Are you concerned about the appearance of your mattress?
Are brown stains slowly appearing on its surface, and you have no idea what's causing them?
It could be a simple issue. But it's essential to ensure that whatever the cause, it isn't damaging your mattress...or your health.
In this article, I'll reveal the common causes of brown spots on a mattress and arm you with top tips for removing any existing discoloration (and some handy prevention hacks, too!).
Contents
To effectively treat your brown stain, you need to know exactly what's causing it.
Some of the most common culprits include the following.
Rust stains are often caused by prolonged exposure to moisture, resulting in unsightly rust-colored spots.
These stains are caused by rusty metal bed frames, box springs, or innerspring coils hiding beneath the surface.
By keeping an eye out for any signs of rust and taking prompt action, you can protect your mattress from further staining.
To remove rust stains, a mixture of lemon juice, baking soda, and salt can be used to create a paste.
Apply the paste to the affected area, let it sit for a few hours, then use a clean cloth to blot and remove it altogether.
Once dry, vacuum the entire surface to ensure all rust bits are removed.
Bed bugs, though tiny, can leave noticeable brown marks on your sleep surface.
These stains are often from their fecal matter or when the pests get crushed.
If you spot bed bug stains, it's time to take immediate action with an eco-friendly bedbug exterminator spray.
Regular vacuuming can also help prevent bed bug infestations and stains.
Whether it's your morning coffee or late-night tea, accidental spills can leave behind stubborn brown stains. The key is to act fast and clean up right away!
Blot the spill immediately with a clean cloth or towel, then use a mild, biodegradable detergent or appropriate sustainable cleaning product to clean the stained area.
Over time, sweat can accumulate, leading to the formation of brown and yellow spots and stains.
Click here for practical cleaning tips to tackle sweat-stained mattresses.
Urine stains are a common problem on kids' mattresses (especially when toilet training).
It's essential to clean and treat these body fluid stains promptly to prevent any lingering smells or discoloration.
For detailed advice on cleaning urine stains, check out my How to Get Urine Out of a Memory Foam Mattress: 6 Easy Steps article.
If not treated promptly, blood stains from injuries or menstrual leaks can lead to rust-colored marks.
Using the proper cleaning methods is crucial to prevent permanent bloodstains.
To tackle blood spots, immediately wet with cold water.
Then, gently scrub with a mixture of cold water, gentle natural dish soap, and a few drops of hydrogen peroxide. Avoid using hot water as it can set the stain.
Let the treated area completely dry before using the mattress again.
Moisture and humidity can encourage mold and mildew growth, causing brown or discolored spots.
Proper ventilation and moisture control are vital to ward off these unwelcome guests.
For more specific cleaning advice, check out my article covering mattress mold symptoms, causes, cure & prevention.
If you're looking for more general mattress cleaning advice, my colleague Arabella has you covered with the following excellent articles:
Using a protector can help safeguard against spills and stains.
Invest in a breathable, eco-friendly mattress protector to guard against damage and prolong mattress life.
Vacuum regularly to remove dust and dirt.
Remember to follow the manufacturer's guidelines for eco-friendly cleaning and maintenance.
I like to inspect, clean, vacuum, and rotate my mattress every month.
Addressing accidental spills promptly by blotting and treating the area can prevent stains from setting and becoming challenging to remove.
Avoid rubbing, as it can spread the stain.
Implementing a rule against eating or drinking in bed can effectively minimize the potential for spills and unsightly stains.
This proactive measure not only helps preserve your mattress's cleanliness and longevity but also ensures a more hygienic and comfortable sleep.
Plus more irritating biscuit crumbs getting where they shouldn't!
Maintaining good ventilation in the bedroom and controlling moisture levels can prevent the growth of mold and mildew, reducing the likelihood of brown stains.
Ensure proper airflow in your bedroom to prevent moisture buildup.
If needed, use an energy-efficient dehumidifier to maintain optimal humidity levels.
If all else fails, professional cleaning services can help remove any persistent stains from your bedding.
These professionals use advanced methods and tools to deep clean stains without damaging the fabric or fibers.
Remember to ensure that the professional you employ uses eco-friendly and non-toxic products.
If, after all your efforts, you can't shift the stains, it might be time to choose a new mattress. Especially if your old one is past it's best in other areas (comfort, support, etc.).
Doing your research and shopping around can help you find the perfect fit for your needs and budget.
While it does offer some protection, a mattress topper is designed to provide comfort and support, not to prevent stains.
If protection is your priority, choose a mattress protector rather than a topper.
You should begin by carefully removing any solids. Then, sprinkle baking soda over the affected area and leave for a few hours.
Use warm water and a mild detergent to blot up the baking soda (and stain) with a sponge. Allow the cleaned area to dry completely before using it again.
Getting your required nightly sleep is a key component of a healthy lifestyle
Maintaining a clean, stain-free mattress is essential for prolonging its lifespan and ensuring a hygienic sleeping environment.
By understanding the common causes of brown stains on your mattress and implementing effective removal and prevention strategies, you can keep your sleep sanctuary in A1 condition for years to come.
Does your mattress have brown stains? How do you plan on removing them? Drop me a line and let me know.
