How to Clean a Mattress (Stains, Smells, and Deep Cleaning)
A mattress can’t go in the washing machine, but you can freshen it and remove most stains in an afternoon. The key rule is to use as little liquid as possible. A soaked mattress can grow mildew.
Quick answer
- Strip the bed and wash all bedding hot (if labels allow).
- Vacuum the whole mattress with the upholstery tool.
- Spot-clean stains by dabbing, not soaking.
- Sprinkle baking soda over everything, wait several hours, then vacuum.
Deep cleaning, step by step
- Strip and wash sheets, mattress pad, and pillowcases.
- Vacuum the top, sides, and seams with the upholstery attachment. Seams collect the most dust.
- Spot-treat stains using the guide below.
- Deodorize. Shake baking soda over the whole surface. Leave it for at least 4 hours, overnight if you can. Open a window or let sunlight hit the mattress.
- Vacuum again to remove the baking soda.
- Flip or rotate if your mattress allows it.
- Protect it with a washable, waterproof mattress protector so you don’t have to do this often.
Stain guide
| Stain | What to use |
|---|---|
| Sweat (yellow marks) | 1 part dish soap, 2 parts 3% hydrogen peroxide. Dab on, wait 15 minutes, blot with a damp cloth. Test first. |
| Urine | Blot, then use an enzyme cleaner or 1:1 vinegar and water. Cover with baking soda once dry, then vacuum. See pet urine guide. |
| Blood | Cold water and dish soap, or a little hydrogen peroxide. See blood stains. |
| Food or drink | Mild dish soap and water on a cloth. Blot. |
Always dab with a cloth instead of pouring liquid on the mattress. Let it dry completely before making the bed. A fan speeds this up.
Memory foam
Use even less water. Dab with a barely damp cloth and dry it with a fan. Check the manufacturer’s care guide, because some warranties are voided by certain cleaners.
How often?
- Vacuum and deodorize every 3 to 6 months.
- Wash your mattress protector every 1 to 2 months.
- Treat spills right away.
FAQ
Can I steam clean a mattress? Some fabrics tolerate light steam, but heat can set protein stains and moisture can cause mildew. Spot-clean first and check the manufacturer’s instructions.
Always test a cleaner on a hidden spot first and follow the care label. Never mix bleach with ammonia, vinegar, or other cleaners. Ventilate the room and wear gloves when using strong products.