How To Clean Mattress With Vinegar And Baking Soda: Simple Step‑By‑Step Guide

If you’re searching for how to clean mattress with vinegar and baking soda, you’re likely looking for a simple, low-cost way to freshen your bed and tackle stains or odors without harsh chemicals. This guide walks through what to do, what to avoid, and how to get the best results from these two common household ingredients.

Why Use Vinegar and Baking Soda on a Mattress?

White vinegar and baking soda are often used together in mattress cleaning because:

  • Vinegar helps break down some stains and reduce odors.
  • Baking soda helps absorb moisture and smells and can leave the surface feeling fresher.
  • Both are widely available and generally gentle on most mattress fabrics when used correctly.

They won’t fix every problem, but they can be very useful for routine freshening and light to moderate stains.

How To Clean Mattress With Vinegar And Baking Soda: Step by Step

1. Prepare the mattress

  1. Strip all bedding and mattress protectors.
  2. Vacuum the mattress surface slowly to remove dust, hair, and debris.
  3. Check the care tag on your mattress. If it warns against moisture, use minimal liquid and dry thoroughly.

2. Treat fresh stains with vinegar

For fresh, wet stains (like drinks or small spills):

  1. Blot the area with an absorbent cloth or paper towel.
    • Do not rub, as this can push the stain deeper into the mattress.
  2. Put white vinegar and water in a spray bottle (about equal parts is common).
  3. Lightly spray the stained area until it is damp, not soaked.
  4. Let it sit for about 10–15 minutes.
  5. Blot again with a clean, dry cloth to remove excess moisture.

For older, dried stains, you can still use this method but may need to repeat it.

3. Deodorize with baking soda

Once the stained area is blotted:

  1. Sprinkle a generous layer of baking soda over the treated area (or over the whole mattress if you want overall freshening).
  2. Gently spread it with your hand to cover evenly.
  3. Leave it in place for at least a few hours; many people prefer to leave it 4–8 hours or longer so it can absorb more odor and leftover moisture.
  4. Vacuum thoroughly to remove all the baking soda.

This combination of vinegar treatment + baking soda is the core of how to clean mattress with vinegar and baking soda effectively.

Common Questions About This Cleaning Method

Will vinegar and baking soda remove all types of stains?

They can help with many everyday stains (like mild food or drink spills and some general odors), but they are not guaranteed to remove:

  • Deeply set or very old stains
  • Certain colored stains (like strong dyes)
  • Some bodily fluids that have soaked deep into the mattress

If a stain remains visible after one round, you can repeat the process once or twice. If the stain is still very noticeable, more specialized cleaning methods may be needed.

Is it safe for all mattress types?

Generally:

  • Most innerspring and foam mattresses tolerate light surface cleaning with vinegar and baking soda.
  • Memory foam and other foams can be sensitive to excess moisture. The key is to:
    • Use light sprays, not soaking
    • Blot thoroughly
    • Allow plenty of drying time

If the tag warns strongly against liquid cleaning, stick to very minimal vinegar solution, focus more on baking soda and vacuuming, and consider spot-cleaning only when necessary.

How do I make sure the mattress dries properly?

Proper drying is essential to avoid lingering dampness:

  • Open windows or use a fan to improve airflow.
  • Allow several hours of drying time after using vinegar, before making the bed again.
  • If the mattress still feels slightly cool or damp to the touch, give it more time.

Some people choose to clean their mattress early in the day so it has the whole day to dry.

Can I use scented vinegar or add essential oils?

Plain white vinegar is usually preferred to avoid residue or discoloration. If you want a light scent:

  • You can add a small amount of baking soda mixed with a bit of your preferred dry fragrance (such as dried herbs) in a separate container and gently sprinkle that after cleaning.
  • Avoid adding oils directly to the mattress, as they can sometimes leave oily marks.

How often should I clean my mattress this way?

The answer depends on use and sensitivity to odors, but many people:

  • Spot-clean with vinegar and baking soda only when spills or specific stains happen.
  • Deodorize with baking soda alone every few months by sprinkling, leaving for a few hours, and vacuuming thoroughly.

Regular use of a mattress protector can reduce how often deep cleaning is needed.

⚖️ When Vinegar and Baking Soda Are Not Enough

Vinegar and baking soda are useful for surface-level cleaning and freshening, but they have limits. They may not fully address:

  • Deep, saturated stains
  • Strong, persistent odors that have built up over time
  • Damage from large spills or long-term moisture exposure

In those cases, more intensive cleaning methods or professional help may be required.

✔️ Quick Mattress Takeaways

Key points to understand about how to clean mattress with vinegar and baking soda:

  • Use vinegar for spot cleaning: Lightly spray a diluted white vinegar solution on stains, then blot; avoid soaking the mattress.
  • Let baking soda work over time: Sprinkle generously, leave for several hours, then vacuum thoroughly for odor control.
  • Manage moisture carefully: Especially on foam mattresses, use minimal liquid and ensure complete drying.
  • Good for routine freshening: This method is well-suited to everyday odors and mild stains, but not guaranteed for severe or deeply set issues.
  • Check your mattress label first: Follow any specific cleaning instructions or warnings provided by the manufacturer.

With a few simple steps and common household supplies, cleaning a mattress with vinegar and baking soda can keep your sleep surface fresher, more comfortable, and easier to maintain over time.