How To Get Stains Out Of Mattress Cover: Practical FAQ Guide

If you’re searching for “How To Get Stains Out Of Mattress Cover,” you’re likely dealing with a fresh spill or an old, stubborn mark and want a safe way to clean it without damaging the cover or mattress. This guide walks through common questions, step-by-step methods, and simple tips to keep your mattress cover looking and smelling fresh.

What’s the first thing I should do when a stain happens?

Act fast. The sooner you treat a stain, the easier it usually is to remove.

  1. Remove bedding: Strip sheets, blankets, and protectors.
  2. Check if the cover is removable: Look for a zipper or care tag.
  3. Blot, don’t rub: Use a clean cloth or paper towel to blot up as much liquid as possible. Rubbing can push the stain deeper into the fibers.
  4. Read the care label: This tells you if the cover is machine-washable and which cleaners to avoid.

Can I machine wash my mattress cover?

Often you can, but only if the label says it’s safe.

  • If the care tag allows machine washing:

    • Use cold or warm water, not hot.
    • Choose a gentle cycle and mild detergent.
    • Avoid bleach unless the label clearly allows it.
    • Air-dry if possible, or use a low-heat dryer setting.

  • If the label says spot clean only:

    • Do not put it in the washer.
    • Clean just the stained area with a mild solution (see below), then let it fully air-dry.

How To Get Stains Out Of Mattress Cover: What cleaners are safe?

Most people can clean a mattress cover with simple household ingredients. A basic, gentle routine is:

  • Mild detergent + water: For many stains
  • White vinegar + water: For odors and light stains
  • Baking soda: For smells and moisture
  • Hydrogen peroxide (diluted): Sometimes used on tough organic stains like blood or urine, but it can lighten some fabrics, so spot test first in a hidden area.

Simple spot-cleaning method

  1. Mix a cleaning solution

    • A small amount of mild liquid detergent in a bowl of cool or lukewarm water, or
    • Equal parts white vinegar and water for odor-heavy stains.

  2. Test a hidden area

    • Dab a bit of solution on an unseen spot to make sure there’s no discoloration.

  3. Blot the stain

    • Dip a clean cloth or sponge in the solution.
    • Gently blot the stain from the outside inward to keep it from spreading.

  4. Rinse with clean water

    • Use a second cloth slightly dampened with plain water to remove soap or vinegar residue.

  5. Dry thoroughly

    • Press with a dry towel to remove excess moisture.
    • Let air-dry completely before putting sheets back on.

How do I remove specific types of stains?

Food and drink stains (coffee, juice, soda)

  • Blot up as much as you can right away.
  • Use mild detergent + water or vinegar + water.
  • Blot gently until the stain lightens.
  • Rinse lightly with clean water and dry.

Sweat or yellowing stains

  • Combine water and a small amount of detergent, or water and vinegar.
  • Lightly scrub with a soft cloth or soft-bristled brush.
  • For lingering odor, sprinkle baking soda on the dry cover, leave for a few hours, then vacuum.

Blood stains

  • Use cold water only; hot water can set blood stains.
  • Blot with cold water first.
  • If needed, apply a small amount of diluted hydrogen peroxide to the stain, let it sit briefly, then blot.
  • Rinse with cold water and dry. Always spot test first.

Urine stains

  • Blot as much liquid as possible.
  • Apply vinegar + water solution and blot again.
  • Sprinkle baking soda over the damp area and allow it to sit for several hours or overnight.
  • Vacuum up the baking soda once dry.

What if the stain is old or set in?

Old stains are usually more stubborn, but you can still lighten or improve them:

  • Repeat the spot-cleaning process more than once.
  • Alternate between detergent solution and vinegar solution (rinsing lightly between each).
  • Allow longer soak time for the cleaning solution on the stain before blotting.
  • For delicate covers, always be gentle to avoid damaging the fabric.

How do I dry the mattress cover safely?

Proper drying helps prevent musty smells or damage:

  • Air-dry flat or over a rack whenever possible.
  • Keep it in a well-ventilated area; a fan can help speed things up.
  • If machine-drying is allowed, use low heat.
  • Ensure the cover is fully dry before putting it back on the mattress to avoid trapped moisture.

How can I prevent future stains on my mattress cover?

  • Use a separate, washable mattress protector over your mattress cover.
  • Tackle spills as soon as they happen.
  • Wash your cover or protector regularly according to the care label.
  • Avoid eating or drinking in bed if stains are a frequent issue.

✔️ Quick Mattress Takeaways

Key points consumers should understand about How To Get Stains Out Of Mattress Cover

  • Always check the care label first to know whether your cover is machine-washable or spot-clean only.
  • Blot, don’t rub fresh stains to avoid spreading or embedding them.
  • Mild detergent, white vinegar, and baking soda handle most common stains and odors.
  • Cold water is important for blood and some protein-based stains.
  • Spot test any stronger cleaner (like hydrogen peroxide) on a hidden area before full use.
  • Let the cover dry completely before re-making the bed to prevent odors and mildew.
  • Using an extra mattress protector makes future stain removal simpler and less frequent.

With these methods, understanding how to get stains out of mattress cover becomes much more manageable, helping you keep your sleep surface cleaner, fresher, and more comfortable over time.