According to environmentalists, around 8 million mattresses are thrown away in Germany alone each year. 95% of them are incinerated and only 5% are recycled.
It’s not just the sheer waste: the intensity of the turnover rate, here and in other countries, can put a serious strain on your budget, as a new quality mattress doesn’t come cheap.
But if you take good care of yours, it will last longer – and you won’t have to replace it as often. And you’ll help the environment.
“Ultimately, the best waste is waste that was not produced in the first place,” emphasizes the German Utilities Association.
Six mattress care tips that are easy to implement:
Regular rotation: Turn and flip your mattress at least every three months to maintain optimum comfort for as long as possible.
Removing discoloration: Depending on the model, you can wash the mattress cover to remove unsightly discolourations and stains. Check the textile care label on the cover beforehand to find out at what temperature it can be washed – and whether the cover can be tumble dried or should be air dried.
The German Body Care and Detergents Association (IKW) recommends taking the fabric apart once while it is still damp before hanging it up. This way, the fabric retains its original size.
Vacuuming: The cover can also be cleaned regularly with a vacuum cleaner when you change the fitted sheet.
Use a mattress topper: This 5-10cm thick layer of memory foam, latex, wool or feather material is placed on top of your bed, under the fitted sheet, to provide support and protect your mattress from stains and sagging.
Toppers are usually used with box spring beds. There are also waterproof or water-repellent versions that are suitable for babies and small children, or people who live with incontinence.
A mattress protector is similar to a mattress topper, but thinner (up to 5 cm thick) and offers light support. It does not change the feeling in bed and the temperature.
Use a coaster or protector: These extra pads are placed between the slatted base and the mattress to prevent the mattress from shifting and causing wear marks if it rubs against the frame during movement.
Provide adequate ventilation: According to the IKW, an indoor climate with low humidity and temperatures between 17 and 19 degrees Celsius prevents mold formation.
To sleep well on your new mattress for as long as possible, try it in the store and lie down on it extensively before you buy it. This will prevent returns.
