How To Clean Spring Mattress: A Simple FAQ Guide

If you’re searching for “How To Clean Spring Mattress”, you probably want a clear, safe way to freshen your bed, remove stains, and deal with odours without damaging the springs or fabric. This guide answers the most common questions about cleaning a spring mattress and keeping it in good condition.

What does cleaning a spring mattress actually involve?

Cleaning a spring mattress usually means:

  • Removing surface dust, crumbs, and hair
  • Treating stains from spills, sweat, or accidents
  • Reducing odours and moisture buildup
  • Helping prevent long‑term wear from dirt and debris

Unlike a thin mattress topper, a spring mattress has fabric, padding, and metal coils. That means you should not soak it or use heavy amounts of water, because trapped moisture can be hard to dry.

How To Clean Spring Mattress: Step‑by‑Step

1. What should I do before I start cleaning?

Strip the bed completely:

  • Remove sheets, protectors, and mattress pads
  • Wash bedding according to their care labels
  • Let the mattress surface air out for a few minutes

This gives you a clear view of any stains or problem areas.

2. How do I remove dust and debris safely?

Use a vacuum with an upholstery attachment:

  1. Vacuum the entire surface slowly, including seams and edges.
  2. If possible, vacuum the sides of the mattress as well.
  3. Pay extra attention to tufts, quilting, and stitched areas where dust can collect.

Regular vacuuming can help keep your spring mattress fresher between deeper cleanings.

How do I treat stains on a spring mattress?

Can I use water directly on the mattress?

It’s best to use minimal moisture. Spring mattresses do not dry quickly, and excess water can stay trapped in the padding. Instead, use a lightly damp cloth or spray, not soaking wet.

What’s a gentle method for common stains?

For many light stains:

  1. Mix a small amount of mild liquid detergent with cool water.
  2. Dip a clean cloth into the solution and wring it out well.
  3. Blot the stain gently—do not scrub aggressively, which can damage fibers.
  4. Use a separate cloth dampened with plain water to blot away soap residue.
  5. Press a dry towel on the area to absorb moisture.

Allow the spot to dry completely before putting bedding back on.

How do I handle tougher or older stains?

Older stains may not disappear completely, but gentle repetition can help:

  • Repeat the blotting process in light layers instead of one aggressive cleaning.
  • Avoid bleach or harsh chemicals, which can weaken fabric and cause discoloration.
  • If the stain has a strong odour, a small amount of baking soda (see below) may help.

If a stain covers a large area or you are unsure what caused it, some people prefer to consult a professional upholstery cleaner familiar with mattresses.

How can I remove odours from a spring mattress?

Is baking soda safe for spring mattresses?

Many people use dry baking soda to help absorb light odours and moisture from fabric surfaces.

To use it:

  1. Sprinkle a thin, even layer of baking soda over the mattress surface.
  2. Leave it on for at least 30–60 minutes; some let it sit longer.
  3. Vacuum thoroughly to remove all residue.

This method is dry, so it does not add moisture to the springs or padding.

How often should I clean my spring mattress?

Cleaning needs vary, but a general pattern many people follow is:

  • Light maintenance: Vacuum every 1–3 months.
  • Odour refresh: Use baking soda as needed.
  • Spot cleaning: Treat spills and stains as soon as you notice them.

Regular care can make each cleaning easier and help your mattress feel more comfortable over time.

Are there things I should avoid when cleaning a spring mattress?

Yes, when learning How To Clean Spring Mattress, it’s helpful to know what not to do:

  • Do not soak the mattress with water or cleaner.
  • Avoid steam cleaning unless the manufacturer clearly allows it.
  • Skip harsh chemicals that may damage fabrics or metal parts.
  • Do not remove interior layers or springs, as this can affect support and safety.

Check any labels or care instructions on your specific mattress before using new cleaning methods.

How can I help keep my spring mattress cleaner for longer?

A few simple habits can reduce how often you need deep cleaning:

  • Use a removable, washable mattress protector.
  • Let your mattress air out occasionally by pulling back bedding for a short time.
  • Rotate the mattress (if allowed) to help even out wear on the surface.
  • Clean up spills right away to prevent set‑in stains.

✅ Quick Mattress Takeaways

Key points consumers should understand about How To Clean Spring Mattress

  • Use dry methods first: Vacuuming and baking soda are gentle ways to freshen a spring mattress.
  • Blot, don’t soak: For stains, use a lightly damp cloth with mild detergent and avoid saturating the fabric.
  • Dry thoroughly: After any spot cleaning, let the mattress dry completely before making the bed.
  • Avoid harsh products: Strong chemicals, heavy water, and steam can damage fillings and springs.
  • Protect the surface: A washable protector and regular maintenance help keep cleaning simple.

With these steps, you can approach How To Clean Spring Mattress in a calm, controlled way that respects the materials and structure of your bed, helping it stay fresher and more comfortable over time.