We all understand the importance of maintaining spotless homes, but have you ever thought about cleaning your mattress? When yellow marks start appearing, it's time for a good clean.

And if you neglect it, this can result in more serious issues regarding your health.

If you've been waking up feeling sluggish, bunged up or poorly lately, the culprit could be your bed.

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According to experts from My Furniture, grubby mattresses can become a "hidden health hazard".

Germs, dust mites and allergens - which may cause breathing difficulties, allergic reactions and poor-quality sleep - can all be hiding under the bedding.

Cleaning the mattress is one of those forgotten household tasks, but it doesn't make it any less crucial.

So to help people, Dimitri Pappas from My Furniture has revealed some key indicators that your mattress needs some tender loving care, and the most effective methods to tackle it.

He explained to Express.co.uk: "Yellow stains usually happen because of sweat and body oils that build up over time.

"When these mix with air, they cause the mattress fabric to slowly turn yellow, just like the stains you sometimes see on old T-shirts."

Dimitri explained one of the simplest and most successful methods to tackle yellow stains is by using everyday items like hydrogen peroxide, water, a bit of clear dish soap, and baking soda. However, it's crucial to test it on a small area first, as hydrogen peroxide can affect some fabrics.

He explained: "The cleaning process is simple, but letting the mixture sit for a few hours, or overnight, makes a big difference. You might need to repeat it if the stain is stubborn, but this method often works well without the need for strong chemicals."

You can also use shop-bought cleaners for upholstery, but just ensure to follow the instructions exactly as they appear on the bottle to avoid causing any damage to your mattress.

Dimitri suggests deep cleaning your mattress twice a year, which will help to keep it fresher for longer.

They usually last around eight years if they're cared for properly, before fillings and springs start to wear out, causing lumps or sagging.

The expert said: "You may need a replacement sooner if your mattress feels less comfortable or if you experience back or neck pain connected to your sleep."