How Do You Clean a Bed Mattress? Simple Steps for a Fresher Bed

If you’re asking “How do you clean a bed mattress?”, you’re usually dealing with spills, stains, or a mattress that just doesn’t feel fresh anymore. The good news: most everyday cleaning can be done at home with basic supplies and a bit of patience.

This FAQ walks through how to clean a bed mattress safely, what to avoid, and how to handle common stains.

Why Should You Clean Your Mattress?

Over time, a mattress can collect dust, dead skin, sweat, and minor spills. Even when it looks clean, it can hold on to odors and particles. Regular cleaning helps:

  • Keep your sleeping surface fresher and more comfortable
  • Reduce odors from sweat or spills
  • Extend the overall life and appearance of the mattress

You don’t need to deep clean every week, but a light refresh every few months plus spot cleaning when spills happen can make a big difference.

How Do You Clean a Bed Mattress Step by Step?

Here’s a simple general routine most mattress types can handle:

1. Strip the bed

Remove all sheets, pillowcases, and mattress protectors. Wash bedding according to the care labels. This clears the surface so you can work directly on the mattress.

2. Vacuum the surface

Use a vacuum with an upholstery attachment to remove dust and loose debris from:

  • The top surface
  • Sides and seams
  • Any tufted or quilted areas

Move slowly so the vacuum can lift material from the fabric and just under the surface.

3. Spot clean stains (carefully)

Before using any cleaner, check your mattress care tag. You may see codes like:

  • W – Water-based cleaners are generally okay
  • S – Use solvent-based cleaners only
  • WS – Water or solvent cleaners may be suitable
  • X – Vacuum only (no liquid cleaners)

For fresh stains, gently blot (don’t rub) with a clean cloth to absorb as much as possible.

For water-safe mattresses (W or WS), a common approach is:

  1. Mix a small amount of mild liquid detergent with cool water.
  2. Dip a clean cloth in the solution and dab the stain lightly.
  3. Follow with a cloth dampened with plain water to remove detergent residue.
  4. Blot with a dry towel to remove moisture.

Always test any cleaner on a small, hidden area first to be sure it doesn’t damage or discolor the fabric.

4. Deodorize (if needed)

Sprinkling a light, even layer of baking soda over the surface can help with general odors. Let it sit for at least 30–60 minutes, then vacuum thoroughly.

For stronger odors, some people leave the baking soda for several hours. Just be sure to vacuum well so no residue remains.

5. Dry thoroughly

Moisture is one of the biggest enemies of a mattress. After spot cleaning:

  • Open windows or increase airflow where possible
  • Use fans to speed up drying
  • Make sure the mattress feels completely dry before putting sheets back on

If one area is damp, focus airflow there and give it extra time.

How Do You Clean a Bed Mattress with Common Stains?

Sweat and general yellowing

These often show up as light yellow patches over time. For water-safe mattresses:

  • Use a mild detergent solution as above
  • Work in small sections
  • Avoid soaking the fabric

Yellowing that has built up over years may not fully disappear, but it can often be lightened and refreshed.

Spills from drinks or food

Act quickly:

  • Blot the spill gently with dry towels
  • Avoid pressing liquid deeper into the mattress
  • Use a small amount of suitable cleaner for remaining marks
  • Dry thoroughly with airflow

Urine or similar accidents

These can be more stubborn:

  • Blot as much liquid as possible right away
  • Use a cleaner appropriate for the mattress type
  • Deodorize after cleaning and let the mattress dry completely

For severe or old stains, some people consider professional cleaning, especially if home methods don’t remove the odor.

How Often Should You Clean Your Mattress?

A simple guideline many people follow is:

  • Quick vacuum: Every 1–3 months
  • Deodorize and deeper refresh: About 2–4 times per year
  • Immediate spot clean: Any time there’s a spill or visible stain

Consistency matters more than perfection. Regular light care is usually more effective than rare, aggressive cleaning.

What Should You Avoid When Cleaning a Mattress?

To protect your mattress:

  • Don’t soak it – Too much water can stay trapped inside.
  • Don’t use harsh chemicals – Strong cleaners or bleach can damage fabric and foams.
  • Don’t scrub aggressively – Rubbing hard can spread stains and wear down the cover.
  • Don’t put bedding back on while damp – Trapped moisture can lead to unwanted odors.

When in doubt, follow the manufacturer’s care instructions on the tag.

How Do You Keep a Mattress Cleaner Between Deep Cleans?

A few simple habits can keep your mattress fresher for longer:

  • Use a washable mattress protector to catch spills and sweat
  • Wash sheets and bedding regularly
  • Let the mattress air out briefly when changing sheets
  • Rotate the mattress if the manufacturer recommends it

These steps reduce how often you’ll need deeper cleaning.

✔️ Quick Mattress Takeaways

Key points to remember about “How Do You Clean a Bed Mattress”

  • Start simple: Strip bedding and vacuum the surface to remove dust and debris.
  • Check the care tag: It guides you on which cleaners (if any) are safe to use.
  • Spot clean gently: Blot stains with mild solutions; avoid soaking the mattress.
  • Control odors: Light baking soda and thorough vacuuming can help refresh the surface.
  • Dry is critical: Always let the mattress dry completely before making the bed.
  • Regular light care helps: Occasional vacuuming, deodorizing, and immediate spill cleanup keep your mattress fresher and easier to maintain.

With these practices, cleaning a bed mattress becomes a straightforward part of caring for your sleep environment, rather than a stressful chore.