Preparing for Students to Return to Campus – Especially After the COVID-19 Pandemic
| by Paul Bailey, President of University Sleep
When preparing for students to return to campus, it’s imperative that cleaning and disinfecting mattresses be part of your strategy. In light of the extra precautions colleges and universities are taking in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, Paul Bailey, President of University Sleep, shares the best cleaning practices for those who have University Sleep mattresses on their campus.
While the novel coronavirus pandemic is on everyone’s minds, housing and facility professionals across the country are prioritizing the safety of their students.
For those who purchased a mattress from University Sleep Products, I’d like to share our recommendations for cleaning and sanitizing our mattresses.
Tests & Certifications
Before getting to the specifics, it’s important to understand why our mattresses can be cleaned and sanitized. University Sleep mattresses are covered in a medical-grade nylon that has a fluid-proof, polyurethane backing. This assures nothing can penetrate the mattress, including fluids, skin allergens, blood, and – most importantly – viruses.
University Sleep can make these claims because we have certifications from independent, third-party laboratories to prove them. Specifically, our mattresses pass:
- ASTM METHOD F 1670 Liquid & Synthetic Blood Penetration Test from Nelson Laboratories
- ASTM METHOD F 1671 Viral Penetration Test from Nelson Laboratories
- Allergen Barrier Use Simulation Test from Viracor-IBT Laboratories
In addition, University Sleep mattresses are free from PBDE, antimony, and lead. Our mattresses are also UL GREENGUARD® GOLD certified – an important certification for LEED buildings.
Cleaning & Sanitizing
We recommend cleaning the nylon with a neutral detergent and lukewarm water. Wipe off the soap with water and a clean cloth. Allow to dry thoroughly. If you notice an odor from the mattress, you may use a scented detergent. If the cover is stained, we recommend using a soft sponge with detergent on the area.
For sanitizing, you may use a quaternary (“quant”) solution at the manufacturer’s recommended dilution ratios. You can also disinfect the mattress with a 1:10 dilution of household bleach (5.25% sodium hypochlorite) as recommended by the CDC. In fact, this method is specifically recommended for blood or viral contamination.
Warnings
Iodophor-type disinfectants (Betadine, for example) will stain SafeSleep™ fabric. Prolonged contact with bleach solutions, improper dilution ratios, or poor rinsing of fabric may cause damage to both the appearance and performance of nylon.
We’re Here to Help
It is our hope that this information gives you some relief, guidance, and hope in providing a safe environment for your students. If for any reason you need further assistance, please feel free to contact me at paul@universitysleep.com.
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About the Author
Paul Bailey is the President of University Sleep, an innovator in creating mattresses for university residence halls. Find out more about E&I’s competitively solicited University Sleep contract.
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