How Do You Clean a Tempurpedic Mattress? A Simple, Step‑by‑Step FAQ
If you’re wondering “How do you clean a Tempurpedic mattress?”, you’re likely worried about protecting its foam, comfort, and lifespan while getting rid of spills, stains, or odors. This guide walks through safe, practical steps to clean it without damaging the material.
What Makes Cleaning a Tempurpedic-Style Mattress Different?
These mattresses are made from viscoelastic (memory) foam, which is sensitive to:
- Excess moisture
- Harsh chemicals or solvents
- Scrubbing and twisting, which can tear the foam
Because of this, you should never soak, steam clean, or machine wash the mattress itself. Cleaning is mostly about surface care, spot treatment, and regular maintenance.
How Do You Clean a Tempurpedic Mattress for Everyday Freshness?
For general cleaning (no major spills), focus on dry cleaning methods:
Strip the bed
Remove all bedding and wash according to its care labels.Vacuum the surface
Use a handheld or upholstery attachment on low to medium suction.- Go over the top, sides, and seams.
- This helps remove dust, crumbs, and skin particles.
Deodorize with baking soda (optional)
Lightly sprinkle dry baking soda over the surface.- Let it sit for 30–60 minutes.
- Vacuum thoroughly to remove all residue.
Air it out
Leave the mattress uncovered for a few hours in a well‑ventilated room. Avoid direct sunlight on the foam for long periods, as this can sometimes affect its feel over time.
This routine can be done every few months or whenever the mattress feels stuffy.
How Do You Clean a Tempurpedic Mattress After a Spill?
Step-by-step spot cleaning
If something spills, act quickly and remember: blot, don’t scrub.
Blot the spill immediately
- Use a clean, dry cloth or paper towels.
- Gently press to absorb moisture; don’t rub or push liquid deeper into the foam.
Use a mild cleaning solution
Mix a small amount of mild liquid soap with cool water in a bowl or spray bottle. The solution should be very diluted—just enough to slightly cut through the stain.Dampen, don’t soak
- Lightly dampen a clean cloth with the solution.
- Gently blot the stained area. Avoid making the mattress wet; the foam absorbs liquid easily and dries slowly.
Rinse with a clean, damp cloth
- Use another cloth dampened with plain water.
- Blot to remove any soapy residue.
Blot dry
- Press with dry towels to remove as much moisture as possible.
Air dry completely
- Let the mattress air dry in a room with good airflow.
- Do not use a hair dryer on hot, and avoid placing it in strong, direct heat.
Do not use bleach, strong stain removers, or solvent-based cleaners, as these can damage the foam and surface fabric.
Can You Remove Stains from a Tempurpedic Mattress?
Light stains (sweat, mild discoloration)
- Vacuum the area.
- Use the mild soap solution method above.
- For lingering odor, sprinkle a small amount of baking soda after it’s dry and vacuum again later.
Heavier stains (food, drink)
- Carefully repeat the blot and mild-cleaner process several times instead of using more water all at once.
- If the stain is stubborn and deep, it may not disappear entirely, but you can often reduce its appearance and odor.
Avoid scrubbing hard or using rough brushes. This can break down the surface and affect the feel of the mattress.
Is It Safe to Steam Clean or Shampoo a Tempurpedic Mattress?
No. Steam cleaning, soaking, or shampooing the mattress is not recommended.
Memory foam holds onto moisture, and deep wetting can:
- Lead to slow drying
- Affect the mattress’s support and feel
- Create an environment where unwanted odors may develop
Stick to surface spot cleaning and gentle drying methods only.
How Do You Clean a Tempurpedic Mattress Cover?
Many of these mattresses come with a removable fabric cover. Always check the care label first, but general guidelines are:
If machine‑washable:
- Use cool water and a gentle cycle.
- Use a mild detergent.
- Air dry flat if possible, or follow the label’s drying instructions.
If not removable or not washable:
- Treat it like the mattress surface: vacuum, spot clean lightly, and air dry.
The inner foam itself should never go in a washer or dryer.
How Can You Help Keep a Tempurpedic Mattress Clean Longer?
🧼 Simple habits can reduce how often you need deeper cleaning:
- Use a waterproof or water-resistant protector to help guard against spills and stains.
- Wash sheets and bedding regularly to limit sweat and body oils from reaching the mattress.
- Vacuum the mattress a few times a year to keep dust and debris under control.
- Address any spills or accidents right away instead of letting them set.
✔️ Quick Mattress Takeaways
Key points consumers should understand about “How Do You Clean a Tempurpedic Mattress”
- Avoid soaking the mattress – use light, surface-level spot cleaning only.
- Blot, don’t scrub – pressing gently with dry cloths is safer than rubbing.
- Use mild soap and cool water – harsh chemicals or hot water can damage foam.
- Never steam clean or machine wash the foam core.
- Vacuum regularly to remove dust and debris.
- Let it dry completely after any cleaning before putting sheets back on.
- A mattress protector can greatly reduce the risk of stains and spills.
With careful, gentle methods, you can clean a Tempurpedic mattress effectively while preserving its feel and performance over time.

