A mattress absorbs sweat, skin cells, and dust over years of use, even with regular bedding changes. Cleaning it periodically helps extend its life and keeps your bedroom genuinely fresh, not just the visible bedding.
How Do You Clean a Mattress?
To clean a mattress, strip all bedding, vacuum the entire surface thoroughly, treat any stains with a mild solution appropriate to the stain type, then sprinkle the whole mattress with baking soda, leave for several hours, and vacuum again. The baking soda step absorbs odours and residual moisture that vacuuming alone does not fully remove.
What You Will Need
- A vacuum cleaner with an upholstery attachment
- Baking soda
- A mild stain-removal solution, suited to the specific stain
- A clean cloth
- Cold water, for protein-based stains
How to Clean a Mattress: Step by Step
1. Strip the Bedding
Remove all sheets, pillowcases, and the mattress protector, and wash them according to their care labels while you work on the mattress itself.
2. Vacuum Thoroughly
Using an upholstery attachment, vacuum the entire mattress surface, including seams and edges, where dust and debris tend to collect most.
3. Treat Any Stains
For most stains, a mild solution of washing-up liquid and water, applied with a cloth and blotted rather than rubbed, works well. For protein-based stains like blood or sweat, use cold water only, since heat can set these stains permanently.
4. Let Stains Dry Fully
Allow treated areas to dry completely before moving on, since a damp mattress is more likely to develop mould or mildew if left covered too soon.
5. Sprinkle With Baking Soda
Cover the whole mattress surface with a generous, even layer of baking soda, working it in slightly with a soft brush if the mattress has a textured surface.
6. Leave to Sit
Leave the baking soda for at least a few hours, or ideally overnight, to absorb odours and any remaining moisture from the mattress fibres.
7. Vacuum Again
Thoroughly vacuum up all the baking soda, going over the surface a second time to ensure none remains before remaking the bed.
Sun and Air When Possible
If the weather allows, standing the mattress upright to air outdoors for a few hours adds a natural freshening effect and helps reduce moisture that regular indoor conditions cannot fully address.
If dust and allergens are a wider concern, our guide to improving a bedroom covers other changes worth making at the same time.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I clean my mattress?
A full clean every three to six months keeps most mattresses fresh, alongside vacuuming more frequently as part of regular bedroom cleaning.
Can I use a steam cleaner on a mattress?
Steam cleaners can help with deeper cleaning but risk leaving the mattress damp for too long, which can encourage mould. Always check your specific mattress’s care guidance first.
How do I remove a urine stain from a mattress?
Blot up as much liquid as possible, treat with a mixture of vinegar and water, then follow with the baking soda treatment to help neutralise both the stain and the odour.
How long does it take a mattress to dry after cleaning?
Most mattresses take a few hours to fully air dry after wet cleaning, depending on humidity and airflow. Avoid covering it with bedding until completely dry.
Can baking soda damage a mattress?
No, baking soda is safe on virtually all mattress materials and is one of the most commonly recommended natural deodorising treatments.
Always allow a mattress to dry fully before covering it, and check manufacturer guidance before using any cleaning products on a mattress under warranty.
About the Author
Spire Homes Editorial Team researches and writes practical, UK focused home improvement guides covering renovation planning, financing, interior design, and furniture choices.
