Your mattress is one of the most-used items in your home, yet it often gets overlooked in regular cleaning routines. Over time, it can collect dust, sweat, allergens, and even odors. A proper deep clean can help restore freshness, extend the life of your mattress, and support better sleep. Here’s a complete guide to cleaning your mattress effectively, safely, and with tools you likely already have.
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Start With a Thorough Vacuum
Begin by vacuuming the entire surface of the mattress using a vacuum with an upholstery attachment. Avoid using vacuums with rotating brushes or beater bars, which can damage the fabric or seams. Focus on areas where your body lays the most, as these spots tend to collect the most dust and debris. Don’t forget the sides and, if your mattress is double-sided, flip it and vacuum the bottom as well.
This step is essential and shouldn’t be skipped. Vacuuming helps remove allergens, dead skin cells, and dry debris before you use any wet cleaning methods. For best results, use a vacuum with a HEPA filter to keep dust from being released back into the air.
Spot Treat With Hydrogen Peroxide
Hydrogen peroxide is an effective and safe cleaner for removing sweat, blood, and other organic stains. Use a 3% solution in a dark brown bottle to maintain its effectiveness. Attach a spray nozzle directly to the bottle or transfer it into a light-blocking spray bottle. Lightly spray the stained area and let it sit for a minute or two before wiping with a damp microfiber cloth.
For more extensive cleaning, work in sections and use the same process across the entire surface. Microfiber towels are ideal for this step as their fibers lift and trap dirt. Be sure not to saturate the mattress, and always allow it to dry thoroughly after spot treating.
Skip the Baking Soda
Although baking soda is a commonly recommended tip for deodorizing mattresses, it can cause more issues than it solves. It’s difficult to vacuum out completely and may damage vacuum motors or filters. Most manufacturers don’t recommend using baking soda for this reason. Instead, opt for more effective and low-mess solutions to freshen your mattress.
Extract With a Spot Cleaning Machine
If your mattress has deep-set stains or needs a full refresh, a spot cleaning machine like the Hoover CleanSlate is a great tool. Fill the tank with clean water (no solution) and lightly spray the mattress surface. Then extract the water along with loosened dirt. Avoid oversaturating—less is more when it comes to moisture on a mattress.
Use a few extra dry passes to remove as much moisture as possible. For stubborn stains, re-treat the area and scrub gently with a towel before extracting again. Layered cleaning like this can pull out years of built-up grime from deep inside the mattress fibers.
Eliminate Odors With Enzyme Cleaners
For odors caused by pets, accidents, or sweat, enzyme-based cleaners are your best bet. These break down the organic matter causing the odor, rather than just masking it. Spray the enzyme cleaner over the affected area and allow it to dwell for the recommended time.
Once it’s had time to work, follow up with your extraction machine to flush and remove the odor source. Some strong smells may take more than one treatment, but the enzymes will continue to break down residue over time.
Drying is Crucial
After cleaning, it’s critical to dry your mattress thoroughly to prevent mold or mildew. Use a fan to increase air circulation, open windows if the weather allows, or place the mattress in a well-ventilated area. Cleaning early in the day gives your mattress time to dry completely before bedtime.
Always ensure the mattress is dry before placing sheets or mattress protectors back on it. Lingering moisture can become trapped and cause long-term issues.
Maintenance Tips for a Cleaner Mattress
To keep your mattress clean longer, invest in a quality waterproof mattress protector. This simple addition prevents spills, sweat, and allergens from reaching the mattress surface. Wash your protector regularly and replace it as needed.
Vacuum your mattress monthly to reduce dust and allergen buildup, and rotate or flip it every 3–6 months to encourage even wear. These small habits will go a long way in extending the life and comfort of your mattress.