How to Keep Your Mattress Fresh and Breathable This Autumn and Winter

As temperatures begin to fall and households start reaching for electric blankets and turning the heating back on, autumn and winter are a good time to pay a little more attention to mattress ventilation.

Mattresses naturally come into contact with moisture from the surrounding air and from our bodies while we sleep. In most circumstances this presents no problem, provided that moisture is able to evaporate and sufficient airflow is maintained around the mattress.

Problems are more likely to arise where moisture is allowed to remain trapped for prolonged periods, particularly beneath a mattress or between the mattress and a poorly ventilated base.

Interest in the subject also appears to increase as the weather changes. Google Trends data taken on 18 September 2026 showed searches for ‘electric blanket’ had increased by 233% over the previous three weeks, while searches for ‘mattress mould’ had increased by 433% over the same period.

So, with colder and wetter weather approaching, what should you actually be doing to look after your mattress?

From choosing a well-ventilated base to simply pulling back the duvet and allowing your mattress to air, there are several straightforward ways to encourage airflow and help keep your mattress fresh throughout autumn and winter.

Why do you need to let a mattress breathe?

Mattresses naturally come into contact with small amounts of moisture from the surrounding air and from our bodies while we sleep. Allowing air to circulate around the mattress helps that moisture evaporate rather than remain trapped.

Good airflow can also help with temperature regulation, making the sleeping environment more comfortable.

What are the consequences of not allowing a mattress to breathe?

Where moisture is allowed to remain trapped for prolonged periods, particularly in areas with limited airflow, it can create conditions in which mould, mildew and unpleasant odours are more likely to develop. Persistent dampness may also affect some mattress materials over time.

Can this be impacted by having an electric blanket on your bed?

Using an electric blanket changes the temperature around the mattress, but it does not itself create moisture. The important factor is making sure any moisture already present is able to escape rather than becoming trapped around the mattress.

It is perfectly fine to use an electric blanket, but good ventilation remains important. Avoid leaving it on unnecessarily for long periods and make sure your mattress base allows air to circulate.

Can turning your heating on have an impact on your mattress or bed frame?

Turning the heating on is not generally a problem for a mattress or bed frame. What matters more is avoiding persistent dampness and large or prolonged changes in the conditions around the bed.

Wooden furniture and some mattress materials can respond to changes in temperature and humidity, so maintaining reasonably stable indoor conditions is sensible where possible.

Are different mattresses affected differently by the cold?

Memory foam is particularly temperature-sensitive and may feel firmer or less responsive in colder conditions. This is usually temporary and the foam will generally soften again as it warms up.

Other foam constructions can also change slightly in feel with temperature, although the effect varies between materials and products.

Traditional sprung mattresses are less affected by temperature itself, although their comfort layers and fillings can still be affected by prolonged moisture or dampness.

Regardless of mattress type, moisture is the more important concern. Cold conditions may temporarily change how some materials feel, while prolonged moisture or condensation can contribute to mould growth, odours and material deterioration.

Are there any simple ways to make your mattress more breathable?

• Use a slatted base or a base designed to allow airflow around the mattress.
• Avoid placing the mattress directly on the floor for prolonged periods, particularly where ventilation underneath is limited.
• Lift or rotate the mattress occasionally, where appropriate, to allow air to circulate around areas that are normally covered.
• Use breathable bedding and mattress covers that do not unnecessarily restrict airflow.

What are your top tips for keeping your mattress in top shape over autumn and winter?

• Allow your mattress to air regularly by pulling back the duvet rather than immediately covering the bed each morning.
• Rotate or flip your mattress where the manufacturer recommends doing so.
• Use a breathable, washable mattress protector and keep bedding clean and dry.
• Make sure there is reasonable airflow around and beneath the mattress.
• If you notice persistent condensation or dampness in the bedroom, address the underlying moisture or ventilation issue rather than relying on the mattress to dry itself.