When all is said and done, experts estimate you’ll spend nearly a third of your life in bed. Yet many people rarely give their mattress a thorough cleaning. If you haven’t properly cleaned yours in a while, now is a good time to start—your mattress affects sleep quality and can harbor dust mites, mold, allergens, body oils, sweat and residue from chemicals.
Cleaning a mattress doesn’t require buying a new one. With a few simple steps you can remove odors, reduce allergens and freshen the surface. Aim to deep-clean your mattress once or twice a year and follow regular maintenance between full cleanings.
How to Clean a Mattress
1. Wash your bedding first
Always start by washing sheets, pillowcases, mattress pads and comforters. Washing bedding in the hottest water the fabric allows helps remove allergens and body oils. If linens haven’t been cleaned in a long time, adding a cup of white vinegar to the wash can help break down grime and eliminate odors. Dry on the hottest setting recommended for each item to help kill any remaining dust mites.
2. Vacuum thoroughly
Use your vacuum cleaner’s upholstery attachment and begin at the head of the mattress, working toward the foot. Pay special attention to seams, creases and stitched areas where crumbs and dust mites tend to accumulate. Vacuum the sides and edges as well. If the mattress is light enough, lift it and vacuum the area between the mattress and the box spring or bed frame to remove hidden debris.
3. Freshen with baking soda
To tackle odors and absorb surface moisture and oils, sprinkle a generous, even layer of baking soda over the mattress and gently work it into the fabric with a soft brush or cloth. Let the baking soda sit for about 20 minutes to absorb smells and oils, then vacuum it up completely. This simple step helps lift musty odors and refresh the mattress surface.
4. Remove stains
For many surface stains, a gentle homemade cleaner can be effective. One easy option is a paste of salt and lemon juice mixed roughly 1:1. Apply the paste to the stained area and allow it to sit for 45 minutes to an hour—the salt helps absorb the stain while the acidity of the lemon can lighten discoloration. Wipe away the paste with a clean, damp cloth and vacuum any remaining residue. For protein-based stains like sweat or blood, use cold water and an enzyme-based cleaner designed for fabrics, following product instructions cautiously and testing on an inconspicuous spot first.
5. Air it out
Fresh air and sunlight are natural disinfectants. If possible, take the mattress outside for a few hours on a dry, sunny day. If that’s not feasible, open windows and let direct sunlight hit the mattress surface for a few hours. UV rays help reduce bacteria on the surface and can fade mild discoloration. Ensure the mattress is completely dry before remaking the bed to prevent mildew.
6. Protect it going forward
After cleaning, protect your mattress with a washable mattress cover or protector. A quality cover guards against spills, body oils and dust mites and is easy to launder regularly, greatly reducing the need for intensive mattress cleaning. Combine a protector with routine mattress care—regular vacuuming, washing bedding weekly and airing the mattress occasionally—for the best results.
With these straightforward steps you can keep your mattress cleaner, fresher and healthier without replacing it. Regular maintenance minimizes allergens and odors and extends the life of your mattress, helping you sleep better night after night.