How To Get a Coffee Stain Out Of a Mattress: Simple Steps That Work

Spilling coffee in bed happens, and mattresses are not as easy to toss in the wash as sheets. If you’re searching for How To Get a Coffee Stain Out Of a Mattress, you’re likely worried about both the brown mark and any lingering smell. This guide walks you through clear, practical steps to clean it up and reduce the chances of a permanent stain.

What Happens When Coffee Spills on a Mattress?

Coffee is a tannin-based stain, which means it can soak into fabric and foam quickly and leave a yellow-brown mark. On a mattress, liquid often sinks below the surface, so treating it correctly and as soon as possible makes a big difference.

If the stain is older, it may not disappear completely, but you can usually lighten it and remove most of the odor with careful cleaning.

How To Get a Coffee Stain Out Of a Mattress: Step-by-Step

1. Act Fast: Blot, Don’t Rub

  1. Remove bedding right away so the spill doesn’t spread.
  2. Use a clean, dry cloth or paper towels to blot the spill.
  3. Press firmly to absorb as much liquid as possible.
  4. Avoid rubbing – that can push coffee deeper into the mattress.

The more moisture you remove at the start, the easier the rest of the process will be.

2. Make a Simple Cleaning Solution

For fresh coffee stains, a mild cleaning mix is often enough:

  • 1 cup of cool water
  • A few drops of mild liquid dish soap

Stir gently. Test a small, hidden area of the mattress first to check for any discoloration.

3. Treat the Coffee Stain

  1. Dip a clean cloth into the soapy solution and wring it out so it’s damp, not soaking.
  2. Gently dab the stained area, working from the outside of the stain toward the center.
  3. Continue blotting, switching to a dry cloth to lift out the coffee.
  4. Repeat: damp cloth with solution → blot → dry cloth.

The goal is to loosen the stain while keeping the mattress as dry as possible.

What If the Coffee Has Milk or Sugar In It?

Many people add milk, cream, or sugar to coffee. These can leave sticky or sour-smelling residues if not cleaned well.

Extra Steps for Milky or Sweet Coffee

  • Use the same soapy water solution, but be sure to:
    • Spend more time blotting and lifting the liquid.
    • Rinse the area with a cloth dampened in plain cool water after cleaning to remove soap.
    • Sprinkle baking soda over the damp area to help absorb moisture and odor. Let it sit for several hours before vacuuming.

Baking soda is a common household deodorizer and can help reduce lingering smells.

How Do You Handle an Old or Dried Coffee Stain?

If you’re dealing with a stain that has already dried, How To Get a Coffee Stain Out Of a Mattress may take a bit more patience.

  1. Lightly dampen the stained area with cool water (do not soak).
  2. Use the soapy solution and blot as described above.
  3. For persistent discoloration, some people use a small amount of white vinegar mixed with water (about 1 part vinegar to 3 parts water), tested in an inconspicuous spot first.
  4. Dab the solution gently on the stain, then blot with a dry cloth.

Avoid using harsh chemicals or strong bleaches, as they may damage the mattress fabric or leave their own marks.

How Should You Dry the Mattress After Cleaning?

Leaving moisture trapped in a mattress can lead to unpleasant odors over time, so drying is important.

  • Blot repeatedly with dry towels to remove as much moisture as you can.
  • If possible, aim a fan at the area.
  • Open windows for airflow, or use a cool or low-heat hair dryer held at a distance.

Try not to remake the bed until the mattress feels completely dry to the touch.

How Can You Prevent Coffee Stains on a Mattress in the Future?

While no setup is spill-proof, a few habits can make cleanup easier:

  • Use a washable mattress protector to add a barrier between the coffee and the mattress.
  • Keep beverages on a stable surface like a bedside table.
  • Address any spills immediately, even if they seem small.

A protector often allows you to focus on washing the cover instead of dealing directly with the mattress core.

✔️ Quick Mattress Takeaways

Key points to remember about How To Get a Coffee Stain Out Of a Mattress:

  • Blot immediately – absorb as much coffee as possible before it sinks in.
  • Use mild solutions – cool water with a few drops of gentle dish soap is often enough.
  • Treat milk and sugar carefully – follow cleaning with a light rinse and baking soda for odor.
  • Old stains need patience – re-dampen slightly, clean, and consider a diluted vinegar solution.
  • Dry thoroughly – use towels, airflow, and time to avoid trapped moisture.
  • Protect the mattress – a removable, washable protector can simplify future spills.

With prompt attention and gentle cleaning steps, many coffee stains on mattresses can be significantly reduced or nearly removed, helping your sleep surface stay cleaner and more comfortable.