How to Clean a Mattress – Step By Step Complete Guide
A clean mattress isn’t just about comfort — it’s about health, hygiene, and sleep quality. Over time, your mattress collects dust, sweat, skin cells, and even bacteria. If left uncleaned, it can lead to allergies, bad odors, and reduced mattress lifespan.
This guide will show you exactly how to clean a mattress step by step — from removing pee stains to deep cleaning memory foam and sanitizing used mattresses. Whether you want to deodorize naturally or use advanced cleaning tools, this article has you covered.
Why Cleaning Your Mattress Matters
A mattress can double its weight in 10 years due to absorbed dust, sweat, and debris (Statista, 2024). Here’s why cleaning is essential:
- Better Sleep Quality: Dust mites and allergens interfere with rest.
- Health Benefits: Reduces risks of asthma, skin irritation, and respiratory issues.
- Odor Control: Sweat, spills, and accidents cause unpleasant smells.
- Mattress Longevity: Regular cleaning can extend mattress life by years.
👉 Pro Tip: Think of your mattress like your clothes — it needs regular washing too.
What You Need Before You Start Cleaning
Gathering the right supplies makes the process smoother. Here’s your toolkit:
- Vacuum cleaner with upholstery attachment
- Baking soda for deodorizing
- Enzyme cleaner (especially for urine stains)
- Spray bottle for spot treatments
- Clean cloths & towels
- Steam cleaner (optional for deep cleaning)
- Mattress protector for prevention
“You can clean a mattress with baking soda, a vacuum, enzyme cleaner, and clean cloths.”
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Clean a Mattress at Home
Step 1 – Strip and Wash Bedding
Start by removing sheets, pillowcases, and covers. Wash them at high temperature (60°C if possible) to kill dust mites and bacteria.
Step 2 – Vacuum Thoroughly
Use the upholstery attachment to vacuum the top, sides, and seams. This removes dirt, crumbs, and allergens trapped in the fibers.
Step 3 – Spot Clean Stains
Different stains require different treatments:
- Sweat Stains: Mix mild detergent with water and dab gently.
- Blood Stains: Apply cold water + hydrogen peroxide.
- Pee Stains: Spray enzyme cleaner, let sit, then blot dry.
- Vomit Stains: Sprinkle baking soda + vinegar, let fizz, then wipe.
“To remove stains from a mattress, dab gently with a stain-specific cleaner and avoid soaking.”
Step 4 – Deodorize with Baking Soda
Sprinkle a thin layer across the mattress, let sit for 8–12 hours, then vacuum it off. Baking soda neutralizes odors naturally.
Step 5 – Deep Clean with Steam (Optional)
Steam cleaning kills bacteria and dust mites. Avoid using too much water, especially on memory foam.
Step 6 – Air Dry the Mattress
Ensure complete drying — place near sunlight or use fans. A damp mattress can develop mold.
Step 7 – Protect with a Mattress Cover
A waterproof, breathable protector keeps future stains and dust away.
How to Clean Pee Out of a Mattress
Accidents happen — especially with kids or pets. Here’s how to fix it fast:
-
Blot fresh urine with paper towels (don’t rub).
-
Spray an enzyme cleaner directly on the stain.
-
Let it sit 15 minutes, then blot again.
-
Cover with baking soda, leave overnight, vacuum in the morning.
“Blot urine, apply enzyme cleaner, cover with baking soda, then vacuum once dry.”
How to Clean a Memory Foam Mattress
Memory foam requires special care since it absorbs liquid easily.
- Avoid soaking — use minimal liquid.
- Spot clean with enzyme spray + light blotting.
- Sprinkle baking soda for odor control.
- Never steam clean or drench with water.
- Allow 24 hours drying before using again.
How to Clean a Used Mattress Safely
Bought a second-hand mattress? Here’s how to disinfect it:
- Vacuum thoroughly.
- Steam clean (if non-memory foam).
- Spray with vinegar + water solution to kill bacteria.
- Let it sun-dry for several hours.
- Sprinkle baking soda for odor removal.
“To clean a used mattress, vacuum, disinfect with vinegar spray, and deodorize with baking soda.”
How to Deep Clean a Mattress at Home
For a full deep clean, combine these steps:
-
Vacuum top, sides, and underneath.
-
Treat all visible stains.
-
Steam clean if safe for the mattress type.
-
Deodorize with baking soda.
-
Dry in sunlight for natural disinfection.
👉 Recommended frequency: every 6 months.
Pro Tips for Keeping Your Mattress Fresh Longer
- Use a mattress protector.
- Wash bedding weekly.
- Rotate mattress every 3–6 months.
- Vacuum monthly.
- Control humidity with a dehumidifier.
“Start with these habits today to keep your mattress fresh and lasting longer.”
Mattress Cleaning FAQs
How often should you clean your mattress?
Every 6 months.
What is the best way to remove odors?
Baking soda overnight.
Can you clean a mattress with vinegar?
Yes, for disinfecting light stains.
How do I sanitize without chemicals?
Sunlight and steam cleaning.
Is professional cleaning worth it?
Yes, for deep-set stains and allergens.