With Diwali on November 8, the annual clean-up is in full swing, and guests will soon be sitting on your sofa cushions and sleeping on your beds. Mattresses, pillows and cushions are easy to forget, yet they collect dust, sweat, oil, spills and odours all year round. The good news is that you do not need special equipment or harsh chemicals. A vacuum cleaner, baking soda, mild detergent and a sunny afternoon can bring them back to life.
Here is a simple five-step guide to cleaning them at home before the festival.
A paste of baking soda and a few drops of water also helps lift marks on mattresses and cushions, left on for 15 to 20 minutes before vacuuming off. Treat stains early, and always blot rather than rub, since rubbing pushes the stain deeper. For fresh liquid spills, press a clean, dry cloth on the spot to soak up the moisture. For sweat, oil or food marks, mix a little mild detergent with water, dab it on with a cloth and blot with a clean damp cloth. Avoid soaking the mattress or foam, since trapped moisture can lead to mould. This article is intended for general informational and household purposes only. Results vary with the type of fabric, filling and stain, and individual technique. Always follow the manufacturer’s care instructions, and test any cleaning product on a small, hidden area first. Avoid soaking mattresses, memory foam and delicate fabrics, never mix cleaning products, and keep them away from children and pets. People with allergies or asthma should take care when handling dust. For severe stains, mould or pest problems, consult a professional cleaner.