Photograph courtesy of BOXI by Semihandmade. Story photography by Justine Hand, unless noted otherwise.

You spend a third of your life in bed. How often do you really clean it—all the way down to the mattress? Chances are, not enough. Maybe you think that with a mattress pad and a sheet, it’s not really dirty (wrong). Or that that you need a professional cleaner or harsh chemicals (no, and nope). Here’s the good news: Cleaning your mattress is easier than you think.

 Photograph courtesy of BOXI by Semihandmade

Most experts recommend cleaning your mattress twice per year.

Mites, allergens, and dirt can live in your mattress. Here are 5 steps for an easy cleaning.

1. Strip the bed and wash all bedding.

2. Vacuum.

3. Spot Clean.

4. Deodorize.

5. Cover.

The final touch! Fresh flowers from the garden.