Do you ever wake up feeling more congested than usual or notice an irritating skin rash on your neck or back?
Unfortunately, these textbook mold in mattress symptoms could mean you've got an unwanted bedmate!
Moldy mattresses can negatively affect your sleep quality and even lead to serious health consequences if ignored for too long.
So is it time for a new mattress, or is there anything you can do to rescue your old one?
In this article, I'll share details of all the symptoms to look out for and the most effective actions to take if you spot mold growth.
The Unwanted Guest: Mattress Mold Symptoms
There are various symptoms of mold in mattresses. Some are obvious, some less so.
Here's a list of what you should be looking out for:
- Foul & Musty Odors: Just like an old book left in a damp basement, a mold-infested mattress often gives off a distinct musty smell.
- Unexplained Stains: If new, mysterious stains appear on your mattress, it could be a sign that mold is setting up camp.
- Visible Black Spots: Tiny black spots, especially on the underside of the mattress, can indicate the presence of mold.
- Insect Attraction: Bed Bugs love mold. If your mattress starts attracting insects, it might be because of a mold infestation.
- Respiratory Symptoms: Coughing, sneezing, and trouble breathing can all be linked to a moldy mattress.
- Skin Redness Or Rash: Mold exposure can lead to skin reactions like redness or a rash.
- Itchy, Red Eyes: If you're suddenly dealing with itchy, red eyes, it might be due to mold in your mattress.
- Nasal Congestion: A stuffy nose can be another symptom of mold exposure.
- Mattress Damp To The Touch: If your mattress is often damp to the touch, it might indicate that mold is thriving.
- Mold Elsewhere In Your Bedroom: If you have mold elsewhere in your bedroom (on walls, around windows, etc.), there is an increased likelihood that it might spread to your mattress.
- Chronic Cough & Blurred Vision: More severe symptoms (such as a chronic cough or blurred vision) can also occur with extended exposure to high mold levels.
The Great Clean-Up: How To Get Mold Out Of a Mattress
As soon as you spot any of the symptoms above, you must act immediately to eliminate the mold.
Some of the best ways include the following.
Vacuuming
The first step to reclaiming your mattress from the clutches of mold is vacuuming.
Using a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter, thoroughly vacuum both sides of the mattress.
This will help remove any loose mold spores lurking on the surface.
If you're especially sensitive to mold, wearing a face mask might be a good idea to avoid inhaling stray spores.
Sunlight and Fresh Air
Sunlight is a natural disinfectant and can kill mold spores.
After vacuuming, take your mattress outside on a sunny, dry day. Leave it out for several hours to bask in the sunlight.
The fresh air will also help remove any lingering musty odors.
Baking Soda Treatment
Baking soda is a natural deodorizer and can help neutralize the musty smell associated with mold.
Sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda over your mattress and let it sit for a few hours.
Then, vacuum it up using a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter.
Vinegar Spray
Vinegar is another household item that can help combat mold.
Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle and lightly mist the affected areas of your mattress with the solution.
Allow it to sit for around 10 minutes, then blot your mattress dry with a clean cloth.
Lemon Juice
Lemon juice is naturally antibacterial and can help eliminate mold.
Mix equal parts lemon juice and water in a spray bottle and lightly mist your mattress with the solution.
Let it sit for 20-30 minutes, then blot it dry with a clean cloth.
Lemon juice can have a bleaching effect, so don't use it on areas you don't want to be bleached or faded.
Hydrogen Peroxide
Hydrogen peroxide can be effective at killing mold on surfaces. However, it may discolor some materials, so do a patch test on an inconspicuous area first.
If it doesn't discolor your mattress, apply a 3% hydrogen peroxide solution to the moldy areas using a spray bottle.
Let it sit for about 10 minutes, then scrub the area with a brush and blot it dry.
Steam Cleaning
Steam cleaning is another effective method for mold removal.
The high temperature of the steam can kill mold spores.
Be sure to allow your mattress to dry thoroughly after steam cleaning to prevent additional mold growth.
Essential Oils
Some essential oils (notably tea tree, clove, lemon, and lavender) have some anti-fungal properties that can help combat mold.
Mix a few drops with water in a spray bottle, then lightly mist the affected area. Let it sit for 30 minutes, then wipe it clean.
Rubbing Alcohol
Rubbing alcohol can kill mold on contact.
Apply it to a cloth and gently dab the moldy areas.
Be careful not to soak the mattress and allow it to dry entirely afterward before using it again.
Professional Cleaning
If the mold infestation is severe (or the home remedies aren't working), consider hiring a professional cleaning service.
They have specialized tools and cleaning solutions that effectively remove mold and its spores from your mattress.
Moldy Mattress Causes (and How to Prevent Them)
Once you've cleaned away the mold, addressing the underlying cause is crucial to prevent it from returning.
Some of the more common causes of moldy mattresses (and their associated preventive measures) include the following.
Humidity
- Cause: Moisture is mold's best friend. Moist environments can provide the perfect breeding ground for mold on your mattress. This is especially true in climates that are naturally humid or during certain times of the year when humidity levels rise.
- Prevention: Keep the humidity levels in your home below 50% to discourage mold growth. You can achieve this by using dehumidifiers or air conditioners, especially during hot, humid months. Also, consider using a moisture meter to regularly check humidity levels and ensure they're in the safe range.
Lack of Ventilation
- Cause: Poor ventilation can trap moisture and heat, creating the ideal environment for mold to thrive. This can occur if your mattress is pushed against a wall, placed on a solid platform with no slats, or if the room itself has inadequate airflow.
- Prevention: Ensure your bedroom has good airflow. Open windows when the weather permits and consider using fans to circulate air. If your mattress is against a wall, pull it away slightly to allow air to flow behind it. For your bed frame, opt for a slatted base or a box spring to allow air to circulate underneath the mattress. It's all about giving that moisture somewhere to go besides your mattress!
Body Heat and Sweat
- Cause: As you sleep, your body gives off heat and sweat. This natural perspiration can soak into your mattresses, providing the dampness that mold needs to grow. If not adequately aired out or cleaned, your mattress will become a hotbed for mold spores.
- Prevention: If you get hot at night, keep your bedroom cool to minimize sweating. Also, opt for sheets and bedding made from cooling sustainable fabrics. Regularly clean your mattress and change your bedding. Washing your sheets in hot water and vacuuming your mattress can remove sweat and skin cells before they have a chance to invite mold to the party.
Spills and Accidents
- Cause: Spilling liquids on your mattress and not cleaning them immediately can lead to mold growth. Whether it's a spilled glass of water, an accident from a child, or a pet mishap, these wet spots can seep deep into the mattress fibers and promote mold growth.
- Prevention: The key here is prompt and thorough clean-up. If a spill occurs, blot it immediately with a clean, dry towel to absorb as much liquid as possible. For deeper cleaning, consider using a mild dishwashing detergent mixed with water. Always ensure your mattress is completely dry before replacing your bedding. For added protection, use a mattress protector. This barrier can keep spills on the surface, making them easier to clean and preventing them from soaking into the mattress.
Using the Mattress on the Floor
- Cause: Using a mattress directly on the floor can lead to mold. The lack of circulation underneath, coupled with the colder temperature of the floor (which can cause condensation), creates a prime environment for mold.
- Prevention: To prevent mold growth when using a mattress on the floor, consider elevating it to increase air circulation underneath. Also, avoid leaving your mattress on the floor permanently. Air it regularly by propping it against a wall to allow all sides to breathe. This simple act can go a long way in preventing mold from forming on your mattress. Remember, mold loves a stagnant environment, so keep that air moving!
Dirty Mattress
- Cause: If your mattress isn't regularly cleaned, dust, dead skin cells, and other debris can accumulate, providing additional organic material for mold to feed on.
- Prevention: Get into a habit of vacuuming, spot cleaning, and rotating your mattress every few months. Not only will this keep it clean, but will also increase its lifespan by evening out the wear and tear.
Damp Clothing
- Cause: Going to bed with wet hair or leaving damp clothing on your mattress can introduce excess moisture to your mattress, making it easier for mold to grow.
- Prevention: Avoid hitting the hay with wet hair or damp clothing. If you've just come out of the shower, ensure your hair is dry before lying on your pillow. If you've been caught in a rainstorm or have been working out, change into dry clothes before climbing into bed. If damp clothing ends up on your bed, remove it as soon as possible and let the area air out to ensure any residual moisture evaporates.
Old Mattresses
- Cause: As mattresses age, they become more susceptible to mold growth. Over time, they absorb more moisture, dead skin cells, and other organic materials that mold spores love to feast on.
- Prevention: If your mattress is over eight years old and developing signs of mold (and the support levels have started to decline), it might be time to replace it.
Non-Breathable Mattress Materials
- Cause: Some mattresses are made from materials that do not breathe well (like certain types of foam). This lack of breathability can trap heat and moisture, creating a perfect environment for mold.
- Prevention: Prioritize breathable materials such as those used in bamboo mattresses.
Basement Bedrooms
- Cause: Basement rooms tend to be cooler and have higher humidity levels. These conditions can make mattresses in these rooms more prone to mold growth.
- Prevention: To prevent mold in basement bedrooms, you must be proactive, following the humidity and ventilation tips mentioned earlier.
Poorly Insulated Homes
- Cause: In poorly insulated homes, walls can become cold and cause condensation to form. If your bed is against a cold wall, this condensation can wet the mattress and lead to mold.
- Prevention: Invest in better insulation for your home. It might be an upfront cost, but it'll save you from potential mold problems (and likely lower your energy bills). If your bed is against a cold wall, try moving it a few inches away to prevent condensation from forming on the mattress. A dehumidifier can also help control moisture levels in your home, making it less hospitable to mold.
Know Your Enemy: 5 Types of Mattress Mold and What They Look Like
The five most common types of mattress mold are:
- Aspergillus: This is a common type of mattress mold, often appearing as black, brown, or green spots. It's typically fuzzy-looking and can cause some people allergic reactions or respiratory issues.
- Penicillium: This mattress mold can appear as blue or green spots. It's known to cause allergies and asthma-like symptoms.
- Cladosporium: This mold can be brown, black, or green and usually grows in circular patterns. It can cause respiratory problems, particularly in people with asthma or weakened immune systems.
- Alternaria: This is a type of mold that can appear as dark green or brown spots. It's one of the most common types of mold and can cause allergic reactions.
- Mildew: While technically a type of mold, mildew is often mentioned separately because it has a flat growth that remains on the surface of your mattress, making it easier to remove. It generally appears as white, gray, or yellow patches that are fuzzy or powdery in texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I improve the air quality in my bedroom?
I recommend following the tips in this article to improve indoor air quality. To boost air quality even further, consider getting an eco-friendly air purifier.
How do I clean pee from a mattress?
You can find various tips on cleaning urine from a mattress here. Arabella also has more general mattress cleaning tips in her How to Deep Clean a Memory Foam Mattress the Eco-Friendly Way and How to Clean a Latex Mattress articles.
Can I shampoo moldy mattresses?
Yes, you can shampoo a mattress with upholstery shampoo. However, double-check the ingredients list to ensure they're non-toxic.
How often should I clean my mattress?
I like to vacuum and spot clean every month or two when rotating my mattress. I also perform a deep clam once a year. However, if your mattress gets dirty quickly (child accidents, pets sleeping on it, etc.), you should clean it more regularly.
What are my options if I think my child has mold poisoning from a mattress?
If you think your child has mold poisoning, take them to see a doctor immediately.
Should I throw away a memory foam mattress infested with mold?
Yes. If you can't get the mold out of your mattress, it's best to dispose of it responsibly and get a new one.
Will a mattress protector help prevent mold?
Yes, a waterproof mattress protector can help prevent mold and mildew, as well as stains and bacteria. I'd recommend getting a PVC-free waterproof mattress protector that is free from synthetic materials and chemical flame retardants.
The Final Word
Mattress mold growth is a sneaky little invader that can make itself at home faster than you might think. It's like the unwelcome houseguest that shows up unannounced and refuses to leave, causing all sorts of problems.
Under the right conditions, mold can begin to grow on a mattress surface within 24 to 48 hours. These conditions typically involve a warm environment, high humidity, poor ventilation, and a food source.
Every night, as you sleep, you naturally perspire to cool down. This moisture can become trapped in your mattresses. Combine this with a warm room and poor ventilation, and you have a perfect breeding ground for mold.
To make matters worse, the open cells or air pockets in mattresses provide millions of tiny places for mold to colonize. Over time, this can lead to a significant mold problem that can be hard to eradicate.
Luckily, you're now armed with all the information and tips to wage war on your moldy mattress…and win!
Sweet (mold-free) dreams!
Get In Touch
Are you experienced in reacting to the first symptoms of mold on your mattress? Do you have any tried and tested tips for getting mold off a mattress surface? Drop me a line and let me know.
