Your mattress goes through a lot. Sweat, dust, dead skin, and even crumbs from late-night snacks can build up. If you have allergies or pets, it gets even worse. A dirty bed isn’t just gross—it’s unhealthy too.
Learning how to clean your mattress properly keeps your bed fresh and safe. It helps remove dirt, dust mites, odors, and stains. This guide gives you simple steps to deep-clean your mattress like a pro, using things you probably already have at home.
Ready for a cleaner night’s sleep? Keep reading!
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- Preparing for the Cleaning Process
- Strip the Bed and Wash All Bedding
- Freshen Up Your Pillows
- Vacuum the Mattress Thoroughly
- Spot-Clean Stains Effectively
- Deodorize the Mattress Naturally
- Vacuum Again to Remove Residue
- Air Out the Mattress
- Clean and Sanitize the Bed Frame
- Regular Maintenance Tips
- How Often Should You Deep Clean Your Mattress?
Step 1: Preparing for the Cleaning Process
Cleaning your mattress starts with getting everything ready. Gather what you need and ensure your space is safe to work in.
Gather Essential Cleaning Supplies
Grab a vacuum with an upholstery attachment. Pick up laundry detergent, baking soda, and dish soap. Include cleaning cloths and a bottle of enzyme cleaner for stains. Always use cold water for washing to avoid setting stains deeper.
If you like fresh scents, have essential oils handy. Make sure your supplies are ready before starting. A mattress protector can help keep it clean longer after the deep clean!
Safety Tips Before You Start
Check your mattress care guide first. Some mattresses, like Stearns & Foster models, have special cleaning rules. Never soak the mattress; it can harm the material and lead to mold.
Test any cleaning solution on a small spot before using it. Keep your space well-ventilated while working. Open windows or use a fan for better airflow. Protect yourself with gloves if you use strong cleaners or sanitizers.
Avoid heavy liquids near electrical outlets or cords to stay safe!
Step 2: Strip the Bed and Wash All Bedding
Remove all the sheets, pillowcases, and mattress covers, down to the bare mattress, and toss them into your washer.
Use hot water to kill dust mites and keep your bed more hygienic. Wash bedding weekly for better hygiene and fewer allergens. If items are machine washable, follow their labels to avoid damage.
Step 3: Freshen Up Your Pillows
Follow the care tags for cleaning instructions. Some pillows can go in the washing machine, while others need hand washing. Use mild detergent to keep them fresh and safe.
Wash your pillows every six months.
Add pillow protectors after cleaning. Protectors block dust mites and help with hygiene, keeping pillows clean longer between washes. Fresh pillows make a big difference for good sleep, too!
Step 4: Vacuum the Mattress Thoroughly
Use a vacuum cleaner with an upholstery attachment. Carefully go over the entire mattress surface, sides, and seams. These areas often hide dust mites or crumbs. Pay extra attention to edges and corners where debris collects.
Vacuuming helps remove dirt, dead skin cells, and allergens. Do this step regularly as part of your mattress cleaning routine. A clean bed frame also helps prevent buildup on your mattress.
Step 5: Spot-Clean Stains Effectively
Stains can be tricky, but with the correct method, you can fix them. Tackle each one quickly to keep your mattress looking fresh.
Blood Stains
Use cold water for blood stains. Hot water can set the stain and make it harder to remove. Mix dish soap with cold water, then dab it on the spot with a clean cloth. Don’t rub—this can spread the stain.
Sprinkle baking soda over the wet area. Let it sit for 30 minutes to absorb any residue. Vacuum up the powder after it dries. For tough spots, try Vanish or a similar cleaner made for fabrics.
Always test in a small area first!
Urine Stains
Blot the stain with paper towels. Do not rub; this spreads it further. Press firmly to lift as much moisture as you can. Sprinkle baking soda over the spot, covering it entirely. Let it sit for a few hours.
Mix white vinegar and water (1:1 ratio). Spray the mix on the stain, but do not soak it. Blot again gently with dry towels until clean. Once dry, vacuum up any leftover baking soda.
Sweat Stains
Mix mild detergent with lukewarm water to make a cleaning solution. Dip a soft cloth into the mixture and dab the stained area gently. Avoid soaking the mattress; too much water can cause damage.
Let it sit for 10-15 minutes, then blot with a clean, damp cloth to remove soap residue. Sprinkle baking soda over the spot to absorb moisture and odors—let it stay for an hour before vacuuming thoroughly.
Repeat if needed to lift stubborn stains fully.
Food and Drink Spills
Blot the spill with a clean cloth right away. Avoid rubbing, as it can push liquids deeper into the mattress. Use cold water for most spills, as hot water might set stains.
For sticky messes, make a solution of mild detergent and warm water. Dab it over the area gently until cleaned. Rinse using a damp sponge, then pat dry with towels to remove moisture.
Let it air dry thoroughly before putting bedding back on top.
Best stain removers and DIY solutions
Blood stains respond well to enzyme cleaners. Spray the cleaner on the stain and wait 10 minutes. Use a damp cloth to dab it away gently. For more minor spots, mix dish soap with water and scrub lightly.
Urine stains can be removed with baking soda and vinegar. Sprinkle baking soda over the area, spray vinegar on top, and let it fizz. After it dries, vacuum up the residue thoroughly.
Keep repeating if needed for tough odors or discoloration!
Step 6: Deodorize the Mattress Naturally
Freshen your mattress with simple, natural methods. These steps will help keep it smelling clean and inviting.
Baking Soda
Sprinkle baking soda evenly over your mattress to absorb odors and moisture. Use about one cup, or adjust based on the bed size.
For the best results, leave it for several hours, or even overnight. It effectively freshens up and neutralizes smells without harsh chemicals.
Essential Oils (optional)
Mix a few drops of lavender or chamomile essential oil with baking soda to create a natural deodorizer for your mattress. These oils add a calming scent, perfect for better sleep.
Spray the mixture over your mattress lightly and evenly. Let it dry completely before vacuuming up the residue. Essential oils are non-toxic, making them a safer choice than chemical sprays.
Use this step to keep your mattress fresh and relaxing!
Letting the Baking Soda Sit
Let the baking soda stay on the mattress for several hours or overnight. This gives it enough time to absorb odors and moisture from deep inside. The longer it sits, the better it works.
Spread a thick layer evenly across the surface. For stronger smells, leaving it overnight might be best. While you wait, keep pets and kids away to avoid messes!
Step 7: Vacuum Again to Remove Residue
Use a clean vacuum with an upholstery attachment to vacuum every inch of your mattress to collect leftover baking soda and dust. Work slowly for better results.
Focus on edges, corners, and seams. These spots often trap hidden debris or residue. Ensure all baking soda is gone—this prevents buildup or dirt sticking later.
Step 8: Air Out the Mattress
Open the windows to let fresh air flow through the room. Sunlight and ventilation help dry out any moisture trapped in the mattress. This step can stop mildew, odors, or bedbug infestations from forming.
Aim to do this for at least a few hours. If possible, air it out every couple of months or more often in humid weather. Fresh air keeps your mattress clean and feeling fresh longer!
Step 9: Clean and Sanitize the Bed Frame
Check the bed frame for dust, dirt, or spills. Use a vacuum to remove hidden debris in cracks or corners. Wipe surfaces with a damp cloth and mild soap. Dry them completely to prevent mold.
Inspect for signs of bed bugs carefully—look at joints and seams. If you find any, use a mattress protector after cleaning everything thoroughly. Regular checks keep pests away and your sleep safe!
Regular Maintenance Tips
Stick to a cleaning routine to keep your mattress fresh. Simple habits can make a big difference over time!
Vacuuming Frequency
Vacuum your mattress every two weeks. This helps remove dust, dead skin, and allergens like pet hair or dust mites. Regular vacuuming keeps it fresh and reduces buildup.
For better results, use a hand attachment on your vacuum cleaner. Pay extra attention to seams and corners where dirt hides.
Stain and Odor Prevention Tips
Use a waterproof mattress protector. It keeps spills, sweat, and stains off your mattress. Wash it regularly to keep it fresh and clean.
Spot-clean any messes right away with mild soap and water. This stops stains from setting in deeper. Avoid eating or drinking on your bed to prevent accidents altogether.
Avoiding Food and Drinks on the Bed
Food and drinks can spill and leave stains. These messes may attract bugs or create bad smells in your mattress. Cleaning food crumbs or spilled liquids takes extra time, so it’s best to keep eating off the bed.
Keep pets away from the bed too. They can carry dirt and shed fur, adding to the cleanup task. A clean sleeping space helps mattresses last longer and stay fresh. Use mattress protectors as an added barrier against stains and odors.
How Often Should You Deep Clean Your Mattress?
Deep clean your mattress every six months. This helps keep it fresh and free from dirt or allergens. Clean it immediately to prevent lasting damage if you have spills, accidents, or stains.
Rotate or flip the mattress when you deep clean it. Doing this every six months can help prevent uneven wear and tear. Use a web browser like Google Chrome, Microsoft Edge, Mozilla Firefox, or Apple Safari to search for cleaning tips!
The Bottom Line
Cleaning your mattress is easier than you think. Strip the bed, spot-clean stains, vacuum, and freshen it up with baking soda. These steps make a big difference in comfort and health.
A clean mattress means better sleep and fewer allergens. Start today—it’s worth it!
