Mould growth under an ottoman bed can be a frustrating issue, especially in homes with limited airflow or high humidity. Since ottoman beds have a large storage space underneath, poor ventilation can lead to trapped moisture, creating the perfect environment for mould and mildew. Fortunately, there are effective ways to prevent this problem and keep your ottoman bed fresh and clean.

At The Bedcrafters, we understand the importance of a well-maintained bed. Follow these practical steps to stop mould from forming under your ottoman bed and maintain a hygienic sleeping environment.

Why Does Mould Form Under an Ottoman Bed?

Mould thrives in damp, dark, and poorly ventilated areas. The storage space under an ottoman bed can become a breeding ground for mould due to:

• Lack of airflow – Enclosed spaces trap humidity, making it difficult for moisture to escape.

• High room humidity – Moisture in the air can settle under the bed and encourage mould growth.

• Storing damp or improperly dried items – Clothes, bedding, or shoes with moisture can introduce dampness.

• Poor insulation – Cold floors or walls can create condensation under the bed.

How to Prevent Mould Under an Ottoman Bed

1. Improve Air Circulation

Proper airflow is key to reducing moisture buildup. You can improve ventilation by:

• Raising the bed slightly – Using bed risers or choosing an ottoman bed with breathable slats instead of a solid base allows better airflow.

• Keeping the storage area organized – Avoid overfilling the space to ensure air can circulate.

• Opening the bed regularly – Lift the ottoman base occasionally to allow fresh air in and prevent trapped humidity.

2. Reduce Humidity Levels

High humidity is a leading cause of mould. To keep moisture under control:

• Use a dehumidifier – This helps maintain ideal humidity levels between 40-50% in the bedroom.

• Open windows daily – Letting in fresh air can help reduce condensation buildup.

• Use moisture absorbers – Place silica gel packs, charcoal bags, or a bowl of baking soda under the bed to absorb excess moisture.

3. Keep the Storage Area Dry

If you use the ottoman bed for storage, make sure the items inside are completely dry.

• Do not store damp clothing, bedding, or shoes – Always air-dry items before placing them inside.

• Use plastic or airtight storage boxes – This protects fabrics and other belongings from absorbing moisture.

• Line the base with breathable fabric or anti-mould liners – These can help prevent condensation buildup.

4. Clean and Check Regularly

Regular maintenance can help catch early signs of mould before it spreads.

• Vacuum under the bed every few weeks to remove dust and moisture that can contribute to mould growth.

• Wipe down the storage area with a vinegar solution (1:1 mix of water and white vinegar) to kill any developing mould spores.

• Inspect the mattress and bed base for any dampness, especially in colder months.

5. Choose the Right Mattress and Bed Base

The type of mattress and bed frame you use can impact ventilation.

• Opt for a breathable mattress – Memory foam can retain heat, so consider a mattress with built-in airflow channels or a pocket-sprung design.

• Select an ottoman bed with ventilation holes or a slatted base – This promotes better air circulation compared to solid-bottom designs.

How to Remove Mould Under an Ottoman Bed

If you already have mould under your ottoman bed, act quickly to remove it before it spreads.

Step 1: Remove All Items from Under the Bed

Take out everything stored inside the ottoman compartment. Check for mould on stored belongings, and discard or clean any affected items.

Step 2: Clean the Affected Area

• Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle and apply it to the mouldy surface.

• Let it sit for 10-15 minutes to kill mould spores.

• Wipe the area with a clean cloth and dry thoroughly.

• For stubborn mould, use a mixture of baking soda and water as a natural scrubbing paste.

Step 3: Dry and Air Out the Space

• Keep the bed open for a few hours to allow airflow.

• Use a fan, heater, or dehumidifier to dry the area completely.

• Sprinkle baking soda in the storage area to absorb excess moisture before replacing items.

Step 4: Prevent Future Mould Growth

After cleaning, follow the prevention tips mentioned above to keep the area dry and mould-free.

When to Consider Replacing Your Bed

If mould growth is severe and keeps returning despite cleaning efforts, the bed frame or mattress may be compromised. In such cases, investing in a new ottoman bed with better ventilation and moisture-resistant materials can be a smart solution. At The Bedcrafters, we offer a range of high-quality ottoman beds designed to minimize moisture buildup and provide excellent support for a cleaner, healthier sleep environment.

By following these simple prevention and cleaning steps, you can keep your ottoman bed mould-free and maintain a healthier sleeping environment. If you’re looking for a high-quality, well-ventilated ottoman bed, explore the collection at The Bedcrafters for the perfect solution.

FAQs

1. Why does mould keep forming under my ottoman bed?

Mould can persist due to high humidity, poor ventilation, or trapped moisture in stored items. Improving airflow, using a dehumidifier, and keeping the area dry can help prevent mould growth.

2. Can a mattress develop mould if stored in an ottoman bed?

Yes, if the storage area is damp, mould can spread to the mattress. Using a breathable mattress protector and maintaining good ventilation can prevent this.

3. What is the best way to remove mould from under an ottoman bed?

A solution of white vinegar and water can effectively kill mould. Spray the area, let it sit for 10-15 minutes, wipe clean, and dry thoroughly.

4. How often should I check under my ottoman bed for mould?

It's a good idea to inspect and clean under your bed every few months, especially during colder or more humid seasons when mould growth is more likely.