After an energy-draining day, we all want to burrow into our cosy bedroom oasis and replenish our bodies with a refreshing night’s sleep. However, our supposedly safe haven for sleeping and resting can sometimes pose a threat to our health. Back pain and allergy symptoms, for example, can be caused by the wrong mattress.
If you often sneeze or suffer from itchy eyes, a runny nose, or other allergy-related discomfort when you sleep, your mattress might be the culprit.
The bedroom should be a sanctuary that allows you to rest and get ready for the next day. However, even if you clean your room often or put the air purifier on, your mattress can still harbour dust mites, bacteria, and other allergy-inducing elements. So, if you think you’ve always kept your room clean and the air quality maintained, it’s time to check the condition of your mattress.
But first, what are dust mites?
While many of us are familiar with bed bugs and other insects that may linger in the bedroom, dust mites are unnoticeable, microscopic pests that feed off human skin cells. These pests thrive in warm, humid areas and accumulate on beds and other high-traffic areas over the years. The surprising thing is that the allergy symptoms don’t necessarily come from the bite of bed bugs but from inhaling their debris.
Dust mite allergy symptoms include sneezing, a runny nose, itchy skin, and watery eyes. They may also cause asthma symptoms and difficulties in breathing. These symptoms can range from mild to severe and should not be overlooked, as they can become persistent.
What other Allergens are Present on the Mattress?
Other than dust mites, your mattress can house various elements like mould, mildew, pet dander, oils, dead skin cells, and different dirt and stains that can contaminate it. If you live in a hot and humid area like Singapore, your mattress is more susceptible to mould buildup. The dead skin cells that you shed every day, the natural bodily oils, and even your moisturiser and other cosmetics can seep into your mattress.
Other causes of mattress allergies can also be tied to the material itself. Some people can be sensitive to some mattress materials, like synthetic latex.
How to Identify a Dirty Mattress
While dust mites are minute pests that are not visible to the naked eye, other contaminants such as oils, sweat, and mould can show physical signs of contamination on your mattress. Generally, a mattress turns yellow over time due to age. However, yellow stains can also be caused by urine or dirt buildup. Mould, on the other hand, can start on a small portion of your mattress but eventually deteriorate the quality of your bed from within. Old and dirty mattresses also produce nasty odours that can wreak havoc on your respiratory system.
Signs of Mattress Allergies
There are various allergy triggers at home. Pollens, household materials, scents, smoke, and pet dander can trigger allergy symptoms in your bedroom. However, if you persistently experience allergy symptoms when you lie on your bed at night, it’s time to check the condition of your mattress. If you suffer from the following symptoms, then you must be experiencing dust mite allergies in your bed:
- Sneezing
- Itchy eyes and nose
- Sore throat
- Coughing
- Nasal congestion
- Sinus infections
- Asthma-like symptoms
- Headaches
- Skin irritation
- Difficulty sleeping
How to Combat Mattress Allergens
Your mattress is bound to accumulate dirt and other elements as it ages. Luckily, there are simple things that you can do to prevent early mattress deterioration. Cleaning and maintaining your mattress can greatly help you preserve its safety and comfort of your mattress. Here are some simple steps that you can follow to protect your mattress from allergen buildup:
- Wash and change your bed sheets every week.
- Vacuum your mattress regularly. A vacuum cleaner with an upholstery attachment can help you remove dust and other hard-to-remove particles from your mattress. While you are cleaning your mattress, make sure to tackle your bed frame and headboard.
- Clean your pillows, stuffed toys, carpets, and curtains regularly. Aside from your mattress, these areas can also become breeding grounds for harmful elements.
- As much as possible, don't let your pet sleep on the bed. Although we love our cute furry friends, pet dander can be a major source of allergy symptoms.
- Use a mattress protector. When you buy a new mattress, it’s wise to also invest in a mattress protector to guard your bed from dirt, spills, and dust mites.
- Deep clean your mattress to get rid of dirt buildup and odours. Spot-clean your mattress immediately if there are spills, blood, or urine stains.
- Prevent mould and mildew from building up inside your mattress by using a dehumidifier or an air conditioner.
- Invest in an air conditioner with a reliable HEPA filter. Always clean or replace your air filter to maintain your air conditioner’s ability to clean your indoor air.
When to Replace Your Mattress
Unfortunately, mould buildup within the mattress cannot be removed with DIY solutions. In this case, it’s good to get the help of professional mattress cleaners. However, there are times when the best solution is to completely replace your mattress, especially when it’s already too old.
Even the best mattress in Singapore will someday lose its quality and accumulate dirt and dust mites that are detrimental to your health. It can also start to become saggy and unsupportive. If your mattress starts to become uncomfortable, it’s time to look for a better one.
Mattresses in Singapore have an average lifespan of 8–10 years, depending on their materials and upkeep. Although mattresses don’t expire, they can significantly affect the quality of your sleep, so it’s important to choose the right mattress quality that can support your sleeping needs for a longer time.
Your Mattress Matters
The right mattress can notably improve your sleep quality. However, a bad mattress can have many health implications, including allergy and asthma symptoms. The next time you buy a new mattress, choose one that is made from high-quality, supportive materials that fit your sleeping needs. Practice regular mattress cleaning and guard your sleeping solution with a mattress protector!
Megafurniture is dedicated to providing quality mattress solutions that are beneficial for different types of sleepers. Our mattresses are made from certified materials that are safe for kids and people with allergies. If you are looking for quality mattresses in Singapore, be sure to check out our mattress collection for the best prices online.