How To Clean a Stinky Mattress: Simple Steps That Actually Help

If you’re searching for “How To Clean a Stinky Mattress”, you’re probably dealing with a bed that smells like sweat, spills, or something you can’t quite identify. This guide walks through why mattresses start to smell, how to clean odors safely at home, and when it may be time to consider deeper cleaning or replacement.

Why does my mattress smell in the first place?

Mattresses absorb almost everything that happens on them. Over time, odors can come from:

  • Sweat and body oils
  • Spills (drinks, food)
  • Accidents (urine, vomit)
  • Humidity and poor airflow
  • Dust and general buildup

Because most mattresses can’t be tossed in a washing machine, smells can linger unless you clean and deodorize the surface regularly.

How To Clean a Stinky Mattress: Step-by-Step

This is a general method that works for most standard mattresses. Always check your mattress care tag first.

1. Strip and air out the bed

  1. Remove all bedding (sheets, protectors, blankets).
  2. Wash everything according to the fabric care labels.
  3. If possible, open windows or use a fan to improve air circulation around the mattress.

Allowing fresh air to move around the mattress can help reduce light, stale odors.

2. Vacuum the mattress thoroughly

Use a handheld vacuum or upholstery attachment to:

  • Go over the entire surface
  • Pay attention to seams, edges, and tufting
  • Vacuum both the top and sides

This helps remove dust, hair, and debris that can trap smells.

3. Spot-clean any visible stains

Before you tackle the overall odor, deal with any stains:

  • Mix a mild cleaning solution: cool water plus a small amount of gentle liquid detergent.
  • Lightly dampen a clean cloth with the solution (do not soak it).
  • Blot the stain gently—avoid scrubbing hard, which can push moisture deeper into the mattress.
  • Follow with another cloth dampened with plain water to remove detergent residue.
  • Blot dry with a dry towel.

⚠️ Important: Avoid saturating your mattress. Too much moisture can lead to lingering dampness and more odor.

4. Deodorize with baking soda

This is a key step in How To Clean a Stinky Mattress without harsh chemicals.

  1. Lightly sprinkle dry baking soda over the entire surface.
  2. For stronger odors, gently work it in with your hand or a soft brush.
  3. Let it sit for at least a few hours; many people leave it on for most of the day.
  4. Vacuum thoroughly to remove all the powder.

Baking soda helps absorb common smells and can leave the mattress fresher.

What can I do for really strong odors?

Some smells are more stubborn, especially from urine or vomit.

Can I use vinegar on my mattress?

Some people use a diluted white vinegar solution (equal parts cool water and vinegar) to help neutralize odors. If you try this:

  • Lightly mist the area; do not soak the mattress.
  • Blot with a dry towel to remove excess moisture.
  • Follow with a light layer of baking soda, let dry, and vacuum.

Always test a small, hidden area first to check for any fabric or color changes.

What if the odor is from an accident?

For urine or similar accidents:

  • Blot up as much liquid as possible with a dry towel.
  • Use a mild detergent solution or an appropriate gentle cleaner intended for fabrics (following instructions carefully).
  • Avoid strong fragrances that may mask rather than remove the smell.
  • Let the area dry completely before putting bedding back on.

If odors remain after multiple attempts, some people turn to professional upholstery or mattress cleaning for a deeper treatment.

How do I keep my mattress from smelling again?

Once you know How To Clean a Stinky Mattress, it’s helpful to prevent odors from building up:

  • Use a washable mattress protector to act as a barrier against sweat and spills.
  • Wash sheets regularly to reduce body oils and skin buildup on the mattress.
  • Air out the mattress when changing bedding—leave it uncovered for a bit with windows open when possible.
  • Vacuum the mattress every few months.
  • Address spills or accidents quickly, before they sink in.

These simple habits can help your mattress stay fresher for longer.

When is it time to replace a smelly mattress?

Cleaning can improve odors, but it has limits. Consider replacement if:

  • The smell returns quickly even after thorough cleaning.
  • There are signs of deep staining or damage.
  • The mattress is very old and no longer feels comfortable.

A mattress that stays smelly despite careful cleaning may have odors trapped deep inside the materials that are hard to remove at home.

✔️ Quick Mattress Takeaways

Key points consumers should understand about How To Clean a Stinky Mattress

  • Start with airflow and vacuuming to remove dust and stale smells.
  • Spot-clean stains gently with minimal moisture to avoid soaking the mattress.
  • Baking soda is a simple, common deodorizer for overall mattress odor.
  • For stronger smells, some people carefully use diluted vinegar and repeated blotting, followed by baking soda.
  • Regular care—protectors, sheet washing, and occasional vacuuming—helps prevent odors from building up.
  • If a mattress still smells after multiple cleanings, the odor may be too deep to fully remove at home.

With these steps, you have a clear, practical approach to How To Clean a Stinky Mattress and keep your sleep surface fresher over time.