How to clean a mattress (and why you should)

If you’ve wondered how to clean a mattress without wrecking the materials, this quick tutorial shows the safest tools, stain-by-stain remedies, and simple upkeep habits that keep your bed fresh, supportive, and hygienic for years. We’ll start with dry methods, then spot-treat, deodorize, and—most important—dry fast. Let’s keep it simple and effective.

Key Takeaways: how to clean a mattress

• Dry first: Vacuum slowly, then spot treat—avoid soaking the core.
• Match remedy to stain: Sweat, blood, and urine respond to different solutions.
• Deodorize smart: Use light baking soda; don’t pack it into seams.
• Dry fast: Fans, airflow, and sunlight beat lingering moisture every time.
• Protect + rotate: A breathable protector and seasonal rotation keep freshness longer.

Why Deep-Cleaning Your Mattress Matters

Answer first: Regular cleaning removes buildup that flattens fabrics, traps odors, and irritates allergies—so your bed feels and smells like new for longer.

Mattresses collect sweat salts, skin oils, dust, and allergens that can dull fabrics and cause odors. Routine maintenance helps foams and fibers rebound properly and supports a healthier sleep surface. Many manufacturers also require a clean, protected mattress to validate warranty coverage.

Tools & Solutions You’ll Need

Start with the safest basics

Answer first: Keep tools gentle, moisture light, and drying rapid—your foam core will thank you.

• Upholstery vacuum with crevice tool
• Microfiber cloths, white towels (lint-free)
• Spray bottles for spot treatments
• Gentle enzyme cleaner (bio stains), unscented dish soap
• Hydrogen peroxide 3% and baking soda (use sparingly; always patch-test)
• Optional: rubbing alcohol (quick-dry deodorizer), a few essential oil drops for baking soda
• Fan, open windows, or indirect sunlight for faster drying

Step-by-Step: Vacuum, Spot Treat, Deodorize, Dry

1) Strip & Pre-Check

Answer first: Remove bedding, read labels, and note warranty cautions before you get anything wet.

1. Remove all bedding and the protector.
2. Check tags for care notes or “do not saturate” warnings.
3. Pre-identify stains so you can match the right remedy.

2) Vacuum Thoroughly

Answer first: Slow, overlapping vacuum passes lift dust and dander so stain removers work faster and safer.

Use the upholstery head in slow passes; switch to the crevice tool for piping and tufts. Evidence supports routine mattress vacuuming to reduce allergens and debris. How to Clean a Mattress (BHG); Vacuuming Matters (BHG).

3) Spot Treat Stains

Answer first: Mist lightly and blot—don’t scrub—to pull soils up without pushing moisture into foam.

Match remedies to stain type (details below). Keep applications thin and repeat in rounds. Sleep Foundation and Parachute provide consumer-friendly methods. SF: Clean a Mattress, Parachute: Steps & Tips.

4) Deodorize (Optional)

Answer first: A light dusting of baking soda helps with odors—then vacuum once it’s had time to absorb.

Use a thin, even layer and avoid packing powder into seams. Some editors caution that overuse can be rough on vacuums—moderation wins. BHG: Baking Soda Caution.

5) Dry Fast

Answer first: Airflow beats time; foam and moisture are not friends.

Aim a fan across the surface, open windows, or position near indirect sunlight. Ensure the core feels completely dry before making the bed. Sleep Foundation also notes to avoid over-wetting, especially with memory foam. SF: Mattress Care.

Stain Removal by Type (Sweat, Blood, Urine)

Sweat & Yellowing

Answer first: Start mild, escalate carefully—cool water + a drop of soap, then tiny dabs of 3% peroxide only if needed.

Mix a few drops of gentle dish soap in cool water; lightly mist and blot. For stubborn discoloration, dab a cloth with 3% hydrogen peroxide and spot-touch the fabric only—always patch-test first to avoid bleaching. Follow with clean water on a cloth and blot dry. SF: Yellow Stains.

Blood

Answer first: Cold water only—heat sets proteins.

Blot with a cloth dampened in cold water and unscented soap. Enzyme cleaners labeled for protein stains can help; mist lightly, wait a few minutes, then blot until transfer stops. SF: Stain Guide.

Urine (Fresh)

Answer first: Blot quickly, then use an enzyme cleaner; keep pass-through moisture minimal.

Blot up excess with towels. Apply an enzyme cleaner for biological stains, working from the outside in. Blot repeatedly. Finish with a light baking soda dusting and vacuum once dry. SF: Urine Smell & Stains.

Urine (Set-in Odor)

Answer first: Enzyme first, then a light vinegar-water mist; dry fully between rounds.

After enzyme treatment and drying, lightly mist a 50:50 mix of water and white vinegar, then blot; let dry fully. Avoid saturating the foam—thin applications in rounds are safer. SF: Clean a Mattress.

Ongoing Maintenance: Protector, Rotation, Sun + Air

Protect First

Answer first: A breathable, waterproof protector blocks stains and extends comfort life.

Wash bedding weekly and the protector monthly. Parachute’s mattress care guidance echoes simple, repeatable habits. Parachute: Mattress Care.

Rotate on a Schedule

Answer first: Rotation evens wear; some brands suggest every 6 months.

Rotate the mattress seasonally (or as directed). During laundry day, leave the mattress bare for 30–60 minutes with a window open—sunlight and airflow help keep it fresh. BHG: Rotate Your Mattress.

Know When Cleaning Isn’t Enough

Answer first: Persistent odors, visible mold, or deep impressions usually mean it’s time to replace.

Need help with specific messes? Try these focused guides:

• How to Clean Urine from a Memory Foam Mattress
• Spot Clean a Mattress: Step-by-Step
• How to Clean a Mattress with Baking Soda
• Natural Mattress Cleaning: Gentle, Effective Methods

Safe Practices & When to Replace

Safety First

Answer first: Light moisture, plenty of airflow, and no harsh mixes keep both you and your mattress safe.

• Avoid steamers or heavy soaking—moisture trapped in foam can cause odors or damage.
• Never mix ammonia with bleach or peroxide products.
• Patch-test any cleaner on an unseen area first.
• If persistent odors, visible mold, or deep body impressions remain, it’s time to replace.

For comfort troubleshooting beyond cleanliness, see our targeted cleaning and care library above or check BHG’s longevity tips for keeping mattresses fresher longer. BHG: Make Your Mattress Last.

FAQ

How often should I deep-clean, and how to clean a mattress safely each time?

Vacuum monthly and spot clean as needed. Do a deeper refresh every 3–4 months. Work in light layers, blot instead of scrub, and dry thoroughly with airflow or sunlight.

Can I use a steam cleaner on my mattress?

It’s not recommended for most foam beds; heat and moisture can damage adhesives and trap odors. Stick to minimal moisture methods and fast drying.

What’s the best way to remove old urine smell?

Treat with an enzyme cleaner first and allow full drying. Follow with a light vinegar-water mist and a thin baking soda layer; vacuum once dry.

Will hydrogen peroxide bleach my mattress?

It can lighten fabrics. Use only 3%, dab sparingly on a cloth, and patch-test in a hidden spot. Blot with clean water after and dry quickly.

When should I replace my mattress instead of cleaning?

Replace if there’s visible mold, lingering odors after multiple treatments, or deep impressions that cause pain or misalignment.