Buzz
While not as widely used nowadays, box springs remain a staple for many, placed between the mattress and bed frame. Historically, they provided essential support for innerspring mattresses, preventing sagging and maintaining durability over time.
Just like mattresses, box springs require regular cleaning to remove built-up dust and debris that gather beneath the bed. Follow these steps to keep yours fresh and clean.
Understanding the Purpose of a Box Spring
If you haven’t moved your mattress in some time and use a box spring, you’ll find it’s a mattress-sized frame made of metal or wood, housing sturdy coils and wrapped in a lightweight, breathable fabric. Typically, this fabric is cambric, the same material used on the underside of upholstered furniture.
Beyond providing support to a mattress and prolonging its lifespan, a box spring also enhances airflow around the bed. While less critical today, box springs historically elevated beds, keeping sleepers farther from chilly floors and any critters that might be lurking below.
Steps to Clean Your Box Spring
Start by removing the mattress from the box spring. (This is an excellent opportunity to clean your mattress as well.) Next, use the upholstery attachment on your vacuum to clean all surfaces of the box spring, including the underside. Pay special attention to removing dust and debris trapped between the coils.
For a thorough cleaning, use a hand steamer if available, and allow the box spring to dry completely before reassembling the bed. Stains can be treated by gently dabbing them with a cloth dampened with a mixture of warm water and mild dish soap.
To enhance freshness, lightly dust your box spring with baking soda, allow it to sit for approximately an hour, and then vacuum it thoroughly.
