Should You Vacuum Your Mattresses as Part of Your Hotel’s Cleaning Routine?

A clean and hygienic mattress is key to guest comfort and satisfaction. But when was the last time your housekeeping team deep-cleaned the mattresses in your hotel? While changing sheets is standard, mattresses require regular attention to maintain hygiene and extend their lifespan.

Why Mattresses in Hospitality Need Regular Cleaning

Hotel mattresses endure heavy use, accumulating dust, dead skin cells, and moisture. This creates the perfect breeding ground for dust mites, bacteria, and allergens—impacting guest health and sleep quality. While mattress protectors help, they don’t eliminate the need for deeper cleaning. Vacuuming each mattress at least every six months—or monthly if unprotected—ensures a fresher, healthier sleep environment for guests.

Signs Your Mattresses Need a Clean

• Stains or lingering odours noticed by housekeeping or guests
• Increased complaints of allergies or discomfort from guests
• It’s been over a year since the last deep clean

If stains and odours persist after cleaning, or if the mattress has significant wear like sagging or lumps, it may be time for a replacement.

How to Deep-Clean a Mattress in Hospitality Settings

What You’ll Need:

• Commercial-grade vacuum with an upholstery attachment
• Baking soda
• Essential oils (optional)
• Antibacterial spray

Step 1: Strip the Bedding
Remove all bedding and mattress protectors for laundering, being sure to follow care instructions.

Step 2: Vacuum Thoroughly
Use an upholstery brush attachment to remove dust and debris. A power head vacuum works best for deep cleaning in high-use hospitality settings.

Step 3: Deodorise with Baking Soda
Sprinkle baking soda over the entire mattress and let it sit for at least an hour. For a fresh scent, mix in a few drops of essential oils like lavender or eucalyptus.

Step 4: Vacuum Again
Remove all traces of baking soda with a second vacuum pass.

Step 5: Disinfect the Mattress
Spray lightly with an antibacterial cleaner (avoid bleach-based products) and wipe down with a damp cloth. Ensure minimal moisture to prevent mould growth.

Step 6: Let It Dry & Protect It
Allow mattresses to fully air-dry before remaking the beds. Using fully encased mattress protectors will help reduce future dirt and allergen buildup – as well as protect against dreaded bed bugs!.

Best Practices for Hospitality Mattress Maintenance

• Use a waterproof, hypoallergenic mattress protector to safeguard against spills and allergens.
• Implement a scheduled cleaning routine to ensure mattresses are deep-cleaned at least twice a year.
• Train housekeeping staff to identify early signs of wear and schedule mattress replacements when needed.

If deep cleaning doesn’t restore your mattresses or they show visible signs of deterioration, consider replacing them. A clean, well-maintained mattress enhances guest satisfaction and contributes to positive reviews—so don’t let this crucial aspect of accommodation hygiene be overlooked!

Upgrade Your Guest Experience with Cleaner, Fresher Mattresses
Prioritizing mattress hygiene enhances guest satisfaction and protects your investment. Need expert advice for mattress replacement or high-quality mattress protectors? Contact us today to find the best solutions for your accommodation.