the day to allow the mattress to breathe fully. This helps to wick away any moisture and keeps your sleep environment fresher and healthier.

Avoid Sitting on the Edge Too Often

While it might be convenient to sit on the edge of the bed when getting dressed or putting on shoes, excessive pressure on the sides can weaken edge support over time. This is particularly relevant for mattresses with reinforced borders or pocket springs, as constant pressure can cause compression or deformation.

To extend your mattress's lifespan, try to avoid using the same edge as a perch every day. Instead, use a chair or bench when possible, and rotate the mattress to balance out any impact.

Maintain a Stable Bedroom Environment

Extreme temperatures and humidity can affect the internal structure of your mattress, particularly if it's made from memory foam or natural fibres. For optimal performance, keep your bedroom cool, dry, and well-ventilated. Investing in a dehumidifier or using fans during hot weather can help regulate conditions and prevent heat-related damage.

In colder months, ensure your mattress isn't exposed to damp conditions or cold draughts that might affect its comfort layers. A consistent environment helps preserve both the comfort and hygiene of your bed.

Replace Your Bedding Frequently

Fresh, clean bedding supports your mattress's cleanliness. Washing your sheets, pillowcases, and duvets regularly — at least once a week — limits the amount of sweat, skin cells, and allergens that can settle into the mattress over time. Make sure your bedding is fully dry before putting it back on to avoid introducing excess moisture.

In addition to protecting your mattress, clean bedding also improves your sleep hygiene and contributes to a more comfortable, relaxing environment at night.

Inspect Your Mattress for Early Warning Signs

While caring for your mattress can help extend its life, it's still important to keep an eye out for signs of wear. Look for dips, lumps, frayed edges, or loss of support. These could indicate that the mattress is no longer performing as it should. Catching these signs early means you can take action — whether that’s rotating the mattress more frequently, investing in a new protector, or eventually replacing it.

At Somna Beds, we’re always happy to offer expert advice on when to refresh or replace your mattress based on your comfort needs.

Trust Somna Beds for Quality and Longevity

Every mattress from Somna Beds is handcrafted in the UK using premium materials and expert techniques. We design our products to last, but we also believe that proper care is key to long-term comfort. With features like edge-to-edge support, breathable fabrics, and customisable firmness levels, our mattresses are made to support you night after night.

We also provide guidance, delivery, and eco-conscious services like old bed removal and recycling — because how you transition to a new mattress matters just as much as how you care for it.

Final Thoughts

Understanding how to care for your mattress is the first step toward better sleep and better value. A clean, well-maintained mattress not only lasts longer but also delivers the kind of support and comfort your body needs. From regular rotation to using protectors and ensuring airflow, small habits make a big difference over time.

With proper care and a trusted brand like Somna Beds, you can enjoy long-lasting comfort and peace of mind — night after night, year after year.

FAQs

How often should I rotate my mattress?

You should rotate your mattress every 3 to 6 months to ensure even wear and support.

Can I clean my mattress with regular household products?

It’s best to use gentle methods like vacuuming or baking soda. Avoid harsh chemicals that can damage the material.

Do I really need a mattress protector?

Yes. A protector helps prevent stains, allergens, and wear — it’s essential for maintaining hygiene and extending lifespan.

How long does a well-cared-for mattress last?

With proper care, a high-quality mattress from Somna Beds can last 8–10 years or longer.