HomeWhy Do Mattresses Turn Yellow?
The Science Behind Mattress Discolouration
Have you ever noticed yellow stains on your mattress? It’s a common problem that many people experience. But why do mattresses turn yellow? There are several reasons this can happen, and it’s essential to understand them so you can take steps to prevent it from happening to your mattress. One of the main reasons why mattresses turn yellow is due to sweat and body oils. Over time, these substances can seep into the mattress fabric and cause staining. This is especially true if you sweat a lot while you sleep or don’t regularly clean your mattress.
Another reason why mattresses can turn yellow is due to sun exposure. If your mattress is in a room with a lot of sunlight, the UV rays can cause the fabric to fade and yellow over time. This is why keeping your mattress out of direct sunlight whenever possible is essential.
What Causes Mattresses to Turn Yellow?
Over time, mattresses can develop yellow stains that can be unsightly and difficult to remove. There are several reasons why mattresses can turn yellow, including:
Sweat and Body Oils – One of the leading causes of yellow stains on mattresses is sweat and body oils. When we sleep, our bodies naturally sweat and produce oils that can seep into the mattress fabric and cause staining. Over time, these stains can build up and cause the mattress to turn yellow. To prevent sweat and body oils from staining your bed, it’s important to use a mattress protector. A good quality mattress protector can help absorb sweat and oils, preventing them from seeping into the fabric. Mattress protectors can also be easily removed and washed, making them a great way to keep your mattress clean and stain-free.
Stains and Spills – In addition to sweat and body oils, stains and spills can cause mattresses to turn yellow. If you spill something on your mattress, cleaning it immediately is vital to prevent staining. Use a clean cloth to blot any excess liquid, then apply a stain remover to the affected area. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully, and avoid using too much water, as this can cause the mattress to become damp and promote the growth of mould and mildew. Protecting your mattress from accidents is important if you have pets or young children. Consider using a waterproof mattress protector to prevent spills or accidents from seeping into the fabric. This can help extend your mattress’s life and keep it looking clean and fresh.
How to Prevent Mattresses from Turning Yellow
- Using a Mattress Protector – We can prevent our mattresses from turning yellow by using a mattress protector. A mattress protector is a thin layer of material that goes on top of the mattress to protect it from spills, stains, and sweat. It acts as a barrier between the mattress and our bodies, preventing moisture from seeping into it and causing it to turn yellow. When choosing a mattress protector, we should look for one that is waterproof and breathable. A waterproof protector will prevent spills and sweat from seeping into the mattress, while a breathable protector will allow air to circulate and avoid moisture buildup.
- Cleaning Your Mattress Regularly – Regularly cleaning your mattresses can help prevent them from turning yellow. We should vacuum our mattresses regularly to remove dust, dirt, and dead skin cells. We can also spot-clean any stains using water and mild detergent. We can use a mixture of baking soda, salt, and water to form a paste for more stubborn stains. It would be best to rub the paste directly into the stain in a circular motion. The salt and baking soda have a slightly basic pH, allowing them to neutralize and deodorize acidic stains.
- Avoiding Eating or Drinking in Bed – We should avoid eating or drinking in bed to prevent spills and stains on our mattresses. If we must eat or drink in bed, we should use a tray or placemat to protect our mattress from spills. We should also avoid placing hot or cold items directly on the mattress, which can cause damage and discolouration.
How to Remove Yellow Stains from a Mattress
Yellow stains on a mattress can be unsightly and difficult to remove. Fortunately, there are several methods you can use to get rid of them. This section will discuss 3 practical ways to remove yellow stains from a mattress.
- Using Baking Soda and Vinegar
Baking soda and vinegar are two everyday household items that can remove yellow stains from a mattress. Here’s how to do it:
Remove all bedding from the mattress and wash it in hot water.
Vacuum the mattress to remove any loose dirt or debris.
Sprinkle baking soda over the entire surface of the mattress and let it sit for at least 30 minutes.
Mix equal parts water and white vinegar in a spray bottle.
Spray the mixture over the entire surface of the mattress.
Allow the bed to dry completely before replacing the bedding.
2. Using Hydrogen Peroxide
Hydrogen peroxide is another effective solution for removing yellow stains from a mattress. Here’s how to do it:
Remove all bedding from the mattress and wash it in hot water.
Mix equal parts hydrogen peroxide and water in a spray bottle.
Spray the mixture directly onto the stain.
Allow the mixture to sit for at least 5 minutes.
Blot the stain with a clean, damp cloth until the stain is removed.
Allow the mattress to dry completely before replacing the bedding.
3. Using Enzymatic Cleaners
Enzymatic cleaners are designed to break down organic stains like urine or sweat. Here’s how to use an enzymatic cleaner to remove a yellow stain from a mattress:
Remove all bedding from the mattress and wash it in hot water.
Blot up as much of the stain as possible with a clean, dry cloth.
Apply the enzymatic cleaner directly to the stain, following the instructions on the product label.
Allow the cleaner to sit for the recommended amount of time.
Blot the stain with a clean, damp cloth until the stain is removed.
Allow the mattress to dry completely before replacing the bedding.
Conclusion
After researching and analyzing the results, we have discovered several reasons why mattresses turn yellow over time. The most common cause is the oxidation of materials as they react to oxygen in the air. This process is natural and harmless, but it cannot be prevented. Other factors that can contribute to yellowing include sweat, body oils, urine, vomit, and exposure to sunlight. While some stains can be removed, others are permanent and cannot be removed. It is important to note that yellowing does not necessarily mean that your mattress is dirty or unsanitary. However, it can be unsightly and may affect the overall appearance of your bedroom. If you are concerned about the yellowing of your mattress, there are several steps you can take to prevent it from happening.
Use a mattress protector to help prevent sweat and body oils from seeping into the mattress fabric.
Rotate your mattress regularly to help distribute weight evenly and prevent sagging.
Avoid exposing your mattress to direct sunlight for extended periods.
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning and maintaining your mattress.
