What Are The Causes Of Under Mattress Moisture?

Moisture is a hazard for your mattress and for your health. If you have moisture building up under your mattress, acting to correct the problem can help prevent health risks in your home.

Moisture can accumulate at the underside of your mattress because high levels of humidity. According to University of Central Florida engineering professor Waldemar Karwowski, in his 2006 "International Encyclopedia of Ergonomics and Human Factors," 25 percent of the moisture your body emits during the night is absorbed by your mattress. Humidity in the environment, especially when is air circulation under the bed is poor, can increase moisture under the mattress.

Moisture under the mattress is an issue because it can lead to the development of mold beneath the bed. Mold can release allergens into the air and cause health issues. So can dust mites, which thrive in warm, humid environments and breed more rapidly if moisture is present.

Avoid enclosing the underside of your mattress, especially if it is made of foam. A foam mattress can attract more moisture than traditional models. Increasing air circulation in the room and running a dehumidifier will help prevent moisture from accumulating under the mattress, according to Dutch researcher Evert Hasselaar in his 2006 "Health Performance of Housing."