Mold is a type of fungus that can cause allergic reactions in people. While they can grow on any material, they are most commonly found in foods and soil. However, finding them in your mattress is not unheard of. Before we dive into cleaning and preventing mold growth in your mattress, we want to understand why it grows there in the first place.
Mattresses are warm, soft, and often damp from perspiration — ideal conditions for mold growth. In Florida's humid climate, a mattress near the floor or against an exterior wall is particularly vulnerable. Signs of mattress mold include visible discoloration, a musty or earthy odor, and unexplained allergic symptoms when sleeping.
For surface mold on a relatively new mattress: move the mattress outdoors on a sunny day, vacuum the affected area thoroughly, then scrub with a solution of rubbing alcohol diluted with water using a cloth. Allow to dry completely in direct sunlight for several hours before bringing back inside.
For more significant mold growth, replacement is often the more practical and healthier solution. Deep mold in a mattress has penetrated the foam core and cannot be fully addressed from the surface. The health risks of sleeping on a mold-contaminated mattress are not worth the cost of a replacement.
To prevent mattress mold: use a waterproof mattress protector, ensure adequate ventilation under the bed by using a slatted frame, keep bedroom humidity below 50 percent with a dehumidifier, and rotate and air your mattress regularly.
If you are finding mold in multiple locations throughout your home — including your mattress — this indicates an underlying moisture problem that requires professional assessment. Widespread mold is rarely a surface issue. Call Swift Restoration at 866-376-7831 for a comprehensive mold inspection.