You wash your sheets regularly, but when did you last clean the mattress underneath them? Over time, mattresses collect dust, skin flakes, sweat and the occasional spill. A thorough clean a few times a year keeps your bed fresher and helps it last. Here’s how to clean a mattress at home, how to tackle stains and odors, and when a dedicated mattress vacuum is worth having.
How often should you clean a mattress?
A good routine is to vacuum your mattress every few months, or whenever you change seasons, and to deal with spills and stains as soon as they happen. Many people give the mattress a deeper clean before holiday guests arrive or when they swap to winter bedding. Washing your sheets every week or two and using a mattress protector makes each deep clean much easier.
What you’ll need
- A vacuum with an upholstery attachment, or a handheld mattress vacuum
- Mild liquid detergent or dish soap
- An enzyme cleaner for biological stains
- Baking soda
- Clean white cloths and cold water
- A spray bottle (optional)
How to clean a mattress step by step
1. Strip the bed
Remove all bedding, including the mattress protector, and wash it according to the care labels. Our guide to washing comforters and bedding covers the bigger items.
2. Vacuum thoroughly
Use the upholstery attachment and go slowly over the whole top surface, the sides and along the seams and edges, where dust collects. A crevice tool helps with tufts and piping.
3. Spot-clean stains
Blot, don’t rub. Dampen a clean cloth with cold water and a little mild detergent and dab the stain from the outside in. Use as little liquid as possible, because a soaked mattress is slow to dry. For stains from sweat, urine or other body fluids, an enzyme cleaner works well. Always test any cleaner on a hidden area first and follow your mattress maker’s guidance.
4. Freshen with baking soda
Sprinkle a thin, even layer of baking soda over the surface. Leave it for several hours, or longer if you can, with the window open or the room in sunlight. Then vacuum it all up thoroughly.
5. Let it dry completely
Before you put the bedding back, make sure any damp spots are completely dry. Open windows, run a fan or use a dehumidifier. Putting sheets on a damp mattress can lead to musty smells and mildew.
6. Rotate (or flip)
Many mattresses benefit from being rotated head-to-foot every few months so they wear evenly. Some are one-sided and should not be flipped, so check the manufacturer’s instructions.
What is a mattress vacuum, and do you need one?
A mattress vacuum is a compact handheld vacuum designed for beds, sofas and other fabric surfaces. Many have a beating or vibrating head to loosen dust from deep in the fabric, and some include UV lamps or heat features. They are handy if you have allergies, pets on the bed or simply want a quick weekly once-over without dragging out a full-size vacuum.
If you’re shopping for one, look for:
- Strong suction and a wide head for covering a mattress quickly
- A washable or HEPA filter that traps fine dust
- An easy-to-empty dust cup
- A comfortable weight and cord length, or a good battery if it’s cordless
Be cautious of bold health promises in the marketing. A regular vacuum with a clean filter and an upholstery tool also does a good job.
Protect your mattress
A washable mattress protector is the simplest way to keep a mattress clean. It catches spills, sweat and dust before they reach the mattress and can be washed along with your sheets. Waterproof protectors are especially useful for kids’ beds and guest rooms. For allergy sufferers, zippered encasements that cover the whole mattress and pillows are often recommended. For more ideas on building a comfortable bed from the mattress up, see how to layer bedding.
Tips for allergy sufferers
- Wash sheets and pillowcases weekly in the hottest water the care labels allow.
- Use zippered, allergen-proof covers on the mattress and pillows.
- Keep pets off the bed if they make symptoms worse.
- Vacuum the bedroom floor and mattress regularly, ideally with a HEPA filter.
If you have asthma or severe allergies, ask your doctor for advice suited to you.
When to call a professional
Call a professional if you see signs of bed bugs, such as small rust-colored spots or live insects in the seams, or if there is mold or a large soaked area. Home cleaning won’t solve those problems, and they need specialist treatment.
FAQ
Can I steam clean a mattress?
Some mattresses can be lightly steamed, but moisture and heat can damage memory foam and some fabrics. Check the manufacturer’s instructions first.
How do I get rid of a mattress smell?
Vacuum, spot-clean any source of the smell, sprinkle baking soda and leave it for several hours, then vacuum again and air the room well.
Does a mattress protector make a difference?
Yes. It keeps spills, sweat and dust off the mattress and is far easier to wash than the mattress itself.
Can I use bleach on a mattress?
It’s best to avoid bleach, which can damage fabric and foam. Use mild detergent or an enzyme cleaner instead.