How to Get Rid of Fiberglass from Mattress
Are you finding yourself waking up in the morning feeling itchy and with skin irritation? It could be that your mattress is full of fiberglass! Fiberglass insulation is made of small, lightweight particles that can easily get into beds, furniture, and other household items.
Although retail mattresses are fire-resistant due to the amount of fiberglass inside them, this material can easily annoy your respiratory system by creating an asthma-like reaction.
Don’t worry – eliminating the nasty stuff from your mattress doesn’t need to involve a big production! In this blog post, we’re going to show you how to get rid of fiberglass from mattress quickly and efficiently so that you can enjoy comfortable nights in luxury.
Is It Ok to Sleep on a Mattress with Fiberglass?
No, it is not ok to sleep on a mattress with fiberglass. Fiberglass can cause skin irritation and respiratory issues if inhaled or ingested, so it’s important to make sure the fiberglass is completely removed before sleeping on the mattress.
If you are unable to remove the fiberglass completely, then replacing the mattress is recommended. When disposing of a mattress with fibers, make sure to do so in accordance with local regulations.
This will ensure that you are safely disposing of any potentially hazardous material. It’s also important to remember that even when a mattress has been wiped clean of fibers, it may still remain embedded in fabrics or other materials that cannot be seen. Therefore, if possible, try to avoid sleeping on mattresses that contain fiberglass or any other potentially hazardous material.
It’s also important to take steps to prevent fiberglass from entering your mattress in the first place. This includes choosing mattresses made with materials that are known to be free of fiberglasses, such as natural latex or organic cotton.
It is also important to be mindful when handling any new items around the house, as they may contain fibers that can transfer onto furniture and bedding over time. Taking these precautionary steps will help ensure that your mattress remains free of any potential health risks associated with fiberglass exposure.
10 Effective Methods on How to Get Rid of Fiberglass from Mattress
1. Wear Protective Clothing
Before attempting to remove the fiberglass, it’s important to wear protective clothing such as gloves, a long-sleeved shirt, and a face mask to prevent the fibers from getting on your skin and in your lungs.
If the mattress is accessible, cover it with a tarp or plastic sheeting to contain any fiberglass that may be released while cleaning. Although the chances of fiberglass getting through the protective clothing are slim, it’s still important to take the necessary precautions.
2. Use a Vacuum Cleaner
A vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter can help suck up the fiberglass particles from the mattress. Make sure the filter is in good shape, and the cleaner is working at its best. Vacuuming helps to collect fibers that may have been loosened and dislodged by the previous steps.
Vacuum the mattress in all directions, and make sure to get into every crevice. Once you’re done, empty the vacuum cleaner bag or canister in an outside trash bin. Although the use of a vacuum cleaner is effective, remember that this method does not guarantee the removal of all fibers. Make sure to inspect the mattress for any remaining particles.
3. Apply Tape
Use duct tape or packing tape to dab the fiberglass particles off the surface of the mattress. Be sure to use a fresh piece of tape each time to avoid spreading the fibers. Change the tape frequently until all particles have been removed. If the fiberglass particles are difficult to remove, try using a lint roller instead.
This can help capture the tiny fibers more effectively. Dispose of the tape and lint roller after use. Try to avoid getting the tape and lint roller on any other surfaces, as they can spread the particles. Although, if that does occur, use the steps outlined above to clean and remove the particles.
4. Use a Lint Roller
A lint roller can be an effective way to pick up the fibers on the surface of the mattress. This should be done as soon as possible after the initial contact with fiberglass. Be sure to take extra care when using a lint roller, and make sure to roll in the same direction. The lint roller will pick up any fibers that may have become embedded in the mattress fabric, as well as those on the surface.
While it may not get all of the fibers, it can be a helpful step in the cleaning process. Though it is possible to purchase lint rollers specifically designed for bedding, a regular lint roller can also be used. Be sure to change the sheets when finished to avoid further contact with the fibers.
5. Wash Bedding
Remove all bedding, including sheets, pillowcases, and blankets, and wash them in hot water with detergent to remove any remaining fiberglass particles. Dry bedding in the dryer on a high heat setting to help kill any remaining fiberglass particles. Spray both sides of the mattress with an anti-allergen spray to reduce any allergens caused by the fiberglass.
Finally, vacuum and mop the entire bedroom to remove any lingering particles. Additionally, you should consider replacing your mattress if the fiberglass has caused significant damage. Purchasing an all-natural mattress made from wool or latex is a good way to avoid future fiberglass contamination.
6. Use a Handheld Vacuum
A handheld vacuum can be especially useful for getting into tight spaces where larger vacuums can’t reach. Make sure to use the proper vacuum attachment for trapping glass particles, such as a brush or crevice tool.
Place the vacuum over the area multiple times to ensure that all of the particles have been collected. Once you’ve vacuumed the mattress, dispose of the bag or canister according to your local regulations. Though vacuuming won’t eliminate all of the fiberglasses, it will help reduce the amount.
7. Wrap the Mattress
Wrap the mattress in plastic or a cover specifically designed to prevent the release of fiberglass fibers. Make sure that the plastic is tightly fitted and sealed. This will prevent any further fiberglass fibers from escaping into the air. To be extra safe, you can also seal the mattress in a plastic bag or two.
After wrapping the mattress in plastic, cover it with a blanket for added protection. If you are going to keep the mattress for a longer period of time, make sure to check it periodically for signs of any fiberglass fibers that may have escaped.
8. Use an Air Purifier
An air purifier with a HEPA filter can help remove any airborne fiberglass particles in the room. If possible, keep the purifier in the same room as the mattress for a few days to ensure maximum particle removal.
Make sure to replace or clean the filter regularly to keep it working at an optimal level. Additionally, you can use a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter to suck up any remaining particles in the air. Be sure to use a vacuum cleaner that has been specifically designed for removing small particles like fiberglass.
9. Consider Professional Cleaning
If the fiberglass particles are particularly stubborn or widespread, consider hiring a professional cleaning service to handle the job. Professional cleaners will have the knowledge and expertise to safely and effectively remove fiberglass without damaging your mattress.
Make sure that you let them know what kind of mattress it is before they start, so they can use the appropriate cleaning methods. This may also be a good option if you’re looking for a more thorough deep clean than you can do on your own. Keep in mind that this is a costly option and may not be necessary for isolated incidents of fiberglass contamination.
10. Replace the Mattress
In extreme cases, it may be necessary to replace the mattress entirely, especially if the fiberglass particles have penetrated deeply into the foam or other materials of the mattress. If the mattress is still relatively new, it may be possible to contact the manufacturer and see if they will provide a replacement.
Otherwise, purchasing a new mattress is likely the best option for getting rid of fiberglass in your bedroom. However, before buying a new mattress, it is always a good idea to check the materials and make sure that there are no fiberglass particles present in the mattress. This way you can avoid the same problem in the future.
Some Safety Precautions When Getting Rid of Fiberglass from Mattress
When it comes to getting rid of fiberglass from a mattress, safety should always be taken into account. Here are some safety precautions to keep in mind:
1. Wear Protective Gear
When handling or removing fiberglass, it’s important to wear long sleeves and pants, as well as gloves and eyewear. This will help to protect your skin and eyes from the tiny fibers.
2. Vacuum Often
Vacuuming frequently can help to reduce the amount of fiberglass present in the mattress. It’s important to use a vacuum cleaner with a high-efficiency filter so that none of the fibers escape into the air during cleaning.
3. Don’t Try to Remove It
It can be tempting to try and remove the fiberglass, but this should not be done. The fibers are very small and can easily become airborne, making them difficult to contain. If you must handle the fiberglass, do so in a well-ventilated area with protective gear on.
4. Dispose of It Properly
Once the fiberglass is removed from the mattress, it should be disposed of properly in an airtight bag or container. The fibers can become airborne and cause health risks if not handled correctly.
Conclusion
In conclusion, getting rid of fiberglass from your mattress is no easy task, but with the right tools and techniques, you are guaranteed to have a safe and comfortable sleeping experience.
It may require some hard work and dedication to get rid of the fiberglass particles, so be sure to take all necessary precautions while removing them. If you feel like you need extra help or guidance with getting rid of fiberglass from your mattress or other surfaces in your house, then contact a professional for assistance.
Just remember – safety comes first! Now that you know how to get rid of fiberglass from mattress safely and effectively, there’s no reason why you can’t enjoy a safe and comfortable sleep each night. Good luck!
Angela Ervin
Angela is the executive editor of DIY quickly. She began her career as an interior designer before applying her strategic and creative passion to lifestyle and home. She has close to 15 years of experience in creative writing and online content strategy for housekeeping, home decorations as well as other niche efforts. She loves her job and has the privilege of working with an extraordinary team. She lives with her husband, two sons, and daughter in Petersburg. When she's not busy working she spent time with her family.
